Learn Spanish and Go

What if the first few days of January could tell you the weather for the rest of the year? In this episode, we dive into cabañuelas, an ancient weather prediction method rooted in both Jewish and indigenous traditions. Discover its cultural and historical significance across Spain, Latin America, and even the Philippines. We also discuss how modern technology has reshaped these traditions and how they compare to other global custom...

This year was a whirlwind! We hosted nine immersive Spanish retreats, explored new destinations in Mexico, and celebrated incredible milestones, like reaching listeners in every country worldwide. In this episode, we share our personal reflections on balancing ambitious goals with unexpected surprises, discuss the effort behind our retreats, and give you a sneak peek into exciting plans for 2025, including a new retreat in Mérida. ...

Join us as we dive into Mexico’s vibrant holiday traditions, where children eagerly await gifts from Los Reyes Magos instead of Santa Claus, leaving out water and hay for camels. We also discuss the cultural significance of El Ratoncito Pérez and the cautionary tales of El Coco, revealing how folklore shapes childhood experiences in Mexico. Finally, we explore the mischievous world of duendes and how these legends reflect Mexico’s ...

Join us as we sit down with Wylie, an engineer from Texas, who shares his inspiring journey of attending eight of our immersion retreats since 2019. From overcoming nerves to confidently navigating Guanajuato’s streets, Wylie’s story is proof of how immersing yourself in authentic experiences can boost your Spanish skills and deepen cultural connections. Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning learner, Wylie’s practical strateg...

Have you ever felt taken advantage of while traveling? In this episode, I recount a frustrating experience with a taxi driver and how I used it as inspiration to compile a list of must-know Spanish phrases for travelers. We discuss cultural nuances and practical tips to help you protect your finances and assert yourself respectfully. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a first-time visitor, this episode equips you with tools to t...

Learning Spanish grammar doesn’t have to be overwhelming! In this episode, Sharon Villalobos shares her expertise, helping you master three common past tenses. From the concise pretérito used for specific past actions to the detailed imperfecto for storytelling, and the antepresente bridging past and present, this episode is packed with clear examples, conjugation tips, and personal anecdotes. Whether you’re just starting your Span...

Have you ever wondered about the colorful alebrijes featured in Mexican culture or how they connect to myths like nahuales and tonales? In this episode, we share the story of how alebrijes originated from a fever dream, their transformation from papier-mâché to wood carvings in Oaxaca, and their global rise to fame. We’ll also dive into the mystical beliefs surrounding nahuales and tonales, uncovering their ties to ancient traditio...

May introduces listeners to the haunting tale of Pedro Páramo, where a man’s quest to find his father leads him to the eerie town of Comala, filled with lost souls and buried secrets. She unpacks the novel’s themes of power, guilt, and redemption, highlighting its importance in Latin American literature. With a new film adaptation now on Netflix, this episode is a perfect primer for anyone curious about exploring deeper layers of H...

We’re back with more surprising facts about things you probably didn’t know came from Mexico! In this episode, discover how ancient indigenous groups used popcorn long before it became a movie-time snack, learn about the rich history behind vanilla’s cultivation, and find out why the poinsettia became a Christmas symbol around the world. This episode is packed with fascinating insights into how Mexican culture has shaped the world ...

In this lively discussion, we share our experience celebrating Día de Muertos in Cholula, Puebla, surrounded by the beautiful cempasúchil fields and festive atmosphere. We dive into the origins and uses of the marigold in Mexico, from its practical applications in gardening and health to its presence in cuisine and legend. Discover the touching love story of Xóchitl and Huitzilin, adding deeper meaning to the flower that guides spi...

Discover how tools like ChatGPT and Google's NotebookLM are transforming language learning with AI. We delve into ChatGPT's new conversational features, allowing you to practice Spanish grammar in real-time while choosing regional accents, like Mexican Spanish, for authentic interaction. Plus, learn about NotebookLM, a powerful AI that can turn your notes and vocabulary lists into interactive conversations, offering conte...

Discover the eerie history behind the mummies of Guanajuato, a captivating tourist site with roots in Mexico’s rich cultural and historical tapestry. May explains how these mummies were uncovered due to an exhumation law, turning the city’s cemetery into an unexpected museum of natural preservation. From the tragic deaths of miners to the stunning displays in the Museo de las Momias, we discuss what makes this destination both fasc...

Struggling with the Spanish subjunctive? You’re not alone! In this episode, we explore how the subjunctive is used in everyday Spanish, why it's so tricky for learners (even for me!), and how it differs from English. May helps simplify the concept by explaining common usage patterns and providing examples that you can immediately apply. Whether you're an intermediate learner or more advanced, this episode will give you a ...

Ever wondered how to protect yourself financially while traveling in Latin America? In this episode, we discuss key strategies to avoid unnecessary charges and stay safe while exploring new destinations. Tune in to learn practical tips you won’t want to miss, from handling currency exchanges to using credit cards wisely!

Key Takeaways:

• Learn a simple yet crucial step to avoid unexpected charges abroad.
• Discover how the right payme...

Did you know some of your favorite things might not be from where you think? Join us as we reveal the true origins of a globally famous dish, a household item you’ve probably used, and a groundbreaking medical discovery. This episode is full of fun facts and surprising history that will leave you with a new appreciation for Mexican contributions to the world.

Key Takeaways:

• Discover the real story behind a famous dish you know an...

Join us as we explore the vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich musical traditions of Colombia with our guests, Andrea and Nate. We discuss why Colombia is a must-visit destination, from its affordable travel options to its friendly locals and diverse geography. Whether you're curious about Colombian cuisine, want to practice your Spanish, or are considering a trip, this episode offers valuable insights to enhance you...

Join us for part 2 of our discussion on my language learning struggles! I reflect on the mistakes I'm still making, like mixing up “qué,” “cuál,” and “cuando,” and how I am trying to improve. May shares practical tips for learners, such as focusing on recognizing common triggers for the subjunctive and using the “personal a” correctly. This episode is full of useful advice for anyone looking to sharpen their Spanish skills. Do...

Join us as we share our journey through Colombia, highlighting cities like Bogotá and Medellín, and the stunning small towns of Barichara and Guatapé. We discuss the local architecture, unique accents, and the overall experience of traveling in this diverse country. We’ll also touch on safety tips, cost of living, and what makes Colombia such a memorable destination for travelers.

Key Takeaways:

• Why Bogotá stood out over Medellín...

Join us as we share our thoughts on returning to the U.S. after years abroad. We talk about the quirks of American life that stand out to us now—like the obsession with ice-filled drinks, constant weather complaints, and massive portion sizes. We also compare driving habits, discuss the higher cost of living, and reflect on how these experiences shape our perspective on life abroad. Whether you’re an expat or just curious about lif...