Talking Travel

Do you dream of foreign travel? Or maybe you have an international business trip coming up?

It’s always better to visit a country knowing just a little bit of the language and culture. With this in mind, we’ve developed a series of five-week language courses designed specifically for travelers.

There are no textbooks or complicated conjugation charts to memorize. You meet for two hours each week to learn the basics of the language and country you’re planning to explore. Our fluent, well-traveled instructors teach key phrases — like asking for directions or introducing yourself — and share cultural insights that will enrich your trip.

“It gives you survival language skills,” said Lyn Cohen, Languages program manager, who took Italian for Tourists last year before heading to Italy on a two-week whirlwind vacation.

“I was surprised at how many of the phrases that I had learned in class popped into my head,” she said. “Knowing the common greetings, customs and pleasantries made me feel more prepared, and everyone appreciated my efforts to speak Italian. It made the whole experience better.”

Languages currently offered include French, Spanish, Italian and Portuguese. Each course is only $129 and open to all adults.

• French for Tourists
• Introduction to Spanish
• Italian for Tourists
• Portuguese for Business and Travel

“The focus is on the spoken language,” Lyn said, “but we’ll also cover written words needed for road signs or restaurant menus. And most of all, it’s fun. Photos, classroom discussion and firsthand experiences from the instructor all bring the language to life.”

The classes are offered twice each year, once on a weeknight and once on Saturdays. Don’t see a class for the language you want? Send us an email at languages@kennesaw.edu or call 470-578-6765.