Peru is a great option to learn Spanish, besides of a fascinating history, there are many other reasons why Peru is one of the best places to learn Spanish. You will discover some of them above and we hope you to choose Peru to learn Spanish abroad.
1) affordable rates at Spanish language schools
Peru is one of the most affordable countries to learn Spanish, especially compared to other Latin American countries or even Spain. The cost of living is much cheaper, in addition to the cost of tuition at a local Spanish school. In Lima Spanish House, for example, there are no extra tuition fees. If you are interested in studying Spanish, saving some money and immersing yourself in the local culture, Peru is definitely the place you are looking for.
2) Cultural Immersion
Spanish, and the native local language, Quechua, are widely spoken among the people of Peru. English, on the other hand, is not, which is good for you. Research has shown that individuals are able to advance their language skills much faster in an immersive setting which forces the learner to use the language regularly. Learning Spanish in Peru gives you this once in a lifetime opportunity.
While in Peru, you will find that your daily interactions like shopping at the supermarkets or stores, doing your laundry, taking transportation, dining out, or otherwise must be conducted in Spanish. You will not only be practicing Spanish within the classroom, but also outside indirectly. This will help you to learn the language in both a conscious and unconscious manner. Being surrounded by the language for long periods of time allows your subconscious to absorb information which later pops up when necessary.
3) Indigenous Influence
The ancestors of Peru’s native population reigned as one of the biggest, most important empires in South America, The Incas. The Incas were an advanced civilization which developed modern cities, agricultural zones and an extensive road network which connected all corners of the empire. Their work can still be seen in modern architecture. One can still travel their sacred roads and witness the many festivals and customs. A lot of these are UNESCO listed sites that rank high on everyone’s bucket list. And with reason.
The unique influence of an Inca ruling past makes Peru one of the most interesting places to study Spanish. Even in the modern capital, Lima, with its magnificent infrastructure. Choosing a Spanish language school like Lima Spanish House, which is located in the political, administrative, and epicenter, gives you the chance to explore the city’s ruins and wondrous sites. You will also get a chance to explore the markets around Miraflores which contain intricate artisan crafts or sometimes pick up the language of the Incas, the Quechua, which is still widely used by the indigenous people.
4) Outstanding Cuisine
The Peruvian cuisine is well known around the world by the ceviche, a traditional Peruvian dish of raw marinated fish; but that´s only the top of the iceberg. This outstanding cuisine is a reflection of influences from the indigenous population, as well as European immigrants from Spain, Italy, and Germany, Asian immigrants from China and Japan, and those of West African. Peru’s cuisine has garnered international attention in recent years thanks to world renowned Peruvian chef Gastón Acurio and his restaurant Astrid y Gaston, in Lima. He is responsible for putting the Peruvian cuisine´s reputaion on top.
The above mentioned social groups were forced to create their own traditional dishes using ingredients found in Peru. This resulted in a number of fusion cuisines that are famous all over the country. For example, Chifa is a traditional dish created by the Chinese immigrants which fuses traditional Chinese and Peruvian cuisines. Lomo saltado is a beef dish which uses indigenous spices, soy sauce, and potatoes, alongside white rice. Tallarin is a Peruvian-Italian fusion dish similar to spaghetti. It can be cooked using a variety of sauces including tomato or pesto for an Italian influence. Learning Spanish in Peru is a feast for the senses and a great excuse to immerse yourself in some of the best South American culinary epicenters.
5) Adventures when learning Spanish in Peru
One of the best reasons to study Spanish in Peru is the countless adventures and once in a lifetime experiences you’ll treasure during your time in the country. Peru is known for its world wonder, the ancient city of Machu Picchu, but there is so much more, especially if you decide to pick a school in Lima, the capital City. Throughout this big city you will experience different micro climates, desserts, beaches, forests and swamps, and everything within the same region. Weekend getaways can include trips to the beautiful oasis in Ica, very close to the Nazca Lines also, a visit to the Magic Water Circuit, walking touring the interesting and classic Lima downtown or make the most of the many opportunities for hiking in mountains near Lima. This is one of the most fascinating countries in Latin America and once you learn Spanish, you will be in for a great experience.
