Learning the Lingo
Do you know your pommes frites from your pescado? Whether you have a timeshare in Taiwan or fractional ownership in France, it makes sense to get a grasp of the local lingo. Even a few basic words will go down well with the neighbors. Angela West shares her top tips on how to pick up a few words and phrases to get you by. In just a few hours a week you’ll pick up the basics in no time. It’s easier than you think!
If you studied languages at school some time ago, you’ll find that things have changed… it’s now much more fun! Create a routine, set yourself short-term goals and make time on a regular basis for your language learning so it becomes an active part of your life. Pushed for time? Learn in your lunch-break. Some find studying for 10 minutes a day more effective than marathon sessions once a week, so little and often works well, even if it’s just a word a day.
How and where to learn
Money an issue? It doesn’t have to cost a penny. Borrow books/DVDs in your target language from the library, where you’ll also find details of evening classes. If you find the prospect of “going back to school” a little daunting, help is at hand…at the touch of your keyboard and mouse. Why not learn online, in the privacy and comfort of your own home? Play games, download phrases to your iPod or phone or complete a course at your own pace, dipping in and out at your leisure.
If you’re starting from scratch, the BBC offers not only phrasebooks, language learning DVDs and TV programmes, but fun, interactive online courses and downloadable phrases. Its dedicated Languages site at www.bbc.co.uk/languages has a wealth of free materials for beginners and more advanced learners:
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