While there are a number of ways to approach learning Spanish in Guatemala, small-group classes, private lessons, and one-on-one instruction are by far the most common options. All of these types of language courses provide students with the ability to dive deeply into the Spanish language while communicating directly with a native speaker.
If you’d prefer individually customized lessons, private language instruction comes with its own unique set of challenges, first and foremost being the language barrier itself. If you choose private Spanish language lessons, chances are you’re probably not fluent in Spanish quite yet. However, your instructor may likewise not be fluent in your native language, meaning you may be communicating strictly in broken “Spanglish” until you are able to maintain a firm grasp on your Spanish.
While there might be initial challenges, individualized lessons will allow you to learn Spanish in Guatemala at your own pace, which is usually much more quickly than you would in larger classes. Additionally, private language classes oftentimes more deeply emphasize conversational language skills. Combined, these advantages will most likely afford you the opportunity to shorten your stay in-country if you are pressed for time.
Group language courses will allow you to connect with and learn from not only your instructor, but also other Spanish language learners in a small group setting. Many times you'll find yourself in classes with individuals from all over the world, with Spanish as your only language in common. This unique experience opens a new door to intercultural exchange, where you can simultaneously increase your Spanish language skills while learning about the unique culture of Guatemala, as well as the cultures of your classmates, all through your shared knowledge of Spanish.
How long you decide to spend learning Spanish in Guatemala will depend on your skill-level at the start and what you hope to gain out of your program. Looking for a refresher course to help you feel comfortable on your next vacation? A couple of hours over the course of a week or two is probably more than sufficient. Hoping to put “fluent Spanish-speaker” on your resume? Depending on your initial level of expertise, you’re probably looking at a month long time investment.
While learning Spanish in Guatemala, participating in a homestay is by far the best way to put your language skills to use, and also have the chance to seamlessly integrate in the local community. Want to learn how to backstrap weave from an indigenous Mayan or cook the best handmade tortillas from the oldest village abuela? Now you can. Living with locals will provide you with many additional language learning opportunities, whether in your shared home, farmers markets, and hikes around your new city; all of these places will simultaneously act as your classroom as your host introduces you to the "Chapin" (Guatemalan) way of life.
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