The Surprising Benefits of Being a Beginner

What is it to be a beginner? Is it something we get to leave behind? And if not, then how might the attitude of being a beginner help us as we learn?

The Mysterious Origins of South America's Favourite Cocktail

The Pisco Sour is the type of tipple you give someone who usually wouldn't order a cocktail. When made right, it's not too strong with the perfect balance of sweet and sour - delicious.

But like anything fabulous in this world, there is a bitter dispute over ownership. Both Peru and Chile are adamant the Pisco Sour is their national drink.

Latin music heaven this weekend!

The Night Cat (137 Johnston St, Fitzroy) will be synced up with the Johnston St Hispanic Fiesta this weekend, November 18-19, 2016, putting on a festival of its own.

El adiós de Anisa (B2-C2)

Ana's latest story takes place during the final moments of Moorish Spain - in 1492 - a time when the world was changing fast. Written for students at advanced levels, it follows the exile of a young woman named Anisa, her hopes for her family of birth, but also the love she has found with her new kin.

Ana has crafted the story to reflect the time in which it is set, using words and expressions that trace the origins of Spanish we use today (if you look closely you'll see where of the terms ustedes and ojalá come from).

A beautiful story for anyone with an interest in the history of the Spanish language and in this pivotal point in the history of Spain.

What to expect on your first trip to Bolivia

Most first-timers to Bolivia say they have a love-hate relationship with this troubled country. Bolivia is the least developed country in South America. And it's true: there are many dangers but there are also some pretty wonderful and unique opportunities. It is a country with hundreds of worthy tourist attractions, but a nation not quite set up for tourism yet.

Here are just some of the things to expect:

Hay vs Está/Están (A1-B1)

Is there any …? Where is the …?

Do you get confused when asking trying to ask either of these questions? Differentiating is easy when you know why to use either Hay or Está/Están.

Where to Start? A Beginners Guide!

Not sure where to start? Stress less! We've got you covered with all our different beginners courses.

Use this guide to help you choose the right class to suit your goals, schedule and lifestyle!

I Learn Spanish! … Yisoo Choi

Meet Yisoo from South Korea. Back in boarding school in the United States, Yisoo befriended many Latin Americans. As she listened to them speak to one another she developed a passion for the Spanish language that carries on to this day. Infact - she is preparing to use her Spanish to continue her studies in Spain! Read about Yisoo's Spanish learning journey, her tips and her future plans.

Spanish through Song - Me gustas tú (A1/A2)

Music touches us. It's a universal language that needs no translation. Language and music share stuff - rhythm, melody, pitch, volume, tone, pauses, stops.

Spanish through Song explores the artist, the lyrics and why you should incorporate it in your learning routine.

Let's look at Manu Chau's "Me gustas tú" - perhaps THE MOST USED SONG in Spanish language classes all over the world.

I Learn Spanish! … Jenny Lee

El Patio student Jenny Lee is currently in Upper Intermediate 5 (B1), and here she talks about her Spanish learning experiences. Get to know the thoughts and processes involved, first hand, one of our determined students.

Subscribe to our newsletter!

Each month we'll send you Spanish language tips, practice exercises, useful links, special offers and fun upcoming events.

View past newsletters


Join our online community!

Become our friend on facebook or follow us on twitter. Connect with us and become part of our online spanish community.