DiscoverLearn Spanish and Go
Learn Spanish and Go
Claim Ownership

Learn Spanish and Go

Author: Spanish and Go

Subscribed: 907Played: 28,594
Share

Description

Do you want to learn Spanish and travel? Learn Spanish and travel the world with Jim and May from Spanish and Go.

Advance your listening comprehension through incredible travel stories, cultural conversations, Spanish tips, and interviews with Spanish speakers from around the world.

You’ll hear natural conversational Spanish perfect for the intermediate or advanced Spanish learner. With Spanish and Go, not only will you supercharge your Spanish, but you’ll gain the tools to travel abroad with confidence.

May is a Spanish teacher from Mexico, and Jim is a gringo with a passion for adventure. Together they’ll help you take your Spanish to the next level.

Get the most out of each episode by signing up at https://spanishandgo.com.

245 Episodes
Reverse
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 Hispanic storytelling and magical realism.Key Takeaways:The sig...
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 unexpected ways.Key Takeaways:The surprising ancient origin...
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 spirits back to their loved ones each year.Key Takeaways:Discover...
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 context-rich explanations that reinforce what you’re learning. These tools no...
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 fascinating and unsettling. Whether you’re curious about the histo...
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 clearer understanding of when and how to use the subjunctive, helping yo...
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 payment method can protect your finances while traveling.Find out what ...
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 and love.Learn about a widely-used product with ancient roots in Mex...
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 your travel experience.Key Takeaways:Discover why Colombia is closer a...
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. Don’t miss out on the insights and encouragement we have to share!Key...
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.The beauty of Barichara and Guatapé.Tips on safety and affordabil...
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 life in another country, this episode offers a relatable and ligh...
Join us as we explore the pitfalls that even experienced Spanish learners like Jim encounter, from tricky subjunctive usage to gender agreement issues. We’ll not only pinpoint where Jim slips up but also offer insights on how to avoid these mistakes yourself. Whether you're struggling with similar challenges or just want to refine your Spanish, this episode will help you speak more naturally and confidently.Key Takeaways:The importance of correctly using the subjunctive mood in Spanish.How to...
During our stay in Bogotá, we discovered fascinating aspects of the city’s culture, including its history, climate, and unique Spanish dialect. We talk about the vibrant Chapinero neighborhood, local fruits like lulo and feijoa, and the special words and phrases that make Colombian Spanish stand out. You'll also hear about cultural events like the Septimazo, the meaning behind terms like "rolo" and "pola," and some tips on navigating the local dining scene, including how to handle payments at...
Join us as we share a lighthearted conversation about eggcorns, malapropisms, and folk etymology. We explore how linguistic slip-ups—like confusing "Alzheimer's disease" with "old-timers disease" or "in one fell swoop" with "in one foul swoop"—become part of everyday language. We'll also take you through some amusing Spanish examples, from national anthem mix-ups to everyday misunderstandings. This episode is all about embracing the fun side of language evolution, reminding us that making mis...
Michael Babb, affectionately known as Babbs, shares his inspiring journey from being a hesitant Spanish speaker to confidently using the language in everyday situations. Listen to his experiences from our immersion retreats in Oaxaca and Guanajuato, and learn how he overcame his fear of making mistakes to fully embrace the language. Babs’ story is a testament to the power of perseverance and offers valuable insights for anyone looking to improve their Spanish skills.Key Takeaways:Overcoming t...
Join us as we explore the controversial topic of learning Spanish while sleeping. We discuss two scientific studies suggesting the potential for sleep learning and emphasize the crucial role of sleep in consolidating information. Discover our own experiment, where we combine a soothing audio recording with a pre-sleep study routine, and hear our thoughts on the importance of active practice and study. Tune in to find out if you can really learn a language in your sleep and how you can apply t...
We dive into Bogotá's unique charm, from its moderate temperatures to its vibrant international food scene. Learn about the city's bustling social events, including language exchanges and cultural fairs, and enjoy our insights into the walkable, green neighborhood of Chapinero. Plus, hear how Bogotá's historical tours and well-connected airport enhance our travels. This episode is packed with practical tips and cultural insights for anyone interested in Colombia.Key Takeaways:How Bogotá’s mod...
In this episode, we explore the intriguing story of Gran Colombia, a political entity envisioned by Simón Bolívar to unify South American territories into a powerful state. We'll discuss the motivations behind this ambitious project, the internal and external challenges it faced, and the legacy of Bolívar's dream. By understanding the complexities of Gran Colombia, you will gain insights into the historical and cultural factors that continue to shape South America today.Key Takeaways:Discover...
Discover the true story behind the legend of El Dorado, a tale that has fascinated explorers and treasure hunters for centuries. We'll discuss the Muisca people's golden rituals, how the Spanish conquistadors embellished the myth, and the cultural misunderstandings that fueled its enduring allure. This episode offers insights into the historical and cultural significance of El Dorado, revealing why it remains a powerful metaphor for unattainable wealth and human ambition.Key Takeaways:Learn a...
loading