Paraguay’s National Herbal Drink: Tereré
The Paraguayan Tereré drink is so iconic that it was declared intangible cultural heritage by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). There are drinks that our mind relates to good memories and good times providing comfort when we drink them on hard and tiring days—Tereré is one of these drinks. Let’s explore the social and cultural importance of...Read More
Eugenio María de Hostos: Puerto Rico’s Architect of Liberation
In 19th century’s Puerto Rico, there was a man called Eugenio María de Hostos who dreamt of independence and union for his people. This dream still hasn’t come true, but Eugenio María de Hostos’ ideas and work left a legacy of education throughout Latin America. Keep reading to learn more about the life and work of Eugenio María de Hostos, his dream of creating a union of...Read More
Guinea Pig in Ecuador: Favored Pet or Flavored Platter?
Proof of Latin America’s multiculturality and varied heritage is the custom of eating guinea pigs in Ecuador. While other countries see these fluffy creatures as pets, Ecuadorians view them as an exquisite platter that also promises to be healthy and environmentally friendly. Are you ready to explore this one-of-a-kind tradition and history of eating guinea pigs? A family seats together...Read More
The Passionate History of Spain’s Fandango Dance
The Fandango dance is a popular tradition from the Balearic Islands of Spain. This dance is popular in many places including Latin America and the Philippines. Two of the most important places in Fandango history are Veracruz in Mexico and Parana in Brazil. Fandango is a bien de interés cultural (good of cultural interest), a category of Spanish material and intangible heritage. One...Read More
Exploring Colombia’s Extravagant Emerald Production
Emeralds in Colombia date back more than a thousand years. Over time, this stunning green gemstone emerged from lush areas of Colombia. Unfortunately, emeralds from Colombia are also linked to human exploitation and violence. Regardless, the desire to mine this treasure has endured and the emerald industry is thriving. Recently, the emerald industry has changed more than ever....Read More
Mars on Earth: The Atacama Desert in Chile
Atacama Desert in Chile is one of the driest, most inhospitable places on Earth. Rain may not fall in this place for decades at a time. In fact, NASA even used the Atacama Desert to simulate expeditions to Mars in 2003 with their vehicles Viking 1 and 2. Despite its apparent hostility, Atacama desert is home to both people and animals. What’s more, visitors can enjoy varied...Read More
Mexico’s First Feminist: Elvia Carrillo Puerto
If you’re a feminist who hungers to learn more about the struggle for equality that women have been fighting for all their history, you’re going to love the story of Elvia Carrillo Puerto. Born over a hundred years ago in a country known for its cultural machismo, Elvia Carrillo Puerto had an uphill battle to fight during all her life. However, she was the moving force behind the...Read More
20 Holiday Phrases in Spanish You Need To Know
The holidays are upon us, and knowing some Spanish Christmas phrases is key for enjoying the festivities wherever you are. Christmas and other December celebrations are packed with decorations, delicious food, gifts, and family traditions. The holiday season is widely observed in Spanish-speaking countries. Taking advantage of the December bliss and using this special...Read More
Mexican Textiles: A Beautiful Story of Culture and Art
Mexican textiles are a key part of Mexican culture and the central piece of the identity of all of its civilizations. This is how they owned who they were and distinguished themselves from one another. Keep in mind that Mexico was occupied by many ancestral civilizations like the Aztecs, Mayans, Olmecs, Toltecs, Teotihuacans, Zapotecs, Mixtecs, Huastecs, Totonacs, and Purépechas,...Read More