Today, we will try to answer the very important question: What’s the best country to learn Spanish in? The answer, however, will depend on what exactly you are looking for. What is your main priority? A full immersion? A budget friendly course? A place where Spanish is spoken clearly and abides by the rules? (grammar rules, that is).
Whatever goal is driving you, we are sure you will find your way here! Just keep on reading.
With the start of 2021, most of us can’t help but begin (at least, mentally) planning our next trip. Soon to come. If you are learning Spanish, then you are probably not only thinking about the best destination with awesome views and warm weather, but also, where you can best learn and practice your Spanish.
Here is a break down of some the best countries to learn Spanish depending on your main interest:
#1 Clearest accent: Colombia
As a half Colombian, I might be a bit biased. However, as an experienced Spanish teacher I can attest Colombian accent to be one of the purest, clearest, and easiest Spanish dialects you can come across.
If you make Colombia your next destination to learn Spanish, be sure to visit its capital city, Bogotá. Even if you are a beginner, you will find that you will be able to pick up quite a few words as locals have an almost neutral accent and speak clearly and slowly. Plus, Colombian are also known for their kindness and welcoming spirit. Also, it is not rare to find people who speak some level of English and can help you get around. Who knows! You might meet your next conversation partner… or should we say parcero?
Now, should you stick to the capital only? Absolutely not! If you are looking to enroll in a Spanish language course, you will find excellent programs in Medellin and Cartagena as well.
#2 Most affordable: Ecuador
Cuenca, Ecuador’s capital, is without a doubt one of the best cities to learn Spanish in. Especially, if you are looking for budget friendly courses.
There are dozens of great Spanish schools to choose from in Cuenca with very competitive prices compared to other popular destinations to learn Spanish.
In Cuenca, prices for private or semi private lessons can go as low as $180 for a week, attending class every day for four hours. That comes down to only $4.50 per person, per hour!
Additionally, after your class you are likely to experience a real cultural and language immersion as English is not commonly spoken on the streets. You will also find that locals speak slowly enough for you to understand and hopefully practice on your trips to stores, markets, restaurants, and more.
#3 Best for language immersion: Guatemala
Antigua, Guatemala’s first capital city, brings together the best of both worlds, a neutral accent and affordable competitive prices for language courses.
Guatemala is also an excellent country for those Spanish learners looking to have a real immersion experience.
Lessons and homestays as commonly offered as a full package to provide students with the opportunity to be fully immersed in the language and the culture.
If you are serious about learning Spanish, the experience of living with a host family and attending daily Spanish lessons might be your fastest track to fluency.
But, if you are the kind of traveler who prefers to move away from popular tourist attractions, then look into visiting the city of Xela. Spanish schools here do not only include intensive courses but also meals and student activities like excursions and trips. With such a wholesome experience, a trip in Guatemala is guaranteed to have you thinking and dreaming in Spanish in no time. Every language learner’s dream!
#4 Best for a challenge: Argentina
If you are looking for a challenge and would like to put your Spanish skills to the test, then Argentina might be the place for you! With its charming and sometimes colorful accent, Argentina represents an exciting destination for higher level Spanish students.
Heavily influenced by the Italians immigrants that arrived in the country in the late 19th century, you will find that Argentinian Spanish, or Castellano, differs from other dialects in South America in a number of ways.
For starters, the second person singular in Argentina is “vos” and not “tú” like in many other countries. However, the verb conjugations do not change, so it’s not like the Spanish vosotros.
Another big difference you will find in this country is the pronunciation of certain sounds. The double L and Y are pronounced more like a J or SH sounds – so for example, you will find that playa (beach) sounds more like pla-sha, or calle (street) will sound like ca-she.
Argentinian also have a very specific melodic curve in their accent that make it both very charming and sometimes challenging to understand. They can also speak quite fast at times and, just like Italians, tend to accompany their speech with lots of hand gestures.
If you are up for it, don’t let any of these details intimidate you. Argentina has tons of great language schools that will introduce you to their dialect. Buenos Aires, Cordoba and Mendoza are among the best cities in the country to study Spanish in. And while you are there, don’t forget to try the amazing vino (wine) if you are a wine aficionado; and, if you can, take the opportunity to visit the breathtaking Cataratas de Iguazú.
The Adventure Awaits…
If you’ve been wondering “what’s the best country to learn Spanish?” then know that these are only a few of the amazing countries we could talk about today. But the truth is that Spanish is a beautiful language spoken in over 21 countries, so there’s plenty to choose from!
Wherever you decide to go next, I hope you have an amazing time!
¡Vámonos!
Isabel Solano