Health Benefits of Learning a Second Language
It seems inevitable that at this time of year we lean towards self-reflection - what was, and what will be. For many of us, focusing on improving our health and well-being comes to the top of the list. The obvious go-to's are to fill the veggie crisper and sign up to a new gym membership. While there's so much attention given to the health of our bodies, have you ever given as much thought to the health of your brain and your relationships?
We're all hoping to live a long, happy, healthy life - but a fit mind and strong connections are just as essential ingredients for that recipe! Read on to learn about the protective mechanisms and health benefits of learning a second language!
Christmas traditions in the Spanish speaking world!
It's beginning to look a lot like Navidad! But what exactly does that look like in Spanish-speaking countries?
Get your Hispanic Christmas cheer on!
'Trick or Trial?' The Witch Hunt for Meigas and Sorginak
With the spooky season upon us, here are two bewitching tales from Northern Spain to get you in the Halloween spirit. Witches have always been a popular element of northern Spanish folklore, particularly in the regions of Galicia, Asturias and the Basque Country, a land where the mountains are high, the mist is thick, and there are plenty of caves for covens - the perfect recipe for witchcraft to thrive!
Slang and Profanity!
Spanish speakers have invented many vibrant expressions to convey strong emotions and paint colourful pictures. Some come from religion or relate to food or body parts, while others are just plain funny or absurd.
Even if you don't plan on using slang or profanity, it sure is helpful to know what others are saying - especially in high-stress situations! It's also essential to know the strength and cultural differences of the words you're using. Google translate can't help you with this!
It's time to let loose some "tacos" (swear words)! Here is a small selection to whet your appetite our new Slang & Profanity Workshop!
Podcasts, in Spanish!
Podcasts can be seriously entertaining, funny, informative - and a wonderful resource for practising your Spanish!
Check out El Patio's Spanish podcast recommendations. There's something for every level!
How to study in Spain for FREE
One of the benefits of being a student at El Patio is being able to connect with the Hispanic world here, in Melbourne. But sometimes these benefits stretch a little further abroad.
Any student at El Patio can apply for a scholarship to Valladolid in Spain for 1 or 2 weeks. Read this article to find out more!
Hints and Guidelines for Zoom classes!
We're really pleased to be able to keep our classes going during the COVID-19 period. Online (Zoom) classes are now the norm for the moment.
For the best online class experience, we've laid out a set of guidelines, from both the tech point of view - as well as best behaviours!
Champeta - What's the hype? / Champeta - ¿Por qué tanto bombo?
One of the most rewarding aspects about studying Spanish is the opportunity it offers to engage with Hispanic cultures from across the world.
Let Naira, one of our staff from Colombia, tell you all about 'Champeta' - a dance style that burst onto the world stage in February this year. As you find yourself spending more time inside and in need of new exercise ideas, why not try the Champeta ​Challenge at home!
Know your Arepa
The Arepa is a traditional flat corn cake that you can eat for breakfast, lunch and/or dinner, making it an essential food for many. It can be fried, baked, fried and baked, grilled or steamed. It can be a side or a main, have fillings or toppings, making it without a doubt one of the most versatile Latin-American dishes.
The Free 'El Patio ESSENTIALS' language sheets
As a supplement to your study materials, El Patio is producing a serious series of useful language sheets, covering key grammar topics and tenses in clear and straightforward language to help you as you learn.
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Gift Voucher $200
Easy! Surprise your Spanish-learning friends, family or colleagues with a Gift Voucher. This voucher could be used toward a course fee or even texts. Once you have purchased your voucher, please El Patio of the…
