Four Great Ways to Learn and Practice Spanish in Medellin

Do you have plans to travel to Medellin, Colombia and stay for a period of time? If so then your stay in Medellin is bound to go much smoother and be more enjoyable in general if you're able to communicate with locals. What this means is that a basic understanding of Spanish is ideal. Whether you have some experience with the language or none at all, there is no need to be alarmed about how you'll cope. Instead, you can use these tips for ways you can learn and practice Spanish while in Medellin.

Install a Translation App​

You don't even need to wait until you arrive in Medellin to use this first tip. Installing a translation app is a great way to start to learn the basics of Spanish, and also give you peace of mind that you'll be able to communicate with simple phrases as soon as you arrive. Some apps require you to type the words in before the translation is provided, whereas others allow you to speak the word or even take a picture of it, such as a sign or a menu item.

While these apps are perfect for getting you over bumps here and there, these aren't really meant to teach you the language. These are meant more as a supplement to learning.

Enroll In Spanish Classes Once You Arrive

If you plan on staying in Medellin for more than just a couple of weeks, then it makes sense to actively learn the language rather than relying on a translation app. Not only will this help you to communicate and feel more comfortable with your surroundings, but it's also great to learn another language in general. There are 20 countries in the world that list Spanish as one of their main languages, so it really opens up the door to more travel potential.

Baselang is well-known as a good place to learn Spanish in Medellin and it offers students unlimited one-on-one classes for a single flat rate. What this means is that you can get as much help as you need and not have to worry about paying for each class you take. One-on-one instruction can also make learning faster and more comprehensive. When you are learning the language taught by a local you'll also be able to listen to the local accent and dialect, as Spanish can change slightly from country to country.

Start Watching Local TV Shows​

While this may sound like a silly tip, you'd be amazed at the number of people who say they have learned another language by watching TV. You will get to hear Spanish being used in a conversational and natural setting, and also at a typical rate of spoken speed. Obviously, when you first start you'll only be able to pick up a few words here and there, but as you grow more comfortable with Spanish you'll start being able to pick up more words in the sentence, and eventually understand the full sentence.

If you aren't staying with Spanish speaking people, this is a great way to still get the benefits of hearing Spanish on a daily basis.

Try Not to Slip Back Into English with Native Speakers

One common thing people will do is try to accommodate the person who is learning, which is you, and use that person's native language to make them feel more comfortable. If people try to speak English with you, try not to give in and insist on Spanish instead.

Be Consistent and Patient​

At the end of the day, the best piece of advice when learning Spanish, or any new language, is to be consistent with your learning and studying and be patient with yourself.