El caballo en América

How did horses get to the Americas? When did they arrive, and from where? With this blog, we open an exciting, new category entitled 'Things you didn't learn in history books'. This opens up a range of possibilities, so El Patio would like to invite both teachers and students to contribute. Read the blog and then find out how to participate - there will be cash rewards!

Nicaragua, Land of Poets

On of our admin team, Sasha, takes a look at how the tiny nation of Nicaragua has made itself known around the world for its poetry - famous figures, fascinating history and beautiful prose abound!

Patagonia, 1994

Need some distraction? Here Nick Tapp (a long-term El Patio student) tells the story of his amazing mountain climbing adventure in Patagonia in 1994. It makes us want to start planning the next trip!
(PS: if you need a very good editor, check Nick's site: www.detail-ed.com.au)

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!

With the Strength of the Sun Andean Carnival - Carnaval Andino con la Fuerza del Sol

The annual International Andean Carnival called, 'With the Strength of the Sun', is one of the most important in Latin America. Learn more about this unique celebration of the Andean culture of northern Chile, Peru and Bolivia.

El Patio Photography Competition 2020

Calling out to all Instagram fanatics, travel photography whizz-kids and landscape framing afficionados - here's your chance to get more than just 'likes' on Instagram for your efforts! Enter into our photography competition and we will display your beautiful piece for an entire month in both of our centres AND you could win a whole 15 hour course!

To make it both more fun and fair - the winner will be selected by popular vote: a people's choice award!

Read how to enter here! (It's super easy)

Meandering along el Camino de Santiago

In late 2015, Chris (one of our admin team) and his partner, walked el Camino de Santiago. Here he provides a brief history of the pilgrimage, recounts some of his experiences and offers some advice for those planning on undertaking the long walk across Spain.

Winners of our Photo Competition revealed!

In Term 1 this year El Patio launched it's first annual photography competition - the results surpassed all expectations! Read on to see all of the participants' photos as well as the People's Choice Top 5.

One of Our Teachers Wrote a Travelogue!

Meet Andrés Treviño (if you haven't already met him in class)! Andrés is one of El Patio's teachers - but also, a traveller and a writer.

In his book 'Fragmentos del paisaje', Andrés invites us to share his experiences throughout a year of travelling through Latin America; past the beautiful postcards and brochures and into the lives of the locals. Through his eyes and ears be a witness to the amazing moments, and raw truths of Latin America.

Read the inspiration behind and enter the competition to win one of four copies of 'Fragmentos del paisaje'!

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:

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