Welsh prefer books and lessons to modern technology when learning a new language. 

● 21% would most like to try and learn German.

● Just 7% dedicate a significant amount of time to brushing up on their language skills before going abroad.

Thomson Lakes and Mountains have undertaken a study which has shown that 44% of Welsh people would prefer language lessons to learning online or through an app. In Cardiff, just 6% would prefer to learn a language through an app, with 27% preferring class­ based lessons and 32% would rather use books or audio books.

The study also revealed that 23% of Welsh are likely to refer to material they have memorised when speaking a foreign language, the highest percentage of any UK region, marginally ahead of Central England (22%) and the Republic of Ireland (21%).

The research showed a split in generations as to how important native language skills are. Sixty­three per cent of 25-­34 year-olds say their language skills affect where they go on holiday, while 84% of over 65s are a bit braver when it comes to holiday-­making decisions and their ability to speak fluently while away doesn’t affect this.

In contrast, differing generations seem to sit in two distinct camps. Older generations get the most enjoyment from attempting to speak the language, with 33% of over 65s and 27% of 55­64 year-olds saying that they get a high level of satisfaction. This sits in discrepancy with 11% of 18-­24 year-olds and 12% of 25-­34 year olds that didn’t.

Classroom based lessons are more appealing to ages 55-­65 with 41% preferring this method of learning compared to those in the age range of 25-­44, with an average of 31%. This, however, is much higher than the percentage of people that prefer learning through apps where the highest percentage in each age category was a small 14%.

Vicky Hales, Customer Engagement Director Thomson Lakes & Mountains said: “Our Thomson holiday advisors in resort, can help customers with basic language tips and advice to help customers get the most out of their holiday. Simple tips like how to order their favourite type of coffee while on holiday at beautiful Lake Garda, Italy.”

In conjunction with the survey, Thomson Lakes & Mountains have also created an interactive quiz, which is designed to test the general public’s foreign language knowledge in a fun way.

She added: “Our survey aligns with the British Council’s recent findings that the younger generations need more confidence in their ability to speak another language, but expands on why this might be. It seems that across the board travellers get more from traditional methods of language learning, such as classes and comprehensive programmes. Older generations are perhaps more confident due to age, but also perhaps because they have a stronger foundation in conventional learning methods. However, it is great to see that 86% of those surveyed always attempt to speak a local language while on holiday in some form or another and our interactive quiz aims to help them test their abilities and give it a go.”

Vicky Gough, Schools Adviser at the British Council, said: “While it’s good to see that many of us are generally willing to have a go at speaking the local language when on holiday, this latest research confirms that too many of us still rely too heavily on English while abroad.
“The reality is that speaking a foreign language doesn’t just help you to get the most out of your holiday ­ it is a rewarding way to connect with another culture and, with employers now crying out for more language skills, it can boost your job prospects too. We could all stand to benefit from broadening our horizons that little bit further through language learning and trying out just a few words or phrases while on holiday is the perfect place to start.”

You can find the interactive quiz here: http://www.thomsonlakes.co.uk/langwhich/