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HomeTopics...Learning VacationsLearn German
German Language Travel: Learn German by ImmersionThe German language is a great second language choice for many Americans, especially since about 25 percent of the American population has German ancestry. Besides being a fascinating language rooted in a rich history and culture, German is a must for people doing business in Europe. German Language VacationsGerman is the primary language of a number of European countries besides Germany: Austria, most of Switzerland, and the tiny countries of Liechtenstein and Luxembourg are German-speaking. The German language is also spoken in parts of Belgium, Italy and France. German is a leading world language and the second most popular language, after English, on the Internet.
Travelers who wish to learn German can find a number of great language vacation packages. Beginners will feel comfortable trying phrases and rudimentary sentences in public: Most Germans speak English and are more than willing to help you learn their language. Beware of letting them lapse into English, though. It will rob you of the opportunity to become fluent if they help too much! Both Germany and Austria have wonderful summer climates and visitors have ample opportunity to learn the German language while drinking in the culture. Major cities include Berlin, Hamburg, Frankfurt and Munich (München). If you're lucky enough to visit Bavaria in September, you might catch an Oktoberfest celebration (which starts in September) and raise a fine German beer to the sound of the oomp-pah-pah.
Learn About German CultureYou'll soon discover that there's much more to Germany than great beer and robust food. Your vacation plans should include visits to fine museums, castles and art galleries. Classical music lovers can explore the homes of Bach, Beethoven, Brahms, Handel and Wagner. In Austria, romantics can dance to the strains of the famous Strauss waltzes in Vienna or take in a symphony in Salzburg.
The German people are faithful to their traditions, and you will have excellent opportunities for photography as you travel. You might see a fraulein in her Dirndl skirt and blouse, or a herr proudly wearing his Lederhosen—the traditional leather shorts—and a felt Alpine hat. You might even glimpse a chimney sweep in a black suit and top hat! Can you think of better conversation starters? Can you say, "Mag ich Ihr Photo machen?"
German Language Travel PackagesIf you can afford it, a package deal that includes German language lessons is the best way to learn the language. If you want to sample real German family life, look to stay with a host family.
If you're a student or retiree and you're serious about achieving fluent German, plan to spend several months in Germany, and save some time for Austria and the enchanting alpine country around Innsbruck and Salzburg. You won't run out of things to see, do, eat and drink. Outdoor wine gardens and sidewalk cafes are great venues for making new friends and sprechender Deutsche.
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