Moving to Spain for remote working offers plenty of opportunities, from enjoying the vibrant culture to indulging in delicious cuisine. However, one of the most enriching ways to make the most of your experience is to learn Spanish. Not only does mastering the local language help with day-to-day tasks, but it also opens doors to forming deeper connections with locals and gaining a richer understanding of Spanish culture. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to improve your existing skills, here’s a comprehensive guide on the best ways to learn Spanish, with tips and advice on resources available across Spain.
Why Learn Spanish?
Learning Spanish is invaluable when living and working in Spain. While many locals in major cities like Madrid or Barcelona speak English, especially in tourist areas, Spanish is essential for fully integrating into everyday life, particularly in smaller towns. Knowing the language can also be beneficial for navigating bureaucracy, securing rental agreements, and socialising with locals.
Spanish is the second-most spoken language in the world, meaning your efforts won’t just benefit your time in Spain but can also open doors for future travel or work in Latin America and other Spanish-speaking regions.
Top Tips to Learn Spanish
1. Start with the Basics
- Begin with the fundamentals: greetings, introductions, and everyday phrases.
- Apps like Duolingo, Babbel, and Memrise offer a great starting point, helping you build your vocabulary and basic grammar before you arrive in Spain.
- Focus on conversational Spanish, as speaking and listening skills will be the most useful in your daily life.
2. Set Realistic Goals
- Learning a new language takes time, so it’s important to set achievable goals. For example, aim to have a simple conversation within the first two months or be able to order in a restaurant without hesitation.
- Break down your learning into manageable sections: focus on grammar one week, then vocabulary, and then listening exercises.
3. Immerse Yourself in Spanish Culture
- Immersing yourself in the culture helps speed up the learning process. Watch Spanish TV shows, movies, and listen to Spanish music or podcasts.
- Start by watching with English subtitles, then move to Spanish subtitles as your comprehension improves. This method helps you become familiar with accents and everyday language use.
4. Join Local Language Exchanges
- Language exchanges, or intercambios, are a great way to learn Spanish while meeting locals and other expats. Many cities in Spain have cafes and bars that host weekly language exchange events.
- Platforms like Meetup and Tandem can help you find language exchange partners in cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Valencia.
5. Take Spanish Classes
- Spain has a wide variety of Spanish language schools, catering to different levels and learning preferences. Here are some of the best options across the country:
- International House (IH): With branches in Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville, IH offers intensive courses, business Spanish, and private tutoring.
- Don Quijote: One of the most popular schools for foreigners, with locations all over Spain. They offer immersive learning experiences, including cultural activities like cooking classes and flamenco.
- Speakeasy School (Barcelona): Known for flexible schedules and small group classes, this school focuses on interactive learning.
- Cervantes Institute: A globally recognised institution with locations across Spain. They offer courses from beginner to advanced levels and even have certifications in Spanish proficiency.
6. Enroll in Online Classes
- If you’re constantly on the move or prefer learning at your own pace, consider online courses. Platforms like Italki allow you to connect with native-speaking teachers for one-on-one lessons. You can tailor the classes to your needs, focusing on grammar, conversation, or specific topics.
- Another popular option is Coursera, which offers a range of Spanish courses from top universities and language schools, allowing you to learn at your own pace with flexible schedules.
7. Make Spanish Part of Your Daily Routine
- The best way to retain a new language is to incorporate it into your everyday life. Label items around your home in Spanish, try reading menus and signs without relying on translations, and make a point to speak to locals in Spanish as much as possible, even if it’s just ordering a coffee.
- Spanish news outlets like El País or RTVE can also help with improving reading comprehension and staying up to date on current events in Spain.
8. Be Consistent and Patient
- Language learning is a marathon, not a sprint. Be consistent with your practice and don’t get discouraged if progress feels slow at first. Even 15 minutes a day can make a big difference over time.
- Surround yourself with the language as much as possible—speak, listen, and read Spanish daily.
Learn Spanish in Different Spanish Cities
Madrid
- As the capital of Spain, Madrid has an abundance of language schools and cultural institutions. Schools like International House and Ail Madrid are highly regarded, offering flexible courses for all levels.
- Madrid’s large expat community makes it easier to find language exchanges. Look for events in places like La Latina or Malasaña neighbourhoods.
Barcelona
- Barcelona is home to a diverse community of expats and offers plenty of language schools, including Speakeasy and Kingsbrook Idiomas. These schools offer both group and private lessons, and the international environment means you’ll often find language exchange meetups in cafes and bars.
- Barcelona’s mix of Catalan and Spanish presents a unique challenge, but it’s a great place to immerse yourself in a multilingual environment.
Valencia
- Known for its relaxed lifestyle and affordability, Valencia is an attractive option for digital nomads. Language schools like Taronja offer immersive programs combined with fun activities, making it a great place to learn Spanish while enjoying beachside living.
- Valencia is also famous for its friendly expat community, which hosts regular intercambios and social events to help you practice Spanish in a more casual setting.
Seville
- If you’re looking to experience traditional Spanish culture while learning the language, Seville is the perfect place. Schools like CLIC International House offer a mix of intensive courses and cultural activities, from flamenco lessons to tapas tours.
- The Andalusian accent can be challenging for beginners, but locals are friendly and patient, making it a great place to immerse yourself in everyday Spanish.
Free Resources to Learn Spanish
If you’re looking to learn Spanish on a budget, there are plenty of free resources available in Spain:
- Public libraries: Many offer language exchange programs, Spanish language books, and free learning materials.
- Online resources: Websites like LanguageGuide.org and Duolingo provide free lessons and practice exercises.
- Local community centres: Some neighbourhood centres offer free or low-cost Spanish classes for newcomers and expats.
Learning Spanish while travelling or living in Spain will not only make your day-to-day life easier but will also deepen your cultural experiences and help you form meaningful connections with locals. Whether you prefer structured lessons at a language school, casual language exchanges, or the flexibility of online learning, there are countless resources available to help you master the language at your own pace. By staying consistent and incorporating Spanish into your daily routine, you’ll see progress faster than you expect, making your time in Spain all the more rewarding.
