Everyone has their own reasons for learning a second language. Maybe you’re going on an extended vacation. Perhaps, your job requires it. Maybe you’ve just met that ’special someone’ but your languages are different. Whatever the reason, there are many ways to learn. Private tutoring, evening classes, buying tapes, listening to TV, or finding just the right course online.

Spanish is one of the most commonly used languages in the world and the second language of the U.S. Gaining basic fluency in Spanish can be a real advantage in the business world, and can even improve your understanding of the English language. Many Spanish words are similar to their English counterparts; for example, words ending in -tion in English are generally the same in Spanish, except the ending is -cion. Think of education and educacion. Many other similarities abound.

Heading south for the winter months? Is Mexico, Honduras, Costa Rica or Ecuador on your itinerary?

Knowing Spanish is a definite benefit when you vacation in Spanish-speaking countries. It can easily mean the difference between getting what you want and just getting confused looks from the locals.

So, what are some inexpensive yet effective courses for learning basic Spanish quickly?

Here are my two favorite Spanish courses, each under $100. Each program offers free sample lessons, so you can try before you buy.

Learning Spanish Like Crazy and Rocket Spanish can both be purchased online in downloadable audio format or ordered as CD’s. Both membership sites offer audio files with transcripts, grammar lessons, and online extras, such as vocabulary games and videos with native Latin American instructors.

For more information on either program, just click above on the named tab.

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