The Best Places To Practice a Language

So you’re interested in learning Spanish. But how? And where? While online language courses have become increasingly popular, there is no better way to learn Spanish than with an immersive experience in a Spanish-speaking country. This way it’s not just about grammar exercises and vocabulary tests - you get the excitement of international travel, the wonder of discovering new cultures and the opportunity to use your Spanish in everyday situations. In one memorable experience, you can improve your linguistic proficiency but also gain a deeper appreciation for the Spanish language and its diverse cultures.

The next question is: where are the best places to learn Spanish? The answer, of course, depends on your personal tastes and interests. Here we'll look at why we think Malaga, Madrid, Barcelona, and Buenos Aires stand out as top destinations for those eager to immerse themselves in the Spanish language and culture. All of these cities in this article stand out as exceptional places for learning Spanish abroad, with each offering a distinct social and cultural experience that goes way beyond the classroom.

Best Places to Learn Spanish

Malaga: History and Art in the Mediterranean Sun

Sitting proudly on the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean sea, Malaga is a picturesque city that blends history, traditional Andalusian culture and a laid-back way of living. The birthplace of Pablo Picasso and now the home of a burgeoning modern art scene, Malaga offers a rich cultural tapestry that enhances the language-learning experience. Students wandering through the cobblestone streets of the historic center will be captivated by Malaga's Moorish architecture and medieval charm. The city's lively atmosphere and friendly locals create a perfect environment for language learning - you can learn Spanish in the classroom and then immediately practice it out in the vibrant streets and markets.

Adding to its allure, the city boasts several pristine beaches. Just imagine unwinding on the sand after your Spanish classes in Malaga, soaking up the Mediterranean sun and listening to the sea lapping on the shore. And with a climate that ensures blue skies almost all year round, you’ll have countless opportunities to get out and enjoy everything the city has to offer.

Madrid: Learn Spanish in Spain’s Lively Capital

Madrid is one of Europe’s most dynamic cities, pulsating with energy, art, and history. Home to world-renowned museums like the Prado and Reina Sofia, studying Spanish in Madrid means immersing yourself in the masterpieces of great artists like Goya, Velázquez, and Picasso. Beyond the art scene, Madrid's bustling streets, vibrant nightlife, and historic neighborhoods provide a diverse and entertaining backdrop for language learning.

From the historic Puerta del Sol to the elegant Retiro Park, Madrid seamlessly weaves Spanish tradition with cosmopolitan modernity. You can practice your Spanish skills while trying traditional tapas in the lively La Latina district or engaging in animated conversations with locals at iconic food markets. Madrid's central location also makes it a great base for exploring other nearby Spanish towns like Toledo and Segovia, enriching the overall study abroad experience.

Barcelona: Artistic Innovation and Urban Cool

Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, is a city brimming with artistic flair and a distinctive cultural identity. Renowned for the architectural wonders of Antoni Gaudí, including the iconic Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, Barcelona is a visual feast for those studying Spanish. The unique blend of Gothic and modernist architecture provides an inspiring backdrop for anyone who comes to the city to learn Spanish. And though Barcelona has a proud Catalan spirit, Spain's Castilian Spanish is spoken throughout the city.

In addition to its artistic treasures, Barcelona's lively beach culture and the enchanting Gothic Quarter offer diverse environments for you to practice and improve your Spanish skills. The Catalonian spirit, expressed through language, traditions, and cuisine, adds a layer of cultural richness to this language-learning journey.

Buenos Aires: Discover Argentina and Latam Spanish

From day one, Buenos Aires captivates with its mix of Latin American elan and old-world European charm. For those seeking a study abroad adventure, the capital of Argentina is a bustling and cosmopolitan place to learn Spanish. The city's diverse neighborhoods - from the bohemian San Telmo and historic La Boca, to the upscale Recoleta and lively Palermo - offer a range of experiences that will keep you entertained as you learn Spanish in Argentina.

Buenos Aires' lively streets and welcoming people create a unique and immersive language-learning environment. Students can enhance their Latam Spanish skills by getting involved with local activities, such as tango shows, asados (barbecues) with friends, and all kinds of cultural events that showcase Argentina's rich heritage.

What Country has the Easiest Spanish to Learn?

There are more-than 20 Spanish-speaking countries in the world, each with a distinct Spanish variant. Deciding which has the "easiest" Spanish is subjective, as it depends on various factors such as an individual’s personal goals, linguistic background, and preferred learning style. Of course, Spain is the birthplace of the Spanish language, so studying there allows you to delve into the purest form of the language (as governed by the Royal Spanish Academy). However, there may be personal or practical reasons why some students are more interested in learning a variant of Latam Spanish, such as the "rioplatense" dialect spoken in parts of Argentina and Uruguay. 

Does it matter which Spanish you Learn?

The short answer is “not really”. There are diverse Spanish variants across Spanish-speaking countries and even within countries you’ll find a range of regional dialects and accents. However, all are based on the same language, which is Spain’s Castilian Spanish (as governed by the Royal Spanish Academy) and with any type of Spanish variant you can make yourself understood in all Spanish-speaking countries (just like an British person in the US, Canada or Australia). It is worth noting that most official exams for Spanish as a foreign language will likely be in Spain’s Castilian Spanish rather than Latam Spanish.

Whichever destination you choose, we’re certain that living and learning Spanish in a Spanish-speaking country will be an enriching experience that you will never forget. If you’d like to find out more about the wide range of course and study abroad programs that Expanish offers in each city, get in touch with us here.