Learning languages abroad
Photo: Leila Ben-Gacem, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Many people find that they learn a language much faster if they immerse themselves by traveling to a place where the language is spoken. And no wonder! The vocabulary word you learned in class is reinforced when you see it on a billboard, overhear it on the street, and then use it yourself when talking to a taxi driver. This constant repetition and practice can be very effective in improving your level in the language.
Learning a language abroad deepens your understanding of both the language and the country where it is spoken. This will enrich your trip and your studies, and allow you to talk to people and experience the destination in a deeper way than a typical tourist.
That said, being in the country is no silver bullet. If you're serious about learning the language, you'll still need to study hard and seek out opportunities to practice.
UnderstandTravelling to a foreign country both for leisure purposes and to study the local language can be an excellent way to deepen one's experience in a foreign culture and to combine leisure with learning.
PrepareThe better you know the language you intend to learn abroad before you go, the smoother the experience will be when you set foot at your destination, and the more you will learn.
Get inYou will need to qualify for your respective country’s visa programs – see the section Get in of the country article.
SleepConsider rooming with local housemates, or a homestay with a local family, for a constant source of practice and a window into local culture.
LearnForeigners tend to find each other. At universities with many exchange students they may live in the same quarters and have common leisure activities.
Sources and licences
- Guide text adapted from the Wikivoyage article "Learning languages abroad" by its contributors, available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Read on Wikivoyage · Contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Photo: Leila Ben-Gacem, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons