1) Take advantage of the free lessons at our new SpanishLearningCentre.com site. See the resource box at the bottom for full details. We provide free and fun audio lessons.
2) Don’t waste the driving time you spend in the car. Instead of listening to the radio (unless you are listening to Spanish radio), try listening to programmed course materials. Many people commute more than 5 or 10 hours per week. Even at 30 minutes a day, you will be astounded what you can learn in the car.
3) There’s no excuse for getting upset about waiting in lines. Always carry Spanish flashcards with you, and pull them out and do a quick review any time you find yourself waiting. You can easily make your own with 3×5 notecards based on whatever course you are currently taking.
4) It really helps to have a good book (with a Spanish/English dictionary in the back). Not everyone learns best with audios; many students need to see and read the words for them to sink into their brains. Books will fill in gaps, such as grammar, and provide a quick reference when you need to lookup a word or phrase.
5) Give software a try. Many people find interactive software more interesting than either books or audios. Often, the software will judge your progress, and give you feedback.
6) Check your local high-schools and colleges for “fun” education classes. Spanish is often on their list of community courses for $25 or less. You will have the benefit of feedback from a teacher, and the opportunity to practice with other studetns at your level.
7) If you get a chance, visit a Spanish-speaking country, especially if you can stay in the home of a family. You will learn so much more than the typial tourist/hotel experience. The site-seeing, museums, culture and foods will all help you learn your new language.