Put down the remote control! We mean it - Netflix needs a break from you. You're too clingy.
Just joking #netflixislife, but if you do feel like a break and want to immerse yourself in your holiday planning, may we suggest brushing up on another language. Si? Oui? Ja? Hai?
We've compiled the best apps to help you learn a language, and then because we know you'll be having some separation anxiety from Netflix, we've added a few foreign films to help you on your language-learning way.
1. Duolingo
Image credit: Joshua Earle on Unsplash. Learn a few Italian basics before you head to Rome
This one's a classic - Duolingo has been around for ages and is one of the best apps for learning a language. It's super easy to navigate and you can learn more than 30+ languages through the app.
If you’re a touch competitive then this app is also perfect for you, with its “streak” feature, which keeps you motivated to track the number of days you have reached your goals (genius!).
Duolingo gets that everyone learns a different way, so their app enables you to personalise your learning style and while it feels like you’re playing one big game, their methods of teaching actually have proven results!
Another bonus is that they don’t restrict how many languages you can learn, which is great if you’re starting to plan your European summer holiday which requires a few languages to be learnt - you can brush up on Italian, French, Greek and more all in one spot. Oh, and did we mention it's free?
2. Babbel
It’s time to learn that language you always told yourself you would
Another great option to learn a new language is the app Babbel. This is one of the OG learning programs and was the world’s first language learning app - these guys have been doing it for years!
This one is a little more of an investment at $9.99 per month per language (there are various packages you can look into), but it goes a little more deeper than the likes of Duolingo. While Duolingo focuses on beginner vocabulary and grammar skills, Babbel is focused more on use of words and basic conversation (which might be helpful when communicating with the locals at your destination).
Brush up on your #skillz
3. Memrise
Image credit: Jordan Opel on Unsplash. Learn the language and local favourites
If you want to hit the ground running in a destination and blend in ASAP, we recommend Memrise. It includes short videos that show you how locals converse and how they use different phrases (it is honestly so helpful!). The videos also help you get a better grip on pronunciation and tone of voice. You learn to spot patterns in the language which makes it easier to improve your skills.
The app is also scaleable; there are a few lessons available for free daily, however if you would like the full program you need to subscribe to one of their various packages which range from either $9 for a month, $18 for three months and $130 for the year.
4. Lirica
Image credit: Florian Wehde on Unsplash. Spain is waiting to be explored
Scientists have often said that music is a really effective way to learn a new language. The repetition and melody all help with the memorisation of language.
If you’re wanting to learn Spanish, then Lirica is a great option. This app combines culture and language in a fun and interactive way. Lirica uses popular music from Latin artists to help users learn the language. The app then includes various facts about the artists you are listening to, which means you also get to experience local sounds and culture as you learn (so much fun!)
Time to step up how you learn Spanish. Me Gusta!
5. Drops
Image credit: Yannis Papanastasopoulos on Unsplash. Explore Paris like a local
If you’re anything like us, you want to be entertained! Drops provides you with beautifully designed word games with mnemonic associations. The games are short and engaging which makes it super easy to stick with it and create a daily routine. Drops is also perfect for those of us that are more visual learners.
The app is free or subscription based. If you don't opt for the $10 / month subscription then you need to leave 10 hours between your lessons, however the app does allow you to look over your completed lessons to keep you fresh for the next lesson, so win!
BONUS: Netflix
Image credit: freestocks on Unsplash. Just another reason to watch Netflix
Netflix isn’t a learning app but TV and movies can be so educational (show this to your Mum if you need to!) particularly when it comes to learning a new language.
Netflix has this special, hidden extension on chrome called “Learning Language with Netflix” which enables you to learn your preferred language while watching your favourite movie or TV show through Chrome. Once you add the extension, you can pick from hundreds of titles that use this feature. Note it's not a Netlfix product, but it's safe to use.
Netflix also has one of the best foreign film catalogs there is, and there are actual studies that prove watching foreign language films can help aid the development of a language. While it is always better to practice the language in the destination of choice, in a time when we can’t leave our house, the next best thing is foreign films!
Before you go out and binge watch all these foreign films, there are some tips we recommend in order to ensure you are actually taking it all in and learning the language:
- Repetition: Watching a film just once probably won’t make you fluent in anything, we recommend watching the film a few times - so pick one you really love!
- Actively engage with the movie: speak with the actors, mimic their pronunciation of words and pretend to dialogue with them. Focus on every word they are saying.
- Turn the subtitles off: (when you're intermediate to advanced) Challenge yourself and turn them off! See how much of the film you can follow. It also might be an idea to watch the film once with subtitles and then another time through without. This can help surge your understanding of the language and improve your comprehension.
Not sure where to start with foreign films? Here are a few of our favourites:
- Roma: Set in Mexico City in the 1970’s this film is a semi-autobiographical take on the life and upbringing of the Oscar-winning director Alfonso Cuarón; following the life of a live-in housekeeper of a middle-class family. Fun fact about this film, it was actually Netflix’s first-ever Oscar nomination for best picture (therefore a clear must-watch)
- Amelie: A classic french romantic comedy film, one that will never disappoint! The film is about a young woman who discretely arranges the lives of the people around her, creating a world exclusively of her own making. You will laugh, cry and fall in love with French culture (and the language!)
- Happy as Lazzaro: If you’re looking to learn Italian, then we recommend this incredible drama. This film tells the story of an an unceasingly kind Italian peasant and his family who are exploited by a tobacco baroness. With reviews like “sublime & mysterious” and “mesmerising” this film is one to add to the list.
As the Italians would say “In bocca al lupo”, folks! (pronounced: In bok-kah al loo-poh, and translated to “Good luck! Break a leg!” (still don’t quite get this one, as its literal meaning is “in the mouth of the wolf”) but hey, I'll google it and kill 10 minutes.
Get downloading and get learning! Ciao!
Missing Netflix too much?
