GoAbroad

Language Programs

A great way to quickly learn a language (and all the quirks of the local dialect, which textbooks and apps often don’t cover) is to learn that language abroad! Foreign language courses at international language schools will be a lot more effective than that language learning app you never open anymore. Why? Because you can put all of those verb conjugation charts into use after class to see how those idiomatic expressions hold up with locals. In order to learn a language, you need practice. A lot of practice. Language programs abroad have you covered!
KCP

Featured Language School of the Month

This Month’s Recommended Language Programs

Maximo Language programs
4.73287 reviews

MAXIMO NIVEL

MAXIMO NIVEL logo
Spanish Immersion Programs | Learn Spanish in Latin America

Live and study in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru. Maximo Nivel offers the most intensive and professional Spanish Immersion program in Latin America. Learn Spanish on-site across 4 modern campuses in 3 of the most beautiful countries, or join online f...

Student in Japan
4.6862 reviews

KCP International Japanese Language School

KCP International Japanese Language School logo
Learn Japanese in Tokyo, Japan!

KCP International Japanese Language School, a non-profit educational foundation, is pleased to offer students from around the world a unique opportunity to learn more about Japan, its language, people, and culture. Our programs are open to all English-...

SN Chinese
4.6411 reviews

SN Mandarin Chinese School

SN Mandarin Chinese School logo
Intensive Chinese Study Program in Shanghai - Visa Provided

Choose our Intensive Course in Shanghai to immerse yourself deeply in Chinese learning and start speaking! This program also includes visa support. 1. Types of Groups:a) Small:Intensive 30 (6 lessons/day - 5 times/week)Intensive 20 (4 lessons/day - 5 t...

GAC students in China
4.7577 reviews

Go Abroad China Ltd.

Go Abroad China Ltd. logo
Learn Chinese at Top Universities | Small Groups & Homestay

Experience the ultimate Chinese language immersion with Go Abroad China's award-winning Mandarin programs for university students, teenagers, professionals, and families. Study at top universities including Peking University, BLCU, Fudan, Tsinghua, and...

Beyond
4.53252 reviews

Beyond Academy

Beyond Academy logo
Immersive Language Program in Tokyo

Excited about learning Japanese and want to immerse yourself alongside like-minded people in Japan?Beyond Academy is one of GoAbroad’s Top-Rated Program Providers. With 500+ verified five-star online reviews from alumni, we’re recognized for delivering...

Enforex students
00 reviews

Enforex - Spanish in The Spanish World

Enforex - Spanish in The Spanish World logo
Spanish Courses in Spain with Enforex

Dive into a language adventure in some of Spain’s most vibrant cities with Enforex! Choose from iconic destinations like Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, or the beaches of Marbella and Valencia.Our program combines dynamic Spanish lessons with thrilling cul...

Instituto Hemingway
4.9174 reviews

Instituto Hemingway

Instituto Hemingway logo
Study Spanish in Bilbao, Spain

Study Spanish at our fully accredited language training center, located in one of the most interesting areas of Spain. Our educational programs provide a unique combination of in-class work and outside activities. We are not only a 'School for Spanish'...

Centro MundoLengua
4.52143 reviews

Centro MundoLengua

Centro MundoLengua logo
Study Abroad | Intensive Spanish | University of Cadiz Spain

Live the summer of a lifetime while gaining official university credits. Live in the enchanting city of Cadiz, with its stunning beaches and beauty, and boost your résumé while improving your Spanish. Discover another side of the world with a culture y...

How to Study at Language Schools Abroad

Overview

What are language schools?

International language schools are pretty much what they sound like. They’re designated institutions or organizations that specialize in the instruction of one or multiple languages, which pretty much always includes the local language. They offer highly effective lessons, as well as plenty of opportunities for practice, if you want to learn a language abroad.

The benefits of learning a language abroad

The biggest benefit of learning a language abroad is immersion! Learning Spanish in Madrid is a lot different than learning it in a classroom at home. Everywhere you go in your host country, you’ll be exposed to the language you’re trying to learn. Even a trip to the grocery store will be a language learning experience! 

Other benefits of taking language courses abroad include increased confidence and feelings of capability, new perspectives, a greater understanding of intercultural communication, and maybe even new ways of thinking.

Getting Started

How to learn a language abroad

Learning a language abroad can sound intimidating to many people, especially when you’re a complete beginner. However, whether you’re a novice or have already started studying your target language, you can absolutely benefit from language immersion programs abroad. 

Here’s how to learn a language abroad:

  • Choose a language. If you don’t know what you want to study, you might be wondering how to choose a language to learn when there’s so many to choose from. A good way to choose is by thinking about your academic or career goals. Do you want to work in Spain? Study first edition Russian literature? Take business trips to Beijing someday? Figuring out what you want in the future will help you pick a language to learn.
  • Choose a destination. Some languages, like Spanish, are spoken in dozens of countries around the world. Many languages also have different dialects and accents within their many homes. If you’re learning a language for school or work, then your destination choice will probably be a bit more obvious. Otherwise, you may want to research your options before selecting a course in order to find the best fit for you. 
  • Set goals. Most likely, you can’t stay abroad forever to learn your new language, which is why you need to make the most of your time. Whether you’re going abroad for two weeks or two years, you need to set language goals for yourself. Do you want to be fluent? Reaching such a speaking level will take dedication and commitment, while gaining conversational skills may be more attainable in a shorter amount of time.
  • Find language courses. Once you know what you want to learn and where, it’s time to look at language programs abroad! The best programs will have lots of positive reviews, and be well-established within their host community. Be sure to ask your program advisor about the opportunities they provide to practice your new language skills.

Duration

How long does it take to learn a language through immersion?

How long will it take you to learn your target language? If you’re looking at intensive language courses abroad, immersion will be a huge part of the curriculum. Three months of uninterrupted language immersion will do wonders for your speaking and comprehension skills.

However, if you don’t have three months to commit to learning a language abroad, even two weeks of language immersion can take a beginner up to conversational levels. The trick is to avoid being passive in your language learning journey! You’ll need to be actively practicing nearly all day, every day, if you want to really make a difference in your language learning. If you want to be fluent, the longer your immersion lasts, the better.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I learn a language abroad?

To learn a language abroad, you'll first need to choose which language you want to learn and where you want to learn it. After, you'll apply to language programs in that destination, pay program fees, book a flight, and be on your way!

How can I choose a language to learn abroad?

Think about your goals for language acquisition. Are you trying to be a more competitive job applicant? Or do you just want to be a more intentional traveler? The languages you should learn will change depending on what you want to achieve.

Where can I learn a foreign language?

You can learn a foreign language pretty much anywhere! Some of the best language programs in the world are in Spain (for Spanish), Morocco (for Arabic), France (for French), and China (for Mandarin).

Can you learn a language by living in the country?

Living in a country where your target language is spoken is one of the best ways to learn a language. Stay with a host family to ensure that you're consistently immersed in the local language to give yourself plenty of opportunity to build skills.

What are the best languages to learn?

Some of the most useful languages to learn are Spanish, Mandarin, and Arabic, due to the number of native speakers across the world. Being fluent in one or more of these languages will advance your career and improve the quality of your travels!

Latest Program Reviews

Amazing language experience in Chengdu

October 30, 2026by: Michele Maffei - Italy

Program: LTL Language School || Learn Chinese in China

5

Finished my two weeks of learning Chinese today. I’m writing this review at a bar in Chengdu where I managed to exchange a couple of words with some other bar goers. Definitely was not expecting it when I landed to start the course. Two weeks really flew by and I cannot but suggest LTL Chengdu to everyone who wants to learn this amazing language. The program is well structured and follows the HSK levels, but in the end it really gets tailored to what you want or need. Big thanks to my teacher Stiles, teacher Ying, Ilaria and Giulia for the support during my stay. 马飞叔叔 out 😎

Graduation day

All-in-one Mandarin learning that works

October 30, 2026by: Jonathan Lee - United Kingdom

Program: Intensive Chinese Group Class in 5 Cities | That's Mandarin

5

The platform NihaoCafe bring listening, speaking, reading and writing resources together in one place, something I have struggled to find elsewhere. Two months of classes in Beijing have delivered clear progress, as teachers blend professional instruction with a fun, lively style that makes every lesson feel like an adventure. Highly recommended.

Between Matcha, Geishas and too many Kanji

October 30, 2026by: Donald Fuentes - United States

Program: Meiji Academy - Study Japanese in Kyoto

5

Well well good and crazy times with these fellas! The school staff was super nice and the classes were smooth sailing except of one teacher who was overly obsessed with Kanjis. I know I’m here to learn Japanese but he took it to another level. Anyways I’m thankful for dealing with me during the intense Q&A sessions on Kanji and grammar headaches. All went well and yes the underground party scene in Kyoto is crazy. Recommend checking out Kawaharamachi where the night never sleeps.

4 unforgettable weeks in Kyoto

October 30, 2026by: Alysha Ankerman - Canada

Program: Meiji Academy - Study Japanese in Kyoto

5

When talking about studying in Japan, for me the biggest concern was finding a trustworthy and legitimate language school. As I have studied in the past with Meiji Academy I was all set for this experience. But I have to say that it was a Meiji vibe but ten times more large and in a traditional Kyoto coverage which I loved!! The school facilities are high-class with a whole school building, a large student lounge, a study library and a level community engagement I haven’t seen so far. Despite the wonderful temples and rich history. Kyoto can sometimes feel lonely. That’s why I completely felt the need and glad I chose to study again with this school. I stayed in a sharehouse they organized which was great but unfortunately a bit far away…30mins is not what I was expecting. My friend said the apartments are much closer to the school and well equipped but it comes with a price tag. Nevertheless I would do it all over again if I had the choice!

Study in Japan’s ancient capital

October 30, 2026by: Maria Bernasconi - Switzerland

Program: Meiji Academy - Study Japanese in Kyoto

5

Kyoto is fascinating through and through all facets of Japanese culture and traditions. I think I made the right choice to experience the “real Japan” by choosing this location and the Meiji staff helped making my stay pleasant throughout. The classes were fun and entertaining while the intensity and grammar practice were well balanced. One thing that stood out to me the most is the variety and detail to organizing superior events and cultural exchanges. The local Japanese students were also an enrichment for the community at school. Loved it!

Highly recommended!

October 30, 2026by: Jonas Patchulia - Norway

Program: Intensive Chinese Group Class in 5 Cities | That's Mandarin

5

I very much enjoyed my three week intensive language program at That’s Mandarin. My teachers were very engaging, the school provides good books and also use technology very well. All of these combined make the learning experience excellent. I would highly recommend!

A Wonderful Learning Experience

October 30, 2026by: Alex Morgan - Northern Mariana Islands (USA)

Program: Intensive Chinese Group Class in 5 Cities | That's Mandarin

5

Studying here is such a nice experience! Teachers care about every student. They teach Chinese with real-life examples, so it is easy to understand. Class activities help us practice more. I used to think Chinese was very hard, but now I enjoy learning it. I can ask directions and order food in Chinese. The school environment is comfortable. I make steady progress every week. I’m happy I chose this school and I will keep studying here.

Highly Recommended Chinese School

October 30, 2026by: Leo Carter - British Virgin Islands

Program: Intensive Chinese Group Class in 5 Cities | That's Mandarin

5

This is a great Chinese school! My teacher is professional and helpful. She always corrects my pronunciation gently. Lessons are well planned and not boring. We practice listening, speaking and reading each class. I started from zero, and now I can communicate in simple Chinese. The staff are nice and quick to answer questions. There are interesting cultural activities too. I feel confident when using Chinese. If you want to learn practical Mandarin, this school is a wonderful choice.

Fantastic Place to Learn Chinese

October 30, 2026by: Chloe Bennett - Northern Mariana Islands (USA)

Program: Intensive Chinese Group Class in 5 Cities | That's Mandarin

5

I really love this Chinese school! Teachers are patient and friendly. They explain grammar and pronunciation clearly, and encourage us to speak bravely.Classes are fun with role-plays and simple cultural activities. I was afraid to speak Chinese before, but now I can talk about daily things. The learning materials are useful. The atmosphere is warm. I make friends with classmates from different countries. I improve quickly and enjoy every class. I strongly recommend this school to everyone who wants to learn Mandarin well.

Great time in Beihai

October 30, 2026by: Ronaldo Yeung - Brazil

Program: LTL Language School || Learn Chinese in China

5

I had some chinese lessons when I was very young. Couldn't remember half of what I learned, and barely speak any mandarin. But within 2 months, I could finish the HSK 2 textbook, and half of the HSK 3, improving a lot of my speaking. The program is very well organized, from the scheduling of the classes, to the renting of the apartment/hostfamily and cultural activities.

ReceptionClassroomLandscape by the school
LTL Language School logo
LTL Language School responded to this reviewOctober 30, 2026

Great pics, Ronaldo! So glad you had a great time in Beihai and everything went smoothly for you. Flying through the HSK too! Keep it up. LTL Team

Highly Flexible & Excellent Platform

October 29, 2026by: John Monaghan - Australia

Program: Intensive Chinese Group Class in 5 Cities | That's Mandarin

5

As a working professional, flexibility was crucial for me. That’s Mandarin customized a schedule that fit my busy routine perfectly.Their proprietary software records all lessons in real-time, so I never had to worry about taking frantic notes.

Best Language School in Hangzhou!

October 29, 2026by: Sami alsrahin - Jordan

Program: Intensive Chinese Group Class in 5 Cities | That's Mandarin

5

I spent a month at the Hangzhou campus, and it exceeded all my expectations! The location is fantastic, and the staff treated me like family from arrival. Combining group lessons with cultural excursions gave me a deep appreciation for Chinese culture and daily conversation practice.

Outstanding Immersion & Professional Teachers!

October 29, 2026by: Samantha Au - Malaysia

Program: Intensive Chinese Group Class in 5 Cities | That's Mandarin

5

Studying at That’s Mandarin in Hangzhou was an incredible experience. The immersion methodology helped me start speaking Chinese from day one with confidence. The teachers are incredibly patient, knowledgeable, and professional. Their online Nihao Cafe platform made reviewing class notes and vocabulary effortless after class.

Great Class and Solid Teaching

October 29, 2026by: Michelle Lee - Malaysia

Program: Intensive Chinese Group Class in 5 Cities | That's Mandarin

5

The class course exceeded my expectations. Each lesson has a topic, and the teacher paces things well so nobody falls behind. I especially appreciate the interactive activities and group practice, which make learning feel natural rather than repetitive. The teacher is approachable and always willing to answer questions. Overall, a very worthwhile experience that has boosted my confidence in Chinese.

Clear Curriculum and Patient Teachers!

October 29, 2026by: Susan Miller - Australia

Program: Online Chinese Learning 1-on-1 - That’s Mandarin

5

I took Chinese online classes and had a great experience. The course is well-structured, moving step by step from pinyin to grammar and conversation. Teachers are patient, correct pronunciation carefully, and give plenty of speaking practice. The schedule is flexible and recordings are useful. My listening and speaking improved noticeably.

Excellent Chinese Course in Hangzhou – Highly Recommended!

October 29, 2026by: Giulia Ferrari - Italy

Program: Intensive Chinese Group Class in 5 Cities | That's Mandarin

5

I recently completed a class course with That's Mandarin in Hangzhou, and I couldn't be happier with the experience. The teachers are professional, patient, and genuinely passionate about helping students improve. Class sizes are small, so everyone gets plenty of attention and chances to speak. The staff are friendly and supportive, and the learning atmosphere is relaxed and encouraging. My Chinese has improved significantly in a short time. I highly recommend this to anyone looking to learn Chinese in Hangzhou!

Kyoto das wahre Gesicht Japans

October 29, 2026by: Benjamin Meier - Switzerland

Program: Meiji Academy - Study Japanese in Kyoto

5

Grüezi an das liebe Meiji Team! 4 Wochen in Kyoto mit Meiji Akademie waren einfach nur spitze. Das Team ist sehr engagiert und hat mir meinen Aufenthalt hier war von Anfang an sehr gut organisiert. Es gab sogar einen Mitarbeiter der deutsch sprechen konnte was sehr half. Besonders haben mir die vielen kulturellen Aktivitäten und Exkursionen gefallen. Von japanischer Töpfereikunst, Katanaschwertern und traditioneller Matchazeremonie war das Angebot sehr vielseitig. Der Unterricht war strukturiert und interaktiv mit vielen Gruppenübungen. Besonders haben mir der kulturelle Sprachaustausch mit japanischen Studenten von lokalen Unis gefallen. Merci vilmal und bis bald. Euer Ben

A wonderful experience

October 28, 2026by: Scott Rausher - Israel

Program: LTL Language School || Learn Chinese in China

5

Student advisors Mojca Godec & Savannah Feng were wonderful & truly helpful. I got more hours’ education than I deserved! Teacher Summer did a great job too! I logged 4 weeks’ 20hrs/week in a group of 2 + 2 weeks’ 10 hrs/week individual study, completing HSK 1 & most of HSK 2. I intend to continue next month with 4 weeks’ LTL Osaka small group study of Japanese, for which they gave me a 10% off coupon for successful Chinese language completion.

LTL Language School logo
LTL Language School responded to this reviewOctober 29, 2026

Super happy to hear it :) Thanks for leaving LTL Beihai such a glowing review! Japan next? Already excited. Let's go!! LTL Team

My short studies at Meiji Academy Kyoto

October 28, 2026by: Bertha Emmerling - Austria

Program: Meiji Academy - Study Japanese in Kyoto

5

Meiji's Kyoto campus was simply one of the best schools I've been so far. I've studied in the past at their Hokkaido campus and it was a lot of fun. But Kyoto is a complete another level! The school is huge with a dedicated study library and huge student lounge. The best thing are the unique traditional crafts and arts workshops. The classes were as always great but I could tell that the teaching style is much more advanced due to the very experienced teachers I had. Local language exchanges with a variety of university student circles were also an often engagement. Highly recommend checking it out!!

My Top Pick for Learning Chinese – That’s Mandarin

October 28, 2026by: Hugo Cortes - Mexico

Program: Intensive Chinese Group Class in 5 Cities | That's Mandarin

5

I'm glad I picked That's Mandarin over other options. This is my third Mandarin school and it's my favorite by far. From the beginning, they were very helpful and fast at replying when I started inquiring for prices and structure. Upon my arrival everything was set up and I had to do no further arrangements to the course structure or hours; anyone venturing abroad to study understands that consistency is not a constant, but That's Mandarin excels at it. Once in the school, everyone is extremely kind, patient and willing to help. The class structures are fantastic and geared to what I've been looking for. I opted for the 1-on-1 classes and don't regret it. Also, I picked the downtown school, which is a cozy space in a cool building and beautiful street; I highly recommend this location. Last but not least, I want to give a shout out to Joey, who was my first contact, and of course to the professors DaoDao and Sun; they are clearly experienced, but also important, they are very patient and continuously show a will to help their students. I initially came for a couple of months to try it out, but I want to come back next year for a few extra months.

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Fabienne Gygax

Fabienne Gygax

Voluntours Colombia

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Intercultura Costa Rica

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My daughter! She did their teen Spanish program last year, and she just loved it so much that it actually gave me the idea to go myself. She told me a...

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I was inspired to go abroad because I wanted to challenge myself and experience life beyond Kazakhstan. I understood that learning English locally had...

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Traveling has always been an interest of mine. I have been working on improving my Spanish and wanted to see the beautiful country of Ecuador. I have ...

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It's a long story... three books long so far!

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Sarah Papst

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What inspired me to go abroad, especially to Japan, was the chance to experience something completely new. I had never been there before and wanted to...

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Michelle Steiner

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Meiji Academy

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I’ve always been curious about the world beyond my own little bubble. That’s really what pushed me to go abroad. I wanted to challenge myself, try som...

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Robin Peter

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Meiji Academy

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I’ve always been curious about other cultures and wanted to challenge myself by living somewhere completely different from home. Japan, in particular,...

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Hansjörg Schmid

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Dar Al Arabiyah (formerly Dar Loughat)

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When Germany took in a lot of Syrian refugees, I felt the need and moral obligation to step up and support. After some preliminary support work in she...

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Alice Bedin

Alice Bedin

Maltalingua Ltd.

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As a Foreign Applied Language student, I was required to spend three months abroad to complete my first year of study at ESTRI in Lyon, France.

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Alberto Portela

Alberto Portela

Maltalingua Ltd.

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My passion for cultures and languages. Studying at Maltalingua in Malta and my international trade studies have motivated me to explore global opportu...

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Meiji Academy

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I study International Relations and Management in Regensburg, Germany, with a focus on East Asia. My major requires me to spend two semesters abroad. ...

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Maltalingua Ltd.

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As part of my studies (a Bachelor's in Applied Languages), I was required to spend three months abroad to practice speaking English at work. I had to ...

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Joséphine Henry

Joséphine Henry

Maltalingua Ltd.

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Since I was little, I’ve been travelling to a lot of countries, and I know that I will continue to do it. That’s one of the reasons why I chose my deg...

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Mert Saracoglu

Mert Saracoglu

That's Mandarin

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My inspiration to go abroad stemmed from a desire to broaden my horizons by experiencing different cultures firsthand. I enjoy immersing myself in new...

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Mustafa Osman Ali

Mustafa Osman Ali

That's Mandarin

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Actually, my job in my country had been suspended due to war circumstances. Therefore, I decided to travel to be with my wife while she pursued her Ph...

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Naila Gulzar

Naila Gulzar

Spanish Express

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I wanted to improve my Spanish for holidays and travel. I wasn’t looking for a traditional classroom experience; I wanted something more immersive, wh...

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Philipp Breitler

Meiji Academy

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I've always been fascinated by other cultures, and Japan has held a special place in my heart for many years. From a young age, I was interested in th...

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Spanish Express

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I wanted to improve my verbal Spanish and immerse myself into the Spanish way of life. I had completed the same course with Monica in Dosrius, Barcelo...

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Lingoinn Teacher Homestay

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Last October 2023, I had been studying Chinese (Mandarin ??) for almost three years, mostly through a diploma in modern languages at a university in A...

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