Learning Spanish (and a Little Basque): My First Steps
I haven’t taken a language class in over a decade…and now I’m trying to learn Spanish and a little Basque? Here’s how it’s going (spoiler: I’m trying my best).
So… I’ve officially decided to learn Spanish. And not just casually. I’ll need to actually understand people and function in another country soon.
It’s thrilling. It’s terrifying. And it’s very humbling.
Why I’m Learning Spanish Now
The Master’s program I’m attending in San Sebastián is taught in English (thankfully), but everything outside the classroom? That’s life in Spanish—and sometimes Basque. And I want to be able to live with the culture, not just around it.
So I’m starting now. Before the move. Before the panic. Before the blank stares at the supermercado.
Where I’m Starting (and How I Feel About It)
I’m using Pimsleur for daily Spanish audio practice. What I like about Pimsleur is that it’s all about listening, repeating, and speaking out loud—so I can practice while I’m walking, cooking, or just staring at the ceiling feeling overwhelmed (it happens). It focuses on conversation right away, which makes it feel more real than just memorizing flashcards.
Pimsleur while I am cleaning or exercising
I’ve downloaded Duolingo for both Spanish and Basque
I have a notebook labeled “Work In Progress”
I listen to local news stations while I work for osmosis, hopefully.
My pronunciation? A work in progress.
My confidence? Faint but growing.
My motivation? Deeply rooted in respect and excitement.
Click for a FREE 7 day trial of Pimsleur. It is really wonderful.
What About Basque (Euskara)?
Let’s be real: Euskara is hard. It’s not related to Spanish, and it sounds completely unfamiliar to most English speakers. But I want to learn some basics to show respect and build connection, especially since San Sebastián is part of the Basque Country.
Even learning how to say “Kaixo” (hello) and “Eskerrik asko” (thank you) feels like a gesture of care.
Learn more about Language in San Sebastian and Basque Country tourism here.
My Goals (Small but Sincere)
Order coffee and groceries in Spanish without switching to English
Have a casual conversation with a local before Christmas
Read signs and menus with some degree of confidence
Say hello and thank you in Basque with proper pronunciation
I know fluency won’t happen overnight. And that’s okay. I’m not aiming for perfection. I’m aiming for participation.
What I’m Reminding Myself
It’s okay to feel awkward.
Learning a language is learning to be vulnerable.
Progress is more important than performance.
People appreciate effort, especially when it’s sincere.
If you’re learning a new language too, especially later in life or under pressure: we’ve got this.
