WayPoint: How to Learn Portuguese (and Actually Stick with It)

If you’re considering making the move, or have already landed in Brazil, you’ll undoubtedly need some grasp of Portuguese. While you will come across some English speakers, the reality is very different from places like Spain, where you can more or less get by with just a few words of the local language. To make matters more challenging, Portuguese is often considered one of the more difficult languages for English speakers to learn.

Fortunately, there’s no shortage of resources to help you on your journey. So, we thought we’d share some of the most useful tips that helped us learn Portuguese.

Fast-Track Your Fluency: Get Immersed from Day One

You’ve probably heard this advice before, and for good reason: it works. Nothing will help you understand and speak another language like immersing yourself in the culture as much as possible. Of course, this is easier if you have already made the move to Brazil, but it’s also possible to make progress if you’re still in Ireland.

One way to overcome the distance is through language exchanges. Ireland is lucky to have a large and vibrant Brazilian community. Beyond all the positives they bring to Irish society, Brazilians are often more than happy to help others learn their language. There are organised language exchanges, like the one at the Central Library in Dublin, and you’ll also find opportunities by checking out Brazilian-Irish social media pages, such as the Brazilians in Ireland Facebook group.

There are also many Brazilian cafés and restaurants around Ireland that can offer the perfect setting to practice. Just like in Ireland, Brazilians are incredibly welcoming, and proud of their culture, and in our experience will be delighted to speak Portuguese with anyone eager to learn. In Dublin, check out places like La Rocha, Vamo no Brasileiro, and Toca Tapioca House. And across the country there are great options such as SABOR Braziil in Cork, Link Brazil in Limerick, and Chef Laura Rosso in Galway. No matter where you are in Ireland, you will never be too far from a Brazilian establishment.

Finally, if you’re lucky enough to be living with a Portuguese speaker, speaking the language at home, even just a little each day, can only accelerate your learning over the long-term.

Online Tools That Make Learning Way Easier

Even if you’re immersing yourself in the culture, using online resources can be a powerful way to supplement your learning.

Duolingo
Probably the most well-known language-learning app, Duolingo offers a free version and a paid upgrade with additional features. While the free version may not be as robust as it once was, it’s still arguably the best no-cost option out there. The paid version allows for perks such as unlimited practice, which can be useful if you’re learning more intensely.

Speaking Brazilian
Founded by Portuguese teacher Virginia Langhammer, Speaking Brazilian offers a range of high-quality resources for learners of all levels. The site offers free courses as well as private paid lessons, and you’ll also find a wealth of engaging content on YouTube, or podcast form. The Speaking Brazilian podcast is available on both Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and covers everything from grammar tips and travel advice, to personal stories from Virginia’s own language journey. It’s a refreshing break from the textbook-style material often found in language education.

Ready to Go Pro? Language Schools in Brazil and Ireland

While immersion and self-study can help you speak conversational Portuguese, formal classes can give you the grammar and structure you need for professional or academic settings. Thankfully there are excellent options in both Ireland and Brazil.

In Ireland, you might consider the Sandford Language Institute and Atlas Language School, both based in Dublin. If you’re in Brazil, Idiomas to Go in São Paulo, and Caminhos Language Centre in Rio de Janeiro are well-regarded.

Whether you’re looking for online, in-person, evening, or intensive classes, there’s a good chance you’ll find a format that fits your lifestyle.

Still Not Sure of the Right Path? We’re Here to Help

If you’re unsure which path suits you best, feel free to reach out to IBNB. We’d be happy to introduce you to some of our members and help you get started on your language journey.

If you would like to be featured in the Spotlight or contribute to IBNB content, email us at contact@ibnbrazil.com