It’s a day when Welsh communities exchange gifts and re-indulge in the fun and frolics the rest of us have just left behind in December.

Kids play a starring role, offering decorated apples adorned with greenery to family, friends and neighbours, symbolising a verdant year ahead.

So, croeso! (That’s Welsh for “welcome!”) Let’s delve deeper into why this ancient language still packs a punch in today’s ultramodern world.

Why Learn to Speak Welsh in 2025?

Well, why not? But truthfully, when you decide to learn to speak Welsh, you’re also saying yes to a multitude of reasons you’ll feel fabulous on your learning path.

The outstanding benefits includes (but aren’t limited to):

• Rich Cultural Heritage – Welsh is Britain’s oldest spoken language, with roots dating back to the fifth century. And you’re helping keep this treasure alive for future generations when you learn to speak Welsh.

• Boosted Career Prospects – Welsh is a must-have language in many sectors, including education, tourism, and media. For this purpose, proficiency in Welsh could be your golden ticket when you want to stand out to recruiters.

• Improved Wellbeing – Learning a new language sharpens your mind, boosts creativity and can even delay symptoms of Alzheimer’s. So, think about your Welsh studies as good for your brain and your future!

• Vibrant Community – Welsh connects you to a passionate and welcoming community, for Calennig celebrations to rugby matches. So, you’ll feel a deeper sense of belonging with every diolch (thank you) and hwyl fawr (goodbye) you master.

Wishing you a supersized Blwyddyn Newydd Dda! (Happy New Year) from la Academia. Contact us to make 2025 the year you learn to speak Welsh.

• Caitlin Morton, Condé Naste Traveller

Morton had a boo-tiful time writing her 53 haunted hotels around the world you can stay at – if you dare article. Let’s follow suit and explore some of the world’s most spine-chilling stays this Halloween. And we don’t just mean eerie vibes. We’re talking full-on haunted histories!

Remember to pick up a few local phrases for chatting with the ghostess with the mostest when you’re planning a ghoulish getaway.

Hotel Burchianti in Florence, Italy

Renaissance masterpiece with some lingering visitors, anybody? Guests have seen a skipping child, a knitting woman, and felt freezing breaths. A gentle ciao could help break the ice (pun intended).

Chateau de Marcay in Marcay, France

This Loire Valley chateau arbours a terrible tale of woman accidentally shot dead by a local farmer. Her tormented soul is said to remain to this day. You might want to practice saying Ça va? Because you never know when you’ll meet this ethereal guest!

Hawthorne Hotel in Salem, Massachusetts

The Hawthorne is a real haunt-spot in the witchy town of Salem! This is why TV shows Ghost Hunters and Bewitched both took an interest, with guests reporting tugged sheets and a spectral woman in the mirror of Room 612. Perhaps a good idea to brush up on excuse me in English, just in case you unexpectedly bump into a mischievous spectre.

Ruthin Castle Hotel & Spa in Ruthin, Wales

This medieval gem in North Wales has hosted some doomed tenants in its time, including Bloody Mary herself. Lady Jane Grey’s ghost is also said to wander the halls. Brave enough? Learn a bit of Welsh to truly immerse yourself in the spirit… or spirits.

Toftaholm Herrgård Hotel in Lagan, Sweden

Beneath its Scandinavian charm lies the tragic tale of a forbidden love at Toftaholm Herrgård, with the ghost of a heartbroken young man allegedly roaming Room 324. His fate? Hanging himself from the rafters. Maybe soothe his troubled spirit with a cheery hej (hello) in Swedish if you hear the shutters slamming.

Learning languages opens doors (and possibly secret passages) to the world’s most haunted hotels! Are you ready to book your ghostly getaway?

At la Academia, we’re all about making language learning fun, whether you’re chatting with local mortals or maybe even a phantom or two! Our engaging, immersive teaching methods will cast a spell on you in no time. Ready to unchain new languages (and maybe a supernatural story or two)? Get in touch to explore our classes and 1:1 tuition options today.

• Welsh Rarebit, which is extra scrumptious with home-produced creamy Caerphilly cheese
• Leeks that are somehow iconic (???)
• Lambs that are adorably munchable (figuratively speaking!)
• Landscapes that make Instagram’s eyes water

But let’s dive into something even more uniquely Welsh. The Welsh language is referred to locally as Cymraeg. And it’s making a surprising comeback in 2024.

Learning Welsh in 2024 means more than adding a quirky skill to your resumé. It’s about unlocking the magic of Wales, where every hill, valley, and rain-soaked street has a story, and guess what? Those stories sound infinitely cooler in Welsh. But here’s the kicker…

The Welsh Language is Breaking Out – and Everybody Wants In

Welsh used to be thought of as a language of the past. That’s no longer the case. It’s a living, breathing part of Wales today. Welsh is everywhere, from vibrant cities like Cardiff and Swansea, to the serene beauty of Snowdonia. Road signs, local newspapers, schools teaching in Welsh, and yes, even the latest Welsh pop sensations – the language is alive and kicking.

So then, Welsh offers something truly unique in a world where everyone’s looking for the next big thing. Imagine being one of the few in your circle who can say “Bore da”. Or watching a rugby match and understanding the anthem as every Welsh heart swells with pride.

Learning Welsh in 2024 is more than a language learning quest. Moreover, it’s about diving into a culture and identity as warm and welcoming as freshly baked crumbly Welsh Cakes. And making connections in a country that’s small in size but enormous in heart.

At la Academia, you’re invited to climb aboard for a journey into the heart of Wales, through its music, its landscapes, its people, and of course its language. Get in touch to learn Welsh in 2024. And who knows? It might just be your most fun and engaging adventure this year. Ymlaen!

After all, dedicated fans travel far and wide to participate in the spectacle and atmosphere at iconic stadiums in France, Italy, Wales, Scotland, England, and Ireland. English might be the universal language of sport. But, how about igniting your match day experiences in French, Italian, Welsh, or Gaelic?

Be the MVP of the Fan Zone

A little linguistic flair goes a long way. And a basic grasp of the local language is a golden ticket to Six Nations triumph. Why? –

• Shared Fandom – Speaking the local language opens doors to genuine connections with other rugby fans and friendly locals. Whether it’s pre-match banter or celebrating post-victory, it’s a nice touch to be able to share a few words in their language.

• Linguistic Sat Nav – Lost? Not for long when you can confidently ask for directions. It’s a breeze when you’ve got the basics down to find your way through the vibrant streets of host nations.

• Cultural Immersion – Immerse yourself beyond the game in the rich tapestry of each host nation’s culture. The ability to communicate and understand other languages unlocks a deeper appreciation of the places you visit.

• New Friendships – A warm “Santé!” in France or a “Slàinte!” in Scotland is a great icebreaker. Language is a powerful catalyst for sharing a toast with fellow fans and making new friends.

So, why not book yourself a crash course before you pack your jerseys and team flags?

At la Academia, we help hundreds of adult students every year to break down language barriers in preparation for their hotly anticipated trips abroad. Are you next? Get in touch  to score your own language learning touchdown.