Are you planning to head to Cuba soon for work or pleasure? Then it’s a great idea to learn Spanish in Cuba to make the most of this Island-wonder. They say Cuba is where you truly live life, but only if you’ve mastered the language spoken here.
Once you’ve set foot in Cuba, you’ll be astonished at the endless places to explore and things to do. But before you pack your bags and head out to unravel the turbulent history, soulful music and exotic cars, know that you’d have a more fulfilling experience if you learn Spanish.
But why exactly is mastering this language necessary for visiting Cuba? Take a look at the reasons below!
1. It’s the Official Language
When visiting a new place, it helps settle in well if you know at least the basics of the official language. Spanish is the official language in the Republic of Cuba, but make no mistake; it is no basic Spanish that amateurs can pass off with.
Given the high literacy rate, Cubans here value the correct use of the language. You will find the local Cubans here speaking with many idiosyncratic words. To understand that, you, too, will need to learn professionally from a qualified language expert.
You see, the Spanish spoken in Cuba is enriched with words that Taino Indians spoke in their language. These Indians had lived in the archipelago long before the time when the actual Spanish language arrived. Hence, the Spanish of the Cubans is laced with Taino Indian words like:
- Tabaco
- Hamaca
- Carey
- Canoa
- Bohio
- Batea and lots more
Moreover, every newcomer in Cuba must know the many words that hold different meanings in other Spanish countries. Many of those words are inappropriate and ought to be avoided entirely. For this reason, a professional language expert must train you so that they can inform you about the words to use and those to avoid.
For example, ‘papaya’ in Spain and many countries refers to the fruit. But in Cuban Spanish, it references the women’s genitalia. As for referring to the fruit itself, Cubans call it the “Fruta bomba.” There are many more such examples of words that are appropriate to use in conversation with others in many Spanish countries.
However, many may interpret those words as extremely rude or harsh in Cuba. This is why you should take a professional’s help learning Spanish in Cuba.
2. Makes Use of Apps Easy in Cuba
When you must explore or settle into a place, you will rely heavily on multiple apps. Be it for navigating routes or finding things you need, you will be referring to a variety of apps time and again for the help.
Although connectivity is still a problem in Cuba, you can use several offline apps, too, to maneuver life in the Republic. Learning Spanish in Cuba is a great idea to make using apps easier for you. Of course, you may even use a Spanish-to-English dictionary, but learning the language professionally will help build your vocabulary and understand definitions.
3. Provides a More Immersive Experience
Learning Spanish in Cuba helps you have a more immersive experience than if you don’t. An even better idea is to go to places in Cuba and participate in events with a larger gathering of Cubans. It’s a better way to learn than joining a group of other foreigners to learn the official language.
You see, teaming up with other foreigners to learn Spanish in Cuba will inevitably make you lapse back into English or your regular language. But being surrounded by Cubans will force you to practice and master the language like them. Eventually, it will give you a more immersive experience in the country.
The great idea is to check out the Havana University campus. It is a prime spot and the only English-language bookstore on the island. But the ironic fact is that most Cubans here don’t speak English, but because there’s a bilingual expert always present, they help with translation. Here, you’ll be able to learn much of the Cuban Spanish language quite easily.
Many debates also occur here every month on social issues and policies. The audience can participate in these discussions, and those refining their Spanish-speaking skills can learn a lot too.
Helpful Tips
Look at our helpful tips below to help you learn Spanish in Cuba more successfully.
- Take your time to search for the right language professor. You see, Cuba has no shortage of qualified and highly trained teachers. Hence, it’s best to take maximum advantage of this and find a teacher to help you master the language well enough. Moreover, choosing one-on-one classes is a better idea, for it will ensure personalized language courses for your needs.
- Cuba still has a system that prefers bartering and favors for business. Hence, it is likely that you will come across Cubans who’d offer to trade Spanish classes for English from you in return. But it’s recommended not to settle for this option, as it will mean different goals, competency levels and classes that might not suit your learning pace.
Final Thoughts
Cuba is a country rife with knowledge, history, and immersive experiences. Whether visiting here as a tourist or planning to settle in, learning Spanish in Cuba from a professional language teacher is best. Cubans can be rather informal people, and their language pattern reflects that.
If you wish to make the most of the Republic like a true local, working with a teacher that teaches you accordingly is best. Besides, highly qualified language experts help you achieve your linguistic goals with real-time progress.