The Profound Impact of an Immersive Language Retreat with Valeria | Advanced English Language Conversations
I’m joined in this episode by a very special guest, my Italian teacher, Valeria Paolillo, founder of Vita Semplice in Italia, a project that goes beyond language learning to cultural immersion, and small-scale travel in several locations in Italy, but primarily in Valeria’s hometown of San Piero Patti, Sicily.
In a first for both me and Valeria, our conversation takes place in English, not Italian! We get into what it really means to immerse yourself in another language, and how meaningful, intentional, and thoughtful travel can become a part of that process.
Valeria shares her story, a story that begins with her hearing her grandmother switch seamlessly between English, Italian, and Sicilian dialect, to creating intimate language retreats that bring learners into contact with local people, food, and traditions.
Also explored in our chat:
Why connection and curiosity matter more than perfection (you hear this a lot on Hear You Go, don’t you?)
The value of small-scale, ethical travel, and how to avoid contributing to the problem of overtourism
What to look for if you’re dreaming of your participation in a language retreat experience, OR creating one for your learners
If you’ve ever wondered how travel can deepen your language learning, or how to travel more thoughtfully and connect with local communities, give this episode a listen. I hope it inspires you to slow down, listen, and savour the experience.
“You might come for the language,” Valeria says, “but you leave with connection.”
As always, I’ll note some useful intermediate/advanced language (B1/C1 Intermediate & Advanced English) along the way.
🔗 Links to contact Valeria:
Vita Semplice website: Vita Semplice in Italia
Vita Semplice newsletter on Substack: https://valeriapao.substack.com/
Hear You Go English language listening podcasts aim to give you, the intermediate English language learner and advanced English language learner, a space to practice your English listening so that you can think, learn, and connect in English.
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