Mayan Weaving Traditions That Still Shape Everyday Spanish in Guatemala
Some of the most common Spanish words in Guatemala are woven directly into Mayan tradition. And once you realize that, Guatemalan Spanish stops feeling like just another regional variation and starts feeling like a living record of history, one you can hear, see, and even wear. This is one of the reasons I love talking about Mayan weaving traditions with adult Spanish learners. They remind...Read More
The History and Significance of Guatemalan Jade
What’s all the fuss about Guatemalan jade, you wonder? Here’s a whistle-stop tour of Guatemalan jade: some science, the history, and why it’s so popular. Join more than 559 million people on the planet who speak Spanish!Sign up for your free trial Spanish class today. ➡️ What’s Jade? Jade is a rare metamorphic rock made deep underneath the layers of the...Read More
8 Things Living in Guatemala Taught Me
My daily life in Guatemala is sweet, natural, colorful, and educational. I’ve lived here for 12 years, including three in the capital (Guatemala City), and 9 at Lake Atitlan in the western highlands. My mom often asks if I’ll live in Guatemala forever. Although I am a “permanent resident,” my answer is: ¿Quién sabe?Who knows? My main motivations for moving to Guatemala were...Read More