Learn French your way with a TakeLessons expert

One of the reasons why you might be considering taking French lessons in Portland is because of how the language sounds. Even the most mundane information sounds beautiful. However, to really learn the language, you are going to need to do more than regular lessons and homework. You need to go out and get some real experience with the language by writing, listening, and speaking it! Lucky for you, there are many local opportunities and resources open to you while taking French lessons in Portland.

Enjoy French Cuisine and Conversation French lessons in Portland can lead to some very interesting experiences and delicious encounters. The French are known for their food, and when they dine, it is a relaxing and engaging experience. This is the perfect time for you to relax and try out what you learned in your most recent lesson. You may feel a little self-conscious at first, but after you get accustomed to initiating a conversation in French, you will find it gets easier.

1. Le Bouchon boasts some of the best French food in the city, and that isn’t all. This classy restaurant has a romantic and intimate environment that can help create the mood for speaking the language of love. One of the things that they highlight in their offerings is that they speak French. This should help you feel very comfortable striking up a conversation.

2. Café du Berry has some of the best breakfast options in Portland. With authentic French cuisine, stopping by this little café can make you feel like you have escaped to France, if only for a little while.

3. For a more formal and European experience, Le Pigeon is a great restaurant where you will want to book a little in advance. It’s small, so you can get close to the staff while you sit back and enjoy some of the best food in Portland.

Alliance Française de Portland Finding places to speak French in the Pacific Northwest can be a challenge, as there are not that many native speakers so far from Europe. However, the Alliance Française de Portland is the perfect solution to helping you find other French-speaking enthusiasts who can help you outside of your French lessons in Portland! Groups are divided into their location in the city, such as northeast, central, or southwest. Most locations have a couple of different groups, so if you are still a beginner, you won’t feel out of place with people who are nearly fluent. There is no charge to participate, and you can stop by without planning ahead. (http://www.afportland.org/resources/french-conversation-groups-in-portland/)

Portland Language Exchange One of the best ways to really learn a language is to talk with someone who is a native speaker. The Language Exchange lets you find native French speakers who are looking to improve their English. This unique page also lets you find people who are not native speakers, but who want to practice, as well. If you feel shy in larger groups, this can help you stay in your comfort zone while you work on the basics. (http://www.mylanguageexchange.com/city/Portland__United_States.asp)

Learning a language can be difficult, but the best and most fun way to practice between your French lessons in Portland is to get out and use what you have learned! The more often you participate, the faster you will learn.