Are Heritage Speakers Still Native Speakers of a Language?
Do you know what heritage speakers are? Spanish teachers (especially in the U.S.) have a wide range of language learner types among their students. So, it helps to define them and understand the difference between heritage speakers vs native speakers vs second language (or world language) learners. Essentially, these are terms that define various linguistic backgrounds and types...Read More
The Powerful Role of Family in Hispanic Culture [Unlike U.S. Culture]
Hispanic family values are powerful. By watching movies, reading books, or meeting Latino people, it‘s easy to see that family is the core of Latin American society and a key source of support, guidance, and encouragement. Read this article to discover how deeply family influences Hispanic culture. ¡Aprendamos sobre los valores familiares hispanos!Let’s learn about...Read More
13 Interesting Moorish Influences in Spain
Moorish influence in Spain is undeniable. A major part of Spain’s immense cultural richness came from the Moorish conquerors. The Muslims and Arabs who conquered parts of Spain in the 8th century lived there for 800 years! Who were the Moors? The term refers to Muslims living in Europe. Back then, the term “moor” was also used to describe a dark-skinned person. Spain was a...Read More
The Origin and History of Jews in Latin America
Jews in Latin America represent a significant percentage of the economically active population. They have fully functioning communities in Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, and South American countries. Even though the major religion in Latin America is Catholicism, many follow Judaism. Their presence in the region dates back to the times of colonization and follows a dark period of...Read More
French or Spanish: Which is Easier to Learn, Master, and Speak?
Salut tout le monde! Or should I say hola, instead? If you’re here, it’s because you’re wondering which foreign language to study and to finally answer your burning question once and for all: which language is easier to master, Spanish or French? Undoubtedly, gaining fluency in any foreign language is a considerable task, no matter which language you choose. The good news is that French...Read More
A Traveler’s Guide to Cali, Colombia
Cali, Colombia is a fun, and lively travel destination for Spanish learners! The “salsa capital of the world” features impressive tourist attractions worth visiting. It’s a tourist-friendly city that offers endless opportunities for you to take your Spanish skills to the next level through practice. Keep reading for an enchanting and informative traveler’s guide to Cali,...Read More
A Traveler’s Guide to Córdoba, Argentina
Córdoba is both a provincia (province) and a ciudad (city) in Argentina. This beautiful Argentinian city is the country’s second most populated one, following the capital, Buenos Aires. It is home to delicious recipes such as albóndigas a la cordobesa (Cordobese meatballs), and incredible alfajores—just to name a couple. Córdba has spectacular places to see and activities to do....Read More
A Traveler’s Guide to Bogotá, Colombia
Bogotá is the capital city of Colombia, the country right at the end of Central America and the beginning of South America. Colombia is a nation with a rich history and fascinating culture, and its capital is the place that better reflects all of that. Keep reading to learn more about Bogotá, Colombia, its history, location, and other interesting facts. I will also...Read More
All About the Alasitas Fair in La Paz, Bolivia
La Feria de las Alasitas (Alasitas’ Fair) is a regional fair that Bolivians, Peruvians, and even Argentines celebrate! What is Alasitas? Alasitas is a word that comes from the Aymara language and it means “buy” or “buy me.” This is a traditional fair that celebrates abundance. More than that, however, it is a UNESCO immaterial world heritage and it has been since 2017. Bolivians...Read More