Learn Spanish

During the rule of Franco, the use of regional languages was discouraged (the regional language of Mallorca is Catalan) in favour of what we would call Spanish, or Castellano as it's known here. However gradually regional languages are being promoted once more with children learning both languages in state schools.

While it's not impossible to get by without learning Spanish, especially in tourist areas, you'll find that speaking the language will help you to get things done more simply and with less stress. If you can speak some Spanish you'll often find the local population far more welcoming when they can see you are making an effort to integrate fully.

It's a good idea to take Spanish lessons before you move if you can. It'll help you feel less like a fish out of water when you arrive and will be one less hurdle to overcome. Even knowing a few simple things like how to ask for items in the supermarket or to order from a Spanish menu will help you feel more confident. Then gradually make the effort to use some Spanish whenever and wherever you can.

Using the language is absolutely the best way to learn. If you don't know a word, don't be afraid to ask. The locals are always happy to help when they can see you're trying to make an effort. They may even ask you for help with their English!

If you are already living here and would like to learn Spanish there are a number of options. Calvia Council offers free part-time Spanish lessons to registered residents that run alongside the usual school year. You will be required to take a short test to assess your level and will then be advised when and where your lessons are scheduled to take place. To find out more contact either:

Calvia Council - Foreign Residents Department
Calle Julià Bujosa Sans, batle 1. 07184 Calvià Vila
Tel:971 139 185/84 Fax:971 13 91 08 Email:residents@calvia.com

IMEB - Municipal Institute for Education and Libraries of Calvià
Calle Julià Bujosa Sans, batle 1, 07184 Calvià
Tel:971 139 139 E-mail:imebcalvia@calvia.com

Alternatively you could take private lessons. These will obviously be at a cost, however you are more likely to be able to arrange lesson times to suit your own schedule. A more cost effective way is to get a small group of friends to commit to it and share the cost of the lesson. You'll have extra people to practice with between lessons too!

And of course the best way to learn a language is by using it as often as you can. Try to listen to Spanish radio stations, watch Spanish TV programmes, especially children's programmes as they teach simple language skills, maybe carry a pocket dictionary with you to help with words you don't know. The more you expose yourself to situations where you can use Spanish or hear it it spoken, the more confident you'll become.

BBC LANGUAGES
Language resources to help you learn in your own time.

EARLY ADVANTAGE
The BBC language course for children.

LEARN DIRECT
Spanish courses taking place throughout the UK. Find one near you by entering your post code.

LITERACYCENTER.NET
Simple lessons to help with letters, numbers, shapes, spelling and colours.

FURTHER HELP