The Best Apps for Learning Spanish Before a Trip to Latin America
If you’re heading off on a long trip to Spanish-speaking countries, it makes sense to learn a bit of the language. Even if it’s basic vocabulary and questions, having some language skills will be a massive boon when you’re on the road. Here are some of the best apps to help you on your way.
FluentU
This great app focuses on videos to help you learn more Spanish. It uses real-world material such as commercials and news to ensure that you learn the language as it’s spoken on the street. Highly recommended for audiovisual learners.
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Uncover my top 3 recommended places from each continent on the map.
CentralAmerica
1. Guatemala
An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.Next
CentralAmerica
2. Belize
A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea. Next
CentralAmerica
3. Mexico
An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different. SouthAmerica
1. Ecuador
A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.Next
SouthAmerica
2. Peru
An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon. Europe
1. Italy
The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.Next
Europe
2. Scotland
Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers. Next
Europe
3. Portugal
A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers. Asia
1. South Korea
Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.Next
Asia
2. Thailand
From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise. Next
Asia
3. Sri Lanka
A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great price Africa
1. Morocco
An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!Next
Africa
2. Egypt
From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt. Next
Duolingo
A free app that’s available in a multitude of languages, Duolingo is split into themed units that help you to pick up vocabulary. The focus is very much on learning new words rather than grammar, which is good for some people but sometimes frustrating for those aiming for greater fluency.
Rosetta Stone
The classic Rosetta Stone language-learning system now has its own app, which is free for a demo version. You won’t be using English at all, because the Rosetta Stone approach is to do everything in the target language. This means you’re learning like a child in a Spanish-speaking country rather than an English-speaking adult.
Memrise
The focus of this free app is to memorize new vocabulary, and its makers have come up with an innovative approach to help you do so. For each Spanish word, there is an English phrase that contains similar words. Some of the phrases are really funny, which makes them stick in your head.
Cat Spanish
Made by the team behind Memrise, this is another humourous app which uses cats to help you learn. The features and design feature friendly felines, and there are challenges that you’ll have to navigate using common Spanish phrases. Some people might find it gimmicky, but others will love it.
Fluencia
At $14.99, Fluencia doesn’t come cheap. However its makers claim that once you’ve completed the 50 units of lessons, you’ll be able to speak as well as someone who did a one-year college course in Spanish. Worth a go if you’re serious about picking up as much as you can.
Open Language
This professional-looking app has lessons that correspond to the official levels of Spanish language qualifications as set by the Instituto Cervantes. If you are a serious student and want to know how your skills measure up against a globally recognized qualification, download Open Language today. Be aware that a subscription costs $30 per month, so it’s an investment.
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