If you don't understand the words in French written above, don't worry. I'm not entirely sure the grammar is accurate. A rough translation is as follows:
Do you speak French? No? Do you want to speak French well? Yes? What are you waiting for? Go to France and begin your studies today!
The point is simply that tons of language schools offer French lessons. There is probably one in your neighborhood or at the local community college. Instead, though, imagine how much more you'd learn if you studied French while vacationing in the Loire Valley, perhaps, or while window-shopping in Paris.
A recent internet search turned up hundreds of language schools offering one-week to year-long French language programs, no matter what your fluency level. While at first they may seem pricy, consider the prices for comparable services in your local area, then toss in the priceless atmosphere, opportunity for rapid improvement in language skills, and the infinite opportunities to practice outside the classroom with local native French speakers. Some courses are all inclusive, providing prices that include room and board. With accommodations ranging from private dorm rooms to three-star hotels (generally determined by your budget), these courses attract students of all ages.
When costs of meals, board, instruction, and field trips are factored in, course prices begin to look more and more reasonable as a way to enhance your experience the next time (or the first time) you spend time in France. Here is some brief information on just a few of the hundreds of courses available. For a comprehensive listing of programs indexed by area, visit this website.
Study in Rambouillet
The four-week program in Rambouillet, located near Versailles and Chartres about a half-hour from Paris, offers 30 hours of instruction per week. The small city is home to the castle that serves as the president's summer residence. Choosing full board in a double room will cost you 7700 francs for four weeks, or a US dollar estimate of $1375. For other courses and accommodation options, visit the Study in Rambouillet website.
Heart of France
The Coeur de France language school offers language-study classes limited to four students only. Students are placed in one of three language levels and receive a choice of 30 hours per week of group instruction or 20 hours of one-on-one teaching. Program costs include three weekly field trips to wineries, chateaux, and other local attractions, and courses are held in the Loire Valley. Accommodations are varied, though basic costs are $560 US per week for accommodation with board (not including lunch) in a private home, class fees, and field trips. The key to this as well as other programs is complete immersion in the language and culture, which often provides the best results. Check out the Coeur de France website for further details.
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