I've been using Duolingo for Spanish and as I review it in this subforum it is working well for reading comprehension and writing skills but not so well for building conversational or pronunciation skills. In order to reach a basic level of competence ahead of my South America trip in 3 months, I'll need to rack up 100+ hours of speaking practice.
I started skype lessons purchased through fiverr.com but given the time difference between Australia and South America I can foresee a lot of days where it won't line up for my teacher and I so I'm looking for an extra method so I don't fall short.
I've found Verbling which is chatrooms but they seem largely inactive. I've also found Lo Más TV which is subtitled Spanish video clips and will probably help with listening ability but I'm interested in whether there is something else I should try.
Is Michel Thomas or Plimseur worth buying and will they help? I'm not too keen on paying all that money but if it's going to get me to that basic level of competence I want i will do so, or is there any other resources I should try?
I started skype lessons purchased through fiverr.com but given the time difference between Australia and South America I can foresee a lot of days where it won't line up for my teacher and I so I'm looking for an extra method so I don't fall short.
I've found Verbling which is chatrooms but they seem largely inactive. I've also found Lo Más TV which is subtitled Spanish video clips and will probably help with listening ability but I'm interested in whether there is something else I should try.
Is Michel Thomas or Plimseur worth buying and will they help? I'm not too keen on paying all that money but if it's going to get me to that basic level of competence I want i will do so, or is there any other resources I should try?