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Cracking the language

Bristol, 24th of October

Once we had decided that Spain was to be our new home, one of the first things we needed to do was to start learning the language. I bought some CDs and a phrasebook and then in April I enrolled on a 10-week course for beginners. Spanish was relatively easy to learn at first, especially as I can speak French and found many of the words and constructions were similar. By the time we went to Spain in May and then again in June, I was able to deal with simple situations in cafés and shops.

Since then, I have started another adult education class, which is more difficult and focuses on grammar as well as on conversation and comprehension. I now realise how very little I know! However, the grammar work will give me a good grounding and I hope to learn fast once we are in Spain just by being surrounded by the language every day.

Spanish online

I have also worked through Spanish Steps which is really excellent. The video clips get you used to hearing Spanish in real situations, there are lots of opportunities for revision and it's great to be able to work on it whenever you like. I've also discovered the advantages of watching Spanish films as an aid to learning - not just the language but about Spanish culture too.

Fred has had very little time to spend on all this and is hoping to learn once we move. We already know that there are intensive short courses available in our village so he'll be signing up as soon as we arrive. Dealing with local builders, electricians and plumbers is going to be interesting to say the least!

This week's work

Health services are my current concern. I had thought we would have access to the Spanish health service but it seems that this is only the case once we reach pensionable age. And the E111 only covers you if you are still a UK resident on holiday and is not valid once you are permanently resident in Spain. So now I'm researching UK and Spanish-based private health care policies, none of which are cheap as you can imagine!

Words of the week

encantada - pleased to meet you
igualmente - you too, likewise

At least we can be polite!

Sent by: Sue

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