Often referred to as La Furia Roja (The Red Fury), Spain is sure to welcome students with its bright architecture, laid-back lifestyle, and delicious local dishes. While the Spanish culture is distinctly warm and spirited, each region of Spain has its own special flare that will warm any studious heart.
Madrid is the perfect combination of modern, big city living with the preserved beauty of the historic plazas and streets. Thanks to the Castilian Spanish dialect spoken in Madrid, accents aren’t prevalent, which makes it easier to participate in conversations and order a bowl of cocido madrileño. The city has a large student population, tons of museums, and a great nightlife, so students can enjoy a day at the Prado Museum followed by a night at the discoteca for informal Spanish lessons in Madrid. However, there is a price to pay for all this glamourous living; Madrid is one of the more expensive places to learn Spanish in Spain, so students are advised to create a budget and find some free gems along the way. That shouldn’t be hard, however, with the Retiro Park, numerous fountains, cultural fairs, and outdoor concerts scattered throughout the city.
Seville, referred to as the cultural capital of southern Spain, offers Spanish language learners the chance to truly immerse themselves in Spanish traditions. This authenticity makes it an excellent choice for Spanish language programs in Spain. Whether wandering around the Plaza de Espana or spending an evening watching the famous flamenco dancers, you’re sure to get a great feel for Spanish culture in Seville. Sevillanos are known to talk fast and have a strong accent, but once you are able to communicate with locals here, it will feel even more rewarding.
Valencia is situated on the Mediterranean Sea, with easy access to both Madrid and Barcelona. The Spanish dialect in Valencia is a mix between Catalan Spanish (similar to the unique accent found in Barcelona) and Castilian Spanish that is spoken in Madrid. The city’s proximity to the sea gives students plenty of sunshine and beach time, without losing access to all the cultural activities and events offered in bigger cities. For some extra comprehension practice, sign up for a paella cooking class to learn all about this famous dish that originated in Valencia.
For a more authentic immersion experience, consider Spanish language courses in smaller towns that pack a punch. Salamanca is a university city that claims to have the perfect Spanish accent, while the Mediterranean city of Cadiz is cheap, non-touristy, and absolutely gorgeous. Not only do off-the-beaten-road destinations give you more opportunities to interact with locals, instead of fellow international students, but these locations will also show you the authentic nooks and crannies of a nation that is much more than stereotypical beach towns and bull fights.
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