
Languages That Open Doors: Preparing for Summer"
This summer, don't just visit new places: truly experience them with the right language in your bag!
There is something magical about the approaching summer. The days are getting longer, the sun is shining brighter and we all start daydreaming about exotic destinations, golden beaches, majestic mountains or vibrant cities. But among all the holiday preparations – from sunscreen to swimsuit, from the tour guide to hotel booking – there is one tool that we often forget and that could radically transform our experience: the language of the place we are going to visit.
When a "gracias" is worth more than a thousand photos
Maria, one of our 45-year-old students, says: "I visited Spain for years, always with my camera and my Italian-speaking guide. I captured beautiful images, but I always felt like an outsider. Then, last year, I decided to take a short Spanish course before leaving. I didn't become fluent, of course, but that handful of sentences changed everything!"
And he continues: "I still remember the face of the owner of the little café in Seville when, instead of the usual broken English, I ordered in Spanish. His face lit up, he started telling me about the city, he recommended places that weren't in the tourist guides. That 'gracias' opened a door that years of travel had failed to open."
Maria's story is no exception. Every day we see how even a few words in the local language can transform a trip from a simple visit to a true cultural immersion.
You don't need to become a polyglot
"Our students' biggest fear is always the same," explains Paolo, one of our language teachers for travelers. "They think that in order to use a language abroad, they have to know it perfectly. Nothing could be more wrong! Native speakers greatly appreciate even the effort of pronouncing a few words in their language."
This is the concept behind our express courses: we do not aim to train linguists, but aware travellers. In just 5-6 lessons, our students learn:
- How to introduce yourself and greet others
- Ordering at the restaurant without surprises
- Asking for and understanding directions
- Go shopping and maybe bargain at the market
- Handle small emergencies or unexpected situations
"The first time I was able to negotiate in Portuguese at the market in Lisbon, I felt like I had climbed Everest!", says Giulia, a student on our Portuguese express course. "And the best part? The seller gave me a better price precisely because he appreciated my effort to speak his language."
Language as a cultural key
Learning a few phrases is not just about ordering a coffee or asking for directions. Language is the key that unlocks the door to cultural understanding. When you pronounce "arigatō gozaimasu" correctly in Japan, you're not just saying "thank you"; you're showing respect for a culture that highly values courtesy and recognition.
"We often go beyond simple translation in our lessons," explains Yuki, a Japanese teacher. "We explain why there are different levels of formality in Japan, or why in some cultures it is considered rude to ask certain questions. Language is just the tip of the iceberg of an entire cultural system."
One summer, three languages, infinite possibilities
This year, the Cultural Cassetto has chosen to focus on three languages that are particularly in demand for the summer:
Spanish , with its musical sound and its diffusion in beloved summer destinations like Spain, Mexico or Cuba. "It is a relatively accessible language for Italians," explains Carmen, a native speaker teacher, "but be careful of false similarities that can create embarrassing situations!"
Portuguese , often overlooked but essential for those visiting Portugal or Brazil. "Many people think they can get by with Spanish, but that's a mistake," warns João, our Portuguese teacher. "Portuguese people understand Spanish, but they greatly appreciate those who make the effort to use their language."
Japanese , for those who dream of a trip to the Land of the Rising Sun. "It's a language with a very different structure from Italian," admits Yuki, "but for this very reason even just a few well-pronounced sentences make a big impression on the Japanese, who don't expect a tourist to know their language."
The experience that makes the difference
What sets our courses for travelers apart is the practical experience of our teachers. They don't just teach the language, they share practical advice born from their first-hand experience.
“I remember one student who, thanks to my advice, managed to negotiate a free hotel upgrade in Tokyo just by using a few polite Japanese phrases,” Yuki smiles. “He sent me a photo from the rooftop suite with a bottle of sake to celebrate!”
An investment that lasts over time
The best part about learning a language for travel is that it doesn't end with the holiday. Marco, 50, says: "I took the Spanish for travellers course before going to the Canary Islands last year. Not only did it make the trip more enjoyable, but it made me want to continue studying. Now I'm taking the full course and planning a trip to South America!"
Many of our "express" students discover a passion that continues well beyond the holiday. The language becomes a permanent travel companion, a bridge to new cultures and possibilities.
It's never too late to start
"The excuse we hear most often is 'I'm too old to learn a new language'," Paolo smiles. "Nothing could be further from the truth! The adult brain has enormous learning potential, especially when the motivation is strong and concrete, like an upcoming trip."
Laura, 63, confirms: "I never thought I would study Japanese at my age. But traveling to Japan was my lifelong dream, and I wanted to live it to the fullest. Those few lessons made the difference between being a tourist and a welcome guest."
Ready to go?
Summer is upon us, and with it the chance to live unforgettable experiences. Whether you're planning a week in Spain, a tour of Portugal, or the Japanese adventure of your dreams, remember to pack a few words of the local language.
Our express courses start next week, just in time to get you ready for summer. Five lessons that could transform your vacation from a simple trip to a real life experience.
Because, as the old saying goes, “As many languages as you speak, so many people you are.” And this summer, you may discover a new version of yourself.