Spanish for dummies, uk portable edition (paperback), UK Portable Edition

Whether you're travelling for a week's getaway or setting up a new life in Spain, this book is the perfect tool to get you up and running. From help with the basics to techniques for honing your conversation skills, this easy-to-use book helps you understand and be understood in European Spanish. Taking you step-by-step through the pronunciation, vocabulary and grammar, you'll be speaking Spanish with confidence in no time.

• Grasp the basics – learn some simple Spanish, discover how words are pronounced and become familiar with key grammar rules

• Hit the town – order food and drink when you're out and about and get to know the locals

• Spend your money – work your way around the shops with ease and master currency lingo

• Find your way – navigate your way around and learn how to ask for and understand directions

Open the book and find:

• Handy greetings and introductions

• How to speak like a local

• Essential grammar rules

• Pronunciation tips

• Advice on navigating public transport systems

• How to call for help in an emergency

Part I: Getting Started 7

Chapter 1: Realising that You Know a Little Spanish Already 9

Chapter 2: Getting Down to the Nitty-Gritty: Basic Spanish Grammar 27

Part II: Spanish in Action 41

Chapter 3: ¡Hola! Hello! Greetings and Introductions 43

Chapter 4: Getting to Know You: Making Small Talk 57

Chapter 5: Dining Out 67

Chapter 6: Shopping Made Easy 79

Chapter 7: Organising a Night on the Town 97

Chapter 8: Enjoying Yourself: Recreation 105

Chapter 9: Talking on the Telephone 117

Part III: Spanish on the Go 127

Chapter 10: Money, Money, Money129

Chapter 11: Asking Directions: ¿Dónde Está? (Where Is It?) 137

Chapter 12: Checking into a Hotel 151

Chapter 13: Getting Around: Planes, Trains, Taxis and More 165

Chapter 14: Planning a Trip 179

Chapter 15: Handling Emergencies 189

Part IV: The Part of Tens 205

Chapter 16: Ten (Plus Two) Favourite Spanish Expressions 207

Chapter 17: Ten Phrases That Make You Sound Fluent in Spanish 213

Part V: Appendixes 219

Appendix A: Mini-Dictionary 221

Appendix B: Spanish Verbs 239

Index 249

Susana Wald is a language instructor, translator and publisher.