Spanish Lessons in the US or Ecuador?

by Dave
(Pagosa Springs, CO)

I realize that if I am to get a rental and spend some extended time in Ecuador, I really ought to brush up my Spanish. Would you recommend doing this in Ecuador, as opposed to my hometown of Pagosa Springs, CO? Perhaps acquiring an Ecuadorian accent and local idioms might be preferable - or does it matter there?



Thanks for your question, Dave.

First, I commend you for being willing to learn Spanish. I'm surprised by the number of people here in Cuenca who don't speak much Spanish, if any, and don't want to learn it.

Lulie highly recommends coming here to learn your Spanish. And when you do, do a home-stay with an Ecuadorian family. You'll learn a lot faster, and also pick up some of the customs.

We'll be adding several more Spanish schools (including the University of Cuenca's extensive program) very soon, so check back in the Living in Cuenca section.

And no, speaking with a perfect accent, or with all the local idioms, isn't necessary. Ecuadorians appreciate the fact that you're trying at all.

Jeff

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Spanish Lessons in the US or Ecuador?

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Spanish Schools in Cuenca
by: Greg

I have been attending classes at Nexus in Cuenca. I really enjoy the classes there. Their style suits me perfectly. I have learned a lot which has really helped to improve the quality of my life here in Cuenca. I am looking forward to completing all of the classes they have to offer and to be speaking good Spanish in the not too distant future.

I have completed three of the six levels Nexus offers. At this point I would have to say that even though my Spanish is not as good as some others, it is better than most.
Resource for Learning Spanish
by: Jack

I just discovered an excellent, free resource for learning Spanish, or many other languages, on the internet. It's called Livemocha, and can be found at www.livemocha.com.

It may not be as good as being in a live environment where you can be totally immersed, which, in my opinion, is the best way to learn, but it can help get you started or to practice.

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