A Guide to Learning Spanish this Summer
Are you visiting a Spanish-speaking country this summer and want to be respectful of the language and culture? Or are you wanting to learn a new skill over the summer break? This guide will help you find the easiest ways to learn Spanish this summer from the comfort of your own home.
Twenty-one countries worldwide declare Spanish as their native language. This includes popular holiday destinations such as Spain, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic. It is common for locals at these destinations to speak English, but tourists should not rely on this to get through their holiday.
Why learn the language?
Spanish is one of the easiest languages for native English speakers to learn. The two languages share similarities in the alphabet, grammar, and pronunciation.
Learning a second language has been proven to make you smarter. This is because it improves your memory, increases your attention span, and improves your problem-solving skills.
It’s also important to learn the basics of a language when visiting a foreign country. Spanish-speaking destinations are popular amongst tourists, but it isn’t always practical to expect locals to speak English.
Gen Z is the generation that is changing the way we holiday. They place a huge importance on respecting the language and culture when traveling abroad. This generation will call out those who disrespect the culture and those who blur the lines between cultural appropriation and appreciation.
It’s no secret that tourists can be frustrating to locals. However, learning the basics of the language of the country you are holidaying in can be the best way to show appreciation.
Duolingo
In 2023, Spanish was the second most popular language on the learning and language app Duolingo.
Duolingo advertises on most social media sites and websites on the internet and is currently teaching 500 million people a new language or skill. The effectiveness of Duolingo has been up for debate, but it has started many down the path of learning a new language that they probably wouldn’t have tried before.
Learning is different for everyone, and some enjoy it less than others. Duolingo took this on board and created a fun and engaging platform for everyone. With bright and clear graphics and characters, they have built a website that can include everyone.
The lessons can be short and sweet, making it easy for full-time workers and students to learn in their downtime. The lessons are tailored to your ability to make sure that users can complete lessons.
I’ve been learning Polish for just over a month now. It’s a hard language to learn but Duolingo makes it easier, especially since I can do it from home. I never thought I’d be able to learn a new language, but it has been rewarding.
Claire Laughland — New learner on Duolingo
One of the main selling points of the platform is that it’s free of charge. This makes it accessible for those who cannot afford to learn another language. Of course, if you want to progress further and faster, you can buy a subscription to the app. Unlimited hearts, offline lessons, and custom quizzes are just some of the features offered in the subscription.
The Duolingo daily streak feature also helps stir up motivation within the learners. Learning a new language can be hard and frustrating, and because of this many learners will give up before reaching the finish line. However, fun features like a streak help learners return every day, even if it’s only for a five-minute lesson.
Music
Music can also be a great way to learn another language, especially Spanish, as there are many great Spanish-speaking artists on the scene.
You can listen to music anywhere: at home, on your morning/evening commute, or at work. Listening to Spanish music can be a learning moment without feeling like you’re learning.
Spanish-speaking artists such as Bad Bunny, Rosalia, and J Balvin have become popular amongst English speakers and Gen Z over the past few years.
Puerto Rican artist Bad Bunny has done especially well for himself as his album, ‘Un Verano Sin Ti,’ was the most streamed album on Spotify in December 2023. Bad Bunny was also the first non-English language act to become the most streamed artist of the year on Spotify.
Female pop sensation Shakira has been making music appealing to English speakers whilst incorporating the Spanish language and her Colombian culture.
This has enabled her to dominate charts around the world, including English-speaking countries such as the UK and the US.
If pop and rap music don’t interest you, find Spanish-speaking artists on streaming sites that best appeal to your music taste.
Subtitles
Even a lazy day at home can be productive when learning Spanish. Watching your favorite TV shows can be turned into a lesson by turning the Spanish subtitles on.
Another option is watching Spanish-speaking TV shows with English subtitles. Streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime have a great selection of Spanish TV shows.
Just like Spanish music, Spanish-speaking TV shows are bingeworthy. Shows such as Money Heist, Elite, and Wrong Side of the Tracks have been popular amongst English speakers.
What is going on in Spain?
Spain is a highly traveled country with beautiful beaches, hot weather, and a rich history; it’s no mystery why. Everyone can find something to admire in this country. However, if you’re traveling to Spain this summer, it’s important to be mindful of the issues the country is facing this year.
High levels of tourism have caused many issues for the locals of popular tourist areas. One of the main issues for locals is that houses have become unaffordable, as many are rented out as holiday homes.
Public spaces and services that the Spanish pay for through taxes are overcrowded with tourists, and as businesses start to cater to tourists only, the locals feel like their hometowns are losing their culture.
Thousands of locals have taken to the streets to protest. These protests have included spraying tourists with water guns and displaying placards with the message “Tourists go Home.”
Make sure to enjoy your trip to Spain this year, but respect the issues affecting this beautiful country.
