South American Explorer

Want to know the latest travel tips, gadgets and advice? Or are you more interested in the best websites, travel books and maps? Either way, this page is for you!

The latest and greatest ways to learn a language

Learning a second (or third!) language can be hard and frustrating, but it can also allow you to get to know the locals and the culture of the country you are visiting. So instead of keeping your head in a text book check out some of these great new ways to get you speaking another language… fast!

Pocket Rocket – Passport-sized and super light, 30 Words is a portable flip card that offers thousands of word combinations to help you out of any situation. It’s broken up into sections, easy to read and spill-proof – perfect for those late nights in Rio!

Mapping the mind – Using a new approach, Collins publishers have just released their new Language Revolution, which uses memory techniques from learning expert Tony Buzan to help you learn a language faster. Make your brain work harder!

App-solutely! – For a portable, affordable (it’s free!) guide to Spanish, you can’t go past Nomad’s free iphone application. This app is straight forward, covers the basics and did we mention that it’s free?

From the source – Originally an iphone app, Bueno, entonces… has just released a pc/mac downloadable version, as well as a DVD pack. Offering 30 one-on-one classes and over 18 hours of private tutorials, this Buenos Aires-based course gives you the chance to be immersed in the culture. Tango at your house!

 

TV star – For students who want to be challenged, Lo Mas TV is an online video magazine that features authentic Spanish videos taken from television programs, music videos, documentaries and interviews. Feel like you’re already travelling!

Get involved – Feel like James Bond in Mi Vida Loca, an interactive drama where you have to choose what happens next. Professional actors tell this story of corruption and intrigue. It’s so much fun that you won’t even realize you’re learning!

A little help – If you’re learning from home, log on to this website and find a pen pal! Sure, the idea is a little dated but you’ll be able to practice your new skills, make great e-friends, and really… who doesn’t like having a friend in an exotic country!

 Websites We Love!

www.thelmandlouise.com – This website is for women looking for female travel companions. The graphics are a little cheesy but the real life stories show it’s a useful tool for finding someone to share your travels.

www.uni.edu/becker/Spanish3.html – Ignore the unappealing and confusing layout, and spend some time browsing the hundreds of links to Spanish language resources, aids, courses and dictionaries listed on this website. It’s a goldmine of information.

 www.insideragency.com – Find local who are willing to show you around in the country you are travelling to. Travelers get the inside scoop, while the locals get to share their cities and practice another language. Love it.

www.learningspanishblog.com  – This blog documents the journey its author takes to learn Spanish. There are heaps of product reviews, free resources and links to helpful websites. It’s for anyone learning Spanish and needing a little help.

Do you know a site we should review or do you have a blog we need to see? Email us and let us know! Write to magazine@saexplorers.org