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Andris, a historian from Latvia, came back to Accent Français for the third time to continue learning French. He spent two weeks of May with us in Montpellier and and in this interview shares with us his experience and his love for France and Accent Français.
Andris, could you introduce yourself?
Where are you from, and why did you decide to come to France?
"My name is Andris and I come from Latvia. I live in Riga, the capital of the country. I am 24 years old and I started learning French three years ago while studying for my Master's degree.
As I studied history for five years, I also discovered the very important role that France has always played in world history. That is how I fell in love with France, its history and its culture. I even decided to dedicate my Master's thesis to the diplomatic relations between France and Latvia from 1918 to 1921, during the first years of Latvian independence.."
When did you come to Accent Français?
"I started learning French at the French Institute in Riga. That is where I first heard about language immersion programmes in France, a concept I had never come across before. Several cities were suggested to me, but I chose Montpellier because no Latvian had ever attended Accent Français before and, of course, I wanted to be the first!
As Montpellier is quite far from my home country and I had never travelled that far on my own before, I decided to come for just one week in June 2024.."
What pushed you to choose Accent Français three times?
"I fell in love with Accent Français and with the city as soon as I arrived; it was love at first sight. I quickly realised that one week was not enough to discover Montpellier properly.
So, in 2025, I came back for two weeks in order to explore the city and its surroundings in greater depth. Once again, I realised that it still was not enough. I wanted to discover more of southern France while continuing my studies at Accent Français. That is why I returned for a third time in May 2026, once again for two weeks."
What do you like most about living in Montpellier?
Do you have any favourite places or memorable experiences of the city?
"I love the long bike rides I take in Palavas-les-Flots, a small seaside town near Montpellier. It’s very simple: I take tram line 3 from the city centre and then rent a bike when I arrive. It’s convenient and inexpensive. After that, I enjoy the beautiful scenery, the beach, the sunshine and the sea. And the water is really warm compared to the Baltic Sea!
I also enjoy watching the sunset near the Saint-Clément Aqueduct. It’s a beautiful and very romantic place. You often meet local people there having picnics or chatting with friends, and it’s always easy to start a conversation with them.
There are so many things I love about Montpellier that I could almost write a book about it—or at least a travel guide!"
How has your French improved since your arrival? What do you appreciate the most in the classes and the style of teaching?
"In 2024, I had only just started learning French and I was in an A2-level class. Today, I am reaching the end of the B2 level. I feel much more confident than before and I’m no longer afraid of making mistakes. The teachers at Accent Français—and more generally the people in the south of France—are welcoming, positive and always willing to help. The warm atmosphere of both the school and the city always makes me happy and makes me want to come back again and again."
How was your accommodation? Did it help you to practice your French or discover the French culture in a new way?
"I have always chosen the same accommodation: the student residence L’Observatoire. It is located just a five-minute walk from the school, which is very convenient. It means I don’t have to rush in the mornings, something I particularly appreciate after spending an evening sharing a glass of wine with friends I met at the school. I have my own room and private bathroom there, which allows me to feel free and independent. Of course, there are other options as well, such as staying with a host family. Maybe I’ll try that experience one day!"
What are your favourite moments or best memories from your stay up till now?
"There are so many great memories that it’s difficult to choose just one! I’ll try to mention a few: meeting my new French-speaking friends and all the activities we shared together—excursions, walks around the city, and lunches in cafés (after all, you have to make the most of French culinary delights!).
I also really appreciate how natural the relationships between students and teachers are at Accent Français. It’s not unusual to take part in activities with them outside the classroom, or even share a drink or a coffee together. Nobody takes themselves too seriously here, and the atmosphere is genuinely friendly and relaxed. But some of my favourite memories are also the simplest ones: watching a sunset on the beach, enjoying a peaceful moment by the sea… Everyone can find something they love in Montpellier. One thing is certain: you never get bored here!"
Would you recommend Accent Français to other students? If yes, to who and why?
"Absolutely!
Language and cultural immersion are essential when learning a foreign language, and that is exactly what Accent Français offers. The school welcomes students of all ages and levels, creating a truly international and enriching atmosphere.
If I could give one piece of advice, it would be to stay for at least two weeks, choose the intensive course and take part in the workshops, cultural activities and excursions organised by the school. It is the best way to make rapid progress while fully enjoying the experience. Honestly, if you have the opportunity to come to Montpellier and study at Accent Français, go for it—you won’t regret it."
Thank you Andris for choosing our school for your immersion programme for the third time. It was a pleasure to have you with us again and to share your experience with everyone on our blog! Take care and keep learning French!
The Accent Français Team