Rosetta Stone Learn Italian Bonus Pack (24 Month Subscription + Lifetime Download + Book Set)

There was just one hitch, the box from Amazon did *NOT* have any activation code. I almost returned it to Amazon, but a simple call to the Rosetta help number (in the box and on the website) and they fixed it in five minutes.I've studied a lot of languages, but I'm primarily an ancient language person, so I appreciate anything that helps to teach modern languages well, and this does. I've also done the Pimsleur Audio series for Italian, which is good, but this does in its way more. With this program you receive nicely combined grammar, syntax, reading, listening and speaking. You don't just repeat the phrase as with an audio-only program--it checks what you read and sees how well it matches the stored sound profile, which in my view is way better than just feeling happy that you have imitated how something sounds, with this program you have something independent that judges it. I love programs where you can work at your own pace, though with this, as with any language program or course, regular is better. I won't say this would replace a good college course, but it would give you an edge for any Italian course (especially in H.S.) and you'll be more than prepared for a jaunt to Italy. It is true that in most big cities, especially Rome, lots of locals speak English, probably better than you will Italian even after a lot of work; but...Italians really do appreciate when you make an effort, a decent one, to use their language in their country--it's just polite. You'll get just a bit better than normal tourist service if you show that you don't *expect* them to speak English. This program can certainly get you to that point, and far beyond, if you put in some time.

Four stars, five for the language program it’s the best I’ve ever used. But lost a star because of the excessive packaging material. Be green!

I have been using the Rosetta Stone to learn Italian since January of this year and I am very impressed with the program. I find it very easy to use and learn with.

I used a previous version a good many years ago and was thrilled with the ease and friendliness of the new one. Spanish is next.

I do not understand why they would sell something that has an invalid product code. I am very good with computers and this was unfortunate to encounter. I was really looking forward to learning.

I can agree with Julianne’s point, a worse deal for students in school setting, however, being 66 years old retired, paying $125 per year to learn from RS online is a good deal for me. Perhaps RS is trying to attract the old timers ( former baby boomers) market.

I have purchased three languages for homeschool via RS over the years and have always used the CD version. I am very disappointed that they have switched now to ONLY the online subscription. It turns out to be much more expensive this way, especially for homeshoolers. The full curriculum drags the level into a 48 week schedule, which means that by the time you are finished with all levels you will have spent hundreds MORE than with the CD version. This makes it no longer a good deal and no longer feasible. I once recommended RS to the homeschool community but have posted this new policy with the HS members and we are all very let down.Shame on Rosetta Stone.

I love learning Italian everyday with Rosetta Stone. My only concern is that there are times when the program does not explain what new words are. Just a small suggestion on my part.