If you want to learn Spanish without taking classes, you will need to buy language software. Rosetta Stone is one of the premier programs available. A comprehensive software package will walk you through the most important aspects of Spanish. The program is designed to engage learners by picture and word associations. You learn vocabulary and grammar simultaneously without going into the boring details. Rosetta Stone simply presents key phrases and words with audio and pictures. There are many innovative exercises to reinforce what you have learned, including a headset with a microphone that tests your pronunciation.
The next step to learning basic Spanish it to watch movies. Most movies these days have Spanish audio tracks and subtitles. Watch your favorite movies with both English and Spanish audio, changing the subtitles accordingly to keep track of the plot. Listening and reading Spanish at the same time within the context of films is an excellent exercise that will really help you develop an ear for the language.
Finally, assert yourself and practice talking to Spanish speakers around you. This could be a neighbor, a co-worker, or even a waiter you meet on vacation. Take your Spanish-English dictionary with you wherever you go. Use the phrases and words you have learned to initiate a basic conversation, filling in any holes with the help of the dictionary. Little by little, you will become accustomed to communicating in Spanish.