To Learn Foreign Languages on Holiday, Where Are the Best Places to Go?
What’s your favourite part of a holiday? For some, it’s the adventure: exploring unknown places and getting lost in exciting networks of streets in Istanbul; or reaching the pinnacles of the highest peaks the Alps can offer. For others, it’s the foodie experience: slurping spaghetti in a Florence square; sampling fresh oysters on a Cornish shore; or tucking into an enormous burger in New York.
But for many, one of the biggest but most rewarding challenges that comes with travel, whether it’s of the backpacking or the luxury-spa-break variety, is learning the local language. If you rarely get beyond a shy ‘ciao’ when you go to Italy, and wish that going for meals abroad did not mean a frantic tussle with the menu as you try to decipher which part of the menu is fish and which is veggie, this year could be the time to get ahead.
On the other hand, if you’re a seasoned linguist who’s just a bit rusty, going to the country of your language, mixing with the locals, and taking some formal lessons, could be the booster you need to never look back.
Have you planned where you’re next trip’s going to be? Why not visit one of these great places this summer to develop your language skills?
Europe
With a huge range of countries and cultures close enough together to travel by train, Europe really does have an array of options when it comes to languages. It is filled with opportunities to learn a language in its own country, or combine a break or holiday with a bonus educational option. From Hungarian to Swedish, Europe has a lot to offer, but where are the best areas to visit?
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Italy
For visitors, the country with the world’s highest concentration of UNESCO World Heritage sites has it all. It’s also a hub of international travel where you are sure to bump into fellow travellers from around the world. Whether your classes are in French, German or Italian, you will have plenty of practice.
UK
If your budget’s looking tight this year, perhaps you could look closer to home for a city break.
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You could learn Italian in London in preparation for your next cultural trek to the Mediterranean.
If you want to learn French London could also come a close second to France itself in terms of linguistic experiences on offer. Just don’t forget to book next year’s trip to try out your acquired skills in France…
Further Afield
Here are three of the top language-learning adventures on offer outside Europe:
South America
Want to party it up and learn a language at the same time? South America could offer a delightful option. Try dancing your way through your trip at Rio de Janeiro’s carnival.
Asia
Imagining that exotic destination you’ve never experienced? China and south-east Asia’s delights could be for you. From beaches to palaces, you’ll be awestruck.
USA
Want a home from home? The USA’s mish-mash of cultural influences, from buzzing cities to serene mountains, could be a good place to start your course knowing there’ll always be a friendly ‘hello’ just around the corner.
Don’t miss out on the range of learning opportunities the world has to offer, whatever you feel like.
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