Austinite looking for Spanish language immersion (Laredo, Riverside: dangerous, trailer, friendly)

[Slunkmonky]

I wanted to go to Laredo Nuevo primarily to experience spanish speaking, try to pick up some more conversational skills etc. But I read it's so dangerous. Do any other Austinites know the best way to immerse yourself in spanish from Austin? Any day or weekend trips where you can find a place where english speaking is scarce?

Or this question I suppose: If one was not interested in formal classes, what is the best way to learn spanish through life experience in Texas/Austin?

[Don in Austin]

Originally Posted by Slunkmonky

I wanted to go to Laredo Nuevo primarily to experience spanish speaking, try to pick up some more conversational skills etc. But I read it's so dangerous. Do any other Austinites know the best way to immerse yourself in spanish from Austin? Any day or weekend trips where you can find a place where english speaking is scarce?

Or this question I suppose: If one was not interested in formal classes, what is the best way to learn spanish through life experience in Texas/Austin?

Everywhere you go in Austin there are Spanish speakers. Talk to them in Spanish as much as you can, ask them what the Spanish word for something is. You don't need to take a trip outside of Austin to find lots of Spanish spoken. For starters, you could go get a haircut at Fast Freddy's on Riverside, chat with a taco trailer proprietor, (not during lunch rush) etc. etc. I think you will find more Spanish speakers friendly than not and happy to help you.

Don

[Slunkmonky]

I actually work a stones throw from riverside so I never think of it since it's just part of my commute,, but good idea. A haircut at freddies and maybe a taco in that area there sounds like a good saturday noon.. pardon,, Sabado al mediodia.

[someguyatx]

You dont really need to go out of your way. Pick a local business like the bank, grocery store, or drive thru at Mc Donalds are just as likely to have somebody who speaks Spanish working there. If you work in an office somebody there probably speaks Spanish too.