For many migrating students, or even professionals moving to a new country, studying the language of the destination country is critical. Many choose to do language courses in their own country before setting off to study or work in the new country and in truth this may not be the best way to study a new language, especially if you are going to be a resident where you are doing the course. What is becoming more and more popular these days is something that is fast becoming a very popular way of studying foreign languages, and a legitimate part of the tourism industry in many countries. We are speaking here of language travel, or language tourism. In essence, what this implies is that rather than study the language in your own country beforehand, you jump right into the deep end by signing on for a language course in the destination country itself. This might seem risky to many and even a little intimidating, especially if you are totally ignorant of the language of the country you are going to, but this method of studying language has many benefits:

Total immersion

One of the key benefits of this method - what is commonly referred to as immersion, is that you are already in an environment where you are surrounded by native speakers, and the only way to get by is to learn the language as fast as possible. Being surrounded by native speakers is also an excellent way to learn to speak the language in an authentic way, rather than run the risk of inaccurate pronunciation or usage when taught by a speaker in your own country. Many institutions also run courses before the subjects that you are there to study actually begin. This method is even better because it allows you to focus exclusively on the language, without the distraction of other subjects.

Sightseeing/Making New Friends

The other advantage of studying a new language in its home country is that you could also get to see places that you never would normally. Especially in the case of the above-mentioned example, where a dedicated language course is run for you prior to your actual courses, your time will be split between your lessons and free time can be spent with other students in the exact same situation as yourself, as well as going out to see the sights of the city you are in. This way some close and lasting friendships can also be forged.

Safety and Security

Another common fear that student have is how safe they are in a new country, amongst people they don’t know and a language they can barely understand. With special language courses, you needn’t worry at all, because a lot of preparation is made to make you feel as much at home as possible. Instructors are guided on sensitivity issues and trained to deal with people in exactly the same situation as yourself.

Save on Accommodation

Another good reason to study languages abroad as opposed to staying by yourself and trying to learn by yourself is that you will save a great deal on the accommodation costs, which are incorporated into the costs of the course, and you will avoid large hotel bills!

Personality and Individual Development

Studying the language of your choice abroad will also give you a level of confidence and build your personality and individuality in a much better way than it would if you were to study ensconced n the safety of your own country. What’s more, it’s a fantastic value-add to your resume, and will certainly assist you when it comes time to apply for your job!