Foreign Languages

Spanish & Portuguese

While more than 30 ancient and local dialects are spoken in the seven countries of Latin America, the predominant language is Spanish, with Portuguese being the official language Brazil. Spanish and Portuguese are relatively easy languages for native English speakers to learn, but those looking for a volunteering experience in the region with little of no Spanish or Portuguese ability will find initial communication with their host organization and locals difficult at first. Ideally, a volunteer will take a beginner's course (at a local college or learning annex) before their arrival. This will make the transition into the work that much smoother, and will allow you to more quickly get to work. While there are many people in Latin America (particularly Belize and Guyana, where English in the national language, and Panama, where the canal has greatly increased exposure to English) with a good command of English, in more remote areas working knowledge of Spanish or Portuguese will be invaluable. Other languages include Dutch, the official language of Suriname, and French, the official language to French Guiana.

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