Summer, sun, language skills? The summer break is here - and with it the perfect opportunity to take a deep breath, recharge your batteries ... and maybe even work on your language skills a little. Because even if the courses are paused, there are many ways in which you can continue learning in a relaxed and fun way. Here are our best tips for language learning during the university break - without the stress of learning.

Travel = live language practice

When you travel abroad, take the opportunity to use your target language directly - whether you're ordering in a restaurant, making small talk with reception or shopping at the market. You'll be surprised how much you already know - and how friendly people react when you try to speak their language.

Our tip: Prepare a small language kit before your trip - with phrases, vocabulary and useful sentences for on the go.

Active learning at home

Spending the summer in your city? No problem either! Turn your home into a language zone:

• Listen to podcasts or music in your target language

• Watch series or movies with subtitles

• Read a (lighter) book or magazine

Even small changes in everyday life can help you stay "in".

Our tip: switch your smartphone to the foreign language

Use learning apps sensibly

The vacations are the ideal time to regularly practise vocabulary or close small grammar gaps. Language learning apps such as Duolingo, Babbel or Busuu can help you with this - but make sure you don't just use them to collect points, but actually learn consciously.

Our tip: Set yourself a small goal for each week - e.g. "20 new vocabulary words"

Find a language partner/continue tandem

If you are already taking part in the Tandem program: Just keep going! You can also organize tandem meetings during the university break - maybe even outside in the park or in an ice cream café. Many people have more time in the summer and enjoy relaxed language meetings. Or you can look for new language partners, e.g. via a Tandem app or language group.

Our tip: The tandem works even better face-to-face!

Language trips or summer courses

If you are looking for an intensive learning experience, many language schools offer special courses or trips in the summer. These combine vacation leave with language learning - ideal for making rapid progress and meeting new people at the same time.

Our tip: ask friends and acquaintances for recommendations!

Conclusion: Learning can be easy in summer

The summer break is not necessarily the time for vocabulary tests and grammar cramming - but it does offer plenty of opportunities to keep your language alive. Whether you're traveling or staying at home: With small, regular sessions, you'll stay in the flow - and start the new semester with fresh momentum.

With this in mind: ¡Buen verano! Schöne Ferien! Bonnes vacances! Buone vacanze!  Or simply: Have a nice summer!

(12.6.2025)