languages

I’ll be visiting Brazil soon, and want to learn some basic Portuguese. It’s my first time learning a new language as an adult. I’m using Duolingo. Is that the best way to go? Any other tips for learning a new language?

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It depends — usual considerations when traveling anywhere with the exception of places like Singapore :)

Try not to look like a tourist and you should be fine

That sounds fun too! 

I’ll be traveling to Sao Paulo for work. Hoping to explore some nearby cities. Any recommendations? Also, is security a concern there?

Best way to learn is immersion — find a local Forró group or go to a bar with the best selection of caipirinhas

That said everyone is so welcoming there that you could pick up the basics quite quickly — I spent several months there mostly in Mato Grosso

What's on your itinerary?

I think the easiest way to learn basic phrases would be to just google “100 most useful phrases in Portuguese” or ask ChatGPT :) I’m doing Duolingo but I can’t say I’ve learnt there much, more like got used to the language! + maybe videos

that’s a good idea! thank you for sharing. I’ll try this :) I think Duolingo helps with the reading aspect of the language but not sure how much it helps with the speaking.

I think the easiest way to learn basic phrases would be to just google “100 most useful phrases in Portuguese” or ask ChatGPT :) I’m doing Duolingo but I can’t say I’ve learnt there much, more like got used to the language! + maybe videos 

https://youtube.com/@EasyPortugueseVideos?si=xdSPq3qp3AJNXQ6D

It's not a must, but it will be difficult to get anything out of it if you know close to nothing. The conversation will happen in your own language and that's it. It helps a lot with practicing, but the other person is not a teacher.

nice, but does it require some level of proficiency in the language? I’m just starting out, may be when I travel next month I can practice some with the native

Using apps that pair you with native speakers trying to learn your native language has helped me a lot.