Are You Ready For A German Breakthrough?
Celebrate History and Tradition - auf Deutsch!
Welcome to the Fluent German Retreat 2018, to take place in Germany's oldest city of Trier this December!
This is our Wein & Weihnachten Retreat, a special Christmas getaway where you can boost your German skills while taking in the stunning Mosel region with its world-class wines and romantic Christmas markets.
Our German retreats offer live German learning, immersion, outings, coaching, a luxurious home base, and a week to completely focus on your progress.
Relax and Immerse
You'll spend every day with your language coach and reap the benefits of language immersion. It's a small and private group, so that we can adjust teaching to your level.
Your brain might be humming with so much input in German, but we'll make sure your body and mind are cared for during the retreat.
We have got some beautiful outings planned for you. Here is just a tiny taste of the outings we are planning:
- Trierer Weihnachtsmarkt
Experience the unique atmosphere of one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany. Framed by Trier's historic Hauptmarkt and the Dom, you will enjoy a glass of Glühwein and get in the mood for Christmas time. A true street festival.
- The Roman City of Trier
This city lives up to the title of Germany's oldest. Discover the Porta Nigra, the best-preserved Roman city gate North of the Alps, imagine gladiators in the Amhitheater and visit the impressive Basilica where Roman Emperor Constantine held court.
- The Treasury of Trier Cathedral
This UNESCO world heritage site is a treasure chamber like no other. Marvel at church relics, manuscripts and reliquaries from the 3rd through the 20th century, before seeing 1700 years of history in one building: the Cathedral of St. Peter.
- Mosel Valley Wine Tour and Tasting
The Mosel valley is world famous for its stunning landscapes and wine-making traditions. We'll experience this world of viticulture first-hand in a tour of the slopes, vineyards, and cellars. Rounding off the day, you will taste world class wines with expert commentary.
- Luxembourg City
Enjoy a day trip to the Grand Duchy and visit 2 countries in one. A polyglot paradise, Luxembourg is a hop, skip, and a jump away from the city of Trier. This trilingual capital offers culture, art, and a chance to try out your French or pick up a few words of Letzebuergisch.
Your Retreat Leader
Hi, my name is Kerstin and I am your leader for the Fluent German Retreat in December 2018. I'm a native German speaker with added English, Luxembourgish, French, Spanish, Welsh, and few more. I am passionate about effective language learning, and work on helping language learners excel.
I have been teaching the German language for 6 years, from relaxed 1-to-1 sessions in coffee shops to university lectures in world-class institutions.
In the Fluent German Retreat, I have found the perfect way to apply my teaching experience and help you learn in an ideal environment: a small group, a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, fun outings, and creative language classes.
“I really enjoyed learning with Kerstin. Over the course of my lessons I became much more confident speaking the language. As Kerstin is so friendly, and creates such a relaxed environment, it often felt like we were just having a chat. At the same time, any grammatical points I was particularly struggling with were very clearly explained.”
“Since the retreat, I’ve started using my German so much more. I took part in a Polterabend party in a small village speaking 90% German. I started having meetings at work in the German language. Now I feel fluent, and if I get stuck I can always find the words to express myself.
For people who live a busy life, a retreat is a great alternative to normal language lessons. For me it was a relaxing vacation and a useful and active way to spend a week.”
Your Home For The Week
You will live in a beautiful Trier apartment featuring private double bedrooms, modern bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a private garage, and 2 relaxing lounges.
The Most Important Questions And Answers
When Is It?
The dates for our German Retreat are planned to be 3 to 8 December 2018. You can arrive anytime late afternoon/early evening of the 3rd and then leave the morning of the 8th.
What Is Included In The Retreat?
5 nights' accommodation in a private room in our retreat apartment with exclusive use for the week
Immersive, custom 6-day German course and coaching sessions from native German speaker and experienced tutor Kerstin (that's me!) in our small group of enthusiastic students in a relaxed immersion environment
A tour of the Mosel vineyards topped off with a cellar visit and wine tasting in a family vineyard
4 immersion outings experiencing the historic city of Trier and the glorious Mosel valley (accompanied by a German native guide)
Breakfast and lunches during the days
Dinners at a range of great restaurants in Trier
Definitely a warm glass of Glühwein at the Weihnachtsmarkt 🎄
Both structured and spontaneous conversation practice
If you have dietary restrictions, that's not a problem. Let us know in advance and we will do our best to accommodate you.
How Big Is The Group?
Our group will include you and 3 to 5 other German learners and your retreat leader Kerstin. It is a small and exclusive retreat group, ensuring that you will be able to get individual attention and support when you need it.
Could I Bring My Partner With Me?
We have space for you and your partner, and in fact there is an attractive rate we can offer to a couple. We'd love to get to know both of you, so don't hesitate to send an email to kerstin@fluentlanguage.co.uk and let us book a short call so we can learn about your language goals.
What's The Required German Language Level?
In this deliberately small group, we can adjust teaching to your level. The group is hand-selected to ensure that each participant will be able to achieve their language goals.
As a guideline, you should be able to conduct and follow a conversation beyond the absolute basics. In formal terms, we're looking for participants between A2 and B2. If you a little nervous about whether your level is right for this retreat, don't hesitate to email me kerstin@fluentlanguage.co.uk and I will be able to guide you personally.
What Will I Need To Do?
At our German retreat, you'll be able to enjoy the German immersion experience that we have prepared for you. You will need to arrange your own travel to Trier (see below for detailed instructions). You should also ensure that you have valid travel insurance and documents for your trip to Germany.
How Do I Get To Trier?
Trier is Germany's oldest city, but it offers convenient modern travel options.
Fly to Luxembourg, Hahn, or Saarbrücken airports for a quick connection by car or bus. We will be offering airport transfers for participants arriving in Luxembourg on our designated arrival day (currently planned 3 December but confirm with us before you book).
The train station Trier HBF is served by Deutsche Bahn whose website and planner will show you national and international connections. Trains by Deutsche Bahn are fast, affordable, and convenient. If you want to spend more time in Europe after the retreat, Trier will be a perfect starting point for trips to the Luxembourg, France, Belgium, and the Western part of Germany.
If you'd like expert assistance with your travel arrangements, let us know as we've got a professional travel agent on call for you.
How Do I Register?
Send an email to kerstin@fluentlanguage.co.uk, including a bit of background about how long you've been learning German, how you've studied, and a description of what level you're at. You will receive an email from me with your decision and a payment link to confirm your booking within 24-48 hours.
I Have More Questions! What Should I do?
No problem! Email me at kerstin@fluentlanguage.co.uk. I'll be excited to hear from you!
Can't make these dates? Register here for news about future immersion retreats.