So you’ve decided that you want to take a Spanish immersion course, but you aren’t sure where to go. You want something that’s a little off the beaten path, where there’s plenty to do and culture to explore; you want to go to South America, but aren’t sure if you’re ready to live in “developing country” conditions. Perhaps you should consider taking a Spanish immersion course in Valparaiso, Chile?
Valparaiso (or Paradise Valley) is a great choice for those looking to learn Spanish abroad. Located on the Pacific coast just a couple of hours from the Chilean capital of Santiago, Valparaiso is one of South America’s most important cultural centers. It has been called “Little San Francisco” for the way that its labyrinthine streets wind through the steep hillsides looking down over the Pacific Ocean. The city has a rich cultural legacy, and is one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites.
The nearby town of Viña del Mar is a well known coastal resort that features beautiful beaches and a fun downtown area. The subtropical atmosphere lends itself to a Mediterranean vibe. Public transportation between Valparaiso and Viña del Mar is very affordable, meaning you can live in the laid back beach resort town while studying in the city.
Of course, the point is to learn Spanish, and there’s no better way to do that than by totally immersing yourself into Spanish speaking culture. While you spend your days in the classroom learning the basics, you’ll be out in the afternoons and evenings practicing your lessons with native Spanish speakers as you go about your daily life. Shopping in stores, going to the movies or out to the club – everything you do is an opportunity to improve your Spanish. It is the fastest way to learn Spanish, as everything you do reinforces what you learn in class. And all the while, you’ll be learning and absorbing that wonderful Latin American culture.
Of course, the best option is to get a head start on your learning before you go. Consider taking an online Spanish course first, so that you’ll already have the basics down; you’ll be able to learn even faster when you finally immerse yourself in a Spanish speaking community.
