Duolingo

Duolingo mobile app
The next step
This website has proved useful in many ways during my time here. It’s ideal for used second-hand items especially. I started sending a few messages to local tutors offering “cours francais”. Soon enough I found myself a reasonably priced French tutor to attend regular lessons with. Hourly rates can range from €10-30 depending on location and skill level. Somewhere around €20 seems to be the norm.
Taking French lessons
I began to struggle

Camili Books & Tea Avignon
Not giving up

French children books
Trying new things
One of Camille’s first recommendations was to buy some children’s books. Another suggestion watch french children’s television programs, with French subtitles. I do for this both English and French TV shows, as well as listening to French radio stations. It wasn’t long before I found myself perusing the children’s books in 2nd hand stores and table top sales. I was surprised by how quickly these tips started paying off. Also, I found this youtube channel very helpful in explaining certain elements. I would pause and replay the videos several times until I understood things myself.

French television programme with subtitles
People often say the best way to learn a new language is to move to a new country, and this could not be more true. But beyond this, I have found it’s the complete immersion in that country that is more rewarding. Its not just enough to live there. You have to get out there and experience it every day. Push yourself out of your comfort zone, join local groups, clubs and societies. Listen to the language in everyday use, every single day, and you will be amazed. Over short periods of time you will pick things up you didn’t even realize you knew.
Useful Links
So far in my attempts to master French, I have used the following resources, and I urge anyone else also trying to learn the language to give them a try too…
Duolingo Mobile phone App for learning French and other languages
Youtube Channel “Learn French with Alexa”
Camili Books & Tea private one on one French lessons in Avignon
French TV channel offering free videos and lessons online
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2 comments
Great post! We have just bought a house in France and we split our time between the UK and France. It is so hard to learn- especially when we’re not immersed. Love the idea of the French/ English cafe- wish we lived closer! Perhaps in a few years I’ll be able to type this message in French….!!
Thanks, yes it is hard but don’t give up! Its so worth while, especially if you are planning on spending a lot more time here 🙂