Hi all, I am planning on backpacking around central american with my friend. Although english he was bought up in Costa Rica and speaks fluent spanish, I assume with the spanish accent of Costa Rica.

I also go to Spain frequently. So it would be useful to learn to speak and understand spanish.

Anyone know or suggest of the best way to learn to speak the language (not nessarily write).

Any good software products to buy etc? I will also obviously have my friend to practise with + he can teach me.

Thanks

I've heard Rosetta Stone is GREAT, but that's mostly been from their own promotions. I don't personally know anyone who has used it. It's rather expensive too; I don't know what budget you want to work within. You can test it out on their site to get a feel for how it operates: Rosetta Stone: Learn English, Learn Spanish, Learn French, Learn German, Learn Italian, and 25 other languages with our language-learning software packages. (http://www.rosettastone.com/)

If you want to get something for free, go to your local library and check out language lessons there - they should have various programs, tapes, books, CD-ROMS, maybe even DVDs. If you find one you like you can always buy it later.

Another thing I've seen is a game for the Nintendo DS called "My Spanish Coach", but again, I don't know anyone who has used it, so I can't vouch for it's effectiveness. You also must have a DS... :) Here's a link with some user reviews: Amazon.com: My Spanish Coach: Video Games (http://www.amazon.com/UBI-Soft-16391-Spanish-Coach/dp/B000SQ5LOQ)

I have enjoyed using some of the Transparent Language Learning series of courses on Cd's. Learn Spanish Language Skills with Spanish Software and Spanish Resources (http://www.transparent.com/languagepages/spanish/spanish.htm)

Of course, there's always the free sites that can be used on the Internet. Free Online Spanish Lessons - Google Search (http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&safe=off&q=Free+Online+Spanish+Lessons)

Just another thought. There might be tapes or Cd's that you could check out for free from a public library in order to learn Spanish.