Learning a new language is one of the best ways to enrich your travel experience!
Learning a new language can be one of the most challenging experiences you can do, especially as an adult. However, if you put in the time and practice, it can also become one of the most rewarding experiences as well. Language learning has become so much easier these days with the continued evolution of the internet and applications. And the benefits are clear – increased ability to communicate in a foreign language can unlock doors and enrich your travel experience, whether that means ordering a cappuccino in Italian in Rome or asking for directions at a subway station in Tokyo. Even better, speaking a foreign language to locals, regardless of ability, can endear yourself to them and help you make new friends! Here are some of the best ways to learn a new language – all of which you could start TODAY!
Rosetta Stone/Other Language Learning Programs
Rosetta Stone has been offering their trademark language courses since the early 1990s. While early editions operated from desktop computers, nowadays you can access Rosetta Stone from mobile phones as well. The company offers over 20 languages so you’re sure to find the language you want to learn! There are also other companies offering traditional language courses for sale as well. Pimsleur offers spoken language courses based on research by the famed linguist. Udemy also has courses designed and taught by their community of educators.
Duolingo
Duolingo has been well-regarded in the traveler community for some time as a great, free way to learn a new language. The app turns language learning into a game, where correct answers in modules will score you points that go towards fulfilling your daily learning goal. There are 39 languages available on Duolingo – including Scots Gaelic, Navajo, and Hungarian! While the app is ad-supported, you can also choose to pay $7 a month for an ad-free experience that includes extra features.
Online Tutors
Self-study can be tough for some language learners. However, thanks to the explosive growth of video chat technology, you can easily find a tutor to help you along in your language learning journey. You get all the benefits of having a teacher with none of the drawbacks – since tutoring sessions are one-on-one, you’ll be given complete attention. You could research language schools in your target language’s country to see if any are offering online classes, or find a tutor on a dedicated tutoring site. The two most popular tutoring sites are Verbling and iTalki. These sites are both community-driven and you’ll be able to research tutors, find out how other students have rated them, and even try a free session before committing!
Explore the World with AESU!
Are you ready to plan an adventure of a lifetime? AESU offers unique, thrilling travel programs for college students and young professionals at affordable rates. Each trip is action-packed and informal—designed just for people your own age. We are also able to design custom tours just for your group.
Looking to travel this year? We still have space available on some of our exciting journeys such as Peru’s Inca Trail, Iceland, and New Year’s Eve on Cloud 9 in Austria!
2022 tour dates are now available! If you have any questions or want help booking your next adventure, please contact AESU by calling 800-638-7640, or fill out the contact form found on our website. Follow AESU on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.