Conversation Clubs

Practice languages in a welcoming, pressure-free environment with fellow learners from around the world

Why Join Conversation Clubs?

The Best Way to Learn is with Others!

Our clubs help expatriates and their families feel more connected to their new community, providing a warm environment for forging bonds with our diverse region. Each club emphasizes conversation rather than instruction. Conversation Clubs are open and free of cost for all UI members who want to enhance their conversation skills. No registration is required. Just show up and join the conversation!

Still not a member? Feel free to visit a class once before pursuing a membership. After you’re a member, you may drop in whenever you like! If you have further questions, email us.

Upstate International welcomes all members to participate in Conversation Clubs. Each Conversation Club meeting is led by a designated facilitator, who is a native or expert speaker of the designated language. The facilitator choses a conversation theme and participants practice their conversational skills. The facilitator introduces new vocabulary, gives pronunciation tips, and helps participants with the nuances of speaking the language.

Facilitators do not teach deep grammar. Members seeking grammar instruction may register for language classes, held every spring, summer, and fall.

Practice Speaking

Build confidence through real conversation with native and fluent speakers

Cultural Exchange

Learn about different cultures while sharing your own experiences

Make Connections

Meet like-minded people from diverse backgrounds in your community

Free for Members

No additional cost - just show up and join the conversation!

English

Perfect your English conversation skills

Open to all members wanting to enhance their English conversation skills. No registration required – just drop in!

Spanish

¡Habla español con confianza!

All skill levels welcome! Practice Spanish in a supportive environment with fellow learners and native speakers.

French

Parlez français naturellement

Monthly French conversation club running September through May. Perfect for intermediate to advanced speakers.

German

Sprechen Sie Deutsch!

Casual German conversation in a relaxed brewery setting. Great atmosphere for practicing Deutsche!

Italian

Parliamo italiano insieme!

Monthly Italian conversation practice for all levels. Immerse yourself in the beautiful Italian language and culture.

Russian

Говорим по-русски

Practice Russian conversation in a supportive environment. Perfect for maintaining or improving your Russian skills.

Chinese

说中文

Open to all members who want to enhance their Chinese conversation skills.

Ready to Start Practicing?

Join Upstate International and gain access to all conversation clubs plus language classes, cultural events, and a global community..