Interview with renowned polyglot and traveler Benny Lewis [...] Could you tell us about the steps you follow when learning a new language? I speak the language from day one. That is, I get a small conversation guide (usually from Lonely Planet or Assimil) and learn the basics, like "Where are the bathrooms?" or "How much is this?" and some basic conversational questions to ask someone's name or find out how he or she is doing. Next, I put myself in touch with native speakers, usually via Skype, and start using what I've learned. If possible, I do this by avoiding speaking English (or another language) for the entire session, even if it slows down the conversation, since I usually need to check the dictionary. This is certainly not a very pleasant experience and can be quite tiring! But it pushes me to actually use the language. With constant practice, combining this kind of oral practice with a bit of study, I can reach a conversational level (B1). For level B2, I need to improve my level by studying grammar. To get to C2 level, one needs to prepare to pass an exam and use traditional study techniques. It is the opposite of what most people do - academic study before reaching a certain level. To me, this technique is better later on, when you already have a foundation to work on.