Hola!
We are a group of Spanish speakers who like to get together to chat en español. We are a member-driven group with everyone pitching in to organize, greet new members and socialize. Here are some monthly events you can expect:
RACHEL'S REGULAR MEGA MEETUP: Every month you can expect a regular meetup organized by Rachel either at Level III or Hotel Rex. This meetup is large, but held at a quiet location that promotes mingling and conversation.
JR'S "FIRST FRIDAY FIESTA": This is popular monthly meetup with a lively atmosphere and more of a 'party' feel to it. People come to celebrate the end of the work week, mingle in Spanish in an upbeat and fun atmosphere.
SAUL'S SELECTION: Once a month assistant organizer, Saul, picks a new (or old) place for a mid-week meetup. He mixes things up so our group gets to try new locations. The atmosphere tends to be that of a lively party, with music and people hanging out until later.
WEEKEND DAY MEETUPS: On selected Saturdays you have a chance to sit down and practice Spanish in a smaller group setting. These meetups offer the perfect atmosphere to practice Spanish and sip coffee or even a glass of wine depending on the venue.
SPANISH WORKSHOPS: Once or twice a month workshops are held at ABC Language School (www.abclanguagesf.com) to promote language learning and help learners of all levels. These workshops are a good way to meet other members before getting into the mix of a regular meetup.
RULES OF MINGLING: As a member of our group you have some duties as well. There is no hand holding or personal assistant to guide you in and show you how to integrate. That is your job. You MUST walk in and approach someone (anyone!) introduce yourself in Spanish and start the conversation. If you are already mingling, you MUST greet anyone new and integrate them into your conversation. Once more than 15 people arrive at any given meetup, mingling is out of the organizer's control and is in your hands. This is not a place to be shy; pluck up your courage and mingle. If you really can't see yourself integrating on your own, come to a workshop to meet other members first, or go to a smaller meetups when offered where the organizer has more control.
WHAT SPANISH LEVEL TO EXPECT: Native speakers of Spanish are common in the group, others are intermediate to advanced speakers. All levels welcome, but please understand that if you are at a beginning level, you may feel frustrated by the pace of interactions. If you are a total beginner, finish that class you’re taking and join us when you think you’re ready. Once you get past the total beginner level, take a workshop or two with us and you’ll feel even more confident.
WHAT ATMOSPHERE TO EXPECT: Lively, social, fun! If you are sensitive to noise, you should choose one of the mellower meetups (outlined above). If you prefer mingling with a variety of people, choose a livelier meetup where you are on your feet and moving around. Read the descriptions above to know which meetup is right for you. Prefer a meetup in a home or with someone greeting people and handing out name tags? Let me know when we can come to your house, or when you are available to volunteer to be the meetup greeter. We love all the help we can get.
