The flight is booked. The room looks like a slice of heaven. Only 5 pounds to go until that itsy-bitsy swimming suit fits like a dream. Things are all set, except for one minor hang-up that's rattling around and creating a host of disturbing thoughts. Finally the dream vacation to Spain is a reality and the reality is you don't speak Spanish. There is still time. Learning a second language is always a valuable skill, but when the main goal is to use converse while on vacation you need to learn a specific lingo and pay close attention to certain skills.Why not start to learn Spanish today.



Help is a click away

First head to your computer and click away. Find a good site that offers basic Spanish lessons. Try to find audio lessons if possible to train your ears as well as build vocabulary and grammar skills. Many sites even offer free Spanish lessons. Use the free trials. There is nothing to loose and many words to gain.

Firmly founded in vocabulary

Learning a set of basic phrases will not be enough. It will do you no good to simply memorize a set of basic questions unless the solicited response happens to be on the list you memorized also. Learning proper grammar is ideal, but not as important as building a large base of Spanish vocabulary. Learn as many words as possible. Begin building vocabulary before leaving for vacation by repeating the Spanish word for commons objects and daily activities. If unable translate an English word into its Spanish counterpart, look it up and use it repeatedly the following day. This simple exercise will yield a vast vocabulary in a short time.

Pardon me, but do you have the time?

Travelers need to pay special attention to learning numbers and time. Numbers have countless application in travel. The ability to solicit the time from a stranger or ask a shop keeper an item's cost is a not taken for granted when in a foreign country. Number skills are used often when shopping, calculating tips or riding the metro. Count money in Spanish to practice. Place labels on the clock indicating Spanish terms for 'half past the hour', 'quarter 'till' and so forth.

In addition to vocabulary it is also wise to study the basic layout of the towns on the vacation itinerary. Is there a Roman ruin or cathedral? Does the city center upon a town square. These places are more common in Spanish cities than in American towns. Learning the Spanish terms for these landmarks will make asking or following directions much simpler. Don't forget to learn basic directional terms like right, left, straight ahead and the compass points.

Talk is cheap

Above all speak Spanish. Enlist traveling companions to learn. Speak Spanish to each other. Learning a language is easier if you can speak it regularly.

Relax, have fun and learn to speak Spanish. It can be done, and you can do it. Enjoy your trip.

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