Bio and Testimonials
Welcome to Hola Hola Spanish, where we believe that learning a new language can be fun and relaxing.
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Hi!
I am Krista Mendez, the creator of Hola Hola Spanish Class.
I grew up in Alberta, with a passion for travel. Through my adventures through Asia and South America, I know first hand how frustrating it can be to go somewhere new and not be able to communicate with the locals. You order fish… your server brings you chicken. You ask the cabbie to go to the beach…. You end up at the mall. Not to mention your sneaking suspicion that you are paying triple for things because you can’t barter like the locals.
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Wouldn’t it be nice to get off the plane in a Spanish speaking country and easily figure out where you are going? To be able to strike up a conversation with people you meet? To order food, travel with ease, and barter at the local market? Learning basic conversational Spanish can help make the communication barrier in your travel more like a fun challenge, rather than a stressful experience.
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You may be saying, I have tried so many apps, lessons, courses, and classes… and I STILL can’t figure out how to speak Spanish! Yes, I know how nerve racking it can be to practice over the years, feeling unable to master a foreign language. I understand the frustration in “just not getting it”. That’s where Hola Hola Spanish can help. I understand your frustration.
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That’s what makes this class different.
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I have been there first hand, so I can relate to every step of the learning process. I am here to guide you with encouragement, patience, laughter, and fun. With your commitment and my passion for teaching, one day soon you will be able to have that conversation in Spanish. Your travel world will open up as you come to realize that you finally understand what people around you are saying.
A bit more about me....
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I first found my passion for teaching when I taught English as a Second Language to children in Taiwan in 2002. I taught for two years there, and obtained my TESL certificate. After Taiwan I decided to do a bit of travelling around South America. I ended up in Colombia and fell in love with the culture, the music, the food, the language and … my husband Andres!
Living and visiting there for six years I was able to immerse myself in the culture and learn Spanish. I taught English in Colombia until 2011, when we moved back to Canada. I have taught conversational Spanish since, in Medicine Hat, Edmonton and Leduc.
On a personal note, I love being a mom, and I truly enjoy the flexibility that teaching out of my home offers our little family. Other interests I have are dance, creating jewelry, and spending time with friends. I look forward to getting to know you!
What are people saying about Hola Hola?
Judy Poffenroth-
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"-I’m on my second round of private Spanish lessons with Krista and loving it! Krista is friendly and patient, and I never feel intimidated in my attempts to learn a second language. The hour flies by and we have fun. If you’re looking for group or private Spanish lessons call Krista!"
Stephanie Christiansen-
Jo-Ann Collison-
"-Krista’s classes are great! No intimidation, answers questions with ease – and laughter! Having completed two rounds, Kelly and I will be back for more in the fall! For anyone wanting to learn Spanish or brush off the rust, this is definitely the place to go! Thank you Krista!"
"-Krista is a fabulous and patient teacher. The classes are fun and engaging. My husband and I are both newbies at spanish speaking and our last trip was made better by being able to have short conversations with our hosts!!! Highly recommend!!!"
Bonnie Strautman Picton-
Tina Seehaver-
"-With an upcoming trip to Central America, four of us wanted to increase our knowledge of Spanish. Krista provided a relaxed, fun and professional atmosphere where we learned a lot and had many laughs along the way. We are hoping to do more classes soon."
"-Krista is a great teacher! We have so much fun learning Spanish! Classes for all ages. I would recommend her class to everyone wanting to learn!"
Dawn Galloway-
-"We took the 12 week course as a family. We loved it so much and learned so much that we are going to do it all again! Can’t wait to get started!!"
Sandra Bevan-
Thank you Krista for introducing us to a new language. It will be an amazing new adventure when travelling now to be able to have some insight as to communicating with the local people. Totally enjoyed your class and totally looking forward to the next sessions!! "