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German Language Schools
We’ve heard fabulous things about Speakeasy in Friedrichshain. Small classes, friendly teachers, wonderful service.
Die Neue Schule in Wilmersdorf is a great option if you want an intensive language course in a reasonable price range. The teachers are exceptional, the school is friendly, and the focus is heavily on conversation.
Goethe Institut is where you go if your company is sponsoring your German classes, if you get a scholarship, or if you need some hardcore tailored German instruction. The standard is superb, and they have all sorts of internationally recognized qualifications. It does however come with a hefty price tag.
Meeting People
Toytown Berlin has an events calendar with something on just about every day. You can find kindred English-speaking spirits on Toytown through the myriad of special events they have. There are language exchanges, trivia nights, Scrabble nights, 20-something singles meetups, boat parties, mothers’ groups, couples nights, over-40’s groups, curry nights, groups for creatives, freelancers, entrepreneurs, one-legged folk-dancing pygmies, you name it.
For language enthusiasts, highly recommended is the Tuesday Night Stammtisch at Travolta on Wienerstr. Rain, hail or shine, they are always there, and just celebrated their 4 year anniversary. Many of Berlin’s most dynamic English-speaking groups advertise their events through Meetup.com
The Local is Germany’s news in English. If you live in Germany and you’re interested in local, regional, national and world news,the Local is a good source of information in your mother tongue.
Of course, the Red Tape Translation blog is also full of interesting articles, based on what I learn every day from working with expats in Berlin.
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