I spent 2 weeks with Claudine learning French. She teaches one-on-one, In other words, I was the only student, living in my own 3-room apartment adjacent to the instructor's apartment. I spoke only French for the entire 2 weeks. I knew that if someone was around to speak English with me, I would not be able to force myself to speak French, so the one-on-one was perfect for me. It may sound hard, but it's the best way to learn any language. And I had so much fun! Claudine's English is excellent if a communication emergency had arisen, but the idea was to immerse myself in French. .
The rate was very reasonable, because it included the language instruction, the apartment, breakfast and lunch 5 days a week, and 3 field trips each week with Claudine. The other 2 days I was on my own to explore the lovely town of Montbard, hike in the scenic French countryside, or catch a train to Dijon. And btw, there's a charming little bookstore within a block of the apartment. Of course Claudine made sure I could find my way around -- and back again -- before she sent me out on my own. In the evenings I could , make myself a meal in my fully equiped kitchen from things I'd picked up at the market or I could venture out. Claudine is a good cook, so I was often eating up those yummy lunch leftovers.
When I arrived in Montbard, I could understand a fair amount of French and read pretty well, but my speaking and writing were pretty sloppy. I made great progress, though I worked hard, studying whenever I wasn't out exploring or watching French movies. Three weeks would have been better, but I could only manage the two. It was so hard at first to learn all the new words and to change the way I'd been speaking French, but as the days went by it got easier. By the time I left, I was speaking comfortably. Claudine is very patient and encouraging, and she can accommodate any level of French, even those who arrive knowing nothing! read more
