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Learning English or becoming fluent in our current foreign language is a dream for many of us, isn’t it? We go to courses, download applications, listen to them and try to watch movies without subtitles. But something always seems to be missing… That missing piece could be the experience of learning by living in a country where the language is spoken, in other words, in the streets of which English is spoken. In this article, we will discuss this unforgettable adventure, which is much more than just a language course.
Together, we will discover why learning English abroad is the most effective way, how to choose the most suitable country and school for you and how to make the most of this experience, with the most sincere and practical tips.
Because this journey will allow you to discover not only grammar rules, but also completely different cultures, new friendships and most importantly, your own limits!
Another advantage of learning English abroad is that it increases self-confidence. Trying to live on your own in another country contributes greatly to your personal development. Seeing that you are improving as you learn, even if you make mistakes, is a great source of motivation. Language schools also enrich this process with supportive social activities and cultural programs.
In conclusion, for someone who wants to learn English abroad, this experience is a great investment in terms of both academic and personal development. If you have the opportunity, do not hesitate to take this step not only to learn the language but also to gain a brand new life experience. The English you learn may be the first step that will completely change your life.
Why Should You Learn English Abroad?
First of all, let’s answer the most basic question: Why should I go to all that trouble and expense to go abroad? The answer lies in one word: Immersion. Even if you take the best course in your own country, you’ll still be speaking your native language at the end of the day. However, abroad, you’re surrounded by English from the moment you wake up in the morning until you go to bed at night. While shopping at the supermarket, asking for directions on the bus, or having coffee with someone you just met… Language ceases to be a subject to be learned, and becomes a necessity for survival and communication. This speeds up the learning process incredibly.
Secondly, when it comes to learning English abroad, this experience not only teaches you a language, but also provides you with an invaluable cultural vision. English is not just about words and grammar; it is also a reflection of a culture, a way of life, and a sense of humor. When you learn a language on the spot, you also get to know firsthand the traditions, habits, history, and people of the society where that language is spoken. This deepens your command of the language and makes you not only a speaker of the language but also a citizen of the world who respects different cultures.
Advantages of Learning English Abroad!
What is the biggest problem most of us have when speaking English? Fear of making mistakes and lack of self-confidence! Here, experiencing abroad is the best medicine to break down this wall. Because no one expects you to speak with a perfect accent or flawless sentences there. Everyone knows you are a student and tries to help you. By making mistakes and mispronouncing, you eventually gain that self-confidence.
Finding your way in a country on your own, solving your problems and adapting to a new life gives you not only language skills but also tremendous personal development and self-confidence.
So, when it comes to learning English abroad, here are the benefits:
- Being exposed to the language (immersion)
- Gaining cultural vision
- Gaining self-confidence and overcoming the fear of making mistakes!
International Friendships and Lasting Learning!
In a language school abroad, you will not only meet locals but also other students from all over the world. Brazilians, Japanese, Italians, Germans… The friendships you will make with these people who have the same goal of learning a language as you will open up completely different windows for you. Since your common language is English, you will have the opportunity to practice constantly. These international friendships can turn into valuable connections that will last not only during school but also for the rest of your life, providing you with a global network.
When all these factors come together, an accelerated and permanent learning process emerges. When formal classroom education is combined with constant practice in daily life, you can fit a learning curve that would take months into weeks. You do not only memorize words and rules, but also internalize them by using them in real life. A language learned in this way is much more permanent and fluent. In short, a few months spent abroad can be much more effective than years of courses in your own country. After all, learning English abroad is a tactical event.
Where to Go: Tips for Choosing Popular Countries
We can almost hear you say, “Okay, I’m convinced, I want to go abroad!” Now it’s time for the most exciting yet confusing question: But where? There is no single right answer to this question. Rather than a “best country,” there is a “best country for you.” This choice is shaped by your budget, goals, visa requirements, and personal preferences. Let’s take a look at the most popular options and what you should pay attention to when making your decision.
- Let’s start with the classics: England and Ireland for learning English abroad. If you like that famous British accent and want to be involved in history, art, and museums, England is a great option. It offers many alternatives, from the dynamism of London to the academic atmosphere of Cambridge. Ireland, on the other hand, stands out with its warm-hearted people, lush nature, and more intimate atmosphere. The fact that both are close to Europe offers the opportunity to visit different countries on the weekends. However, it should not be forgotten that the cost of living and tuition fees can be higher than in some other countries and that the weather is often cloudy.
- For those who want to live the “American Dream”, the USA and Canada are perfect. The USA offers incredible diversity, from the energy of New York to the comfort of California. You will have an experience intertwined with American English and popular culture. Canada, on the other hand, is known for its safe cities, hospitable people and magnificent nature. It can be attractive especially in terms of long-term education and subsequent work opportunities. Choosing a country is important when it comes to learning English abroad.
Malta, Australia and Countries That Suit Your Budget
- For those who want to learn English and also sunbathe and have a vacation, our route is the Mediterranean and Oceania! Malta is a popular destination for European students, especially in the summer months. It stands out with its much more affordable budget, warm climate and holiday atmosphere compared to other countries. Australia offers a completely different experience with its unique relaxed lifestyle, wonderful beaches and friendly people. It is also a big plus for students who go for a long term to have a legal work permit. While studying in these countries, you will definitely spend your time outside of class to the fullest.
Ask yourself these questions when making your decision: What is my budget? How long do I want to stay? Is it easy to get a visa? Do I like cold weather or hot weather? Do I want a big and crowded city or a quieter and smaller place? Focus not only on the country but also on the schools in the city. Research details such as the location of the school, class sizes, accommodation options (hostel, dormitory, etc.), previous student reviews. Remember, this is your adventure and you will make the right decision about learning English abroad!
Tactics to Boost Your English While Abroad
You have chosen a great country and school, obtained your visa, packed your bags and set off. Congratulations! The biggest step of your adventure has been taken. But remember, the real work begins now. Getting the most out of learning a language abroad requires much more than just attending classes regularly. Instead of being a passive student, you should be proactive and turn every moment into a learning opportunity. Here are some tactics that will rocket your English!
The most important and difficult rule: Get out of the “speaking your native language” bubble! There will definitely be other students from your country at the school you go to. It is great to make friends with them and support each other. However, if you spend all your time with them, you will not be able to get out of your comfort zone and you will miss the opportunity to practice. Set a rule for yourself: Try to make friends with people from different countries at school and during breaks. Since your common language will be English, you will definitely practice. This is the greatest favor abour learning English abroad.
Live the language, don’t just learn it. Become a part of the city you are going to. If your visa allows it, find a part-time job. Waitressing in a café is more effective than even the best course in teaching you colloquialisms and idioms. Join a local gym or a hobby class (ceramic, dance, etc.). Volunteer at an event. Read local newspapers and magazines. Watch the country’s TV programs and news. Immerse yourself completely in the language and culture.
Learning English Abroad: Be Active!
Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, embrace them! Yes, you will use the wrong word. Yes, your sentence will be inverted. Yes, your pronunciation will sound funny. No matter! No one expects you to speak like a native speaker. The important thing is to try to communicate. The fear of making mistakes pushes you into silence, and this is the biggest obstacle to learning. Be brave, speak up, ask questions, start conversations. The moments when people correct you will be the moments when you learn the most. Learn to laugh at yourself.
Be an active learner and set goals. Don’t just settle for what you hear. Set small goals for yourself every day. For example, “Today I will learn 5 new words and use them in a conversation,” “Today I will ask a shop owner at least 3 questions about a product,” etc. Carry a small notebook with you, and take notes of a new word or phrase you hear. Try keeping a diary, writing down what you experienced that day in simple sentences in English. Try to consciously use a grammar rule you learned in class outside that day.
These small active efforts transform passive learning into permanent knowledge. Remember, learning English abroad is fun!
Learning English Abroad: Best Tactics!
Ultimately, learning English abroad is not just about taking a language course. The people you meet every day, the signs, the conversations, and even the labels at the grocery store teach you something. However, if you want to make this process more efficient and faster, it is essential to take conscious steps. Here are the best tactics you can use when learning a foreign language abroad!
- Spend time with native English speakers: One of the most effective ways to learning English abroad is to talk to people who speak it naturally.
- Get out of your comfort zone, don’t be afraid to make mistakes: Don’t give up on speaking, even if you make the wrong sentence. Every mistake is a learning opportunity.
- Keep a journal – Write in English: Writing down your experiences in English at the end of the day will improve both your vocabulary and your writing skills.
- Make English the language of your phone and computer: Incorporating technology into your learning process will enrich your vocabulary.
- Join local events and communities: Book clubs, sports groups or volunteering projects will allow you to socialise and practice. This is crucial for learning English abroad.
- Try to think in English: When you start using your internal dialogue in English instead of your native language, your fluency will increase dramatically.
- Immerse yourself in English: TV series, movies, podcasts, songs… No matter what, when you hear English every day, you will become more familiar with it.
- Find a language exchange partner: While you teach someone your native language, they will teach you English – it’s both free and fun!