How do I get there?

Asking for directions is easy; understanding the answer is the hard part. Learn the few words people use to give directions, and how to check that you got them.

Your turn

Both sentences have derech-. Do they mean the same?

Siga derecho. / Dé vuelta a la derecha.

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The main idea

These are polite instructions in the usted form, the way a stranger gives you directions. You don't need to make them yet; just recognize them. For turn, you will hear both dé vuelta and gire (HEE-reh).

la cuadra is a city block, a word used across Latin America.

Ask and check back

Listen: the way to the market

On Saturday, Ben is in Coyoacán and looks for the market. Listen first, then read the text.

The way to the market

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Your turn

What does the woman tell Ben to do after two blocks?

Dé vuelta a la izquierda. Dé vuelta a la derecha. Siga derecho.

Your turn

Where is the market?

Al lado del metro. En la esquina, enfrente de una iglesia. Al final de la calle.

Your turn

Write what you hear.

Listen Check

Quick check

Your turn

Which instruction tells you to turn right?

Dé vuelta a la derecha. Siga derecho. Cruce la calle.

Your turn

Ask how to get to the museum, with llegar:

Disculpe, ¿cómo al museo?

Check

Your turn

Which sentence says that something is three blocks away?

Está a tres cuadras. Está en la segunda calle. Está en la esquina.

Your turn

Ask a passerby how to get to the metro station, and whether it's far.

Show answer

Take with you

derecho is straight ahead, a la derecha is to the right: when in doubt, ask back.