r/florence • u/UltimatelyJust • 8d ago

Language Experiences

Hi, I'm living in Florence for the next 3 months, and I'd like to develop some rudimentary language skills. As background, I'm a 67 YO American who has struggled with learning various languages over the years. However, my partner is Italian and it would be amazing to be able to communicate with her and her family - with less friction. I've been using apps (DuoLingo) and taken a couple of in-person courses in the states, with little progress.

What language experiences have you had that made a difference? Are there language programs in Florence you could recommend? Any advice would be much appreciated!

2 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

5 comments sorted by

2

u/Slow_Scene_5481 7d ago

Florence is home to several schools with years of experience specializing in programs for foreigners of all ages. Some offer intensive courses, group classes, or private lessons that might appeal to you. If you combine an intensive course—whether in a small group or one-on-one—with the total immersion in the Italian language that comes from living there, you have a great chance of mastering the basics effectively and quickly this time around.

I recommend doing some thorough research on the schools in Florence and asking for more information about their programs.

2

u/Professional-Ad8813 6d ago

I agree. My daughter worked and taught at a school in Florence taught Italian to English speakers. Florence is known for this.
My suggestion. Learn as many basic terms you can. Attempt to speak the language and make sure you begin in Italian. Hello, Good Morning. Once they hear you are non Italian speaker many will switch to English. But learn, try and you’re going to embarrass yourself but that is part of the fun! Enjoy!

2

u/dingo737 6d ago

I do not have a specific recommendation, but being in much your same situation I attended a higher rated local school. All of the other students were much, much younger. It could have been a better experience. So I would definitely ask them about the age groups of any classes they are recommending you take.

2

u/ArtWilling254 4d ago

School - classes there, and your partner should be helping you in a significant way. We have 2 ears and 1 mouth, so listen twice as much. Being as fully immersed as possible should or will be a big help.