So you want to go volunteering abroad? Chances are, you have already researched the language and made learning it a priority while you are there. After all, many linguists suggest that it is the best way to learn. Classes, textbooks and flashcards can support you, however, there is nothing better than to surrounding yourself with locals. The Lonely Planet has come up with some great ideas to help you.

Throw pride to the wind. You won’t learn a language if you have an ego. Learning a language means being embarrassed every day you speak it: sputtering out a request for a bus ticket, mispronouncing an innocent word to mean something cringingly naughty, or the very worst – receiving a blank/confused look after delivering what you think is a flawless sentence. Yes, you sound like a two-year-old on laughing gas. Some people may even take you for a lunatic. Who cares? It’s all part of the fun. Embrace it!

Immerse yourself. Seriously jump all the way in. No wading. No water wings (AKA compatriot friends who insist on speaking English). Watch TV, listen to the radio, eavesdrop while on public transportation, strike up random conversations with little old ladies in the park, whatever. It’ll all help you.
Ask for correction. In most cultures it’s rude to correct someone’s speech. You’ll unwittingly keep making the same mistakes unless you straight out ask for people’s help. After they correct you, repeat it back (as many times as possible without scaring people away) to train your ear.

Befriend, befriend, befriend. Join clubs, introduce yourself to neighbours, go out to pubs, ask to join the ultimate frisbee game you pass by in the park. Again, anything goes. Having friends who don’t speak a lick of English are the best (more practice for you!).
Be realistic. Learning a language takes time. A lot of it. It takes decades to master, years to converse without brain frizzle, months to say approximately what you mean, and days to well, get by – if you use LOTS of body language.

Many of our programmes can allow you to speak English, but if you fancy something a little more adventurous then why not head out to Chile or Ecuador? If your español is not up to scratch then head out their early and learn the language before you volunteer.

Check out our projects and get in touch now to find out more.