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For those who live on or visit the island regularly, there is often a desire to be able to at least be polite by speaking some Spanish. But the fact remains that many do not get past the most basic stage.

We approached Queta of the Learn Spanish in Menorca language school, based in Mahón, to provide some guidance for budding linguists. This is her advice:

It is so important that people with a different native language make some effort to speak Spanish. Not only is it polite and will be well received, it will also allow you to get so much more out your time in Menorca.

In effect you are opening up a second world once you have the basics of Spanish: your existing English one, and a new and exciting Spanish one. It is like drawing back the curtains and seeing a new view, providing opportunities that you did not have before: the chance to meet new people, better understand the culture, and, importantly, feel good about yourself for having a go.

Many people often fret about how they should prepare for that first lesson. Learn 100 words beforehand, practice in the bar or restaurant, read some Spanish magazines. All of this is fine, but there is no real secret formula to be found in a text book.

Instead it is my strong belief that it is first and foremost an attitude thing. Come to that first lesson with a positive frame of mind, openminded and not worried about what you say, right or wrong. Come to learn and have fun. Be brave and look at it as the start of an adventure. No one minds mistakes if you are trying. Many fail before they come into the first lesson, as they arrive worried and with a closed attitude.

Yes, some people find it easier to learn a language than others. So what? Some learn to be able to swim or drive a car quicker than others. No one is a success or failure.

The overall piece of advice is that you must train like an Olympian: keep on going, training consistently. We don’t offer a miracle solution or the promise of a new language in 30 days. Instead what you will find is steady progress, one step at a time, or as they say in Spanish, poco a poco (little by little).

If you would like further information,

call Queta on 0034 648 977 612.