learning a language

If you have the opportunity and the time, you should learn a language. This will enrich your backpacking experience so much more as you can interact with locals and find out through experience what life is like. It will also be more convenient when looking to do little things such as getting your clothes washed and buying bus/train tickets etc.

What is best is learning a language at your actual destination. That way you'll be able to practice (and may be forced to practice) as soon as you step out of the classroom. You'll also have a purpose and motivation to learn.

Here are a few things to consider when learning a language whilst on your backpacking trip.

Length of course

The longer the better! You may end up loving the place that you are staying in. Obviously, the longer you learn a language the better the skills you will have and the more benefits this will give you whilst travelling. But you do need to consider whether the extra time spent learning a language will stop you from visiting other destinations due to limited time. I really regret not learning Spansih for a week whilst travelling around South America. But at the same time, I wouldn't have been able to see so many wonderful places if I did spend that week learning Spanish.

3-4 months will give you a terrific base and you can expect to speak reasonably fluently. However, even if you only have a week or two, you'll be grateful for it. It will give you something to work with and ensure you can at least maintain a basic conversation with people. If you have limited time, you may want to consider starting to learn a language whilst you are at home before going backpacking.

Schools

You should of course make basic enquiries about schools. It is advantageous if they test you before starting. Then you will be put into an appropriate class for your level.

More than 10 people in a class may mean it will be hard to get some time with the teacher. Obviously smaller classes are better but you may end up paying more. Better yet, hostels may recommend locals who teach backpackers so you might be able to get some one on one tuition for a very cheap rate (compared to back at home).

Also consider the mix of nationalities that will be in the class. If people are from varying backgrounds, you may be forced to use your new language to communicate. However, if they are from the same background, then common questions might be asked as similar problems may arise.

Ask about the age of students. You may have more fun if students are around your age level.

Length of lessons

Think about whether it is worth doing full day intensive classes. Full day classes won't leave you much time to explore the city. Half day classes may give you the best of both.

Homestays

Homestays help you learn a language faster and also gives you a real experience to life in a foreign country. If your host family doesn't speak English, then this will force you to practice. However, homestays may be inconveniently located in the suburbs and it is the luck of the draw whether you have a good host family and a spacious place to stay.

Read more:

• Learn a language - French, Italian, Spanish, Japanese, Mandarin and German