The third international Spanish language conference (III Congreso Internacional del Español), taking place this year in Salamanca from June 26 – 28, promises to offer participants the valuable opportunity to make contacts with employers in fields related to Spanish. Conference organizers assert that Spanish is becoming a catalyst for a “cultural industry”, and this event provides a forum for exploring the latest research, news and trends related to Spanish as it is used and taught around the world. Salamanca’s counselor of culture and tourism has confirmed that over 500 people from nearly 40 different countries have already registered to attend the conference.

The conference’s website features a section entitled “area de ofertas de empleo” that is of particular interest to job seekers looking for work in fields that require Spanish skills such as teaching and translating. The section lists over 100 jobs offers from countries around the world including the US, India, and Australia.

A full program of events are lined up for the three day conference which includes lectures and round table discussions on second language acquisition and learning Spanish. A special focus will be placed on how new technology is affecting the field of teaching with talks on subjects like the use of digital books, wikis and interactive whiteboards. Maria Angeles Mayor from the University of Salamanca’s psychology department will also present teaching material for children.  The Association of Castile and Leon Schools will put on a workshop entitled how to organize a study abroad program in Castile and Leon.  Events are also scheduled to discuss the way Spanish as a foreign language education is developing in other countries such as Kenya, Brazil and Germany.

Information on accommodation options for those interested in attending the conference is also available on the website. The conference itself will take place at Salamanca’s Palacio de Congresos. This is the third edition of the conference which is put on by the junta de Castilla y León with special participation from the Cervantes Institute. Earlier editions were held in 2008 and 2010.

Spanish studies in Salamanca

The city of Salamanca has a long-standing tradition of attracting Spanish language students from around the world given its lively university atmosphere and rich historical scenery. The Universidad de Salamanca was founded in 1218, making it Spain’s oldest university and one of the oldest in Europe. Moreover, the Spanish spoken here is known as being one of the country’s most standard varieties of the language. The city is an engaging vacation destination and an ideal setting for an international conference of this type.

The Third International Spanish Language conference is an exciting opportunity for anyone interesting in networking with international professionals to broaden their career possibilities and gaining valuable insight into the latest research, methods and approaches in fields related to Spanish.    

So, you are travelling to Spain, the land of beautiful culture and lovely people. While your trip might give you butterflies in the stomach, the very idea of eating in Spain might not appeal to your vegetarian tastes. Of course, it isn’t impossible to find something to eat in a land known for its ham and meat. Nothing spoils a trip more than food that is below par. Worry not, because, contrary to popular belief, Spain is also the land of hidden delights for vegetarians.

Madrid, Seville, Granada, and Barcelona must be your top spots to visit. Fortunately, these are also the places where you can find good vegetarian restaurants to make your trip even more enjoyable. 

Madrid

The city of Madrid is breath-taking with its adrenaline charged bullfighting and the picturesque Manzanares River. The food isn’t far behind either. Here are some restaurants vegetarians should watch out for: 

1. La Isla Del Tesoro, Bilbao – Walking into this restaurant is like walking into your dream garden and having lunch in it. There is a lot of variety for vegetarians to choose from. One of the favourites is the “Jungle Burger” but that isn’t quite the most surprising item in the great menu. They take a national cuisine as their theme every day and centre their menu around it, which makes every day a surprise.

2. Restaurante Vega Viana, Chueca – Gorge on zucchini burritos that come with Manchengo cheese and carrot croquettes that are served with yoghurt cream and sultanas. The menu is in English, and it has options for your carnivore eating friends as well.

3. El Estragón, La Latina - Every vegetarian tourist swears by this restaurant and it is, undoubtedly, one of the best vegetarian places in Madrid to eat. Another great thing is the affordability of the restaurant that makes matters even better. They do use butter in their dishes, though, so vegans might need to ask if they can cook them in oil.

Barcelona

This colourful city and the gentle Mediterranean are slowly embracing vegetarian food. The little vegetarian places cropping up everywhere are an indication. There are a lot of fun options for you to explore here: 

1. La Bascula – This eco restaurant uses everything organic, from its juices to its food. The eating utensils and plates are bio degradable. The food is to die for as the desserts are homemade and the meals are immensely satisfying. 

2. Teresa Carles – It’s like walking into New York with its wooden tables and neat interiors. The restaurant has a huge variety for vegetarians as well as the meat eaters if you are in a group and the food is traditional and tasty. 

3. Vegetalia – This place is calm and when you’re in it, you want to do nothing but quietly sip your smoothie while standing on the terrace. However, if you do have time, the food is great and exotic. The vegetable paella has many fans and the tofu tempura is delicious as well. 

Granada

The weather is lovely here, and the mood is forever hippie. Just lay back and enjoy the small and lazy city with its gorgeous food. Most restaurants have options for both vegetarians and Vegans, and here are a few places to look out for: 

1. HICURI – A fully Vegetarian restaurant. There are also options for vegans on the menu. You can choose from the prix fixe and a-la-carte options. It is prudent for tourists working on a tight budget to choose prix fixe and their lasagne is a speciality. Beer and Tapa dishes combined are €1.80.  The cream soup and chocolate cake are a favourite for everyone and you should definitely try them. 

2. Muglia II – Are you missing Indian food in Spain? This restaurant serves authentic Naan and Indian curry for Indian food lovers who appreciate the spice palate. Even foodies who know Indian food appreciate this place for its great meals.

3. Hannigan & Sons – This is a nice Irish pub and you can hang out here with your friends and sip on an ice cold beer, or try their Veggie burger with fries, which is filling and delicious. For a list of vegetarian beers in Spain visit here.

Seville

You’ll find quite a few nice places here: 

1. Almanara Restaurant – The décor at this place is minimalistic and the food is anything but that. Treat your taste buds with gorgeous and fresh dishes and have generous helpings of goat cheese. 

2. Gaia Restaurant – The food used is organic and there are options for vegans. You must try the hummus and the cream tomato soup if you visit this place.

Knowing a few good vegetarian places to eat might make your trip better, if you would like to find more restaurants across Spain you can also use Happy Cow; they have a huge database of Vegetarian and vegan eateries.  Enjoy in Spain, the place that taught the world how to have fun and if you are a Vegetarian in Spain and want to venture out to a new country see these Vegetarian options around the world.

Preeti Vadgama is a lifelong Vegetarian who likes to write about the best Vegetarian places to eat around the world. She works for HostelBookers.com in London.

Protecting biodiversity

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization created the world network of biospheres program in the 1970’s to reduce the loss of Earth’s biodiversity. The program focuses on selecting places where local communities interact closely with the environment to adopt sustainable development practices. Sites designated as biosphere reserves serve as models for other communities in implementing innovative approaches to conserving biological and cultural diversity. There are currently 621 reserves located around the world.

Spain is unique in that its physical space is relatively small compared to the other countries listed as having the most biosphere reserves. Russia is the largest country in the world in terms of area and the US is the fourth largest while Spain ranks 52^nd. The high density of areas in Spain recognized by UNESCO’s MaB program as “sites of excellence” for managing natural and human activity attests to the rich diversity of carefully conserved biological landscapes there. Its vast lands of protected wildlife make Spain an ideal destination for ecotourism, where visitors can experience life in peaceful rural destinations and gain personal insight into these communities’ successful partnerships with nature.

Spain’s 3 new UNESCO biosphere reserves

Terres de l’Ebre in Tarragona is on the northeast coast of Spain. About 190,000 people live in this area, which features numerous coastal and inland ecosystems. Energy technology from wind, water and solar sources has also been developed here in a special effort to protect the stunning local landscape.

La granja y el espinar (Segovia) is located in the Sierra de Guadarrama, a central Spain mountain range that extends nearly 80 km north to south and ends close to Madrid. This wooded region is home to about 14,000 people, various centers for forest research, and small scale agricultural activity.

Mariñas Coruñesas e Terras do Mandeo is on Galicia’s northeastern Atlantic coast, an area that includes 18 towns and where rural communities pay special attention to sustainable development.

Other reserves in Spain: Reserves in Spain are scattered throughout the country and include island landscapes such as La Gomera on the Canary Islands to woodland areas like Las Ubiñas - La Mesa Reserve in Asturias, which provides a natural habitat for the Eurasion brown bear. The Sierra Nevada near the city of Granada is the highest mountain chain on the Iberian Peninsula and was added to the world network of biosphere reserves given its ancient monuments of Roman and Arab origin, unique architecture, and popular festivals that attract over one million visitors every year.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Spain

Spain also has a long list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites including the entire old town of certain cities such as Salamanca, with its historical and scenic architectural landscapes. Some Spanish traditions have also been listed on UNESCO’s list of intangible world heritage, including flamenco, the Mediterranean diet, and Catalonia’s curious castells performances, in which teams of traditionally dressed castelleres stand on top of one another’s shoulders to create incredible human towers.

The local government of the Spanish autonomous community Castile and Leon has recently released a recipe book that showcases the most celebrated dishes of the region, an area with a reputation for pleasing the palates of even its most food-fussy visitors. The book, entitled Jornadas Gastronómicas de Castilla y León, offers anyone planning a trip there a tantalizing sneak preview of the rich culinary landscapes they can expect to explore. Spanish cooking has in very general terms grown in popularity around the world, and there is no better way to find out why than by journeying to its place of origin.  If you haven’t already booked your trip to Spain, the succulent creations sumptuously displayed throughout this handsome book seem to beg the question “what are you still waiting for?”

The book’s introduction presents cooking in the region as a cultural aspect of “enormous” value, and goes on to point out that Castile and Leon includes great culinary diversity and varied cooking traditions. Delve deeper into the book’s interior and prepare for generous rations of appetizing images to leave your tummy craving western Spain’s yummiest entrees, sides, and desserts. Nineteen carefully selected recipes are broken down into five categories: main dishes, meals eaten with a spoon, fish, meats, and desserts.

The cover feature is Castilian soup served up piping hot in an earthenware pot, garnished with a slice of jamón ibérico. This, along with other hearty offerings such as Judiones de La Granja estofados con escabeche de pavo (a butter bean stew with pickled turkey and a dash of saffron) are designed to warm chilly eaters during Castile and Leon’s cool months. Flip ahead to the desserts and check out Burgos-style cheese cake flanked by red berry sauce and sweet chestnuts. Also find here Crema de arroz con leche en texturas (rice cream with milk in textures), a zesty zinger of a sweet treat that calls for lemon and orange peels and cinnamon.

If you’re planning on preparing some of these Castile and Leon offerings, finding the ingredients at your neighborhood supermarket may prove an impossible challenge. You’ll likely have to substitute items such as Ribera del Duero red wine and Valladolid olive oil with more generic varieties or brands specific to different regions.

A modern twist on traditional Castilian dishes

Many of these recipes put a modern twist on traditional Castilian dishes and capture the historical flavor of this region splashed with an updated edge; fresh new takes on firmly established classics that will appease the demanding appetites of a wide array of diners, from picky gourmets to easy to please foodies.

The book closes by suggesting that in one getaway to Castile and Leon you’ll see the world, a statement nearly as bold as the 19 recipes presented in this feastival of fantastic flavors. That declaration is accompanied by scenic images of each one of the autonomous community’s provinces, where the crenulated parapets of Avila’s medieval city wall and the tiered arches of Segovia’s Roman aqueduct remind many readers that their experiences enjoying traditional Castilian dining concepts in Spain will be back-dropped by spectacular panoramas of monument studded Spanish landscapes. 

Two institutions, the Centro de Estudios Cervantinos and the Fundación Biblioteca Virtual Miguel de Cervantes are joining forces to present all of Cervantes’ most important literary works online by the end of this year. The groups have announced that the online library will not only feature over 6,000 printed pages of material, but also 17,000 illustrations from various editions of Cervantes’ historic novel Don Quijote de la Mancha (1605) that have been printed over the centuries. The Biblioteca Virtual Miguel de Cervantes, which already includes a digital edition of Don Quijote, will also offer translations of Cervantes’ work into various languages.

Organizers hope that the library will continue growing after they have finished their work, and they encourage collaboration with other organizations that may have documents related to the life and literature of Cervantes.   

A valuable resource for Spanish learners

The Biblioteca Virtual Miguel de Cervantes is a valuable resource for Spanish learners and anyone interested in Spain’s rich literary history. This virtual library maintained by the University of Alicante offers the most extensive free access digital archive of Spanish language literature on the internet. Users will find a seemingly endless collection of texts, audio recordings and videos of literature in Spanish from some of Spain’s most celebrated authors such as Góngora and Quevedo to other classic writers such William Shakespeare.

The website also features separate libraries that focus on the work of an individual author such as Pablo Neruda and Mario Benedetti. Check out the Biblioteca de literature infantil y juvenile and find countless works such as Grimm’s fairy tales along with recordings of popular kids’ stories. In the section entitled Lengua, you’ll also find practical reference books such as grammar guides put together by the Royal Spanish Academy, dictionaries, and essays on the origins of the language. One more highlight of the library is the Biblioteca de Signos, the world’s first general library in sign language. Users can find numerous poems and stories signed in Spanish sign language (LSE), along with a dictionary of LSE.

As you already know, Pinterest is a social network, a tool designed for helping you organize and share things that you like or that interest you.

For example, you can create boards and organize them by topics, hobbies, experiences... and from there you can organize your daily life. You can also see other people's boards and share experiences and interests with them by repinning them and marking them as "like".

At don Quijote, we´ve created a notice board for each city and for every one of our Spanish schools, where you can share photos, places of interest, fun facts about cities, classes... We've also created a general board where you can find useful resources such as grammar and vocabulary diagrams, interesting facts about the Spanish speaking world...

Our address is pinterest.com/dquijoteschool

We've picked out our top five photos from all those that have been shared:

We invite you to come visit our board and check out all our pins.

We'll see you on Pinterest!

The University of Guadalajara is putting on the 3^rd annual Spanish language book fair of Los Angeles (LéaLA) at the L.A. Convention Center from the 17^th to the 19^th of May. Organizers of the fair, the largest of its kind in the US, aim to strengthen the Spanish language in the country, particularly among the children of its Latino community. They expect record turn out this year, planning to attract over one hundred thousand book enthusiasts and more than 300 publishers including the Penguin group and Random House. 

Besides an impressive list of over 200 book booths, 90 authors are also scheduled to offer book signings, presentations and readings. Although most of the authors are Mexican, writers and readers of all backgrounds are encouraged to participate in the free event. Chilean rock star Beto Cuevas, of the group La Ley, will be on hand to discuss his new book entitled The Art of Being Beto Cuevas, and American best-selling author Nicholas Sparks will talk about literary translation. Other participating authors include Paco Ignacio, Beatriz Riva and Daniel Krauze.

Marisol Schulz, the director of the fair, is also director of the hugely successful International Book Fair of Guadalajara in Mexico. One of her goals has been to attract greater international attention to L.A.’s book fair, and especially from Latin American countries beyond Mexico.  She has already confirmed that members of both Argentina and Colombia’s camaras del libro (trade associations for those in the book industry) will be in attendance this year.

The fair will also pay special homage to the Mexican literary legend Carlos Fuentes and to the widely celebrated Mexican American singer Jenni Rivera, both of whom died last year. Carlos Fuentes’ widow Silvia Lemus will also participate in the tribute to her late husband.

Over 100 Activities to explore Ibero-American Traditions

Over 100 activities are also scheduled for the popular childrens’ area, where kids and parents will get to explore Ibero-American traditions and the rich artwork of the Mexican Muralists. Activities include entertaining and educational stage performances about folk legends from a variety of Latin American regions. A number of childrens’ workshops designed to promote bilingualism have also been scheduled, where kids will hear tales of the plumed serpent Quetzalcoatl and play traditional Mexican games. The group Zaikocirco will also offer entertaining circus performances and puppet shows. Over 40% of last year’s visitors brought their kids, a promising statistic for the future of the Spanish language in the US.

Visitors will also get the chance to see lectures and participate in forums and panel discussions, where a wide range of topics to be discussed include the challenges of distributing and selling Spanish language books in the US, and the history of the city of Tijuana. That city itself is booked as the event’s guest of honor this year.  

Although the main purpose of the book festival has been to promote Spanish-language literature and celebrate Latino heritage, event organizers soon discovered their growing venue was also offering a profitable space for booksellers, filling a clear void in the book industry. 80% of visitors made purchases at last year’s fair. 

The excitement of immersing oneself in a new language and culture as a study abroad student isn’t just reserved for the 20 something crowd. It’s never too late; in fact anytime after 50 can be an ideal age to take the cultural plunge. Many programs even offer specialized courses specifically designed for folks over 50. If that’s you, here are 5 reasons you should get in on the study abroad action.   

1. It may be the most practical time in life

Seeing the world and experiencing a different culture through a study abroad course takes the type of free time many younger adults just don’t have. Too often, people feel like they missed their chance to live in the country of their dreams once they assumed career and parenting responsibilities. Others, who’ve always cherished lifelong memories of a study abroad course they took in college, mistakenly believe that these types of experiences belong only to a romantic and carefree time enjoyed earlier in life, a time they’ve passed on like an Olympic torch to new generations of lucky whippersnappers. People over 50 however are more likely to have stable careers that may allow for extended periods off and older children that may have even moved out of the house. Adults over 65 and eligible for retirement have even fewer excuses not to choose their country and embark on a fantastic international adventure.  

 2. Build your ability to adapt, stay young longer

The ability to adapt seems to be one of the personality traits most shared by the super aged, seniors that stay healthy and function mentally and physically at levels characteristic of people decades younger. Adapting to your host country while making new friends and discovering new passions is an invigorating challenge that can help you stay younger, longer. Numerous studies also confirm that learning a language exercises the brain in ways that keep it strong, elastic and healthy and prevent diseases such as Alzheimer’s. We’ve all heard the expression “use it or lose it”, and the brain is certainly no exception.

3. A rewarding experience at any age

Who said you have to be a certain age to relax on the beach in Mexico between Spanish classes or hit the tapas bars in Spain with classmates? There’s no law, written or unwritten, that says you can’t break away from the routine and take a semester abroad at any age. Mature students are generally more used to the independence, have clearer goals, and have a stronger ability to focus on studies than their younger counter parts. Gaining intimate insight into the rich cultural heritage of a foreign country is always a valuable experience.

4. An important time for personal reflection

Removing yourself from your familiar environment can allow you to objectionably observe your life. Getting to know classmates from around the globe and sharing your own culture and view of the world can teach you about who you are, an opportunity that may have special meaning for students over 50. If you’ve always considered searching for a new direction in life, or reinventing yourself in some way, taking a study abroad course will give you the chance to make exciting personal discoveries that will help you fulfill those types of goals.   

5. Courses designed for seniors and students over 50

Caballero Bonald

On receiving the award, the 86 year old Caballero Bonald exclaimed that earning the prize has been the most satisfying achievement of his career and a source of pride and honor. He went on to explain that reading frees human beings and that art and literature provide therapeutic power to a society that is disappointed, perplexed and insulted by a crisis of values.  

The author is best known for his poetry, of which notable works include Laberinto de Fortuna and Las horas muertas. Vivir para contarlo is an anthology of his poetry written until 1969. His work often treats social issues of Spain’s post civil-war period, and he is associated with a group of writers called the Generation of 1950 who opposed Franco’s dictatorial regime. In the late 60’s he stayed in Cuba for a time and wrote Narrativa Cubana de la revolución.  In 1968, he was briefly jailed for political reasons. The Cervantes Award recipient also spent a total of 10 years as a professor of Spanish literature in Colombia and in the United States. 

 Caballero Bonald, who calls himself “discontinuo e intermitente”, has described poetry as an instrument for nonconformity. On offering the writer the award, Prince Felipe also pointed out that nonconformity has been a key element of his work.

Besides poetry, he has also written novels including Dos días de septiembre, and a number of essays, of particular interest to anyone wanting to know more about Spanish culture, such as España: fiestas y ritos and Luces y sombras del flamenco. He also spent many years as a professor of Hispanic literature in Colombia and the United States and has had extensive contact with Latin American writers, all of which has influenced his work. His father was Cuban and his mother French, further reflecting the writer’s international influences.    

Past winners of the Cervantes Award include two writers that went on to win the Nobel Prize for Literature (Octavio Paz and Mario Vargas Llosa).  Judges choose winners from Spain and Latin American, usually alternating each year between the two regions. Nicanor Parra, from Chile, won the previous Cervantes Award. 

En primavera renace la naturaleza y todo en ella nos invita a zambullirnos y salir a renovar nuestros lazos con el planeta que nos acoge. Una renovación vital y una recarga de energía se imponen en estos días previos al esplendor del verano. Te vamos a llevar a diez paisajes que pueden inspirarte y darte un "subidón" de energía positiva en estos días.

10 Destinos increíbles donde se habla español

1. Los Picos de Europa

Este macizo montañoso situado en el centro de la Cordillera Cantábrica, en el norte de la península ibérica, que se derrama entre Asturias, Cantabria y León, atesora algunas de las cumbres más emblemáticas en la escalada española.

El Naranjo de Bulnes, uno de los picos más conocidos de este entorno, es considerado por los escaladores como el lugar donde nació este deporte en España.

Sus más de 64.000 hectáreas de extensión ofrecen unos paisajes inolvidables que nos acercan un poco más al cielo… en todos los aspectos.

2. El Generalife

En Granada, la ciudad donde el esplendor de la cultura musulmana llegó a sus más altas cotas en España, aparentemente escondido tras la mole de la Alhambra, el Generalife es un remanso de tranquilidad y equilibrio entre los jardines, los edificios destinados a residencia veraniega de los califas y los paseos que lo unen con las estancias principales.

Una isla de calma y frescor en la que dejarse llevar por la sonoridad permanente del agua en movimiento y los perfumes de las plantas aromáticas y las flores omnipresentes.

3. Las cataratas del Iguazú

En la confluencia entre Argentina y Brasil y a tiro de piedra de la línea fronteriza con Paraguay, son uno de los conjuntos naturales más impresionantes que se puedan imaginar.

Sus 275 saltos han sido reconocidos como una de las siete maravillas naturales del mundo y el fragor del agua que cae se escucha desde kilómetros de distancia.

El Parque Nacional Iguazú, en Argentina, y el Parque Nacional de Iguaçu, en Brasil, protegen este ecosistema único que nos hará sentir la fuerza y poder que la Madre Naturaleza esconde.

4. El Glaciar Perito Moreno

Situado en un Parque Nacional Los Glaciares, en el extremo sur de la Patagonia argentina y cerca de la localidad de El Calafate es uno de los glaciares más impresionantes que aún se pueden observar hoy día.

Este enorme río de hielo se extiende por un frente de 5 kilómetros y alcanza una altura sobre el mar de más de 60 metros, desprende una enorme y constante masa de icebergs que producen un intenso sonido al desprenderse de la morrena del glaciar. Es un entorno privilegiado para la observación de cetáceos como las ballenas y una de las más importantes reservas de agua dulce que quedan en el planeta.

5. Montserrat

A unos 50 kilómetros al norte de Barcelona encontramos un paraje sorprendente: el macizo de Montserrat (Monte Serrado en castellano, debido al aspecto que la erosión ha ido dejando en las montañas que lo componen). Es la montaña más representativa de Cataluña y acoge el monasterio benedictino dedicado a la Virgen de Montserrat, centro de peregrinación de los catalanes.

La Moreneta, patrona de Cataluña, es una talla de estilo románico que, según la leyenda, apareció en el año 880 milagrosamente en ese lugar y que, al intentar transportarla fuera de su entorno, se hizo tan pesada que era inamovible, lo que mostró a los que la hallaron la voluntad de la Virgen de permanecer allí, donde se construyó la capilla que dio origen al monasterio actual.

6. Las Cuevas de Altamira

Desde que fue descubierta casualmente por un cazador en 1868, esta cueva, que fue habitada desde hace más de 35.000 años, muestra uno de los espectáculos más impresionantes del arte rupestre del Paleolítico superior.

Muchos la han llamado "La Capilla Sixtina del Arte Rupestre" por la belleza, complejidad y abundancia de las pinturas que en ella encontramos y que nos hacen echar la mirada hacia nuestros ancestros.

Siempre vale la pena el viaje por los hermosos paisajes de Santillana del Mar, la localidad cántabra en cuyo municipio se encuentra la cueva, para llegar a disfrutar de la armonía de los dibujos y la presencia de la memoria hecha arte primigenio.

7. La Cueva del Viento

En la volcánica isla de Tenerife, en las proximidades de la ciudad de Icod de los Vinos encontramos este ejemplo de la inmensa fuerza telúrica de los volcanes que formaron el archipiélago canario.

La Cueva del Viento es el tubo volcánico más largo de la Unión Europea y el cuarto de más longitud a nivel mundial, con 17 kilómetros. Introducirse en el interior del volcán, observando el camino labrado por la lava líquida que formó este tubo volcánico nos ayuda a entender la majestuosidad del trabajo de ingenieros que la Naturaleza puede realizar y nos estremece imaginando el rugir de la roca líquida corriendo por el lugar por el que nosotros paseamos en el perfecto silencio del corazón del Teide con la única melodía de nuestra respiración y el resonar de los latidos de un corazón emocionado.

8. La Ciudad Encantada

En las cercanías de Valdecabras, en el término municipal de Cuenca, y a una altura de unos 1.500 metros encontramos este paraje, producto de la erosión de la lluvia y el viento sobre el suelo rocoso que con toda corrección se conoce como Ciudad Encantada.

Desde 1929 es un Sitio Natural de Interés Nacional y las formaciones rocosas nos hacen pensar que hemos entrado en un paisaje mágico, en el que cualquier cosa puede ocurrir, y en el que descubriremos formas que despiertan nuestra imaginación para encontrar los animales y monstruos que la roca esconde. Fue en este entorno, junto al Tormo Alto, una de las formaciones que ahora es el símbolo de este paraje, donde se dice que el cabecilla hispano Viriato, símbolo de la resistencia contra la dominación romana, fue incinerado.

9. Parque Nacional de Doñana

Este parque natural, con una extensión de casi 105.000 hectáreas y que ocupa parte de las provincias de Huelva, Sevilla y Cádiz, cuyo nombre proviene de Doña Ana de Silva, esposa del séptimo Duque de Medina Sidonia, original propietario de la zona, considerada en su origen como coto privado de caza, es un enclave natural de paisaje de marismas y dunas móviles que es un punto de parada en la migración de las aves europeas hacia África en invierno y del regreso de éstas en primavera.

Este santuario de vida natural acoge cada año a más de 300 especies de aves y algunas de las joyas de la naturaleza hispana, como es el caso del lince ibérico, en elevado peligro de extinción.

En sus límites se encuentra uno de los centros de devoción mariana más importantes de España: El Rocío, en la aldea de Almonte, que acoge cada año una peregrinación –por caminos estrictamente controlados- que congrega a más de un millón de fieles para visitar a la Virgen del Rocío.

10. La Alberca

En el ajetreado mundo de Internet y globalización, en el que la prisa parece haberse convertido en la norma vital para muchos de nosotros, La Alberca (o Valdelaguna), en el norte de la provincia de Salamanca, es un remanso de armonía, de historia y de conservación de las tradiciones.

Este pueblo de unos mil habitantes es como un museo etnográfico viviente, rodeado de bosques profundos y hermosísimos y de una arquitectura única es una isla de calma y armonía que hacen obligada la visita para todo aquel que se encuentre en las proximidades de Salamanca.

Photo thanks to: Max Westby, Granadadian Weirdo, Cadampol, Adry, Yishac, Turismo de Tenerife, Machbel, Rlasaosa, Fernando Cuenca, Turistas x Naturaleza

We want to take you to ten landscapes that we think are inspiring, uplifting and full of positive energy: from the glaciers in southern Argentina to the Peaks of Europe, and the Arabic gardens in Granada to the rich history of the Alberca cave… This week we have a special route for you designed to highlight the beauty of Mother Nature and the marvels made by mankind as you renew your interest in living life in Spanish. Let us guide you through our list of TopTen inspiring places in Spanish speaking countries where you will find harmony, balance and beauty that you will never forget.

10 Amazing places where people speak Spanish

1. Los Picos de Europa (Peaks of Europe)

This majestic mountain range is located in the center of the Cantabrian Mountains in the northern part of the Iberian Peninsula between the Autonomous Communities of Asturias, Cantabria and Leon.

A favorite destination for Spanish climbers, El Naranjo de Bulnes is one of the most popular peaks and is often considered as the birthplace of the sport of rock climbing in Spain.

With over 64,000 hectares of unforgettable landscapes, we recommend the Picos de Europa to anyone who wants to get just a little closer to heaven, in all aspects.

2. The Generalife Palace

Located in Granada, the Spanish city where the splendor of the Muslim culture reached its highest levels.

The Generalife, a royal summer getaway hidden away behind the massive Alhambra Palace, is a haven of tranquility and balance with its sprawling gardens, beautiful buildings and paths that run throughout the complex.

Stroll through the fresh and serene scenery while losing yourself in the sound of the moving water and the sweet aroma of the ubiquitous plants and flowers…

3. Iguazu Falls

In the junction between Argentina and Brazil and very close to the Paraguay border are some of the most impressive natural falls imaginable.

With 275 different waterfalls, the roar of falling water can be heard from miles away. It is no surprise that this magical place has been recognized as one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

Iguazú National Park, located in both Argentina and Brazil, offers protection to this unique ecosystem that exemplifies the strength and power that Mother Nature hides within.

4. Perito Moreno Glacier

Located in Los Glaciares National Park on the southern tip of Patagonia, Argentina, near the town of El Calafate, is one of the world's most impressive glaciers.

This huge river of ice is five kilometers wide and reaches a height of over 60 meters above sea level, where massive icebergs break off of the huge glacier and produce intense sounds.

The location is in a privileged area of the world where one can observe whales and other cetaceans in one of the largest fresh water reserves on the planet.

5. Montserrat

About 50 kilometers to the south of Barcelona we find a surprising place: the mountains of Montserrat (In Castilian, "Monte Serrado" due to the aspect that years of erosion have caused). It is the most representative mountain in Catalonia and home to a sacred monastery dedicated to the Virgin of Montserrat, a pilgrimage center of the Catalan people.

The Black Madonna (Moreneta), patron saint of Catalonia, is a Romanesque carving that, according to legend, miraculously appeared there in 880. When an attempt was made to move it from its place, it became so heavy that it was impossible to move. This seemed to prove to those who found it that it was the Virgen's will to stay there, where a chapel was built that would eventually evolve into the monastery that we see today.

6. Altamira Cave

This cave was inhabited for 35,000 years, and much later it was discovered by a hunter in 1868.

It showcases the most impressive cave art of the Upper Paleolithic period. Many have called Altamira "the Sistine Chapel of Prehistoric Art" due to its beauty, complexity and shear amount of pictures located inside. These prehistoric paintings inspire us to pay homage to our ancestors, an experience well worth the trip through the lovely landscapes of the Cantabrian town Santillana del Mar, where the cave is located.

Visit Altamira Cave and enjoy the harmony of these cave paintings, where you'll experience the memory of a primitive age through the artwork of its people.

7. The Wind Cave

The On the volcanic island of Tenerife, near the city of Icod de los Vinos, we can find an impressive example of the telluric force of the volcanoes that formed the Canary archipelago.

The Wind Cave, over 17 kilometers long, is the longest lava tube in the European Union and the fourth in the world. Upon entering the interior of the volcano you observe Mother Nature's majestic engineering work, which makes you shudder as you imagine the roar of liquid lava that once passed through the very spot where you stand now in perfect silence, in the heart of the Teide, where the only melody heard is that of your breathing and your excitedly beating heart...

8. Enchanted City

Near Valdecabras, in the province of Cuenca (Spain), at an elevation of about 1,500 meters is the location of our next site, the Enchanted City.

Carved out of the rocky ground from years of rain and wind erosion, these natural formationswere declared a Natural Site of National Interest in 1929.

The rock formations transport you to a magical landscape where anything is possible and your imagination finds hidden animals and monsters within the rocky shapes.

It is here, next to the Tormo Alto formation that is the symbol of the city, that Viriatus, the Spanish leader of the resistance against Roman rule, was cremated.

9. Doñana National Park

This natural park extends nearly 105,000 hectares, occupying parts of the provinces of Huelva, Seville and Cadiz. The name originated from the name "Doña" (Mrs.) Ana de Silva, wife of the seventh Duke of Medina Sidonia, original owner of the land which he used as private hunting grounds. The natural enclave is home to marshes and dunes, an important stopping point in European bird migration to and from Africa in the winter and spring.

This wildlife sanctuary hosts annually more than 300 species of birds, as well as some of the most important Spanish animals, including the highly endangered Iberian lynx. Also located in the park is the site of one of the most important religious celebrations in Spain: El Rocío.


In the village of Almonte, the event attracts more than a million pilgrims each year as they converge upon the village from various different controlled routes to pay homage to the Virgin of El Rocío.

The Peña el Cabrelillo, just behind town hall, is one of Andalusia's longest standing flamenco institutions, a place full of love, faithfulness and a passionate interest to safe guard el cante in its purest form. In the city of Ubeda, the Tablao casa-museo andalusí, next to the Parador, offers the unique opportunity to enjoy flamenco in a gorgeous building on calle Narváez.

10. La Alberca

In a busy world of Internet and globalization in which being in a hurry has become a normal part of life for most of us, La Alberca, located in the northern part of the province of Salamanca, is a peaceful haven of history where traditions have been carefully preserved.

The village feels like a living museum with its unique architecture.

Surrounded by thick impressive forests, the village is like an island of peace that makes visiting it a must for anyone who finds themselves in the proximity of Salamanca.

Photo thanks to: Max Westby, Granadadian Weirdo, Cadampol, Adry, Yishac, Turismo de Tenerife, Machbel, Rlasaosa, Fernando Cuenca, Turistas x Naturaleza

The legislative initiative that was introduced in Spanish Congress claims that bullfighting is part of the culture and heritage of all Spaniards. Furthermore the fights or “Corridas”, as they are called in Spanish, also have economical significance as the bullfighting industry creates thousands of jobs. In Spain there are more than 1,000 farms, where bulls are trained for more than 3 years to prepare the animals for the fight. These farms employ approximately 70,000 people in total. The sector has a yearly turnover of 1.5 Billion Euros. Each fight is made up of 6 bulls which can cost up to 150,000 Euros. The largest bullfighting arena in Madrid employs 400 people and pays 5 million Euros of concession fees to the city each year.

The supporters of bullfighting managed to collect 600,000 signatures (including that of Spain’s conservative Prime Minister, Mariano Rajoy). He fulfilled the promise he made before he rose to power: “to do everything possible” to protect bullfights throughout Spain. As one of his first acts in office, Rajoy authorized bullfights to be broadcasted on live television.

Decreasing interest in bullfights

However, only a minority of the Spanish population, mostly the elderly, show interest in the bloody spectacle. Sold-out arenas are not as common as they were in the old days and the amount of “corridas” has been reduced to prevent a financial disaster. In the past five years, the number of bullfighting events in Spain halved to about 1,200 per year.  Formerly, every village festival included a fight.

Today, more and more people protest against the bloody tradition. “These performances are contrary to fundamental values ​​of the 21^st century, including the respect for life." says Juantxo Uralde Lopez, the spokesman for the Spanish environmental party, Equo. Catalonia, the north eastern region of Spain banned bullfights in 2012. In the Canary Islands, the spectacle was banned more than 20 years ago.

If the new national law for the protection of bullfighting is passed, the previous bullfighting ban of Catalonia and the Canary islands would be revoked. It seems very likely that the law will go through since the Conservatives have the absolute majority of seats in the parliament.

Discover “Los Animales”- Animal names in Spanish. The following infographic is the ideal tool to learn Spanish animal names. It can be used by teachers in classrooms, as a poster in your office, or it teach children the names of animals in Spanish.  Use this tool to help you memorize the all of the most important animals in Spanish. Each animal is accompanied by an image that will make it easier to remember the animal names and memorize them. Within a few days you will be an expert at the most common Spanish animal names!

2. Madrid

Spain's capital seems to absorb the country's most exciting cultural traditions, and flamenco is no exception. The city offers some of the oldest and most intimate venues for catching flamenco action.

The Corral de la Morería, included in The Michelin Guide and centrally located right next to the Plaza Mayor (on calle Morería), is one of Madrid's most historic tablaos. The famous Café de chinita sits in Madrid's historic district, between the Palacio Real de Madrid (the Royal Palace of Madrid) and the Gran Vía. Finally, the Corral de la Pacheca, near the Plaza de Castilla, rounds out a golden triangle of cante jondo (deep song).

3. Cordoba

Heading through the historical Jewish quarter, you'll find El Cardenal, where flamenco performers offer spectacular entertainment to audiences dining on local cuisine in an open patio.

On the back side of the Plaza de la Corredera, La Bulería is another essential flamenco house, along with Rincón del cante at the Plaza de las Tendillas.

4. Granada

Visitors are strongly encouraged to visit the Camino del Sacromonte to see the Cueva de María la Canastera (the Cave of María la Canastera) and experience joyful cheer accompanied by song, dance, and hypnotic hand clapping.

In the historic Arab district of Albaicín, Peña la Platería is Granada's most vibrant flamenco tablao, a place that's decidedly not designed for tourists, which always guarantees an authentic experience.

5. Cadiz

The lively cheer of this coastal city will invite you to lose your way in the old quarter, where the smooth sounds of guitar strumming and passionate singing guide you to La Cava, next to the Plaza de España. Here, you'll also find the Peña Flamenca de Enrique el Mellizo, named after one of Cadiz´s most historic and celebrated musical figures. This is where seasoned flamenco masters and new-comers alike offer memorable performances for the enjoyment of visitors as they savor the delicious
flavors of Cadiz cuisine.

6. Jerez de la Frontera

Considered by many as the home of the cante jondo, this is one of the world's most influential flamenco centers. Back dropped by elegant horses and the robust aromas of sherry wine, the city offers emblematic flamenco performance halls such as Peña la Bulería in the populated neighborhood of San Miguel, next to the Ermita de San Telmo. The sense of humor that characterizes the people of Cadiz is recalled in the name of another popular Jerez tablao: El lagá del Tío Parrilla (located just across from the Museum of Archeology), which offers the most spectacular dance shows imaginable.

7. Malaga

The Peña Juan Breva tablao sits huddled by the foot of the Gibralfaro Mountain, where it is cooed by the city's unique traditional melodies.

Its stage has witnessed some of the greatest flamenco performances ever. If you'd like to not only observe, but also participate in this high passion art form, you can always head to the Liceo Flamenco, between the Cathedral and Gibralfaro Castle, where you can visit the flamenco museum, taste wines from Malaga and take dance and guitar lessons.

8. Barcelona

As a city that has historically received large amounts of people emigrating from Andalusia, Catalonia's capital is home to some of flamenco's most acclaimed artists. Right downtown on the Rambla, opposite the Teatre del Liceu (the cathedral of classical and opera music, you'll find the Tablao Flamenco Cordobés. Crossing the street you come across La Traviata a Sara Baras.

The legacy of Carmen Amaya, perhaps the greatest flamenco dancer in history, lives on at El Tablao de Carmen, located in the well-known Poble espanyol, on Montjuic.

9. Jaen

The Plaza Coca de la Piñera, next to the library, puts on a surprising program of flamenco shows nearly all year round.

The Peña el Cabrelillo, just behind town hall, is one of Andalusia's longest standing flamenco institutions, a place full of love, faithfulness and a passionate interest to safe guard el cante in its purest form. In the city of Ubeda, the Tablao casa-museo andalusí, next to the Parador, offers the unique opportunity to enjoy flamenco in a gorgeous building on calle Narváez.

10. Murcia

This city-province-autonomous community (all in one) has a special flamenco tradition, as demonstrated in the Festival de Cante de las minas, celebrated in La Unión on the last week in March. At this yearly festival, Spain's best flamenco singer is awarded flamenco's equivalent to the Oscar, known as la lámpara minera. In the city of Murcia, the historic Teatro Romea has been home to the Cumbre Flamenca de Murcia for the last twenty years, a symposium that gathers the most respected singers, guitar players and flamenco experts for a three week period to discuss the finer points of the art and to offer special performances.

We hope that after this quick tour you decide to include some of these cities on your own tour of Spain, where the magic of flamenco awaits to inspire you in true Spanish style.

Photo thanks to: randomix, im elsewhere, Gabrilu, Placida, Dani, Johnny Shaw, Sofie, Migpascual, Dariorana, Keith Williamson

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