We have recently gotten several inquiries about Spanish lessons (either private lessons or group classes) in Montevideo. Since we're using a CD course rather than lessons, I was wondering if anyone had any recommendations that we could pass along? Thanks in advance.

Do those CDs you're using teach Rioplatense Castellano like they speak in Uruguay, or "Spain Spanish"? How are you liking them?

Does anyone have reccomendations of CDs that teach Uruguayan Spanish?

They teach standard Spanish, like they would speak in Mexico. However, it has given us a great base understanding of the language. We've learned the differences between the languages by interacting with Uruguayans, and through trial and error.

I really like the teaching method because it teaches you how to get going right away. They teach you the things you really need to know first rather than going through vocabulary, which is what I remember doing in language classes in school.

After listening to only 5 of the CDs before getting here I would say that we had basic Spanish down. We were able to communicate our basic needs, ask and answer questions, etc.

I haven't heard of any CDs that teach Uruguayan Spanish, but I'd love to know about them if they are available!

We have enrolled our 12 year old at the London Institute (International House) on Avda. Brasil between Libertad and Santiago Vasquez. It's an intensive Spanish course for 4 weeks, with classes M-F from 9A to 1P. There will be 3 or 4 other foreign teens in the class with her. The staff later takes the kids on excursions to theaters, museums, etc. from 5 to 8 in the evening. Parents can tag along on the afternoon trips. It's not cheap, but it's top quality and members of all sorts of international associations. I'm a professional language teacher, and I can tell these folks know what they're doing.
Four weeks is U$S 990. Three weeks is U$S 750, two $490 and one $240.
Ciao

wow that is seriously expensive!! The London Institute is very professional but that price is very high for Montevideo. Another option is La Academica Uruguay - they also do intensive courses and the teachers are all experienced and have degrees etc. They also arrange excursions. The difference may be I think most of the students there would be adults, if you have teens maybe the London Institute specializes in courses for children so they can learn together.

yes, it is expensive, I agree.  I'll check out La Academica, however, b/c I need some classes once our daughter gets going in regular school in March.

I just found this... might be useful for some, but mind that this is ARGENTINEAN spanish and that big differences exists:

http://urmovingwhere.com/2010/01/26/bueno-entonces/

-- Edited by TheGattman on Friday 16th of April 2010 12:11:18 PM