A. In three to four weeks a student should feel comfortable enough to go anywhere, make arrangements, read schedules, ask the appropriate questions and travel in any Spanish-speaking country.
Q. How long does it take to become fluent?
A. This is a tough question but one I get asked most often. This depends on a few things: a student's aptitude, their attitude, and if they have already learned another language than their mother tongue. It also depends heavily on and how much effort they put into studying, making mistakes and using the language. The fastest progress I have seen is from absolute beginner to advanced in three months. Otherwise I'd say approximately 4-6 months.
Q. What is the best thing I can do to prepare before I come?
A. Study what books you now have and review any language instruction you've had in the past. Start with a good Spanish primer. You'll find these in many book stores and libraries, and usually come with a cassette tape (stay away from the "quick phrase audiotapes for travelers"). Listen to Spanish radio and television if possible. You may not understand a thing, but your ear will become educated to the new sounds, inflections, and tone.
