No it was my first second language. So i can't say if I have any ability. I just trhew my all into it. And made it my job. That sure helped. I stayed in el Batey and hung out in Sosua Abajo, Maranatha, Charamicos, and San Fran de Macoris.Chip ... you're probably right about his natural ability to learn languages. And for all I know, he may have studied other languages before Spanish. I also know that I and others who have used that same program are not at that same level with Spanish (although we may be far ahead of others). Of course he, like you, did a 'complete' immersion in the language. He mentioned somewhere that he lived in a Dominican apartment building in Puerto Plata, so I assume that he stayed in a Dominican neighborhood.
The program, LSLC, is actually pretty good. It does what it promises. It can give one an awsome base in the language. BUT, there is no substitute for living in the language (after you have the basics down.).
I only wish that someday I can be as fluent as you or him. I guess that I'm just gonna have to move to the DR!!!
I avoided any and all tourists, expats. In fact those who became my student were like you lived on Super super block and I have NEVER spoken to you. How? and i say, because Im not living here to drink in Britania, I'm here to drink in the frikkin carwash or por el rio jugando a los domininos. Eating in Susana's not, Maui Mau.
I would say outside of moving, a mostly spanish speaking significant other or group of amigos can work pretty good. But you have to be more mindful to imitate.
