Some of our favourite language learning locations

The staff at Apple Language Courses give reasons below for some of their favourite language learning destinations!

Catherine – Quito

Quito is a fantastic city to learn Spanish in because it boasts a vibrant mix of the old and new. Being in the city helped me solidify my knowledge of the language and feel confident to speak it outside of the classroom. Choose group lessons for general Spanish improvement, or private lessons for focused individual tuition.

After class, head up to Itchimbia park for views over Quito, or into the old town to try Ecuadorian coffee, sweets or empanadas, or take a tour around the pretty presidential palace. In the evening a stroll through the narrow streets of La Ronda is a must, while excursions to the equator (Mitad del Mundo) or group visits to the Panecillo are worth the wait.

Phillippa – Shanghai

I absolutely fell in love with Shanghai on my first trip to China and if you’re looking for somewhere different to visit this year, I’d definitely recommend a Mandarin course at our school here. I consider myself to be quite well travelled and have visited big cities like London and New York before, but nothing quite prepares you for the scale of Shanghai’s metropolis.

This is a city where they love to build big and the massive, futuristic skyscrapers are a sight to be seen. I particularly love the Bund at night, the riverside views over the illuminated buildings in Pudong are simply amazing!

Luisa – Heidelberg

My favourite location this summer is Heidelberg. I can’t think of a better place to spend my leisure time! You name it, Heidelberg has it – from a wide variety of ice cream parlours in the city to cosy, shady spots next to the river Neckar through to beautiful and interesting destinations in the vicinity. Especially on a sunny day, the Old Town with its many bars and cafés invites you to go for a stroll. Read more about this amazing city on my blog post!

Maureen – Rouen

Rouen is not one of the biggest or most famous cities of France but it’s definitely a must-see and one of my favourite locations! It is a typical medieval city, full of history and art heritage. It represents very well the beautiful region of Normandy and perfectly mingles city and countryside. There are many impressive monuments and breath-taking landscapes that inspired many artists in the past and continue to do so. It’s a lovely place to learn French, learn more about French history, and enjoy good French food at the same time. All of that in a charming setting close to the capital!

Read more about it on my blog post here: Rouen blog post

Amber – Florence

The beautiful Renaissance city of Florence is famous for its galleries and museums, but for me the streets of the city itself are just as interesting and picturesque. It isn’t necessary to pay entrance fees and queue to appreciate the splendour of the city as you will see amazing, artistic architecture at every turn – even our school is housed in a refurbished 17th-century palace!

When I went to visit the school I really enjoyed casually strolling along the streets with a gelato in hand (I can’t resist Italian ice cream!). Piazza del Duomo is the obvious place to sit and people watch, but there are many smaller, more peaceful squares that have their own charm. I’m sure you will enjoy finding your own ‘secret’ area of Florence!

Monia – London

London is one of the most attractive destinations for tourists and one of the most popular locations amongst our students. With its multicultural atmosphere, world-famous sights and the huge variety of things to do, I believe it’s the very best place to learn English! Even if you live in London, there are almost unlimited things to still discover!

Our English schools are centrally located, close to major museums and cultural attractions. Why not take the whole family on an English study trip to London? We offer special courses this year suitable for parents and children travelling together. You can also take advantage of your summer holidays to refresh your English before starting the new school year!

Peter – New York

My first trip to New York City happened to be with a large group of international students all learning English. It was the perfect group of travelling companions. We were all completely in awe of the iconic buildings, landmarks and familiar sights around every corner.

There is an energy and buzz in New York that is hard to explain, but must be experienced. This incredible world capital also happens to be the place where I got engaged and I can’t wait to take my wife back there. Top tip: If visiting the top of just one skyscraper, make sure it’s the Top of the Rock!