Barra’s area is a part of the city that combines ancient traditions and modern buildings, skyscrapers with beatiful seaview and yacht clubs. The area is safe and the beauty of this "bairro" is that it can be allcrossed on foot. Dialogo Brazil offers a comfortable student residence from which you can get to school in 10 minutes walking. It is also possible to stay with a local Baiana family to be totally involved in Brazilian culture and improving quickly the level of Portuguese language.

The first impression after arrived at Dialogo Brazil was excellent. Starting from home with my backpack I came to school on foot in exactly 10 minutes. There I found two new students, Ludivine, a French girl from Paris and Rickard, a Swedish guy. Immediately we started to know each other speaking in a funny Portuguese. All the staff introduced themselves and gave us a textbook and a brochure about living in Salvador. In addition to this they gave us a card to receive discounts in the major restaurants in the city. After having passed a test to determine the speaking level we started language lessons. My teacher is called Isabella, she is young but wellprepared and patient. The lessons are divided to deliver all the important aspects of learning a language, like grammar, vocabulary, listening and communication. To practice we use songs, texts and exercises of oral communication.

At mid-morning there is a break when it is served tea and coffee to the students. It is also possible to sit outside on a large balcony practicing Portuguese. I attended the Brazil Workshop course so my day finished at 12:30 pm when I had a great lunch in Barra with my new classmates. In the next article I will tell you more about all the activities that the school Dialogo Brazil in Salvador de Bahia offers students from all over the world.

By Mauro Fossati
Professional Student Advisor

• The important thing is to have confidence in yourself. Learning a language has its complications but not impossible .
• Enjoy it . Make the most of the new language and culture .
• Be consistent . Study each day. During short periods of time throughout the day . You do not have because you always do the same activities . You can watch videos, read a little , watch a show or movie ...
• Searching for native people with similar interests to yours . Using new technologies to communicate : Facebook , Skype , Twitter ...
• Take advantage of all the resources out there to improve your language. Reading, you can check out books and magazines from the library . In addition there are thousands of online sites where you can read. Listen , the chances are slim. Movies , series, radio programs ...
• Do your homework . Check them after your teacher 's corrected. Do not learn what is sure is not right.
• Write the new words you learn and use new mechanisms to memorize .
• Do not get bogged down . It always learn from mistakes.
• Increases contact with the tongue . Change language in you phone , social networking , books ...

Students can choose between general English course 20, 25 or 33 lessons per week in the morning or in the afternoon. Moreover students who are looking for more specific courses can opt for an excellent business course or English exam preparation for official exams such as Cambridge or IELTS. Malvern House also offers a chance to older people to attend an English course, offering Seniors course, or courses and activities such as English plus Sport or English plus Dance.

Now I want to tell you in detail what you will find if you decide to go to study in Malvern House. Every Monday new students arrive in Dublin to start an English course, before starting you will have done an online test, so during the first day you will have just a short chat to find out your English level. After that test you already can begin your lessons. Before beginning, you will receive many useful information about the city, different activities you can do and discounts which you can use if you are a student. If you are non-European student, school staff will help you with every document and advice you will need to stay in Ireland during the first days, such as opening a bank account, the pps number or information regarding visa. You will always be supported and assisted by the entire staff from Malvern House.

By Mauro Fossati
Professional Student Advisor

Dorset College is a school located in the center of the Irish capital, easily accessible on foot or through many city buses. At this school I attended two weeks general English course plus conversation. This course is well structured and the school immediately seemed to me very seriously and with a great internal organization. That course is divided between morning and afternoon. In the morning, you can study the fourth keys activities to learn a language, such as grammar, vocabulary, listening and speaking. While during afternoon you can work on a lot of conversation between students. That is encouraged through games and discussions on different themes. Teacher is very careful to check the conversation and correct possible mistakes. During morning classes was a pleasure to meet two teachers from different countries to teach students about different English accents. So I had a teacher from Dublin and one from United States, while in the afternoon an Irish teacher from Limerick for conversation part.

During my time at this school I met students from all over the world. It's always nice to hear stories from different countries and new cultures to discover. I was very well received in my class and I spent two wonderful weeks there. One day in particular was very pleasant, the American Thanksgiving Day. Since our teacher is from US on the 28th of November brought us turkey and many products that they use to eat for that celebration day. It was indeed a celebration day and everybody at classroom enjoyed that moment.

My name is Mauro, I am Italian and for LanguageBookings I work to help students to find a course and accommodation that best suits their needs and expectations. In this article I want to talk about Central College and I would like to tell you my personal experience, that is the same as new students live every Monday from all over the world. Personally I have been in this school for two weeks and I was feeling like at home thanks to a warm welcome by all students, teachers and the entire staff of the school.

 

Classes are regular every day from Monday to Friday and in addition there is the possibility to book also conversation classes in the afternoon and I can strongly reccomend that because these afternoon classes are very useful to improve your speaking skills.

 

Now let me tell you about an initiative taken by our teacher Marc that organized an international break in class during the last part of the lesson. It was really funny, each student brought to class a typical dish of them country and we shared together this beautiful moment. It was a good way to know more about different cultures and a great moment of relation and culinary pleasure, I assure you! 

 

So, about the first day. It starts at 10 am with a presentation made ​​directly to the Director of the school and several teachers. After presentation you will get to practice your English speaking playing. That's right, teachers have prepared a game that was very helpful for us to know each others and be able to speak in English. During the game you will have an oral interview to check your speaking skills and at about 11.30 you can already start with the lessons.

I spent two wonderful weeks at Delfin English School Dublin. I met people from all over the world and I could compare myself with different cultures. I would like to say thanks to Yelitza, Anghelina, Caio, Vicente and every body who have made me live a fantastic experience at Delfin School in Dublin. Come to Dublin and start your experience here!

 

By Mauro Fossati
Professional Student Advisor

For many years now, the UK English language teaching (ELT) industry has bemoaned the irrational and commercially damaging ruling that, on the one hand, allowed a visitor to the UK to do a pottery course or learn how to ride a horse but, on the other hand, prohibited that same visitor from taking an English language course, the language of the country being visited.

Tony Millns, The Chief Executive of English UK, the world's leading language association, said accredited English centres would be delighted with the change. In reference to business visitors, Mr Millns added, "Our members get many requests from people here on business to brush up their business English and negotiation skills, but they must currently turn them away because study is not permitted on a business visitor visa. This is a sensible move to end the current anomalous situation."

This news of the relaxation of the visitor visa rules is a welcome boost to an industry that has been hard-hit in recent years by a combination of stifling visa rules, stiff competition from other English language destinations, such as the US and Australia, and an Olympic summer that was a complete wash-out commercially (particularly in London) for language schools. The Olympic summer seemed to keep everyone away other than well-heeled sports fans.

Importantly, courses can only be taken at centres who are accredited by approved bodies, such as the British Council or ISI within the English language school sector. LanguageBookings.com who have been operating sending international students to London are delighted with the news. Esteban Di Falco LanguageBookings's Manager said, "This is excellent news! Instead of the ludicrous situation where we have UK visitors trying to book a English course only to be told they are not allowed to study without a visa we can now welcome them with open arms. It will be so much easier for students to study English in the UK !"

In recent times, the Government has often been heard saying, that Britain is 'open for business' and that it welcomes overseas visitors. Up to now, that message has seemed a little hollow but perhaps we can start believing what they say.

The LanguageBookings.com Team

The working holiday visa does not require the booking of a language course; however, it is not offered in every country. Here you can see a list of the countries that can apply for the working visa. You also can choose an easier way to be eligible to work in Australia: through a student visa.

How can you get your student visa?

What you need for this application is to book a CRICOS language course (CRICOS is the Commonwealth Register of International Courses for Overseas Students). Here we help you with this registration, it is very easy. The length of the course should be longer than 12 weeks and be full time (it means over 20 hours per week).

Once you have booked your language course and the school has confirmed, you will receive the invoice. Upon payment of this invoice, the school will issue your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), document that will be recorded with the Australian Government and that you should take to the Australian Embassy in your country when applying for the student visa. A medical check will also take place during the application process.

How many hours can you work per week?

If you hold a student visa, you are eligible to work 40 hours per fortnight, this means 40 hours per two weeks (not necessarily 20 hours every week). You will only be able to work for the period of time you have booked your language course for. Don’t forget that this one should be a full-time course.

For further details you can check the Australian Website here www.immi.gov.au  We strongly recommend you to contact the Australian embassy in your country for more information as well.

Why Australia?

Australia is the home of many cultures and many nationalities – you will find people from everywhere; people who are just travelling or people who are already settled. Thanks to the many and diverse cultural groups, it will be easier for you to find some peers that might be able to help you out finding a job or even offering you one.

Don’t think about it anymore and book your language course today – the sooner you book, the sooner you’ll be able to go to Australia and live unforgettable experiences.

By Diana Martinez Herrero

Main characteristics of this package

Types of work placement

Which kind of visa do you need?

Why Canada? 

By Diana Martinez Herrero

Most of the time they are guided by the things they have heard of among their communities and these lead them to the big cities, touristic places and relaxing beaches: London, Dublin, Paris, Rome, Miami and St Julian’s in Malta. We could say that these are the top metropolises to learn languages according to statistics. However, are they the ones that we, as student advisors, recommend?

When a new student turns to us for a piece of advice on where to go abroad to learn a new language, we always want this person to succeed and maximize their time in the foreign land. Our recommendations begin with semi-intensive courses in the case of the upper-intermediate and advance students; and intensive courses when talking about beginners. Regarding accommodation, we recommend to stay with host families since it is the best way to make sure they can practice the language at all times, listening to the native accent, and also experiencing the culture – learning a new language does not only mean learning the linguistic but also the socio-cultural one being this one the most important aspect to reach a successful conversation in many occasions. And finally, when recommending destination, we go for smaller cities or even villages. Why? The answer is very simple: to avoid running into people who share the same language of the student and to ensure being surrounded by native speakers most of the time. Also, these territories are much cheaper in terms of accommodation than bigger cities; this fact allows investing more money on language courses that will pay off the students’ future in the end.

To sum up, no matter which destination they choose, we always say: think that every minute that passes never comes back, so enjoy it the best way possible.

By Diana Martinez Herrero

Rio de Janeiro is not only the Statue of Christ the Redeemer, Ipanema and Copacabana beaches and Pao de Azucar, it is much more. This city hides marvels that not many people notice at first glance; but as everything in life, what it requires some kind of effort it is always worth it in the end. There is a huge contrast between social classes: the luxurious neighborhood of Barra de Tijuca is a few kilometers away from the well-known favelas. Please do not assume everything you hear about Rio de Janeiro is true. It is often rumored that the slums are very dangerous so the people that live there; please do not judge without knowing. I, myself, lived in a slum (favela) for seven months and I had no problems whatsoever; in fact, I felt pretty safe. What I loved the most about Rio de Janeiro was its population. Brazilians, in general, are very opened and welcoming with foreigners. They are very family oriented and will adopt you as their child. There is always something to do and you, for sure, will have to learn how to dance samba. 

By Diana Martinez Herrero

By Diana Martinez Herrero

The first day is always a mixture of emotions, like the first day of school when you have to know the others schoolmates yet, but the idea of ​​making new friends is very exciting. Start an English course abroad also means meeting new people from all over the world with very different stories. Perfumes and different accents mingle and come together when you start to speaking in the only language that it is "granted" English, of course! Ready to start on Monday with an English test in a modern building in Dublin 2, in the heart of the capital. After the English test to find out what level you can attend, there is the ritual presentation from the Principal (very kind and friendly). The school gives students a package with student book, news magazines of the city, a map and a schedule of weekly activities. Every afternoon and evening there are many activities such as visiting Guinness museum, or go all together to hear great live music in a pub in the center and enjoy a good pint of beer.  

About the first day, after the test you will start with the lessons, which in my case they were divided into two hours of grammar and vocabulary with a teacher, while the others two hours focused on listening, pronunciation and conversation with another teacher. Education level is very high, the first week I was in a class of six students and we could work much more deeply touching all of the aspects of the language. If your teachers will be Stuart and Kate, you can keep quite, they are a very rare talent. In any case, the quality of teaching at CES is very high, many students from others classes confirmed me that. My friend Augustin, who is attending a preparation course for the IELTS official examination told me about your class. "There are often exam simulations and the teachers are very demanding to encourage students to get the best result for them."

Why New Zealand?

Why study English in New Zealand?

How to get a job in New Zealand while studying there?

Where can you work?

How much can a student earn?

por Diana Martinez Herrero
Professional Student Advisor

As a student, I lived the experience to study and do all the steps that every student lives every Monday at ISI Dublin. I started on Monday 30th of September at 9 in the morning when students start their courses. I had a very positive first impression of the school, they are at a good location in the city center and therefore easy to find. The building is very nice, keeps a historical part outside but inside has been carefully restored.

At 9 o'clock they called all new students and we went to the computer room. There, some students did an English level test because they had not done the online test to find out their English level. The rest of students took the oral exam with a teacher to confirm their level and the abilities in Listening and Speaking. While I was waiting my turn for the oral exam I talked with a lot of students from all over the world and we shared our first impressions about the school and Dublin. I knew boys and girls from Japan, China, Korea, Germany, France, Brazil, Venezuela and many other countries. After the test we could start lessons and everyone went to appropriate class.

In your first day maybe you can feel a bit shied but your embarrassment disappears after few minutes as soon as your new classmates are ready to help you and make you fell at ease. After my first lesson on Monday I talked with my new classmates and we shared our facebook and Irish phone number, just to keep in touch and go out to drink a beer in one of the pubs of the city. This was my first day at ISI Dublin, during the others days I attended my course, that is well structured. In the first part of the course you study grammar and vocabulary while in the second part of the morning you discover others aspects of English language like speaking and listening as well as focusing on reading skills looking for a fluent English without mistakes.

By Mauro Fossati
Professional Student Advisor

• Don't drink tap water until you make sure it is drinkable. If you want to be on the safe side, buy bottle of water in the supermarket.
• Don't drink too much alcohol. A lot of accidents happen because of this reason.
• Do not do drugs.
• Think of sunsceen if you are going to a warm place and sunny country. The sun near the Equator is very strong.
• Bring and use bug's repellent.
• Be careful with the fruits and vegetables that you eat. Try to avoid unpeeled items, and always make sure to cook food thoroughly.
• Be careful with animals, especially wild animals. They may look cute, but they might be dangerous.

By Diana Martinez Herrero

Research the weather and climate

 Before you start to pack your stuff, find out how the weather will be in your chosen city. The best way to do this is the Internet e.g. www.weather.com. After this you’ll have a pretty good understanding of what kind of clothes are the best choice.

Luggage

Usually, one suitcase of 20 kilos more or less and one hand baggage are included in the flight price. Please ensure that you will not exceed the 20 Kilos, because every kilo of overweight is very, very expensive; sometimes 30/60 € per kilo.

Packing List

Please note, the following list is just a suggestion . You will have to adapt this list to your own needs.

Clothes

• Underwear (two week’s worth)
• Socks (two week’s worth plus a pair of wool socks)
• Undershirts
• Thermal underwear (only if it cold weather)
• Long sleeve shirts
• Short sleeve shirts
• Sweatshirt/ hoodie (2-3)
• Sweaters
• Jeans/ Khakis (2-3 pair)
• Shorts
• A belt or two
• Skirts (for the girls)
• A set or two of workout clothes
• Pyjamas
• Swimsuit (for those going to warmer climates)
• Coat/Jacket (We recommend at least 2 – one for cold weather, and one that is water- resistant)
• Flip flops/ sandals of some sort (good if you’re going to a warm climate, but also good for hostel showers)
• Sneakers/ dress shoes/ boots/ rain boots
• Cold weather gear (i.e. gloves/ mittens, hat, scarf)  only if necessary

Toiletries

• Shampoo/Conditioner
• Toothbrush/toothpaste
• Soap
• Deodorant
• Feminine Products (one month’s worth – should go without saying you don’t want to be stuck without those)
• Brush/Comb
• Razors/ other shaving supplies
• Contact lenses and solution
• Nail clippers
• Makeup
• Over-the-counter medicines
• Tissues/ toilet paper (you don’t want to be stuck in a bathroom when its run out)

We recommend bringing liquids like shampoo, soap etc. in small bottles. Those will be enough for the first days. Then you can buy more at your destination. This way you can save a few kilos.

Extras

• Purse/ wallet
• Important documents (passport, visa, itinerary, plane tickets, ISIC card, etc.)
• Sunglasses/ extra eye glasses/contacts
• Cell phone
• Laptop and charger (you’ll need an outlet adapter for the plug on your charger to work)
• Camera w/cords and charger
• Sheets/ bed linens (in most of accommodations they are provided)
• Bath towels
• Enough prescription drugs for the length of your stay (You need to make sure you are allowed to bring them into the country and that you have documentation, either the prescription or a doctor’s note)
• MP3 Player/ iPod (for long plane/train rides)
• Map of your city
• Pen and notebooks for the class
• Backpack (for daily use and as your carry while traveling)
• Travel Guide

By Diana Martinez Herrero

SIM Card for your Mobile Phone

It is better to buy a SIM-Card for your mobile phone with a Pre-Paid function in your respective country. This way you will save a lot of money. Just make sure, that your phone is unlocked. You may also want to liberate your phone before going abroad; this way you will be able to use your own SIM Card abroad and insert it in another phone. Don't forget about turn the internet date off before leaving your country. You can use the WIFI connection of the language school, residences, and cafeterias, etc. If you use your internet data in a foreign country like back home, it will cost you a lot of money.

Skype

SKYPE is an opportunity to keep in touch through the internet. SKYPE is a free and/or cheap way to make phone calls, chat, text, and even video calls. Skype to Skype calls, etc . are free, and you can download it for free at SKYPE.COM. To make calls or texts to a non-skype cell phone or land line, you have to top up your account and can call or text for less money. It’s the ideal way to keep in contact with your family and friend at home.

Internet

Usually you will be able to find internet access at the school but sometimes is not available at some homestays. So we recommend you to find out prior to your trip about Internet access. Nevertheless, in most cities you can find internet in Internet cafes. A laptop makes it easier to be connected. 

By Diana Martinez Herrero

We strongly advised to all students to take out insurance in case of the need to return home early, medical conditions and other unpredictable circumstances. We recommend you to get your travel insurance in WORLD NOMADS INSURANCE, it is built for adventurous travellers from over 140 countries, with covers for overseas medical, evacuation, baggage and 24 hour emergency support when you need it most.

European students should apply for a free EUROPEAN HEALTH INSURANCE CARD (EHIC), which may give you access to reduced-cost medical treatment if you are travelling within the European Economic Area country (EEA) or elsewhere in the world. Please contact the Department of Health in your country to download an application form. This will cover you for emergency healthcare in the EU until your period of stay starts and after it finishes. The EHIC is free of charge.

By Diana Martinez Herrero

The LanguageBookings.com Team

Looking for a flight

If you are researching airfare costs, we recommend using Skyscanner or cheapoair – a search engine that lets you compare flight options based on your budget, schedule and preferences. On the schools’ profiles on LanguageBookings.com you will find information about the closest international airport to the school.

Book and pay your flight

If you found a good and cheap flight you can book and pay the flight. We recommend booking the flight as early as possible, but only after you received your booking confirmation from the school. If you book your flight early you can save a lot of money.

Send the flight details to your school

If you booked accommodation or a pick-up service through the school, please send them your flight details. Then you will get all the information about your accommodation.

Be prepared for anything

The LanguageBookings.com Team

Passport

If you do not have one, apply for your passport immediately in order to save headaches from expediting your passport which is usually more expensive. This process can take up to 6 months if you have never been issued one before. If you already have one, please check the expiration date and ensure that it is valid for your whole stay. Some countries require that your passport be valid for six months beyond your date of entry.

For European students staying within Europe Check the validity of your ID

If you travel within Europe, you only need your National Identity Card or ID. Please check the validity. It is important that your ID is valid for your whole stay.

International driving permission

If you want to drive a car during your stay, you need an International driving permission. You can find a lot of information on the Internet about it, check International License.

Photocopy of your important documents

By Diana Martinez Herrero

The LanguageBookings.com Team

This is a good option for students who want freedom and independence. Sharing the same apartment with usually 2 or 3 other international students or locals enables you to talk to people from various countries using the foreign language you're learning, and thus, improve your communication skills. The apartments - with fully equipped kitchens and bathrooms - are typically furnished according to the country’s characteristics. You have more independence and the opportunity to cook your own meals. Single or double rooms are usually available in all the apartments. Cooking and cleaning is done by the students themselves. The apartments are generally without supervision and are self-catering, but they are close to local amenities like cafes, bars, restaurants, shops and bus stops. 

Student Residences

If you are looking for a more independent lifestyle during your stay and meet and interact with other foreign students, student residences / houses options are ideal. A student residence can vary in size depending on location and availability. These residences usually accommodate students of all ages and nationalities in a house-type environment. Usually Students' Residential accommodation is the most economic form of private student accommodation. The student residences usually offer shared kitchen facilities or cafeterias and give you the opportunity to practice your new language with fellow students even away from your classes. Normally there is a reception you can contact if you have any problem or questions. 

 

School Residences / Campus

Many schools offer the option to stay in a residence or in a campus accommodation. This type of accommodation is the be

st way to meet other students. The level of comfort in the campus accommodations depends on the general standard of living in the cou ntry you have selected. The students live and learn under one roof: they basically live together "like a big family", so to speak. Meals (breakfast, half or full board) are available at some locations on payment of a surcharge.

 

The LanguageBookings.com Team

Universities, Institutions and Ministries worldwide offer a wide range of recognized tests. Some tests work as an admission requirement to study in a foreign University, while some other tests will certify your basic, intermediate or advanced level of a foreign language, if you are applying to a job.

To make up your mind, here you can find a complete guide through the most important Language Proficiency Tests.

English Exam Preparation

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) for English language students interested in studying in the United States. TOEFL qualifies the use and understanding of academic North-American English. Its validity lasts two years and it is an important document to have if you want to study in United States or Canada. 
• IELTS (International English Language Testing System). IELTS is the exam for English language students interested in studying in British Commonwealth countries: United Kingdom, Australia, Canada and New Zealand.
• Cambridge ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages). Cambridge ESOL is part of the University of Cambridge Local Examinations. Cambridge exams cover general English. academic Englis, business English and English for young learners. It has different levels: Cambridge English Preliminary (PET), Cambridge English First (FCE), Cambridge English Advanced (CAE), Cambridge English Proficiency (CPE)

French Exam Preparation

• DELF (Diplôme d' Études en Langue Française)  This diploma is for French language students and it has four different exams: A1, A2, B1 y B2. If you plan to study at a French university, take into account that you must have at least DELF B2.
• DALF (Diplôme Approfondi de Langue Française). DALF has two exams: C1 and C2, both of them represent an advanced level of French recognized by the French government.

German Exam Preparation

• TestDaF ( (Test für Deutsch als Fremdsprache). If you want to study or work in Germany, this is your exam. DAF certificates and advanced level of  German and it is accepted by all German university. There are only six dates (the same in all the world) to give this exam.

Italian Exam Preparation

• CELI (Certificato di Conoscenza) for Italian language student. Offered by the Università per Stranieri di Perugia, CELI is accepted as an official qualification by the Italian Ministry of Education and the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It is required to enter a university or a higher education institution in Italy.
• CILS (Certificazione di Italiano come Lingua Straniera) is a qualification offered by the Foreigners University of Siena. It recognizes various levels of Italian. The certificate is recognized by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Spanish Exam Preparation

• DELE (Diploma de Español como Lengua Extranjera). Issued and recognized by the Ministry of Education, Culture and Sport of Spain, DELE has different levels: A, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2. DELE exams are organized by Instituto Cervantes.

The LanguageBookings.com Team

General Language Courses
The General Language Course is recommended for students that, for academic or professional reasons, want to learn a language as quickly as possible. The course intensity varies from 2 to 40 lessons per week. This is the most popular course and it is designed to give students a solid introduction to the language; it covers all areas of the language study in optimal conditions and devotes special attention to grammar, vocabulary building, conversation and pronunciation. Start dates for intensive language courses are flexible, but most schools offer them every Monday.

Exam Preparation Courses
Exam Preparation Courses are recommended for students who want to prepare a language proficiency test to apply to universities or get better job opportunities. Whether you are required to take an IELTS, TOEIC or TOEFL exam to enter a university or wish to study to obtain the FCE, CAE, D.E.L.E., D.E.L.F., C.I.L.S. or TestDAF certificate, taking a language course abroad is an important tool for your future.

One-to-One lessons
Individual tailor-made lessons that give students an opportunity to work on areas of particular interest or concern. One-to-one language training is the quickest and most intensive way to learn a language or to improve your language skills. This type of course is the best option for students with precise objectives and limited time, as the learning is intensive, personalised and targeted at the priorities of the student. In certain cases, one-to one classes include varied situations of everyday life, like having lunch with the teacher, visiting a museum or an outdooor activity. 

Junior Courses
Help kids beat the holiday boredom and try something new! Children from 4 to 12, and  teenagers from 13 to 18 can start learning languages during their summer vacations. Junior Courses are tipically offered from June to August only. Almost all junior courses include activities and let the parents decide between two types of accommodation for their children: student residence or homestay with a family.  

50+ Courses
Life is full of adventures and joining a language class abroad can be one for you too! Would you like to combine your holidays with learning a new language, or brushing up on your existing language skills? If so, then senior language courses could be perfect for you.

Business Courses
Nowadays excellent foreign language skills are an essential requirement in the business world in order to get ahead professionally. Business courses are designed to widen your knowledge of specific vocabulary in a work context and business situations.The course assistance is often limited.  

Specific courses
These types of courses provide intensive language practice in specific subjects. There is a great variety of specific courses focused on different professional domains such as finance, law, banking, marketing, medicine, aviation, engineeering, IT, etc. A minimum language level might be required for these

Language + activity courses
Language + Activity courses combine language classes with a whole range of exciting activities such as salsa dance lessons, cooking and wine tasting, surfing, sky-diving, tennis, skiing and more. These courses will give you the perfect opportunity to learn the language and have fun at the same time.

The LanguageBookings.com Team

As the dream of travelling abroad for studying starts becoming a reality, you'll see that good research is a must. Read, decide and plan will be verbs that you'll be executing. So, the more useful information you can have, the better. Especially if the decision will determine to which language school you will attend. 

Before making a choice, read this tips:

1. Always compare. Compare language courses offered by different language schools. Analize the price, type of course, students per class.

2. Look for accreditations. Review if the schools are accredited with quality seals by well- known associations to ensure that schools meet your expectations.

3. Read reviews from other students and guests like you and learn about their own personal experiences. Then you can decide which school or accommodation is perfect for you.

4. School's location. Check the school’s location. When deciding the school and the location you would like to study in, there are a few things to think about; however,  the most important one is to consider your personal preferences.

Generally speaking, if the school is in the city centre, you will be closer to places like restaurants, bars, shops, cultural events and leisure activities. However, as housing options in these areas are more expensive, you may prefer to live farther away from your school than you would if you study in the suburbs.

If the school is in the suburbs, you will usually stay in a quieter, more relaxing and often safer area.The only downside of studying at a school outside of the city is that you are likely to rely on public transportation to get around, which can be a challenge, especially late at night.

5. School Size. School sizes vary greatly from schools with just a few classrooms to schools with several buildings dedicated to language learning. Although each school is different, it may be helpful to know what you can usually expect when it comes to school size.

Generally speaking, larger schools offer better facilities, such as libraries, cafeterias and multimedia language labs. They also offer a bigger range of class levels, which ensures that you will be in a class with other students who share similar language proficiency. If you are looking for specialty courses, bigger schools also offer more options for groups such as children, teenagers, business executives, and specific age ranges (like 50 and up).

Finally, large schools have more students and offer the opportunity to meet more people during your studies. Small schools, on the other hand, offer a more personal atmosphere, typically with fewer students per class (especially during low season), which enables you to learn quickly and intensively. Small schools offer greater flexibility for taking individual student requests into account, and the opportunity to form deeper relationships with teachers and peers.

The LanguageBookings.com Team

So why studying a language in a foreign country can be a better choice than remainig in an academy at your hometown? The answer is easy: surrounded by new people in the place where the language that you're trying to learn is officially spoken by everyone, will lead you to communicate yourself in the fastest time possible.

Consider these reasons why you should study languages abroad. You won't regret it:

1. Learn a language in the country where it is spoken.
The best way anyone can learn a new language is through the people who use that language in their daily lives. While travelling abroad you will experience proper pronunciation, different dialects and slang. Apart from learning the vocabulary and the grammar, it is very important to become fluent and be able to interact with the locals and there is no better way to do that than with an educational trip. Living the language will enable you to learn faster since you'll be constantly expose to it, as opposed to just a lesson twice a week in your hometown.

2. Broaden your experience by seeing the world.
Travelling is fun, and what better way to turn an average learning experience into an exceptionally fun one? Absorb as much as you can while seeing new places and meeting new people. Pleasure trips and sightseeing double the benefits of the learning experience.

3. Improve your professional and financial opportunities
Learning a new language has many professional advantages in many different lines of work. Being able to speak a language fluently makes any individual feel as an important part of any business team. Travel and business relations take place in a much smoother way with a good understanding of the language. By making the effort to learn a new language, those you communicate with will appreciate your effort to speak with them in their own language, creating new connections and open new doors for your future.

4. Make New Friends
Among the many valuable reasons why you should study languages in a foreign country you should not forget about the good friends you will make while doing so. Meeting new people from different cultures is a wonderful way to make friends and it encourages future trips abroad by visiting each other and spending an amazing time together. You never know who you will meet on a language study trip, and what you will learn from them. Making a trip abroad can become one of the most rewarding experiences you may ever go through; not only because of the great relationships you will make, but also because of its benefits on your future.

5. Gain new insights by learning about new cultures
Language and culture hold hands, meaning that, in order to master a new language, it is necessary to get well acquainted with the cultures associated with it. Sharing the lifestyle of host families, in addition to the new people that you will get in contact with, is a fantastic way to increase language skills, as well as to gain a new insight and appreciation of different ways of living, working, enjoying free time and traditions in general.

The LanguageBookings.com Team