How I Learned French

Secret Mission I Revealed! As well as my story of how I learned French. Help me make better videos at / jayswanson and then find me on the internet in all of the usual spots:
/ jayonaboat
/ jayswanson (me) / mindofjayswanson (books)
/ jay.swanson.author
Music by: DJ Quads - The News
My name is Jay Swanson - I'm an American writer living in Paris on an artist visa and hoping to make the city of light my home base - at least for the foreseeable future. I write science-fiction and fantasy, vlog daily, and love pizza a little too much.
FAQ:
How long have you lived in France? On and off for over two years.
What do you miss most about ho- NACHOS
You're always talking about living on some ship. WHAT SHIP? - I made a "Draw My Life" video that explains a lot here: • Draw My Life
Where are you from originally? - Pullman, Washington - a small university/agricultural town near Idaho (and yes, the potatoes are amazing).
What do you film with? - I currently film almost exclusively with my Samsung Galaxy S8: amzn.to/2lPKSpZ
How do you get those shots where you're walking or running? - A Joby Gorillapod for smartphones, like this: amzn.to/2sXNIL3
You drop your phone a lot, how does it survive? - THIS CASE IS AMAZING: amzn.to/2hoxgTA (Galaxy S7) - amzn.to/2Dt08Bu (Galaxy S8) - amzn.to/2FxVliP (iPhone)
What do you edit with? - Adobe Premiere - it's pretty much all I've ever used since high school.
Aren't you ever freaked out by leaving your camera behind to film yourself? - Yep. But not too badly - I tend to be careful when I do.
Why are you living in #Paris? - Because I've always wanted to; I feel at home here: • Why I Want to Live in ...
But what are you doing there? - Living it up! • What Am I Doing in Paris?
Do you speak French? Oui. • Un Jour en Francais (E...
You talk a lot about the books you're working on, what are they about? - They're sci-fi (and fantasy) and I've got a decent pitch for you here: • The Pitch (Sorta) - Ag...
Do you make money off KZbin? - Ha, no. I wish. It took me over 500 videos to make my first $100 off adsense. I think it will slowly change, but VERY slowly.
I really enjoy your videos, how can I support you? - The easiest and best way to support me is through Patreon, where you can pitch in as little as $1/mo to help me make better videos: / jayswanson
I don't trust this Patreon thing - what's your PayPal? - Here's a handy link! www.paypal.me/...
I like PayPal in pink! - Here's my ko-fi if that's your thing (and coffee is your game): ko-fi.com/jays...
But I want to send you something tangible! - I do have a wishlist on Amazon, though it's a bit complicated with the international shipping situation. This is the US one: amzn.to/2ykS9Ux
And here's the French one: bit.ly/JaysFren...
Can I come stay with you in Paris? - Have you seen my apartment? It's too small for me as it is! • The Apartment Tour (Lo...
OK, but how do I use the Metro when I'm there? - I made a handy video for you: • How To Use the Paris M...

[@0radka0]

What I recommend for people who can't move into a different country (which is probably the majority) is to watch and read a lot of stuff. Depending on my skill, in the beginning, I would rewatch the same movie 3 ish times a day, every day. Every time concentrating on something else (verbs, adjectives, pronouns, intonation...). And every time I'd recognize 2-3 new words or phrases. (I def recommend a movie you really like, but preferably originally from target country) After I could do that perfectly, I'd move on to series, cause you have the same setting and voices every time, so you're not lost, but it's not the same phrases over and over. After that, I moved to watching a lot of YT, to get the actual slang and spoken language that's not censored. And the last stage are streams. Streams are so difficult, because you have to understand what's being said while reading something else at the same time and be able to form a sentence and spell it correctly in a very short period of time. You can enjoy watching streams and participate comfortably, then you're good. Other things that help are setting your phone to the target language, playing games in the language, making the effort to write all your memos and everything in the language. Even though you already know "buy milk" in it, seeing it every day will help the connections in your brain get better. And if you don't have anyone else to talk to, talk to yourself. A lot. I found that I was able to correct myself a lot, because I didn't know if things were correct, but after I had said them, since I would listen to so much of the language, I would just know that what I said didn't sound right. I def recommend watching movies over reading, because most of actual communication once you travel is spoken, not written, but reading is a great tool as well. Hope this helps anyone ^^

[@MsCankersore]

What do you mean By streams?

[@zachariahwallace7709]

I guess it is pretty off topic but does anyone know of a good website to stream new series online ?

[@0radka0]

@@zachariahwallace7709 Like a free one besides netflix or the TV channels?

[@SuburbanBehemoth]

Thank you. That is great advice.

[@elegancia6179]

@@MsCankersore live videos of people talking

[@nicolejohnson4845]

I had a new patient in my chair yesterday and she told me she was in school to be a writer, mostly short fiction. I told her about you, and we listened to your blog while I cleaned her teeth. She said it was the most pleasant dental experience she’s had, I’m hoping you had a little something to do with that also. Thanks for making my patients enjoy their dental experience lol

[@JaySwanson]

+Nicole Johnson this is definitely a first, 😂 glad to be a positive part of the experience!

[@robertlee7684]

I am married to a French woman and my in-laws don't speak a lot of English so with that and daily Duolingo I have managed to become fluent. We're also teaching our daughter to be bilingual so I needed to stay ahead of her so she and my wife couldn't make fun of me in their own language!

[@JaySwanson]

That's awesome!

[@paulgreenlee7123]

In my limited experience, French women are very passionate, some times mean.. and always in charge

[@tedadams1535]

I studied French for 5 years in middle school and high school here in America. I had AMAZING teachers who really instilled a passion for language in me. In the years since, I have never lived amongst any French speakers, I don't use it in my everyday life. Now I'm 49 years old, and have inexplicably held on to a fair amount of it. In a little less than 2 months, my wife and I will be taking our first trip to Paris, and I am SO excited and SO nervous and shaking this rust off, and diving head first into all things French!

[@robcol125]

I know Turkish because I was born and raised in Turkey, so it's my first language. As for English, I had english classes from a very early age in school but it wasn't until I started reading heavily, writing and listening that I got really good in the language. Now,English is second nature, I often find myself thinking in English and sometimes try to translate stuff into my maternal language which make for very funny moments with friends and family. As for French, I'm in a franchophone highschool in Istanbul. The majority of my classes are in French and as a part of the curriculum, I studied just French for a whole year with the "Préparatoire" year. Before highschool I only knew "oui"and "croissant" but after immersing myself in the language both in and out of school, that's when I really found my legs and started to get fluent. Now, I'm very comfortable and very fluent in three languages and I've passed IELTS and DALF tests so my language levels are certified. As for advice, invest time and be patient. Language learning is a steep hill to climb but there'a always a moment where everything clickes and starts to make sense, be patient with yourself. Immerse yourself in the language, try to read, write and hear as much as possible in that language. Switch your phone's language to the one you're trying to learn, for example. If possible, like Jay said, go to the country where you HAVE to speak the language and listen to the language being spoken. It's important to train your ear as well, you'll pick up the accent and get a feel for the language. Bon courage mes amis!

[@JaySwanson]

Great advice! And well done - that's quite a set of accomplishments.

[@AAbshier]

Learning French now, and have been for a month, for my first trip to France. I'm using the Language Hacking book augmented with some online lessons, and will start with French speakers on italki soon. I agree with Jay's conclusion. Every trip I've made, I've started off very halting at first in whatever language I was speaking, then got better as the trip went on. Immersion is the way to go--plus having even (very) half-ass ability nonetheless opens doors and breaks down barriers in whatever country you're in. It's work, but it's worth it!

[@JaySwanson]

Keep at it! Some French is leagues better than no French! =D

[@EasyFinnish]

I go to class weekly, listen, read, write and try to speak...I have studied about 8 weeks and learnt basics. C’est difficile langua pour moi. J’aime le français beaucoup. Je voudrai visite a Paris et reserve l’hotel chambre en français.

[@JaySwanson]

👍👍 Bonnes études !

[@editatrix1]

I know this video is ancient, but... Watching you decorate Natasha's gift bag was next level (as the younglings say [does anyone actually say that?]). Natasha, along with all your friends (see Thailand), are so very lucky to have you as a friend. You rock. Signed, an ancient fan from Victoria, BC.

[@JaySwanson]

Thanks!

[@pontyslapper]

As for learning French... pretty standard stuff - did French in school for the standard 2 years. Then my parents bought a small place in deep rural France. That's when the real learning began - right from speaking to the Parisian couple while looking at the house, through the sale with notaires/sales agents etc... buying building materials was fun - I had a huge Collins-Robert business dictionary and negotiated a considerable discount for a stack of stuff we needed - my father was befuddled when the guy behind the counter started writing a paper receipt and giving him a stack of notes back for change. Now my wife and kids think its hilarious to see me order simple food items with my dodgy French/Welsh accent when we get chance to visit France - My wife however has no problem as she studied it for a further 2 years and had practically 1 to 1 tutoring with our school's French master plus numerous assistants who visited on a seeming conveyor belt from 'real French France'!

[@JaySwanson]

+pontyslapper none of that sounds like a standard educational experience 😂 What a great way to dive in head first!

[@amycox7491]

I completely agree! My son and I took an Italian class for 2 years. After the class ended, our family went to Italy for 3 weeks. It was amazing! Of course, my son got more compliments on his accent than I did. We would love to be able to spend 3 months or longer in a country to practice the language. We'll be in Paris at the end of the month, practicing what little French we can speak. I enjoy watching your vlogs!

[@JaySwanson]

Being in the place is always the best way to do it =D

[@thedavidguy01]

Merci de votre conseil. J’ai aussi étudié le français au lycée, mais il y a plus de quarante ans! Après ma retraite, j’ai décidé d’apprendre le français. J’ai commencé avec DuoLingo. J’utilisais DuoLingo pendant 20 minutes tous les jours. De plus, j’ai visité la France pendant 2 semaines l’année dernière. En France, j’ai beaucoup essayé de parler français. En septembre 2017, j’ai décidé de devenir sérieux et j’ai acheté les manuels scolaires afin d’apprendre la grammaire. J’étudie la grammaire tous les jours. J’écoute des blogs et des vidéos en français tout les jours et je parle français de temps en temps. Je vais suivre des cours de français pendant 2 semaines en France au printemps. Malheureusement, je ne peux pas habiter en France pendant 3 mois.

[@audebattistolo1805]

En tout cas à l'écrit, c'est un sans faute!

[@thedavidguy01]

Merci, normalement, je fais un erreur à chaque mot!

[@JaySwanson]

+David Guy bien écrit !

[@zootsootful]

Presque sans faute: "J’ai aussi étudié LE français au lycée", "...des vidéos en français touS les jours..." But, otherwise, yeah, not bad at all, kudos!

[@thedavidguy01]

Merci de me corriger.

[@tulipwindmill]

I did 4 years of high school French,which was lousy,although,I did manage to get us dinner and ice creams on family holidays lol. I did 2 years of German and found it so much easier.I have revisited it via Duolingo, which is good,but,it takes up a lot of my time. I have French friends,but,the one I speak with most is trying to relearn his spoken English,and all their texts and messages are in English to accommodate their many English friends.I agree,I think immersion is probably the quickest and easiest way to learn! Loved the sweater for Natasha,you should start selling merchandise! I didn't realise that the no spicy thing was a French thing, Im not a lover of spicy myself.I know that my French friend isn't either,I thought it was just a personal thing with him,but,I guess not. Im new to French Friday,think Im gonna enjoy it!

[@JaySwanson]

+tulipwindmill yeah, the French are generally a no-spice people haha. And I found German much easier too! I really want to get it back.

[@historianlaura]

High school french in uk was awful but wish I had paid more attention - I visit france as frequently now as possible each time there is a bit more confidence- I took evening classes but wasn’t right for me but duolingo everyday and then forcing myself when visiting paris to speak has improved it more in 6 months than the last ten years. Watching french films and tv with english sub titles helps marry up the grammar in my head as well and listening to french music. This year my challenge is to find a french speaking friends or colleagues happy to practice. Step outside the comfort zone

[@hazelhoyte7668]

Laura Brennan It's the same for me Laura. This is the year I'm really going to push myself. I watch French films,TV5 and listen to French music. I'm never going to get anywhere only picking up the text books 2 months before I visit Paris. Whenever I meet anyone who speaks French, I will pluck up the courage to speak the language. Good luck!

[@sarahbannon4752]

I’m the same. French was compulsory at my school, but they made an exception for me because I was so bad at it! I’m using Duolingo and a French text for grammar everyday, and I’m doing ok with it, although the grammar is tough. I’m listening to French music too, mostly Christine and the Queens (French version of her album) and Charlotte Gainsbourg. Can you recommend anything else that’s decent? BTW, I don’t know if you’ll have it where you are, but in Glasgow there’s a Meet-Up group were people can practice their French. I haven’t had the courage to go along to it yet, but it might be something you could try if you’re braver than me!

[@hazelhoyte7668]

I listen to Zaz and Lara Fabian.

[@historianlaura]

Hazel Hoyte you too x

[@historianlaura]

Hazel Hoyte Marc Fichel, carla Bruni, Celine dion, Lara Fabien, christophe mae, joyce jonathan, Zaz, but also old croners like Joe Dassin, serge gainsbourg are good as they sing slower and the words are easier to distinguish even edith piaf - radio station Chante France plays only french music available on app or online.

[@quigonjim8364]

Being Greek helps me, I get to practice with my parents. Also you should start selling Jay merchandise!

[@kaleidoscopeallie]

Right? I said the same but in an edit of my origional comment. I really wanna see a Jay/pug shirt :D

[@JaySwanson]

Haha - the pug shirt. We'll see what happens when I house sit for Badger next time. After all of these comments I'm thinking I might have to do a sweatshirt run with heart-faced-Jay

[@paulgreenlee7123]

I loved your “ big fat wedding “ movie . Also the festival’s are great

[@danielbarrientos1807]

I really like your videos dude!!! Not only I enjoy watching them but I see France 🇫🇷, I think that’s pretty cool 💪🏼

[@JaySwanson]

Thanks Daniel!

[@danielbarrientos1807]

Hey Jay! Keep up the great work!!!! You are awesome! I’ve learned so much from your videos about Paris and France 🇫🇷. Thank you man!!!

[@JaySwanson]

My pleasure!

[@Julia-kv7by]

Getting corrected by people actually helps so much!!!! That's how i learnt English (i'm a spanish native speaker) so yeah i'll definitely try it again when in france 🤙🏼

[@JaySwanson]

Awesome - I'm sure you'll find French pretty easy with Spanish and English under your belt =D

[@natehadad4344]

You are so right, I studied English 4 years in high school. I moved to the US 6 years after that and couldn’t even say hello my name is Claudia. A few months of immersion and I became fluent. Having to use it everyday in real life does the trick, I agree 100% with you when you said that having the education helps a lot but you became fluent immersing yourself. I was told once that I would became fluent once I started dreaming in English, it was true (you also mention that here)

[@JaySwanson]

Happy that it worked out so well for you =D Immersion for the win.

[@npdarcy123]

I learned French from the age of 11 until 18 at school, then as part of a degree, one of my 2 major subjects, the other being Politics. I then got a job in London where I didn't need either! 5 years later after not speaking French at all, I moved to Dover and took a job in Customs Clearance where French was an asset but not a necessity. I moved jobs a couple of times in transport where French was progressively more important (from being one of several French-speakers, to being the only one). I then moved to a French manufacturing company in Ashford where most people were French, and the language of the customers was more likely to be French than English. Now I work for an international passenger transport company where I am paid more because I speak French and I'm doing a job I love. If you can cope with the working hours, international passenger and freight transport are ideal targets for bilingual people - airlines, Customs agents, road transport operators. Not sure how Brexit (oh dear!) will affect everything tho'.

[@JaySwanson]

That is the big question for sure

[@DFTBAndy]

I like the amount of purple in this video ;D That's really good advice and I'm actually planning to move to Paris in half a year and expose myself to French... The way I learned English was doing the basics in School and then at some point I figured out that movies and series are a lot nicer in original language, so I started watching them in English. That's basically what got me fluent enough not to have any problems understanding natives :)

[@JaySwanson]

+DFTBAndy you've got English down for sure. French next! 😃

[@photoshopuser3237]

Learned French: in high school, 2 yrs. that was the grammar part. Speaking, conversation - a real challenge. After retiring..did my plan of going to France to stay for a month. I went to a town I never heard of, stayed in a gite - owner from G. Britain, spoke terrible French - but you know what - she always got what she wanted! My hero. Next time I stayed in Switzerland - Lausanne - French part. I love to cook - went shopping and spent HOURS learning French food words. Bought a recipe mag in French - and voila - I could actually follow it. Went to weekly market - was asked 6x for directions - in French! They are probably still wandering around Vaud to this day...

[@JaySwanson]

Nice =D Thanks for sharing

[@KellyDurgan]

I'm doing a French minor and I kind of wish I was a major, only because I really love these classes (although you're right about the literature classes, I feel like I'm spending so much time looking up words that aren't used anymore instead of engaging with the text). I took a class last semester called Oral French and we read a lot of Le Monde articles and watched news reports and discussed them, and that really pushed foward my French abilities.

[@JaySwanson]

That's a much better use of time IMO - French lit for the true scholars, but let's get usable French down first. I'm glad you're enjoying the studies!

[@addiecaroline7533]

I love all of your videos! Currently binge watching

[@JaySwanson]

Aw thanks =D

[@IRACEMABABU]

At the beginning of the video you demonstrate very well the right way to behave in term of security in the streets of a big city as Paris. While talking and recording, you always are glancing around you, you never lost the awardness of your surroundings, that's the trick to stay safe. About the way to learn a foreign language , i learned the brazilian portuguese very quickly in Brazil. During the first 6 monthes, i quite never met french people, then i had to do the necessary efforts 24/7 to be able to have a day life. I had a note book to write down all the new words, and a very small dictionary in my pocket (or bag) in case of emergency (now a smartphone does the trick), and as frequently as i could i was watching TV (bars or coffe shops scenes, for instance, are frequent in movies, then you learn all the vocabulary and expressions about being in such places very quickly), i had a grammar book too, and some brazilian friends knowing a little french who helped me. That was my strategy who paid off nicely : 4 monthes afer my arrival in Brazil, i was teaching bossa-nova to brazilians in a music school ! BTW i like the music (i am a vibraphonist too) of this video. Do you have any reference of it ?

[@kostaspiliopoulos1531]

I learned Greek from my grandmother. She didn't speak any English, so it was the only way to communicate with her. It also helps learning language at young age.

[@kostaspiliopoulos1531]

I also took French all four years of high school.

[@alynette]

so glad i found these videos! i'm going to paris for the first time in a couple of weeks :)

[@JaySwanson]

I hope you have a blast!

[@jamesoliverfarrell1797]

Funny video, I like your editing and style and making us wait to enjoy and watch the whole video till the end for the grand finale :P However, I have been learning french the past few months which I am also lucky enough to have my belle petite amie ;) giving me lessons, coaching me and supporting me, as I am dyslexic so I previously warned her I will be challenging and the challenge she has taken on! :P Yeah it's a enlightening language to be honest, learn't a lot not only about french but also many roots of English. I was pretty profound on amount of similarities and the amount of 'wtfs and whys' is getting less and less now, coming to understanding and enjoying it. As were in Canada Ontario at the moment, doing it at the end of work each day (50hrs a week :( ) were planning to give Montreal a go next year and hope to join some classes and experience a bit more french! Cool looking forward for more videos! :) Thanks

[@JaySwanson]

Sounds like you found yourself a keeper! 😃

[@angelaphillips4572]

Totally agree with you regarding learning languages, I started studying Italian in Australia after my first trip to Italy and although I learned in a class situation I found it difficult because you always find there are people of varying levels and you'll always get that one person who should go up to the next level but they don't want to because they don't want to be the new guy in the new class so they just monopolise the class they're in and no one else can get to answer the questions, so I gave up the class and ended up going to Italy for 3 months and had my friend teach me through private lessons (she's an Italian teacher) and I learnt more in that 3 months in Italy because I was always using it which is great and I've managed to retain a lot since I did those private lessons 10 years ago, I do feel like I've lost a bit mainly with conjugating verbs because I just don't use the language when I'm in Australia but I pick it back up again when I come back to Italy, I have to admit I do read and write Italian better than I speak it because everyone speaks it so quickly and reading and writing it gives me a chance to slow down and translate and think about what I want to say. I really want to get back to lessons and become fluent but until I can move to Italy for a few years at least it won't happen. I do find Italians are a lot more encouraging when I was speaking Italian compared to the French when I was trying to speak my limited French when I was in Nice a few weeks back but whether this was just because I was in a tourist hub because I doubt all French are like that but we'll see when I get to Paris in the next couple of weeks, I didn't find people rude but but there was a great deal less warmth for you if you can't speak French. I think the only success I've had with speaking French so far is being able to order my coffee correctly, speaking of good coffee, I have to walk straight past Le Peloton on my way from my apartment to Notre Dame should I stop in for a coffee?

[@JaySwanson]

Yeah - speaking some French gets you a long way in France - especially in Nice. Their love/hate relationship with tourists is on another level haha. The coffee there is pretty amazing for sure. Cafeotheque is right around the corner too, so there are some good options around =D

[@angelaphillips4572]

Jay Swanson awesome, I’ll check them both out, always looking for good coffee and will definitely need it to get me through everything I want to see in the 2.5 days I’m there!

[@emmapurtell344]

Just subscribed! I love the way this video was set up. You made it truly interesting and weren't just sitting down in one place talking to the camera. I loved the video and can't wait to watch more!!

[@JaySwanson]

Thanks Emma! That's really nice of you - I'm glad my style suits you =D

[@denisebonner889]

Bonjour! Je n'ai jamais pris de cours de francais mais des videos et lis! J'avais un fort desire d'apprendre. J'aime la langue!

[@sjmsark]

Dude, going to be in Paris and beyond in the spring. Keep hoping you would use some french words and phrases just for fun. I keep watching and listening to french youtube postings in addition to your postings. It is going to be challenging I think not speaking the language. Keep doing what you do best! I enjoy your vlogs:)

[@JaySwanson]

Even just making the effort to speak a little French will make your experience much more pleasant! 😃

[@BeccatheBargainer]

French Friday!!! I’m using Berlitz to learn French....have been for literally years🤪 Mainly just learning words. I enjoyed hearing your journey. I have family in France and I’ve always wanted to learn. This year! This year!

[@BeccatheBargainer]

Started watching your vlogs from Dec 1 to when I first started watching your channel 👍🏻 first one was the Christmas Day with Cheryl. It’s funny how watching vlogs is more interesting to me than watching say Netflix/amazon prime at this time. One of my goals this year is tackle learning more French to speak. Thanks for sharing!

[@JaySwanson]

+Becca the Bargainer that's a great goal! I definitely think it's worth the effort - I want to keep working on mine as well.

[@miguelrode]

Becca I'm with you. Jay's saga is way more interesting to me at the moment than any Netflix show. And he's so freaking prolific with his daily postings that there's always more to watch -- no to mention going back in time as I just recently discovered him!

[@JaySwanson]

Haha - you've got a solid binge ahead of you if you really want to catch up =D

[@james-p]

I took a year of French in high school, and then more recently started re-learning with "Fluenz" - much better than Rosetta etc. IMHO. And going to France really helped a lot - I picked up a lot just hearing how French people got tables and placed orders for baguettes and such that's a bit different from "correct" French. But you have to learn correct French first, really. Know the rules before you break 'em! And French people really appreciate it when you speak some French.

[@JaySwanson]

They absolutely do - a little French goes a long ways here! =D

[@pinkbumblebee22]

I think it becomes easier to learn a new language when you already know two, at least for me it was. So my 3 yrs of French in high school (long long ago and probably forgotten by now) was actually fun because I could compare it to the Spanish I already knew and figure things out for myself. :)

[@JaySwanson]

Maybe that's why I enjoyed German so much more

[@darrenlindley5876]

Your videos are very insightful. Visiting in July.

[@JaySwanson]

Thanks =) I hope you have fun!

[@l.a.rivasesq.8841]

I learned English and Spanish in school and in my community. I’m currently studying French on my own for my upcoming trip to Paris. I tried taking French in college but, after three weeks I got tired of my instructor cursing me for responding in Russian (the only true foreign language I had attempted to learn before) in class.

[@georgiamillar4076]

Thank you Jay, this video was excellent. I'm about to relocate with work to Paris and about to dive into 20hours of french a week that work is paying for me to do (mon dieux, I know) so really happy with what you said at the end of this video about making it your focus. I can't wait to be able to dream in French again. :)

[@JaySwanson]

I'm glad you're getting some serious education like that! What a cool opportunity =D I hope that you enjoy it!

[@dgeoffreyfoley2092]

Great insight - You're helping prepare my wife and me to take out first visit to Paris (for our 40th anniversary) and I'm dyslexic so I learn many things differently. I learned written French and written English are the WORST for dyslexics to interpret BUT I'm functional in Italian and not bad in Spanish (we live like 25 miles from the Mexican border) and it was much less stressful for ME to learn watching film with subtitles. Because they're both Latin root languages, their spellings are phonetic. I have a pretty good ear so I'm also good at hanging out at cafe's and just listening so I'm going to give that a try on our short trip. I dream and teach Commedia dell' Arte in Italian and muddle along doing the same in Spanish. It would just be fun to be able to engage and further enjoy interactions in Paris. Thank You In Advance -GF-

[@kaleidoscopeallie]

Ok, so about learning languages I totally agree that immersing yourself HAS to be a part. I learned French like you except I studied in Lyon junior year. That was HUGE. Even in the States I sought out every opportunity to speak with natives. I'd invite French exchange students out for coffee, even some of the graduate teaching fellows. I sat around back in the DOS days on internet relay chats typing what I hoped was endearing attempts at French to people sitting in France etc etc etc. Swedish on the other hand was learned by total immersion. I got here in April and was going to have to give birth in September. I read every jam jar, shampoo bottle and milk carton I came across. I watched English TV shows with Swedish subtitles and just plain Swedish shows. I took a class about stuff you can eat in the wild. . . didn't understand half of what was said but as it was a very hands on thing it was a way to be active in the language. . . etc etc. They have Swedish classes for immigrants here but that started in August by which time I could pass the final exam before I started. HOWever. .. . my written Swedish, with no actual classroom time has never become what my French was. SO, imo, the BEST way to learn a language is immersion with a solid base of plain ole fashioned classroom experience as well. For folks interested in French I would highly recommend checking out their nearest Alliance Francaise which hopefully can give them a bit of both worlds even at a local level.

[@JaySwanson]

The subtitle game is one I should play more frequently as well. I just have so few chances to sit and *relax* for an hour that to add homework on top of it sounds monumental at the time haha

[@jacquiheywood7932]

Great Secret Mission present. I'd buy one of those. Merch idea? Sweatshirts? Coffee Mugs? LOL

[@JaySwanson]

Haha, it could happen

[@SJ-vo1bw]

I'm studying my Arabic lessons as your video plays. I think of small conversations in Arabic in my head. I live in Riyadh so I practice by trying to read roads signs and such, i don't know what any of the words translate to, but it's a start.

[@JaySwanson]

+S.J. Ramos it's definitely a start. We give children years to absorb language before expecting them to speak. You can take some time :)

[@susie9893]

This was rather rambling but I agree with you that the best way to learn is to be in that country surrounded by it although some ppl don't bother even then so I think the ultimate way to learn a new language is to go to a country where NO ONE speaks your language and you're forced to buy a phrase book which then becomes a grammar book and it's AMAZING how quick you'll pick it up (and then LOSE it after you're out of that country Lol). For me I, unfortunately, haven't been to a predominant French speaking country (YET) but did 5yrs in high school and by year 4 I was dreaming in it tho definitely not fluent by any means. But I had excellent teachers who not only focused on grammar+common phrases but also immersed us in all things French - food, culture (lessons only but with lots of pictures&film) and making 1 lesson a week a french film and encouraging us to watch as much french film on our own time as possible (of course I've lost a lot of it since them thru lack of use so what I'll do sometimes is to take a movie/tv show I have on dvd that I know really well & put the French dubbing over it, that way I can sit there and think 'oh that's how'd you'd say that' or 'I would never thought to have constructed a sentence like that'

[@chucknyc123]

I am by no means fluent, but signing up for an immersion course at L'Institut Francais in Villefranche-sur-Mer really helped (and their meals are delicious!) I lived in an apartment on Ave. Shakespeare in Nice the month I attended classes there. BTW, not only is this place directly across the street from the Moulin Rouge but it's the very place where Francois Truffaut wrote 'Jules et Jim.' It's an AirBnB apartment on Place Blanche, mais sans ascenseur.😢

[@JaySwanson]

Those ascenseurs make a big difference 😫😂

[@Taxiwayaviation28581]

I learned Thai. You are 100% correct . You have to use it everyday . Consiously speak Thai with Thais even though you know you are making mistakes and it's hard for the Thais to understand. Three or four times on the same mistake and you fix it. Then onto the next sentence 😊 it's a great feeling knowing another language.

[@JaySwanson]

👍 👍

[@Saturnea]

I had my daughter watch. Hoping your words give some encouragement to her about learning French. She needs to submit her course request next week for Grade 11 and she's thinking on not taking French III. I'm hoping she sticks with it. Hoping to use your advice and talk as much as possible here at the house (I know some French being a transplanted Canadian) and then have her use it as much as possible when we're in Paris in May.

[@JaySwanson]

For sure - it's really hard. I was often very discouraged in learning it and wanted to quit. It was my desire to live here and explore and fall in love that ultimately motivated me past the hard times, I think.

[@TterbTheOwner]

First time veiwing the channel. Definitely will be back!

[@JaySwanson]

Sweet! Happy to hear it :)

[@eddiebres3029]

Great volg Jay! Merci

[@JaySwanson]

+eddie bres de rien !

[@craighughes1455]

Spot on advise....I'm learning Spanish at work with Spanish colleagues, words daily, phrases weekly, thinking about a move to Madrid in 2019 😊

[@JaySwanson]

+Craig Hughes that's how you seal the deal! 🇪🇸

[@trez337]

I was fortunate to have learned french as my maternal (first) language. Here’s the twist. When people ask me were I’m from and say Ontario, they dont believe that French is my first language because Im not from Québec. Let me tell you there are over 500,000 Franco Ontariens in Canada.

[@gillygrylls]

I enjoy your blog as well as Wolters World for lots if insight on traveling. I agree with others that your channel is much more fun to watch than some of the shows I normally see. really enjoyed the snow in Paris video. wish I was still there for that.

[@JaySwanson]

That's really nice of you to say, thank you!

[@MaddCB]

Learned basic Japanese through subtitles of anime and listening to Japanese pop music. Relearning French...i took 2 years in high school I know basic but not fluent. Have a family member that is very fluent in the language will be asking her to help me relearn French, also I will go back to listening to French music and media

[@AlexHardy316]

Tomorrow I start my 2nd of 6 levels of French! so excited!

[@JaySwanson]

+Alex awesome! Kill it! 😃 🇫🇷

[@gillygrylls]

I used duolingo and theres some pretty decent youtube channels to learn basic phrases. it helped me get around France and Germany. I have a French friend who does help me with writing and speaking. we have simple conversations. I doubt I would ever be fluent but as long as I can get around in France and Germany, Europe in general im good with that.

[@carlameaser-costamagna5783]

Oh! And the way I learned the basic medium level of French I know was at the Alliance Française in both Caracas and Lima. Super intensive courses during the summer. I used to be a lot more advanced but the lack of practice brought me back to a medium level. It’s easier to read it than to understand it, especially with the slang.

[@JaySwanson]

Gotta use it or you lose it =D

[@cathymaharaj7776]

Informative show. Thank you. My husband and I plan to travel soon. Can you recommend hotels a few blocks from the Eiffel Tower for pedestrians only?

[@komalkaur1551]

This language is not easy beyond a certain point .I had to struggle a lot in my B levels.but my advice to all francophone enthusiasts is to walk that extra mile and don't ever quit on a note of failure.

[@JaySwanson]

👍👍

[@davewhitehead8601]

Absolutely agree. Just my story but for German(y)

[@terencetee3880]

I'm originally from the UK, but I grew up in Malaysia, there are many languages being spoken here everyday, so I'm fortunate enough to be able to speak multiple languages from young. I can speak Mandarin, Cantonese, Bahasa Malaysia and ofcus, my first language, English. I think the best way to learn a language is to just speak it. Also watching TV Shows / movies help. I am trying to learn French through Dualingo as there are virtually no French-speakers here in KL. And right now, I only know how to introduce myself lol

[@terencetee3880]

Actually, yeah watch TV Shows. I learnt Cantonese entirely from watching HK Shows. So yeah, just watch shows ahaha

[@JaySwanson]

+tee hee it sounds like you're really good at languages. Keep it up! And I agree, hopefully you can find some Frenchies to hang out with while you learn 🇫🇷 😄

[@shouqblue]

I took 2 years of French in high school and I’m taking French as a minor(3rd year in university).. this summer I’m going to Vichy France to study for a month and anxiety is eating me alive. I love the language and NEED that practice which I can hardly get in my small country called Bahrain. J'espère que tout va bien..

[@JaySwanson]

Practice makes better at least ;D

[@destinycunninghamigdezr7820]

Dude!! My husband and I would love to meet you when we come to Paris in May!! I have been binge watching your videos and I plan to have him do the same..

[@cherl2289]

I am going to Paris in May (2020) too !

[@Human-shapedbeing]

Did you guys make it to Paris ☹️?

[@Tim_Raths]

I had French in Middle School and forgot most of it. I want to re-learn at least some of it before I go to Paris. I'm planning on going there next year.

[@JaySwanson]

It definitely helps to know some!

[@arnm6520]

After seeing two lovely ladies in this vlog, I just had to ask: how’s your dating game nowadays? 😁

[@zeguenful]

😁🤣🤣

[@chrisoxford9420]

Amazing. I really enjoyed this vlog. BTW, that sweat shirt was awesome!

[@JaySwanson]

Haha, glad you liked it too. I thought it was pretty amazing obviously

[@kaleidoscopeallie]

hahahaha 'My last math class ever.' I did the same, first term, freshman year. Then I majored in French, graduated, moved to TX w/ the Texan aaaaaaand tried to find a job using French. I succeeded. . . .. .N. American call center for. . . . . . Texas Instruments. Yuuup, all day, I talked about math and how to use calculators, occasionally with French Canadians. (I'm also having a chuckle about the clip of you kissing the Clark Dog lady followed by 'there's just something about Clark Dog.' hahahhahaha ) Now that you've revealed Natasha's present, be prepared for the 'no fair, I want one' comments. You might want to think about Jayvlog merch.

[@JaySwanson]

You found one! How did you like it in the end?

[@kaleidoscopeallie]

Dunno if you'll see this but I still have nightmares about that job. :p

[@alinedispot877]

If one day I go to Le Peloton, I hope Gustave will be there to welcome me (and Jay). This is my goal (I love spending my lunch break with some nice videos ;))

[@alinedispot877]

Happy Birthday Natasha! Nice sweater :)

[@alinedispot877]

Something I noticed about getting native speakers correcting your mistakes: French people will never be shy and will correct your mistakes. Every times! But I've been working with US/UK people for years and I've been corrected once, just once (years ago). US/UK don't do the correction thing beacuse they'd never stop and it's not in their culture.

[@JaySwanson]

Some are shy, some aren't - it can be hard to find a good French corrector-friend sometimes ;D And yeah - we Anglophones are too polite sometimes. But for us I think it's also that we're very used to speaking with people who don't speak English as their first language. We're very used to listening through accents and past mistakes to understand people and so we're less concerned with correction because we just don't think it's as important (and we don't notice mistakes as strongly anymore). Whereas in France, the majority of people who speak French speak it natively. Meeting an American who speaks French is a novelty for many French people (I get shocked expressions all the time when I reveal that I am not English/German/Scottish/Canadian/whatever they thought I was) - so the mistakes stand out glaringly because it's rare to hear them by comparison. Just one theory at least =)

[@alexandria1187]

Similar to your experience, I learned German and French in HS and college. One thing that helped me (moreso with the accent) was singing! Years and years of choir helped a ton with making accents sound authentic. :-)

[@JaySwanson]

Ah yeah - that's a great idea

[@smallnoise4778]

I’ll be visiting Paris for the first time in two weeks. Secretly hoping I’ll see you so I can plead for help! Haha I’m sure I’ll be fine as I am learning a bit of French currently. Very nervous 😬

[@collette_darkbeergal]

Hi Jay, Its obviously been several months since you posted this. I don't know if you you read these... I just stumbled upon your videos today..totally diggin them by the way. Thanks for doing them. We have a few things in common- love of art, love of French language and I too went to Eastern Wash. I have been trying to learn French for a little while now. I took a class my first year and am trying to find individuals around here but anybody who wants to help you learn is hard to find. It would be awesome to connect with you...

[@LauraCoeur]

Every time you walked in front of your camera you SCARED ME !!! OMG pls never ever leave your camera somewhere 🙈😅 Oh btw in case you wanna practice your german, I'm German and I live in Paris

[@JaySwanson]

Wie gehts? That's about all I've got atm =D

[@wolfweintraub5296]

where I learned french while playing pinball Chez Renée Bar de Jarente www.atviews.com/chezrenee.htm good on vocabulary not so much on the conjugation of verbs and she made a great “ot dog” in the toaster oven sausage d'alsace on a baguette with amora mustard and melted gruyere

[@JaySwanson]

Those ot dogs will getcha

[@crystalcat67]

I took 2 years of HS Spanish and one year of conversational Spanish in College and that was probably the best class. After about 2 months I looked at at table and thought the word mesa first. It helps to have friends and coworkers to talk with in Spanish. My professor did make us sing in Spanish and watch Tela Novelas which was also very helpful. "Tengo la camisa negra" by Juanes for example. Http://kzbin.info/www/bejne/oYPXY6aIrtqjbKM and "Baillando" by Enrique Iglesias kzbin.info/www/bejne/hIbWoIl_eaukkMk and La Bamba of course.

[@JaySwanson]

+Cynthie Thomas singing helps a lot!

[@angelofthenorf]

I did five years of German and two years of French at school but it was Michel Thomas' audiobooks that brought my French up to standard. Highly recommended!

[@JaySwanson]

Oh nice - I wish I was an audio book/podcast person for this very reason!

[@angelofthenorf]

I LOVE audiobooks - I always have one "on the go" for dog walks and a different one for before bed. Currently listening to Mary Shelley's Frankenstein (200 years old last month!) before bed and Stephen Fry's Mythos (about Greek mythology) on dog walks. :)

[@ShannaTrenholm]

And listen to the radio in your chosen language to get the rhythm of the language (doing that with Portuguese right now).

[@JaySwanson]

+Shanna Trenholm I'm so bad at this. Same with TV, I don't really have space for either in my current lifestyle but that would be a great help. Areas for improvement over here 🙃

[@alinedispot877]

I listen to podcasts in English in public transportation! Love it

[@ShannaTrenholm]

I haven't had a TV in for-evah, but do listen to radio out of Lisbon on my walks :)

[@cecetom8460]

Lol... I had the same french/spanish experience and I have the same exact sentiments. I am working on my spanish now... well sort of! I really love french though.

[@JaySwanson]

😁👍

[@stripedsweater520]

I think if you want to learn a language you should immerse yourself as much as possible while in your country after reading books, watching tv shows and taking basic language classes, and trying to talk with natives online, then immediately pack your bags and move to the country or a francophone country lol

[@JaySwanson]

Watching lots of shows is a great way to boost your skills!

[@nicoletaylor9846]

That sweatshirt is lit! Love it! I think you need to send one to Grandma Jane!

[@JaySwanson]

Haha - I think Grandma Jane would love it

[@MetaMM]

I enjoy this video very much. Thanks. I speak fluent Italian and now am learning advanced French, just skipping because there are similarities between the two languages. However, I can't speak fluently as yet, but do understand especially on reading it. And yes, I agree one has to live in the country of a language one wants to learn. I lived in Milan many years not back in Jakarta, Indonesia, see from here. Therefore, I'd love to dive into living in Paris for the language purpose. How to set up a stay of a year, let's say and if I like it, I could continue on living in France. Just my idea an fantasy but having found your video does encourage me to implement the idea. Thanks again so much. Oh, also, I would like to know how you film your video? Is there always someone to shoot footage when you walk away etc. Sorry, too many questions in one comment. Thanks in advance.

[@JaySwanson]

No worries, here you go: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eHrLZ5-gjpaHbs0

[@amelacena3067]

I learned Croatian since I was born there and my parents did not allow us to speak anything but that at home when we moved to the states. English, well I've lived in the states now for 20 yrs so yeah. Spanish, having a Mexican aunt & learning Spanish formally since the 6th grade helped. Russian, have you ever heard Croatian? lmao enough said, my Russian fiance says Croatian is basically 70% Russian with a different accent. Italian, French and Japanese; I am learning now mostly from books but I practice when I can with people too. Speaking with someone is one of the best ways to learn the language but I do think textbooks have some usefulness as well.

[@JaySwanson]

Haha - sounds like you're a walking translation machine ;D

[@pontyslapper]

Loving the vlogs - as are my 7 and 10 year olds kids!! They found you first when looking for vids to suss out what they want to see when we do Paris for one day only from Disneyland Paris in August. They are mad keen to know what app you do the little space invader thing with - is it real or just a fancy photoshop thing?? They also think you should do a batobus guide like your metro guide as we are taking their mum on a Seine cruise... but being a tight yet practical Welsh bloke a hop on hop off boat trip seemed the best value as we could cover lots of ground and do mum a cruise for the same money!!

[@JaySwanson]

Haha, that would be way too much photoshop work for me. It's called Flashinvaders - totally worth downloading =D As for the batobus, I'm no expert haha. It's not THAT convenient; I would argue that going for a solitary ride on a regular tour/dinner cruise would be more enjoyable. But tourists do use it a fair amount so there must be something to it!

[@cmolodiets]

sailing in the river seine is currently forbiden until it reaches its normal level, anyway

[@carlameaser-costamagna5783]

Omg! I love the sweatshirt! Hahaha! Hilarious and so clever. You are such a nice friend and person. Ok, so my birthday was on Monday! Just saying... haha. Just kidding. But in all seriousness, it puts me in a good mood to watch your videos. :)

[@JaySwanson]

Haha - well after all of the requests, I might just put that shirt up for sale. Ladies-only Valentine's Day Special?

[@shuraymerriweather4456]

Gus guarding the door. So loyal. 🐶 I tell folk I studied old (formal) French beginning in early elementary school and stopped as a sophomore in undergrad. It wasn’t fun when papers and presentations became the expectation. Heck I was a Technical writing major I was not for writing additional papers in another language! Nopers. 😂 But now full circle to do it over again wouldn’t of let it go dormant. Especially considering to be fluent u need to know formal, causal, regional sayings and slang! Also of course I remember some of the profanity. 😂😏😜

[@JaySwanson]

+Shuray Merriweather the profanity is the most useful part 😃 and for sure, it's easy to lose if you don't use it.

[@KimClark61]

I love that sweatshirt! Great present!

[@JaySwanson]

I thought so too =D

[@lirazdemasure936]

I moved to Belgium (The Flemish part) when I was almost 30 years old. I went to Dutch school for a year, 4 times per week, 4 hours every time. But only when I actually started speaking with people- then I was really able to learn the language. You HAVE to practice. Just studying is not enough..

[@JaySwanson]

For sure - gotta use it!

[@shadowelf351]

What was the place you had nachos at?? I'm traveling to France/Paris soon with my picky teen and I need a back up in case she freaks on the fab French food

[@JaySwanson]

I've found a couple of spots recently - I think the one in this video was Indiana, but I recently added a GREAT one to my list which will be in my guide, coming out by the end of the month if all goes to plan =D

[@dontrellthomas070]

Rosetta stone has a section to where you can talk to someone from franch who first language is french and they advise you on how your doing and your accent

[@Paul_C]

The way for me was being born Dutch, only 27 million speak that language. Travel means learning another language.

[@JaySwanson]

Paul C which is why you're generally so good at them!

[@dontrellthomas070]

lol my French teacher in high school had just moved here from France she was born there so it was nice

[@heretic9999]

Gustaf's a baby!!!

[@rebeccacaroe7111]

I had thought that my french was alright considering I've only ever used the language in the US but now that I'm taking a French-English translation course with a bunch of francophones I realize I'm at that point where I'm completely fluent in "classroom french" whereas not so much with the actual spoken language

[@JaySwanson]

Yeah - they're VERY different. You've gotta use the classroom and then ditch it as soon as you hit its ceiling.

[@mapugad]

Hi Jay! I just subscribed to your channel, I have to tell you that your vlogs are very cool and useful, thanks for doing them! Anyways, i'll be moving to Paris by the end of this month and I wanted to ask your opinion about the learning french subject and now that you made a video about it it seems logical to ask you in regards that. So I studied french for a whole year at the Alliance française, I'm in the middle of the B1 level but my goal is to pass the DELF examn as C1 or C2 level. Do you think that by living in Paris for a year I'll be able to achieve this? Or would you recommend enrolling in a french course while in Paris?

[@JaySwanson]

+miguel angel puga diaz I would definitely enroll in a course if you want to pass at those levels. You'll vastly improve your spoken French by living here if you make an effort but the average conversation doesn't require that level of French. Just my $0.02

[@mapugad]

Alright I'll try to enroll in some french course then, by the way I'm in Mexico and I'll probably can take a few bottles of real salsa to Paris if you want!

[@jennyq4979]

I've never understood how you know if an object is male or female when speaking French or Spanish. First of all, it seems weird, but secondly, how do you know which is the female or male word to use for an object?

[@JaySwanson]

There's no rule, unfortunately - it's all about 'feel.' In other words, you just have to know =/

[@jennyq4979]

That is so no fair! That's making their language that much harder to learn. :(

[@susie9893]

Jenny Q, most languages just evolve. English has a lot of 'no rule' idiosyncrasies too. But the more you listen to French (and I mean a LOT of French) the more you'll get a feel for what SOUNDS right, as Jay says. I was 3 years into my course b4 that started for me but that was high school so not exactly intensive and you can hurry it along by trying to watch a lot of French film

[@christinelachance8012]

Jenny Q ....When learning a new word always learn if it goes with LE or LA, easy!

[@maximeloy2215]

Happy French Friday! Today it is Chandeleur aka Crèpe day! Hope you had some ! :)

[@JaySwanson]

Oh man, I missed out

[@tesalonfelicien8425]

Jay, awesome vlog. How do you suggest, Americans find jobs in France?

[@JaySwanson]

Unless you can qualify for a higher level entrepreneur visa, come and get your masters and you'll be able to work and make connections while you study 👍

[@sarahbannon4752]

Great advice. I’m currently trying to learn French using Duolingo and a French grammar text. I don’t really have the opportunity to spend large chunks of time in France (just short trips to Paris when I can afford it), so I’m pretty much learning on my own. Are there any resources you can recommend (other apps, books, You Tubers, etc)? It’s the grammar that I find REALLY tough. Loved Natasha’s jumper BTW, I want one!! You should definitely sell these 😊.

[@JaySwanson]

If you can stream French TV/news that would be a great resource for sure. Glad you loved the jumper! I could be convinced to get some of those out there haha

[@emmarita487]

How did you like Nice? Considering a move there..I loved Paris, but it's so expensive.

[@JaySwanson]

Nice is pretty expensive as well. I prefer life in Paris but Nice has a slower pace of life and generally more sun - as well as the sea obviously =D

[@emmarita487]

Jay Swanson thanks. I appreciate getting thoughts and opinions from people who have done it.

[@chaden4747]

Yep i agree with you, best way for learning a language is to speak with locals?

[@JaySwanson]

And being corrected by them

[@L.Spencer]

My Spanish BA has not been very useful in getting a job. Basically the only thing I can do is teach Spanish, but I'd also need a teaching credential. I don't want to be a teacher anymore (I taught ESL and have been a bilingual aide), it gives me a lot of anxiety. I wish I had majored in something else and still studied abroad.

[@JaySwanson]

Yeah - a language major isn't great unless you're destined for academics.

[@earlem9771]

I can have a conversation. Definitely not without errors but I can make it work. I learned by some formal classes and self motivated immersion at home (Following French KZbinrs etc) You feel going as far as possible before immersion is better?

[@JaySwanson]

For sure - the more education you an cram into your head before moving the better - but don't be afraid to pull the trigger on immersion when you feel the desire growing. At that point it's all about attitude and a willingness to put yourself out there consistently.

[@cmolodiets]

Watch that video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/h5Koi2iVnct4mZY. Dutch, latin languages, scandinavian languages are in category 1 German is in category 2 Slavic languages are in category 3 Hebrew, arabic are in category 4 Japanese, Chinese are in category 5 Thus French is easier to learn than German

[@keeannick9376]

I finished my first year of french in high school.

[@JaySwanson]

Nicely done =D 🇫🇷