Are you looking to take a Spanish course to improve your speaking skills? It is a fact: the best way to learn a foreign language is to immerse yourself in it. If you really want to be fluent in Spanish, studying abroad in a country where the language is spoken is an easy and fast way to accomplish your goal, better than any other educational method. If you’e ready to accelerate your Spanish learning process by immersing yourself in another culture, here are the two world’s best cities to devote yourself to master your Spanish.
Barcelona
If you are looking for a combination of learn spanish barcelona, unique culture, great food, vibrant nightlife, and sun-soaked beaches, Barcelona is definitely your best bet.
From Gaudi’s breathtaking masterpieces (such as the majestic and controversial Sagrada Familia cathedral) to a large coastline filled with stunning beaches, Barcelona is a fantastic place to study the language of Cervantes and one of Spain’s most impressive cities.
There is a real student vibe going on in Barcelona, with a huge international population. The city has dozens upon dozens of Spanish language schools offering short intensive courses, as well as longer programs for serious students, with a huge emphasis on learning the language and increasing your knowledge of Spanish culture.
If you are a foodie, you are going to love Barcelona. Paella, tortilla, and Iberic cured ham are some of the highlights to go tapas-hopping with friends at any of the city’s world-class bars and restaurants.
You can also spend hours at the numerous local markets (La Boquería is the most famous one!) picking up the freshest local produce. They sell vegetables, meat, fish, and thousands of other products in stalls with charm and imaginative presentation.
Barcelona is also an all-round winner if you are after a good dose of culture. The city offers a wealth of natural wonders, museums, art centers, private galleries, and a wide range of cultural and sports activities open to everyone. First-time visitors to Barcelona are often overwhelmed by the innumerable choices the city has to offer.
The only downside of living in Barcelona is that the city is super-touristy, so it might be a little crowded (especially during high season) and also more expensive than other parts of Spain. However, if you budget accordingly the cost of living may be still manageable.
Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires, Argentina’s largest city, is an increasingly popular place to learn Spanish, and though the city has its own variant of the language –known as Castellano – is also a good place to learn conventional Spanish.
Buenos Aires will definitely keep you occupied when your classes do not, in fact, it is almost impossible to get bored in Argentina’s capital. The city, often called “the Paris of South America” has it all: amazing theaters, live music, lovely architecture, tango dancing, great restaurants, and a non-stop vibrant nightlife.
The best thing about Buenos Aires is probably its local people. Argentines are open, generous, and quite friendly with their time and willingness to let you practice your Spanish on them (they love to chat!).
Studying in Buenos Aires on a tight budget can definitely be done. Argentina’s current economic situation allows nearly anyone – with almost any budget – to stay within their means. The country has been undergoing a constant inflationary process for years, and for this reason, things will surely be cheaper if you travel with a strong currency, such as dollars or euros.
Getting the Right Destination is the Key
Mastering your Spanish will give you a valuable life skill that looks great on your CV, but it will also expand your perspectives, as well as your circle of friends. However, choosing the right place to learn Spanish abroad may be a little tricky.
If you finally decide to study abroad, you will most likely spend between one and six months improving your Spanish skills, so choosing the right city is the key to make the most of your language learning experience.
Therefore, keep in mind that choosing the city is a deeply personal process. You can start by narrowing your options, identifying which city will provide you with the right mix of challenges and fun, as you learn and practice the language.
