Stavros shares his story ...

What was your motivation to start learning Spanish?

I was interested in Spanish speaking cultures for a very long time and wanted to learn a new language.

When did you begin?

In July 2009.

How did you start - group classes, online, CD, book, podcasts, in the street ...?

I used to live in Northcote and I often saw El Patio Spanish Language School and one day decided to walk in and I enrolled.

Have you travelled or lived in a Spanish speaking country?

Last year for the first time I went to Perú for a few weeks.

Do you have a current goal, and if so, what is it?

To keep learning Spanish and improving.

Do you have a particular study schedule apart from your group class?

Once a fortnight a few of us get together at Kelvins bar in Northcote and talk about our week (or any topic) in Spanish.

What do you think is the most challenging thing about learning Spanish?

The most challenging, for me, is remembering the language. Living in a country where the language is not spoken much I find it a challenge remembering from week to week everything I've learnt.

What do you think your strengths and weaknesses are for learning Spanish?

Strengths for me is probably pronunciation. I already speak another language and phonetically they are similar and my weakness is definitely remembering everything.

What is your most effective method for memorisation?

Practice, practice, practice.

What are or have been your most helpful resources?

Watching Spanish language movies or favourite tv shows dubbed in Spanish, following some Spanish speaking singers or actors on facebook and using the app, duolingo.

What is your advice for anybody starting out learning Spanish?

Practice as much as possible. Find time once a week (apart from your class) to practice some Spanish. 


One of Cusco's tiny streets, with a magnificent view of the Andes in the background


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By Stavros Aivaliotis
May 16, 2015


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