Portuguese Language Programs

Spoken across three continents, Portuguese language courses are possible in a variety of locations; the problem will be actually choosing just one place to study Portuguese abroad. Brazil is huge, Angola and Mozambique are difficult to get to, and Portugal is the most expensive. At the same time, all four of these locations are real life paradises, so there are many more factors you should consider before deciding where to enroll in Portuguese language courses. 

Brazil. The biggest country in South America and home to excellent steak, lively rhythms, sandy coastlines, and enthusiastic futebol fans, Brazil is one happenin’ place. There are intensive Portuguese language schools in practically every city throughout the country. Typically, the north shows more African influence, while the south is more metropolitan and industrial. The center of Brazil is full of grasslands and rolling hills, while the east has some amazing beaches and dunes. There really isn’t a “wrong” city for Portuguese languages courses in Brazil.

Portugal. Sitting on the western coast of the Iberian peninsula is Portugal, birthplace of the Portuguese language. Home to castles, excellent port wine, and golden beaches, Portuguese language programs in Portugal offer students a unique experience of the language. Ocean breezes singing through its gently-lit cobblestone streets, laid-back Lisbon offers a glimpse into a vibrant past and promising future. Other popular cities for Portuguese language courses around Portugal include Porto, which is the second largest city set along the River Douro, and Faro, with its impressively-preserved ruins despite the 1700’s earthquake. Any Portuguese city offers delightful buildings with tile exteriors, historical monuments, and patê de sardinha to accompany your aperitivo.

Mozambique. Located on the southeastern coast of Africa, Mozambique is a land of coastlines (notice a theme among Portuguese-speaking countries?), palm trees, and adventure. Not incredibly popular for most travelers, Mozambique is a breath of fresh air in terms of getting off the beaten path. With well-preserved coral reefs and a teeming landscapes filled with elephants and lions, this is a great place to not only learn Portuguese, but have an adventure waiting right outside your classroom door.