Loving Italy and enjoying learning the language, partly to keep the brain active in retirement and, who knows, maybe helping to stave off the dementia process (seriously, learning a language is thought to help in this respect), my wife and I signed up to a language school in Agnone, at the southern end of the Abruzzi hills, for two weeks last summer.
Organised by a dynamic, lively, woman, Jenifer Landor, an actress amongst other accomplishments, who has family connections in the area, the courses involve morning lessons, with enthusiastic native Italian teachers, followed by visits to the many interesting locations in the charming town of Agnone and the surrounding beautiful hilly area. Agnone is off the beaten tourist trails, so English is left at home and immersion in the language is the order of the day, from beginners to advanced level. A cheese producer, a copper foundry, the oldest bell foundry in the world, an ice cream maker, a sculptor, visiting ancient Sammite ruins, housewives giving classes in pasta making, are all included in the visits, along with superb meals in the many excellent restaurants in the locality.
We were a couple but the courses are equally suitable for singletons and the atmosphere amongst locals and fellow students is relaxed, welcoming and friendly. Accommodation is in local B&Bs, the cost included in the price, as is pick up and return to Rome airport. A terrific learning and holiday experience.
“Details on website”:http://liveandlearnitalian.com/
