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Spanish is one of the most popular languages, and it is used in many countries around the world. The best way for you to learn Spanish is to immerse yourself in a Spanish-speaking country. Although normal Spanish classes are adequate, in order to totally envelope oneself in the language and pronunciation of Spanish, a trip to Latin America or Spain is in order. This is called the "total immersion" method of learning a language. Not only does it include attending classes, but also using Spanish in day-to-day life.
Learning Spanish abroad is the most efficient way to learn. Many people who have taken Spanish courses for years still feel lost while having a simple conversation with a native Spanish-speaker because Spanish-speakers use a different slang and speed than what students learn in class.
Learning Spanish abroad forces you to use your knowledge in real-life situations on an everyday basis. Also, while studying abroad, you will find learning Spanish extremely important because you are surrounded by the language. Therefore, you will make a bigger effort to improve your fluency to make your visit more pleasant. Instead of learning basic verbs and grammar which can become quite tedious, you can see how the language is used in normal circumstances which will help you learn quickly. Best of all is that you can speak the same as a native from day one, which is important because speaking like the natives will help you more than speaking broken Spanish you learned from a book. Learning Spanish abroad is also a way to learn more about the culture and the people of a country, especially if you travel to a number of places in the country.
Language Immersion Schools
There are people who hope to learn Spanish abroad by simply visiting Spain with an English-Spanish dictionary and assuming that they will pick up the language, but this can be an awkward way of learning. Staying in the country and attending proper Spanish lessons is probably the best way to learn, especially if you avoid the temptation to visit tourist areas where English is predominantly spoken.
There are many schools in Spain and Latin America that arrange for people to travel simply to learn the language. There are Spanish immersion schools in nearly every Spanish-speaking country. These schools usually organize accommodation and daily Spanish classes in the vicinity. Most schools offer the option of staying with a local host family. In this way you can learn Spanish abroad while having a vacation at the same time. It is important to find the classes and living situations that will best help you learn Spanish.
Making an Extended Visit in a Foreign Country
There are certain preparations you must make for a long trip to another country. If you are going to visit a country for more than a few weeks to learn Spanish, you may need to obtain a student visa. Student visas are sometimes hard to get. Check with the country's consulate to see how long you can stay in the country without a visa, and to find how to go about applying for a student visa. There are different rules for citizens of each country. If you need to get a student visa, the school you pick should be able to help you. If not, at least ask them for recommendations on the application process. Never try to stay in a foreign country illegally!