Italian Language Lessons

[Anonymous]

I’m looking for recommendations for learning Italian before a trip to Italy in July. I’ve never studied it before but studied Spanish years ago. I’m open to online live/apps/private tutoring. I searched the forum and found recs from a few years ago, but am hoping for current advice. Thank you in advance!

[Anonymous]

Depending on where you are, the Italian Cultural Society in Bethesda has language classes including some intensive immersion classes for travelers that take place on weekends. I've taken classes there and they're very good. I believe they have live on-line options as well.

https://italianculturalsociety.org/ilp/?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiA0PuuBhBsEiwAS7fsNdScxroLzkAHV5E3cT40Y9mF_0Oqb-LltdtdJ3S33O9EWV1XTjBrOhoCW54QAvD_BwE

Enjoy!

[Anonymous]

How proficient do you want to be? I did about 3 months of duolingo before a trip to Rome last summer. I was able to order food in restaurants, manage very basic greetings, figure out bus directions.

[Anonymous]

Why do you want to learn Italian?
Speaking multiple languages is great, so if that is why you want to learn - by all means, go for it.

But you definitely do not need to learn Italian to manage a trip there. Also, it doesn't really make a difference to the locals.

[Anonymous]

Duolingo

Also listen to Italian shows with subtitles.

[Anonymous]

Check out community college classes

[Anonymous]

I find that it is helpful to study on your own for the basics and then use a tutor. When I started learning, I found a few textbooks I liked and worked my way through the Pimsleur series (audio learning program). Then, I started watching short beginner videos on Youtube and added an online tutor on Italki (very convenient and affordable). It's incredible how much you can learn online now.

[Anonymous]

Watch the movie Italian For Beginners before your trip, it’s amazing

[Anonymous]

There is an online 3 month, self-paced course on FCPS site for adult world language courses.

[Anonymous]

Google Casa Italiana in DC! They have great courses and teachers.

[Anonymous]

Honestly, if you enjoy learning a language and plan on continuing after your trip- great; otherwise, you will retain so little for actual speaking in that period of time.(you will be able to read better than you can converse) that it will be of little use. Nearly everyone speaks English and no one will be amused or impressed at your bumbling efforts. Unless you’re traveling to non-touristy areas, I would juar learn a few useful phrases and relax about the rest.