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A Spanish Speaker in Germany: Language Learning Observations | Small Planet Studio

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I was sent to one of the biggest travel trade shows in Berlin, Germany, and as someone that’s 1) never been to Germany and 2) doesn’t speak German, and 3) has never attended a conference with 170,000 other people, I knew it was going to be a (welcome) challenge.

As I was navigating the gargantuan conference (ahem, 26 exhibition halls AND its own shuttle system!? It truly was a conference only the Germans could have organized) and new city, I made the following observations based on speaking another language besides my mother tongue, but not German:

Languages have always fascinated me, and I’m glad I got to experience a context with one where I knew absolutely nothing. I’m almost glad I didn’t have time to brush up on common phrases because I forgot what it was like to be in a brand new environment not knowing anything.

As I work with students and give them advice on what meaningful travel experience is a good fit for them, it’s been easy for me to forget that learning a new language is a huge feat and how accomplishing it feels to pick up on seemingly little things (Straße = street!).

What language wins have you made in your travels?

 Photo credits: Carrie Herrera Niesen Post navigation


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