Learning Spanish through immersion by being in Spain is an adventure, and a hugely beneficial experience. Not only will you be immersing yourself in the Spanish language but Spanish culture and history. Learn when and why certain traditions are important in most Spanish speaking countries. Just those thoughts alone are very exciting.
So, how do we learn Spanish in Spain? A daunting thought, am I right? If the idea still sounds exciting, read on. How to prepare and where to go can seem overwhelming and a bit intimidating, but we are going to go through what you need to know and my recommended places to go to! Vamonos (Let’s go)!
What beginning Spanish learners need to consider is the difference between Castillian Spanish vs. Latin American Spanish. Just like the differences we have between English and American English, where there are words that we don’t use here in the US but are used in England. Spanish speakers in Spain use many words that you won’t normally hear in Latin America. For example:
- a peach is melocotón in Spain and durazno in Latin America
- a car is coche in Spain and carro or auto in Latin America
- a cell phone in Spain is móvil and celular in Latin America
- the verb to drive is conducir in Spain and manejar in Latin America
When exploring and deciding on where to go, we have to remember that Spain has 17 regions. You can think of these regions as states. Now, why is this important to know? Just like in English – whether it’s American English or English spoken in England – we have different dialects, which can make understanding the language somewhat difficult at times.
So, if you are a beginner, I would highly recommend searching schools in the Central North regions of Spain. Ultimately, it will be your choice, and you’ll need to choose based on what best suits you and your situation.
There are lots of Spanish schools in Spain that are available for all types of people of all different levels – so don’t forget to do a little research. The recommendations below are ranked based on prices, location within the area, organization, communication with students, and for their range of study programs.
1. Hispania Escuela de Español – Valencia
This $900 2-week intensive Spanish course is filled with programs that will allow you to socialize with the locals and have numerous opportunities to practice speaking in Spanish. Two weeks doesn’t sound like enough? You can always either extend or choose one of their many courses that are not just limited to 2 weeks. Their options of courses include Professional, University, Vacation, and General Spanish courses. Breakfast and accommodation are included in their pricing.
What really makes them stand out is they offer teacher training. ELE teacher training to be specific. So for those that want to travel around the world and teach, I would highly recommend this school. Another unique element about this school is, well, why not take a vacation learning Spanish? They have Vacation courses where you get to learn and have fun in applying what you’ve learned! Talk about a productive vacation.
2. Taronja School – Valencia
Definitely the most expensive option for a Spanish school in Valencia, but what they provide and the different courses they offer is worth it. For under $1,000, they have high standards when it comes to the social and cultural integration of their students. With a reputation of having a fun-packed schedule, expect it to be filled with activities in the school and around town. You will have many opportunities to apply what you have learned. Even though they do not provide accommodations, they do have a service to help you find where you can stay – whether it’s a shared apartment or a host family. Also, did I mention that it is by the beach?
3. Linguaschools – Bacelona
Whether you want to prepare for the DELE or just to expand your horizons by learning Spanish, prepare for a fun environment. This school provides a wide range of courses and programs. Great for young adults and older. Just like the previous school, the price doesn’t include accommodation, but they do assist you in finding accommodations. I’m a personal fan of Lingaschools in general, since they are well known worldwide and have schools in both in Spain and Latin America.
4. Enforex Madrid School-Madrid
Courses like General Spanish to Intensive Spanish, Spanish and Flamenco to Spanish and Yoga, you could say they definitely have a wide variety of courses. And they’re located in Madrid, the country’s capital, which is just as filled with Spain’s history as the other cities mentioned.
You will be able to choose the number of Spanish lessons per week that suit your schedule and budget. This school is a bit more customizable in comparison to the other schools. That’s beneficial especially if you’re on a budget, as you can save funds while still having a memorable and educational experience.
Every school is unique in its own way and has reasons that studying there could be the right choice for you. Even though there are more amazing Spanish schools in Spain, we hope to have helped you start your process of finding your perfect place to learn Spanish in this beautiful country.
Not ready to plan a trip to Spain? You can also learn Spanish from your home by working with one of our TakeLessons Spanish instructors.
Happy Learning everyone!
Rosita Ruiz