hi,
can anyone recommend a basic Spanish (Latin American), for travellers that goes a bit beyond a Berlitz video (which I have taken out from my public libray)?

I'm looking for something either computer-based, cd, or dvd/video. I want to be able to hear the language, so going through exercises in a book wouldn't quite do it.

Thanks for any suggestions.

The Warren Hardy program in San Miguel de Allende, MX is highly regarded and I think their materials would satisfy your needs.
M

I think watching TV can be helpful to supplement the other methods you mention. If you get Univision on cable there are loads of shows and movies in Spanish. Just so you hear how it really sounds in use.

I'd have to find the book, but I think it was 'The Learning Company" and it was a computer program which included videos (on the computer) and you speak into the mike to practice your accent as well as a workbook, and games to get you to learn the words, it was very good...This was a few years ago so I would imagine there are some even better. it was colorful and didn't get boring. I also took a class at the local Latin America Association and some days we worked with people there to learn English. It was very helpful.

thanks, everyone. I've actually found this great language site on the bbc website, and am working though it. It's actually fun, and incredibly well done.

I've five months to go until to the trip, so I hope to have a lot more than very basic Spanish at my disposal.

Could you share the website?

of course, here it is:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/languages/spanish/lj/

they also have French, German, Italian....really fun, interactive program!