I've been spending some time in London and I'd like to share some of my experiences and impressions of improving English. The first thing I realized is that when you're exposed to another language, you really start to develop it quickly and lose the fear of speaking it.
What I've noticed is that as we get older, certain obstacles hinder our language learning progress, such as the fear of speaking and making mistakes, in other words, judgments. However, when we travel to another country where it's only possible to speak the native language, we're forced to communicate, and our limitations are set aside. We realize how much we're sabotaged by our own minds.
As for the difference between British and American English, I've always studied American English in Brazil. To tell you the truth, if you know American English, you'll be able to get by just fine in London, because there are some pronunciation differences that may be challenging at times. The locals understand that you're a foreigner and even admire the fact that you're speaking their language, even if you make a few mistakes, which is normal. What's important is to communicate in a way that they understand what you're trying to say and to be receptive to their feedback.
However, I think leaving Brazil with a basic knowledge of English before traveling to another country is crucial if you want to avoid unnecessary difficulties and develop better language skills while abroad. Having a solid foundation will give you the confidence to speak. Now, to tell you a little about London and its culture, I highly recommend experiencing it firsthand. I got to know exceptional places and people from all over the world. It's a unique and enriching experience that changes your worldview. I discovered on this trip that I'm adaptable to new experiences, which also helped me get to know myself better.
In conclusion, what worked very well for me was this experience, this contact with English, which greatly enhanced my skills. However, in today's age, with abundant online resources available for free, there are ample opportunities for language learning. I am still actively studying because I recognize there's much more room for improvement. Therefore, if traveling abroad is not feasible, consider utilizing online platforms such as YouTube, reading articles and books, and joining Discord groups. Learning through online resources is highly effective and accessible. Continuously seeking opportunities to engage with the language is key to mastering it.