Ear training "What did you say?"

I'm having a difficult time understanding native speakers and was wonder what others are doing to improve their auditory skills. I have been listening to Spanish music, listening to audible children's books. I watch a movie on occasion in Spanish. And I've been watching videos at lomastv.com. The one thing that I haven't done much of is speaking with a native speaker. I've had the opportunity a few times and it seems to be those conversations that stick in my head but those opportunities aren't always available. Does anyone have any other suggestions?

I recently began meeting once a week with a college student here in Roanoke, VA who is from Peru. Of course, Spanish is her native language, so we converse as much as possible in Spanish, which helps accustom my ear to the language. She also answers those nagging little usage questions that I have and gives me good common sense advice on how the language is spoken, at least in her country. She has a very impressive understanding of grammar and can explain why things are said in certain ways. I also frequent a Cuban restaurant here in town. The owners know that I am learning Spanish so I am comfortable speaking the language in the restaurant and know they will help me with any mistakes that I make. It seems that every time I visit I learn another useful phrase, such as "tenga buen día", from last Friday. I also try to listen in on the conversations of spanish speaking customers in the restaurant. I found a series of vidios online called "Destinos" which I watch often. It is a beginning Spanish class developed quite a few years ago by a college professor, and is in the form of a telenovela. It is an interesting and entertaining way to tune my ear to that wonderful language. But with all of that said, I wish more than anything that I could meet someone who is also learning the language with whom I could sit and chat often. I think that even using Skype with someone here would be helpful.

Hola amigos, I agree "Destinos" is very helpful for listening skills. I too have watched it several times and will many more. Each time I hear things better and it never gets old. I've mentioned in another post that there is a sequel titled "Nuevos Destinos". It is also very good but wouldn't make much sense with out having viewed the first. I also speak with people whenever there is an opportunity to do so. Regarding opportunity, having a friend from Peru to speak with? ¡Que bueno! I would love that! Saludos, Rich

Yo escucho una telenovela colombiana que se llama Escobar, el patrón del mal. yo ajusto la velocidad del volumen a 75% o menos. Otra buena manera de escuchar bien es mirar una pelicula o unactelenovela usando los subtítulos en la parte inferior de la pantalla.

...una telenovela...

Hola amigos, Hay otra telenovela se llama " Extra Español" que es muy útil y también es muy chistoso. Se la recomiendo a ustedes y espero que les guste. Saludos, Rich

I'm going to give Destinos a try. So far I really like it and I need the "listening" practice. Thanks!