Best way to brush up my German language skills (in a few weeks)

[kermit116]

I'll be heading to Germany in about a month on a vacation with family. I took German in college (and even did a short study abroad program) but have not practiced speaking German for several years. The area where we'll be traveling is pretty touristy, so I doubt there will be many problems. But, I'd like to give myself a mini refresher over the next few weeks just so I can help communicate in case we get into a situation where some German language knowledge is needed.

Does anyone have recommendations for brushing up on German language skills? Any iPhone apps that are helpful & not too expensive? German language podcasts that I might be able to listen to during my commute to help tune my ear to the words & phrases again? iPad apps that include phrasebooks? Other tips?

 

[megsoro]

I use duolingo the website and app for French, pretty sure German is an option as well!

 

[amcnj]

Your library may have cd's you can borrow to listen to.

 

[jedijill]

After living in Germany for 2 years, the only phrase you need is ein bier, bitte.

Jill in CO

 

[gibsontrio]

I've been living here in Germany the past 3 years ( about to come home ) depending what region you are going ( north , south ) there will be a different dialect. Most Germans after they sense you are struggling with the language will speak English to you ( and most speak it really well, even when they tell you they only speak "a little" ) . If you want to really learn the language Rosetta Stone is the best. But Bitte ( means just about everything from please to excuse me ) Danke (thank you) , Tut mich leid ( sorry) , tschuss ( bye ) will get you far enough I'd be happy to help you in your German trip planning

 

[wnissen]

My wife took German in high school and was pretty good at it; good enough to converse haltingly in Hochdeutsch with folks in Austria. She has said that Duolingo is an excellent refresher; if you really remember a lot you can skip to the intermediate part and otherwise it doesn't take that long to get to a point where you're challenged. The app is available for iPad, iPhone, and Android, but the desktop version is outstanding as well. All free!

 

[DisneyMomma81]

Free - http://www.bbc.co.uk/languages/german/

 

[ZiPaD3doDAH]

I too have a trip to Germany in about a month's time!

I've been using Duolingo to help, it's free on the app store and very cool!