Among world languages, Spanish is recognized as being a foremost medium of communication. Compared to French, Italian, and Russian, learning Spanish is clearly the most practical option for people living in the United States. Given the continuous growth of Spanish speaking populations in Latin America, knowledge of this widely spoken language is a positive advantage. In practice, some schools and universities have already implemented bi-lingual schemes within which students are taught to understand Spanish. Visits to a number of areas within the United States can be considerably enhanced for anyone who has at least a basic understanding of the Spanish language. Miami is one example where a Spanish speaking community adds to the diverse culture and traditions to be enjoyed by visitors.

Spanish is of course more widely used outside of the United States. Whilst the statistics are not totally clear as to how each language ranks in the 'most used' list, the Spanish language is undoubtedly one of the most used languages in the world.

In addition to Spain itself, countries in Latin America, specifically from the South and Central America, were settled by Spanish speaking people. Although Latin American Spanish has diverted slightly from the original, its roots are nonetheless still based on the European language.

There are many reasons to learn Spanish. Aside from the fact that many people use Spanish to communicate, it can be an advantage for job opportunities. Applicants who speak fluent Spanish often get a plus factor from companies who have commercial interests in a Spanish speaking community. It is unfortunate therefore that some people within the United States are not interested in speaking Spanish because they believe that the only significant language in the world is English. The result of this this perception is that they are missing an opportunity of immersing themselves in the different cultures and traditions of other people.

It can be truly rewarding to learn to speak other languages such as Spanish. Being so widely used, learning how to speak Spanish is also more practical. Once you can speak any second language, you strengthen your opportunity to build a career and live outside your own country.

You can manage your learning of Spanish so that it does not intrude too much on your normal daily life. Some people who may find it time consuming to learn the language using formalized courses, find other, more convenient, ways to learn. Although it is true that Spanish can be learned quickly, you must watch out for the fact that some of the words that you will encounter are slang terms which should not be used in normal polite conversation.

There is a choice of ways to learn Spanish. You can use books that contain lectures on the Spanish language. You can watch movies that use Spanish as their main language. Listen on tapes that teach you the proper articulation of Spanish terms. Some people recommend that the best way to learn Spanish is to immerse yourself in a Spanish-speaking community.

Whichever learning path you choose, you are unlikely to regret choosing Spanish as a second language.