Pack your bags — and your Portuguese! Portuguese: Language for Travel (Online) is a practical course that helps you speak with confidence on holiday or work trips. Over two consecutive Saturdays (10:30–13:00 UK time) via Zoom, you’ll practice the phrases that matter through role-plays, guided conversations and real travel scenarios. 

You’ll leave with a “survival Portuguese” toolkit: high-frequency vocabulary, clearer pronunciation, and easy strategies to keep talking even when you can’t remember the exact word.

Why study Portuguese at IH London? 

Portuguese is a global language spoken across Europe, South America and parts of Africa, making it a great choice for travel, culture and international communication.

At International House London, you’ll learn with expert teachers and dynamic, interactive lessons that help you build real communication skills quickly and naturally — with plenty of guided speaking practice from day one. 

What’s included in your course? 

• Lesson summaries, notes and learning resources 

• Additional self-study materials 

• Ongoing support from experienced teachers 

• Access to exclusive IH London student workshops and events 

This course is ideal for learners who want practical Portuguese for travel, including: 

• students who have studied very little Portuguese but want to use it more confidently 

• beginners who want a focused “holiday Portuguese” boost 

• learners who can understand basic Portuguese but hesitate when speaking 

• anyone travelling to Portugal or Brazil (or other Portuguese-speaking destinations) who wants useful language for real situations 

If you’re unsure about your level, we can help you choose the best option.

By the end of this course, you will be able to: 

Communicate confidently in common travel situations 

You’ll practice Portuguese for real-life travel scenarios, such as: 

• greetings, introductions and polite social language 

• checking in/out at hotels and handling common requests 

• ordering in cafés/restaurants (dietary needs, problems, paying) 

• asking for and understanding directions and transport information 

• shopping and making simple enquiries (prices, sizes, tickets, times) 

• dealing with unexpected situations (lost items, delays, health/pharmacy basics) 

Speak more clearly and naturally 

You’ll also build speaking confidence through: 

• key survival phrases and high-frequency vocabulary 

• strategies to keep going when you don’t know the exact word (rephrasing, clarification, “buying time”) 

• pronunciation support for clearer, more intelligible Portuguese 

• mini role-plays and speaking tasks to help you respond quickly and naturally 

Explore Portuguese-speaking cultures 

Alongside the language, you’ll build cultural confidence through: 

• polite requests and everyday etiquette 

• typical service interactions and communication style 

• practical tips for Portugal, Brazil and other Portuguese-speaking destinations 

Course materials: All course materials are shared via SharePoint. You will receive the access link in your welcome email, which is sent 24 hours before the course starts. 

Do I need previous knowledge of Portuguese? 

Some basic Portuguese is helpful, but the course is designed to support learners who want practical travel language and lots of guided speaking practice. 

Which variant of Portuguese will I learn (European or Brazilian)? 

You can learn European Portuguese, Brazilian Portuguese, or a mix of both. Your teacher will include the version that best matches your travel plans and interests, while also helping you recognise the most common differences. 

What are the main differences between European and Brazilian Portuguese? 

They are the same language and speakers usually understand each other, but there are some key differences. Pronunciation is often the biggest—Brazilian Portuguese is generally more open and “clearer” for many learners, while European Portuguese can sound faster and more reduced in everyday speech. There are also some differences in vocabulary (a few everyday words), forms of address and grammar preferences (for example, how “you” is used in different situations). In the course, you’ll learn the most useful travel language and we’ll highlight the differences you’re most likely to notice in real life. 

When is the course and how long is each class? 

The course runs on two consecutive Saturdays, 10:00–13:00 (UK time), via Zoom. 

Is this course face-to-face or online? 

This is a live online course taught on Zoom. 

What level is the course? 

This course is best for beginners and near-beginners who want practical Portuguese for travel. If you’re unsure, we can advise you on the best option. 

Will there be lots of speaking practice? 

Yes. The course is highly practical and includes guided speaking tasks, role-plays and realistic travel scenarios to help you build confidence quickly. 

Do I need to install anything to join the course? 

You’ll need access to Zoom (app or browser). We’ll send joining details before the course starts. 

What do I need for the online lessons? 

A stable internet connection, and a device with a microphone and camera (headphones recommended). You may also want a notebook for quick notes. 

What if I miss a Saturday? 

Because this is a short course, it’s best to attend both sessions. If you miss a class, we’ll share key materials via SharePoint, but we can’t replicate the live speaking practice. 

Can I continue studying after this course? 

Yes! Your teacher can recommend the best next step, such as a general Portuguese course or a level-based programme at IH London. 

How will I receive the course materials? 

All course materials are shared via SharePoint, with access provided in your welcome email 24 hours before the course starts. 

Is there a coursebook? 

No fixed coursebook is required — your teacher will provide targeted materials and resources for the course.

Start learning Portuguese online, with expert guidance and real results. 

Portuguese Level 1 Online is the first step of the A1 level and is designed for complete beginners. In live, interactive Zoom classes, you’ll start speaking Portuguese from your very first lesson, building practical communication skills in a friendly and supportive online classroom. 

Learning online doesn’t mean learning alone. Your teacher will guide you carefully through each lesson, encouraging active participation and real communication so you gain confidence quickly, wherever you are in the world. 

After completing Level 1, you can continue your learning with Level 2 and beyond. Progression is based on class participation and self-study. There are no formal tests. To help you choose the right level, you can consult our level chart. 

Why study Portuguese online with IH London? 

Portuguese is a global language spoken by over 260 million people worldwide, opening doors to travel, culture and international opportunities. Whether you want to explore Portugal or Brazil, connect with Portuguese-speaking communities, or boost your career prospects, Portuguese allows you to communicate with confidence from the start. 

International House London is one of the UK’s most established and respected language schools. Our online courses are taught by qualified and experienced teachers in different parts of the world. Lessons are live, interactive and taught primarily in Portuguese, creating an immersive online experience that helps you develop real communication skills quickly and naturally. 

With expert teachers, structured lessons and a strong sense of community, you’ll feel supported and motivated throughout your learning journey. 

What’s included in your course? 

• Live Zoom lessons with an experienced Portuguese teacher 

• Lesson summaries, notes and online learning resources 

• Additional self-study materials to support your progress 

• Ongoing academic support throughout the course 

• Access to exclusive IH London student workshops and events 

This course is ideal for: 

• Complete beginners with no previous knowledge of Portuguese 

• Learners who have never studied Portuguese formally 

• Students who prefer the flexibility of live online learning 

• Learners looking for a structured introduction to Portuguese 

• Anyone wanting to build a strong foundation before progressing to higher A1 levels 

No prior knowledge of Portuguese is required. 

By the end of this course, you will be able to: 

Communicate with confidence in everyday situations 

You’ll start using Portuguese from day one, learning how to: 

• Greet people naturally and respond with confidence 

• Introduce yourself and say hello and goodbye in different situations 

• Talk about where you and others are from 

• Speak about nationalities and languages 

• Ask simple questions and interact with your teacher in class 

• Understand and follow classroom instructions in Portuguese 

• Order drinks and accept or decline offers in cafés and social situations 

Build a strong foundation in Portuguese 

You’ll develop essential language skills, including: 

• Numbers from 0 to 1,000 and days of the week 

• Vocabulary for countries, cities, nationalities, languages and classroom objects 

• Personal pronouns and definite articles (o, a) 

• Key verbs such as ser, estar, ficar and chamar-se (singular and plural) 

• Understanding the difference between ser and estar 

• Regular -ar verbs in the present tense 

• Prepositions de and em, including contractions (no, na) 

• Asking questions using como, quem and onde 

• Forming negative sentences and using colours and everyday vocabulary 

Explore Portuguese-speaking cultures 

Alongside the language, you’ll gain cultural insight through: 

• An introduction to coffee culture in Portugal and Brazil 

• Popular snacks and everyday café traditions in Portuguese-speaking countries 

Coursebook 

Passaporte para Português 1 – Livro do Aluno (A1/A2) + Audio Download 

Robert Kuzka & José Pascoal 

Publisher: Lidel 

ISBN: 9789897528927 

Please note that we may not cover all activities in the coursebook during the course. We recommend buying the coursebook after your first lesson. 

Do I need any previous knowledge of Portuguese? 

No. This course is designed specifically for complete beginners. If you have studied Portuguese before, please explore our other courses or contact our academic team at languages@ihlondon.com or call +44 (0)20 7611 2426 for advice. 

Which variety of Portuguese will I learn? 

You will be introduced to both European and Brazilian Portuguese, with a focus on clear communication and awareness of key differences. 

How will the course be delivered? 

This is a live online course taught via Zoom, with interactive activities, breakout rooms, role-plays and lots of speaking practice — just like being in an IH London classroom, but from home. 

What technology do I need? 

You will need Zoom version 5.17.5 or later to join the lessons. 
For the best experience, we recommend: 

• Joining from a laptop or personal computer 

• Using headphones or earphones to minimise background noise 

• Finding a quiet place where you won’t be disturbed 

• Keeping your camera turned on so you can fully participate 

These small steps ensure a smooth and engaging learning environment. 

How will I receive the course materials? 

All course materials are shared via SharePoint. You will receive the access link in your welcome email, which is sent 24 hours before the course starts. Please ensure you can access the materials before your first lesson. 

How big are the classes? 

Online classes have a maximum of 12 students, with an average class size of around 8 students. 

What can I do after completing Level 1? 

After this course, you will be ready to continue with our Elementary Portuguese Level 2 (A1) course and build on the foundations you have developed. 

For more information check our Terms and Conditions page https://www.ihlondon.com/terms-and-conditions 

Portuguese Kickstart is a new live online course for complete beginners who want to start speaking Portuguese in a short, practical format. 

In just 4 Saturday mornings, you will build confidence with the basics of everyday Portuguese through live teacher-led lessons, interactive activities, and guided speaking practice. The course is designed for people who are new to the language and want a friendly, achievable introduction without committing to a long programme or following a traditional coursebook. 

Lessons focus on useful communication from the start. You will learn how to introduce yourself, ask and answer simple questions, and manage short everyday interactions in Portuguese. 

Course format 

• Duration: 4 weeks 

• Schedule: Saturdays, 10.00–11.30 

• Delivery: Live online 

• Level: Complete beginners 

• Materials: Teacher-created materials, no coursebook required 

Why choose Portuguese Kickstart? 

• study with a trusted and internationally recognised language school 

• learn in a live online classroom with expert teacher support 

• enjoy a short and manageable format designed for busy adults 

• build confidence through practical speaking-focused lessons 

• make clear progress in just 4 weeks 

• Access to exclusive IH London student workshops and events 

This course is for complete beginners who want a clear and motivating introduction to Portuguese. 

It is a good fit for: 

• adults who have never studied Portuguese before 

• learners who studied a little Portuguese a long time ago and want to start again from the beginning 

• people looking for a short course before committing to a longer programme 

• busy learners who want a focused and manageable course on Saturday mornings 

• anyone interested in learning practical Portuguese for everyday situations, travel, or general interest 

This course may be especially useful if you want to: 

• try Portuguese for the first time 

• build confidence speaking in a supportive group 

• learn through communication rather than a traditional coursebook 

• see quick progress in a short period of time 

This course may not be the right choice if you already have a solid foundation in Portuguese and can already hold basic conversations. In that case, a higher-level course would be more suitable. 

Do I need any previous knowledge of Portuguese? No. This course is for complete beginners. 

Is there a coursebook? No. The course uses teacher-created materials, so you do not need to buy a coursebook. 

How are the lessons taught? Lessons are taught live via Zoom by a teacher and include interactive activities, guided speaking practice, and focused language input. 

How much study is expected outside class? We recommend short practice between lessons to help you review and remember what you learn in class. These tasks are designed to be manageable and supportive. 

Will I be speaking in class? Yes. The course is designed to help you start using Portuguese actively from the beginning, so there will be regular speaking practice in a supportive environment. 

What will I be able to do by the end of the course? By the end of the 4 weeks, you will be able to introduce yourself, ask and answer simple questions, and manage short everyday interactions in Portuguese with more confidence. 

What happens after Portuguese Kickstart? Portuguese Kickstart is designed as a first step. After the course, you can continue with our follow-on course, Portuguese Kickstart 2, to build on what you have learnt. 

Who is the course suitable for? The course is aimed at adults (18+) who want a short, practical introduction to Portuguese in a live online format. 

Why not try out a sample beginners Portuguese lesson before signing up to a full course? These one-off sessions are aimed at students who have never studied the Portuguese language before.

Our Portuguese language classes take place via Zoom with a qualified, experienced teacher and fellow students. The interactive lessons emulate our face-to-face classes, and via teacher screen-sharing, students are able to experience a live classroom environment. From vocabulary activities and covering grammar points on the white board, to listening exercises, file sharing and ‘break-out rooms’ to practise speaking with classmates, students can learn without leaving the comfort of their homes. Take a look at an example of one of our online classes in this video.

Sample Lesson Plan

• Greeting people
• Introducing yourself and someone else
• Asking and giving personal details (name, nationalities, profession, age, phone number, date of birth)

What do you need for an online class?

To get the most from this course you will need:

• A reliable internet connection
• A desktop computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone
• A web camera on or attached to the device you are using
• An integrated microphone in the device you are using or an attached headset
• The day before your course, you will be sent via email all the details you need to connect to the IH London Zoom classroom