Best thing about Sayulita
I have taken group classes and 1:1 lessons with Gina and Juan at La Mexicana for more than 6 months, and they are fantastic. I have progressed so much in my speaking, listening, reading and writing. A small example: when I moved to Mexico I would ask someone how much something cost in a shop and then, even though I knew my numbers on paper, struggle to understand their response. Now, I always understand those responses. I am able to chat with locals with more ease, and I don't feel left out in group conversations. Of course I still make many mistakes and have lots to learn but it feels very different to understand 80-90% of what is going on around you rather than 10%. Recently I was able to have a long conversation about the upcoming presidential election in Mexico with a new friend and I never could have done that 6 months ago.
Juan and Gina have created their own workbooks and even though I have owned many Spanish textbooks over the years, their insightful ways of honing in on issues that cause the most difficulty for English-speaking Spanish learners has been super helpful for me. Many textbooks out there only teach the Spanish of Spain, and here I am learning the many nuances of Spanish in Mexico, from professionals with a ton of knowledge.
I also really appreciate that they weave discussions about local slang, culture, and historical context into their lessons. We do all kinds of fun activities like translating song lyrics, reading Mexican authors, writing about our lives, and watching videos of comedians. I would highly recommend the mix of group classes and 1:1 lessons because it is great to have a chance to talk about topics and questions that interest me in my 1:1, but also great to have the camaraderie of learning with others in the group. There is no shame no matter where you are with Spanish, and there is always a smile even if you make the same mistake 10 times in a row.
I have made many new friends in my classes and learned so much. The experience here has enriched my life immensely. I am already sad thinking about the day 3 months from now when I will have to say goodbye. It has always been a dream of mine to be bilingual and I feel like I am really on my way. Thank you, thank you!
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Experienced:
March, 2024
