Language Programs in Puerto Rico

Hurricane Maria wounded parts of Puerto Rico, but the storm did not break the spirit of the Borinquen people—residents still welcome travelers as the isla rebuilds. Puerto Rico is a cool hotspot for Spanish language study; hot for the weather and cool for that laidback island vibe. The culturally curious can chill in Old San Juan when language learning abroad in Puerto Rico, and meander through the colorful Spanish architecture. Find magic in the tropical forest and white-sand shorelines, and at night, the bioluminescent sea and those little glowing creatures will make you want to stay a while.

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A Guide to Language Schools in Puerto Rico

Best Cities

Puerto Rico language schools are based in San Juan, PR’s fantastic capital city. But do plan some weekend trips to explore the island’s natural wonders.

San Juan is the perfect backdrop for language courses in Puerto Rico. When class is over, you’ll be marveling at the great stone forts that have surrounded the city since 1521. San Juan enchants you not only for its antiquities but also for its contemporary art scene. Scope out the street art and shimmy to the salsa music that has characterized the island for decades.

Need your sea legs? Go to Culebra to snorkel through the corals of Playa Flamenco, one of the top-rated beaches in the world. Then wander the beach, and practice your Spanish with a local food vendor. Ask for a mofongo, the mashed plantain bowl filled with fish or meat. Don’t forget to say muchas gracias!

A serenade from the coquis is a key part of language learning abroad in Puerto Rico. These adorable little frogs have a surprisingly powerful voice, and they love to sing in El Yunque, Puerto Rico’s beloved tropical forest. El Yunque is a forested paradise great for hiking, plus a much-needed escape from the city.

Popular Languages

Though Puerto Rico is a United States territory, the only official language is Spanish. And because San Juan is one of the oldest Spanish settlements, Puerto Rican Spanish is one of the oldest forms of the language as well. That makes language learning abroad in Puerto Rico a truly historical experience! The language also borrows words from West African slaves and Taino indigenous groups. Yes, Puerto Rico did have a slave history, and yes, the Taino ruled the island before the arrival of Columbus. When you learn languages in Puerto Rico, don’t discount the history and cultural influences that have shaped the Puerto Rican Spanish we hear today.

You may be surprised to learn that Puerto Rico is also a great place to study English. You’ll hear it all over the island, especially in San Juan. First, because PR is a major tourist destination. Second, the influence from the mainland is strong. Residents travel back and forth easily, returning happily to practice English. San Juan also has a substantial expat community, and many come to teach English. Test out your English skills by helping a lost tourist in Old San Juan! You’re sure to find a few.

Ways to Study Languages in Puerto Rico

Language schools in Puerto Rico offer high-quality intensive classes taught by certified native speakers. You’ll be immersed in the language and can apply your skills as you travel throughout the island. Most programs offer small classes with flexible start dates. Stay for a couple years or just a couple weeks. Don’t say adios too soon though. Stay as long as you can to maximize your learning potential!

For more intensive language programs in Puerto Rico, opt for private classes, which should guarantee you a higher level of proficiency. Working one-on-one with your maestro, you’ll get a more customized learning experience to help you achieve your Español goals.

Most programs offer cultural excursions to El Yunque, Old San Juan, or even a coffee plantation where you’re sure to practice Spanish with locals. Get out of the classroom, por favor. Take one or many of those trips. Don’t miss out on any opportunity to use your language skills in an authentic context.

Puerto Rico language schools are run by different bodies—some by universities, government agencies, or private institutes. Some programs even offer college credit. Whichever program you choose, learning Español es muy interesante!

GoAbroad’s Inside Scoop

Spanish in the Caribbean is fast and loud, and Puerto Rico is no exception. But people on the island will tell you that fast, loud talk can also be a sign of alegría—happiness!

Now a lesson on Puerticanismos. Forget your 9th grade Spanish. People here do not say autobus; it’s guagua. It’s not para, it's just pa’. It’s not naranja, it’s...get this, china? Once you learn Puerto Rican Spanish, you can survive in any Latin American country.

One last word of advice: Recovery from Hurricane Maria is a real part of life on the island. Not every place will look like the guidebook anymore. But by enrolling in language schools in Puerto Rico, your economic impact will nurture the island’s progress. When your course is over, why not volunteer? Do your part in the ayuda. Help. Wherever and whenever you can.

It really goes without saying. There are so many benefits to taking language courses in Puerto Rico, even if it’s a short trip. You’ll gain the skills and cultural perspective to take you to your next life step. Of course, the more time you spend there, the more you’ll discover why people call it la isla de encanto—the island of enchantment.

Let’s Do This

In Puerto Rico, it’s all about the sounds. It’s the call of the coquis, the swish of the ocean tide, and the shouts from the chacho (muchacho) selling mofongo. Heard enough? Go learn languages in Puerto Rico!