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The most thorough way to learn a foreign language is to immerse yourself in the culture that speaks it. Not only will you pick up the slang and pronunciations specific to your region of study -- which might not be taught in a book or audio course -- it's an opportunity to learn about another lifestyle and develop a true love for the peoples with whom you will communicate.

AppleLanguages is just one of several companies that provides the means to learn Russian in its country of origin. The school is located in St. Petersburg. It will arrange shared student housing, apartments, or the chance to live with host families. You can learn Russian through the standard program of 20 lessons/week or the more intensive course which includes 5 cultural lessons. Advanced private courses are also available. Tours to various sites around St. Petersburg such as a Russian steam bath, the Hermitage Art Gallery, Yussupor Palace and other places are offered to ensure your stay in St. Petersburg is fun in addition to being informative. The option is also there to split your courses between the schools in St. Petersburg and Moscow, giving you a chance to explore the differences between the two cities.

If you're already fluent in Russian but would like to sharpen your skills, you may sign up for the school's work experience program which allows you to work in Russia in a variety of fields. Volunteer work is another way to polish your Russian.