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Best Spanish Classes in Puerto Vallarta [2023]

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Looking for the best Spanish classes in Puerto Vallarta? Let me help! I live in Puerto Vallarta and have taken many Spanish classes in my time here.

If you’re settling into life here, you might have noticed something – despite your eagerness to learn Spanish in Puerto Vallarta, the city’s tourist-friendly nature means English is everywhere.

This can be a double-edged sword for expats and digital nomads like us, who want to immerse ourselves in the local language and culture.

This is my favorite Spanish class in Puerto Vallarta because it focuses on practical, everyday phrases. (Get 10% off using code LORA10)

Puerto Vallarta, with its welcoming locals and bustling tourist spots, often makes it too easy to get by with just English. This can be a bit of a roadblock for those of us committed to learning Spanish through everyday interactions. Unlike other parts of Mexico where Spanish dominates, here, the language journey requires a bit more effort.

But don’t worry, I’ve been in your shoes! As a resident and language learner, I’ve explored the best Spanish classes in town that bridge this gap. These schools offer more than just language lessons; they provide a gateway to truly experiencing the cultural richness of Puerto Vallarta.

So, whether you’re here for a few months or as a new resident, join me as we uncover the top Spanish classes that will transform your journey in this beautiful city.

red houses in puerto vallarta

Best Spanish lessons in Puerto Vallarta

Expat Spanish Lessons

I’m currently taking classes with Amy through Expat Spanish Lessons, which is my top recommendation for Spanish classes in Puerto Vallarta.

These lessons are not just educational; they’re fun and engaging, a stark contrast to the more formal classes I’ve experienced in the past. In Amy’s classes, my brain stays tuned in, absorbing every practical lesson with ease.

Get 10% off Expat Spanish Lessons using code LORA10

What really makes Expat Spanish Lessons stand out is how they’re tailored to our expat lifestyle in Puerto Vallarta. The focus on practical, everyday Spanish transforms mundane tasks into opportunities for language practice.

You’ll learn to navigate local shops, engage in friendly greetings, order food and drinks like a local, and even perfect your Spanish accent. The courses are structured for continual review, enhancing both your listening and speaking skills.

Amy’s course starts with the basic things you need to start actually speaking. I was able to speak my first real sentence in Spanish during the first class, something that Duolingo didn’t help me with after 1 year!

– Monica (read more reviews here)

Amy, the creator of this innovative approach, brings her own expat experience into the curriculum. She’s designed a course that cuts through the usual focus on grammar and vocabulary, instead honing in on the spoken Spanish used in everyday situations.

spanish classes in puerto vallarta

In addition to the engaging and practical nature of Expat Spanish Lessons, one of the biggest advantages is the flexibility it offers. Classes meet just once a week online, making it incredibly convenient to fit into even the busiest schedules. This is particularly beneficial for digital nomads and expats who juggle work and exploration in Puerto Vallarta.

Get 10% off Expat Spanish Lessons using code LORA10

But the learning doesn’t stop at the weekly classes. Expat Spanish Lessons provides a wealth of online material and flashcards that you can download directly to your phone. This allows for continuous learning and practice at your own pace, whether you’re waiting for the bus or taking a break at a café.

The accessibility of these resources means you can immerse yourself in learning Spanish anytime, anywhere, reinforcing what you’ve learned in class and enhancing your language skills in real-life situations.

Spanish School Vallarta

aerial view of Los Muertos Beach. you can see the many hotels and restaurants that line the beach and the busy nature.

During my first year in Puerto Vallarta, I attended Spanish School Vallarta, which offers adult-oriented Spanish courses using the Warren Hardy method.

This method is known for its intensive, structured approach, focusing heavily on grammar and formal aspects of the language. It’s one of the best Spanish language schools in Puerto Vallarta.

The school, led by Maestro Melchor, who studied under Warren Hardy himself, provides a traditional classroom experience, complete with textbooks, CDs, and even game cards to make learning more interactive.

While the school is effective for those looking for a more conventional way of learning Spanish, I found that it didn’t quite match my personal learning style. The classes are very formal and focus significantly on grammar.

I realized that I preferred a more practical approach to learning, similar to what Amy offers at Expat Spanish Lessons, where the emphasis is on everyday phrases and real-life conversation.

Spanish School Vallarta is ideal for learners who thrive in a structured, classroom setting and appreciate a methodical approach to grammar and language fundamentals.

The school’s location in Colonia 5 de Diciembre, just minutes from downtown Puerto Vallarta, makes it easily accessible for locals and travelers alike.

Spanish Experience Center

A sidewalk with palm trees and benches near the ocean in Puerto Vallarta.

Another noteworthy option for Spanish schools in Puerto Vallarta is the Spanish Experience Center. Located just a block from the beach and steps away from the famous Malecón, this school offers a unique learning environment in a renovated traditional hacienda.

The school’s philosophy, “Living it is Learning it,” is evident in their approach, which goes beyond the classroom to immerse students in the real Mexican life.

The Spanish Experience Center prides itself on small class sizes, with a maximum of 5 students per class (7 in high season), ensuring personalized attention. All teachers are native Mexicans with extensive experience in teaching Spanish as a foreign language.

The school’s mission is to share the rich Mexican culture through arts, colors, flavors, sights, and smells, making the learning of Spanish a natural and enjoyable process.

While I haven’t personally taken classes at the Spanish Experience Center, its approach of involving students in day-to-day activities and the option to stay with Mexican host families offers an immersive experience.

This Puerto Vallarta Spanish school could be an ideal choice for those who wish to dive deep into the local culture while learning the language.

Why Take Spanish Classes in Puerto Vallarta?

Deepen Your Cultural Experience

Learning Spanish in Puerto Vallarta allows you to connect with the city and its people on a deeper level. You’ll understand local customs, jokes, and expressions that are often lost in translation. This deeper understanding enriches your experience, making your stay more meaningful and enjoyable.

Enhance Daily Interactions

Even basic Spanish skills can transform your daily interactions. From ordering in restaurants to chatting with locals at the market, speaking the language breaks down barriers and fosters a sense of belonging. It’s not just about being understood; it’s about showing respect and effort towards the local culture.

Boost Your Confidence

Navigating a new city in a foreign language can be daunting. Spanish classes equip you with the skills and confidence to explore Puerto Vallarta independently. You’ll feel more at ease taking public transport, attending local events, and making new friends.

A Skill for Life

Learning Spanish in Puerto Vallarta isn’t just for your time here; it’s a skill you carry with you for life. Spanish is one of the most spoken languages globally, opening doors to new opportunities, travels, and connections worldwide.

Final thoughts: Best Spanish language schools in Puerto Vallarta

Whether you choose the practical, everyday focus of Expat Spanish Lessons, the traditional, grammar-centric approach of Spanish School Vallarta, or the immersive experience at the Spanish Experience Center, each school offers a unique pathway to mastering Spanish.

Remember, learning Spanish here goes beyond mere language acquisition. It’s about connecting with the community, understanding the culture, and enriching your overall experience in this vibrant city.

As a digital nomad and expat, I’ve seen firsthand how learning the local language can transform your stay, turning everyday encounters into meaningful interactions and deepening your appreciation for Puerto Vallarta’s charm.

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Author

  • Lora Pope

    Lora Pope is a travel content creator who’s been wandering solo for over a decade. In 2021, she moved to Puerto Vallarta and fell in love at first sight. After visiting 70+ countries, she decided to make it her base and now helps travelers like you make the most of your time in PV.