Category: Culture around Spanish language

The 24 Best Spanish Songs to Learn the Language

Post author By Maria del Mar Pérez
Post date August 2, 2023
No Comments on The 24 Best Spanish Songs to Learn the Language

Las 24 Mejores Canciones Para Aprender Español | iScribo

Learning Spanish through songs can be the best way to improve your language skills. In addition, it’s possible to learn Spanish by music provide you with a fun experience, which can be an interesting way to pass the time in the summer.

From learning new vocabulary and expressions to differentiating accents from different countries, iScribo provides you with a list of the best Spanish songs to learn the language. Open your favourite music player and create a playlist to get you through the summer to discover how to learn Spanish by listening to music.

Songs to Help Learn Spanish

From the most recent to old Spanish songs that have set trends, Spain has been exporting talent since forever. It’s not all flamenco or the famous reggaeton imported from Latin America, here you can find several Spanish songs for beginners.

1. Eres tú by the group Mocedades: this song from the 60s is a Spanish classic that you’ll still hear among the people today.

2. Con su blanca palidez by Cristina y Los Stop: this Spanish version from the early 70s will give you a lot of play as you can compare it with its original English version.

3. Mi gran noche by Raphael: there is no artist more iconic than the great Raphael. There is no party today without this song.

4. La lista de la compra by María Jiménez & La Cabra Mecánica: to get you into a bit of culture, enjoy this song that fuses pop and flamenco.

5. Bulería by David Bisbal: entertaining song that will make you dance, plus, it’s very summery.

6. Y, ¿Si fuera ella? by Alejandro Sanz: we can’t make a list without Spain’s most influential singer. He still fills concert halls all over the country.

7. A mi manera by Siempre Así: another song to compare with English and to learn about Spanish culture.

8. La Flaca by Jarabe de Palo: this song by Pau Donés, leader of the band, will teach you Spanish from Spain with a Latin twist. We invite you to listen to more of this iconic Spanish band.

9. París by La Oreja de Van Gogh: you can learn Spanish by listening any song from this iconic band.

10. Maquillaje by Mecano: impossible to forget the music of Mecano in the eighties and nineties. This group fought for gender equality and LGTBI+ rights when no one else was doing so. Full of positive vibes!

Mexican Songs to Learn

The variety of Mexican music genres ranges from mariachi, bolero and huapango to the most traditional Mexican music.

11. Bésame mucho by Consuelo Velázquez: it crossed borders and became an international hit.

12. La llorona by Ángela Aguilar: there are many versions, each one more beautiful.

13. Vivir sin aire by Maná: this group has one of the best drummers in the world and their music is enjoyed all over the world.

14. Amor eterno by Juan Gabriel: another artist who has achieved worldwide glory.

15. La Bamba by Ritchie Valens: you probably know it, so we couldn’t resist including it in this list for obvious reasons.

Music in Colombia

Colombia is an iconic country in terms of current songs to learn Spanish because of the amount of talent it exports around the world.

16. Hawái by Maluma: this Colombian artist has even sung with Madonna.

17. La camisa negra by Juanes: this is one of the easiest Spanish songs to learn, it is often used in teaching. Take advantage and listen to this great artist with his activist lyrics.

18. Dónde están los ladrones by Shakira: you know her more than enough but it’s worth learning Spanish with her first albums, you won’t regret it.

19. Vida de rico by Camilo: Camilo mixes rhythms and teaches you Spanish in a respectful and beautiful way.

20. La gota fría by Carlos Vives: we love Carlos’ rhythm and positive vibe, don’t miss it.

Other Talents in Latin America

All over Latin America there is unparalleled talent and rhythm, did you know? Maybe it’s the joy of its people or their philosophy of life, but you can’t miss out on everything they bring us:

21. Te extraño, te olvido y te amo by Ricky Martin: the Puerto Rican artist is an icon from the beginning of the century.

22. Torero by Chayanne: this legendary song by the Puerto Rican singer is still heard today.

23. La vida es un carnaval by Celia Cruz: nobody better than the Cuban artist to show us the joy of living.

24. Flaca by Andrés Calamaro: we already loved him with his group Los Rodríguez. This Argentinian artist has made us enjoy music since we were little.

iScribo & Culture

Enrique Iglesias, Bomba Estéreo, Luis Miguel, J Balvin, Marc Anthony, Aitana and so on. We could spend hours talking about our favourite artists. Nobody better than all of them to learn Spanish by music. These songs cover different genres and styles, enjoy them while you learn. Don’t forget to look up their translations and compare them with their English versions, if available. iScribo brings you these songs representing different eras and styles, do you know how to write them? Try our tool and let us know what you think.

Tags easiest spanish songs to learn, how to learn spanish by listening to music, learn spanish by music, learning spanish through songs, songs to help learn Spanish, spanish songs for beginners

Culture around Spanish language

32 Most Common Names in Latin America & Spain

Post author By Maria del Mar Pérez
Post date July 26, 2023
No Comments on 32 Most Common Names in Latin America & Spain

32 Nombres más Comunes de Personas en Español | iScribo

A part of the culture of each country is hidden behind the names of its inhabitants. The etymology behind the most common names in Latin America and Spain can tell you about the history of not only each country, but of each people.

Over the centuries we can see that the most common given names in Spain vary very little and that even today we still prefer to be traditional and preserve the culture that defines us.

There are some organisations that help you to know the history of each name or surname so that you can learn a little more about your origins or those of a person important to you. Sit down and read today’s article about the identity of people in Spain and Latin America.

Common Male Names in Spain

As time goes by, we see that most common first names in Spain are repeated almost year after year and through generations. Although we are in a time when foreign names are on the rise, most families still choose to preserve the exclusive and original identity of their origins:

1. Antonio: there is no Spanish family without an Antonio! However, its feminine variant, Antonia, is not so common.

2. Manuel: in regions such as Andalusia, this name is poetry.

3. José: biblical names are still a classic.

4. Francisco: a name that accompanies great Spanish literary figures, such as Francisco de Quevedo.

5. David: has gained ground in recent years to enter the list of the top ten most popular names for men.

6. Juan: as with our number one, there is no family that does not have a Juan among its members.

7. Javier: a mixture of phonemes in a singular name.

8. Hugo: nothing traditional about it but has become very fashionable.

Most Popular Female Names Spain

The most frequent names for women in Spain have evolved further since many of the traditional names have negative connotations because they are derived from the patron virgins of each municipality.

9. María: I’m sure you’ve guessed this one. The explanation is that, at the time of baptism, the priests “advised” that girls should have this name, now it’s just a tradition.

10. Carmen: a name that is becoming more and more common among Spanish girls.

11. Ana: a very international and beautiful name.

12. Laura: names with diphthongs add a musical rhythm that makes you fall in love.

13. Isabel: it seems a bit obvious because of the historical background.

14. Sofia: royalty made it fashionable.

15. Pilar: the patron saint of Spain gives her name to many girls in the country.

16. Dolores: traditional name par excellence that gave rise to the diminutive Lola, widely used internationally.

Most Popular Boy Names in Latin America

It is difficult to generalise when talking about Latin America, as it is made up of many countries in a vast territory, but here is a list of common names found in many Spanish-speaking countries in the New World.

17. Carlos: exported from Spanish royalty, very common in many countries.

18. Luis: a name with a diphthong that adds a sweet rhythm to any man who bears it.

19. Alejandro: an international name with a very powerful meaning.

20. Miguel: usually passed down from father to son in a gesture of tradition and tenderness.

21. Pedro: biblical name that identifies a multitude of boys in Latin America.

22. Fernando: very common combined with another middle name.

23. Eduardo: name coming from the Spanish high society and very widespread in the New World.

24. Joaquín: at last, a name with a hiatus makes it to the lists.

Common Names for Women in Latin America

Many of the most common names for women in Latin America coincide with those in Spain, nevertheless we have been a little more poetic so that you can understand the diversity of Latin America:

25. Carolina: an international name in its Spanish variant.

26. Andrea: although in some Mediterranean countries it is used as a masculine name, in Spanish it is a woman’s name.

27. Gabriela: like other names on the list, it is imported from Spanish high society.

28: Natalia: very popular name, especially in the southern countries.

29: Valentina: imported from Italy.

30. Patricia: name with a catchy rhythm.

31. Daniela: there is also the masculine variant, Daniel, very extended that could be easily added to the male list.

32. Jessica: most probably influenced by the United States.

iScribo in Cultural Diversity

Many names in Spain and Latin America are combined to form compound names, such as José Antonio or Ana María. A long time ago, people of a higher social status would name their kids with up to seven names, that’s right, seven! One was the name they wanted to give the baby, followed by the name of the father or mother, grandfather or grandmother, priest who baptised the baby, godfather or godmother and even an uncle or aunt.

This also coincides with the compound surnames that are still used today by people with noble titles. iScribo embraces the cultural diversity of Spanish. Our tool detects different registers and corrects your documents according to your linguistic needs. Have you tried it yet? Tell us about it in the comments.

Tags common male names in spain, most common first names in spain, most common given names in spain, most popular boy names in latin America, most popular female names spain

Culture around Spanish language

16 Useful Phrases for Shopping in Spanish

Post author By Maria del Mar Pérez
Post date July 12, 2023
No Comments on 16 Useful Phrases for Shopping in Spanish

16 Frases Útiles Para Ir de Compras en Español | iScribo

Shopping in Spanish language is a fun experience. Every trip should include a shopping day strolling through boutiques to discover what’s hot in the country you’re in these days.

Travelling with friends? Even better, a great day of shopping is always more rewarding if it is shared. At iScribo today we teach you some useful phrases for shopping in Spanish with a guide to help you succeed in a funny day after tourism. Mind the planet! Don’t forget to shop sensibly.

Useful Spanish Shopping Words

1. ¿Dónde se encuentra la tienda de deportes?

(Where is the sports shop?) Or the perfume shop, your favourite fashion shop… It doesn’t matter, you can always change the noun to suit your tastes.

2. Buenas tardes, ¿tienen este pantalón en la talla cuarenta?

(Good afternoon, do you have this pair of trousers in size forty?) Replace the trousers by any other garment or accessory and by your size. Also, remind to convert the size with an accurate chart, sizes differ from countries.

3. Disculpe, ¿esta camiseta está en color rojo?

(Excuse me, is this T-shirt in red?) Choose your favourite colour and the garment you like the most.

4. ¿Me puede indicar dónde se encuentra la sección de caballero?

(Can you tell me where the men’s section is?) Or women’s, children’s, accessories… You have a range of possibilities depending on what you most need or what you are looking for.

5. ¿Dónde está el probador?

(Where is the fitting room?) Of course! You should check that the garment fits you well because when you finish your holidays it will be difficult to return it.

To Be Fashionable

6. ¿Qué accesorios se llevan esta temporada por aquí?

(What accessories are in season around here?) Dress like the locals! There’s nothing more fun for a tourist than immersing yourself in the culture of the country you’re in.

7. Busco unos zapatos que combinen con todo.

(I look for shoes that go with everything.) Sometimes the simplest thing is the most practical. You can apply this philosophy to any country.

8. ¿Qué me recomienda que me lleve?

(What do you recommend I take?) There are times when it is difficult to choose or you just don’t feel like it. Let yourself be carried away by the recommendations of the shop staff, you won’t regret it.

9. Necesito un sombrero pequeño, ¿dónde puedo encontrarlo?

(I need a small hat, where can I find one?) Don’t forget that the sun is treacherous in the summer months and protect your head from sunstroke.

Let’s Be Practical

10. Perdone, ¿cuándo empiezan las rebajas?

(Excuse me, when do the sales start?) Of course, the summer sales are to be taken advantage of, so find out when the shops have wonderful discounts.

11. Este pantalón, ¿lo tienen que tela más fina?

(Do you have other trousers with a thinner fabric?) Don’t be surprised by the summer heat with a fabric that is not appropriate for this season.

12. ¿Cuánto cuesta este artículo?

(How much does this item cost?) More than useful information.

13. ¿Se puede pagar con tarjeta o tiene que ser en efectivo?

(Can I pay by card or do I have to pay in cash?) Find out about payment methods to avoid last-minute surprises.

14. ¿Puedo probarme esta prenda?

(Can I try on this garment?) For hygienic reasons, there are items that you cannot try on, so it is better to ask before you make a mistake.

15. ¿Me puede dar el recibo?

(Can I have the receipt?) Many people call it a ‘tique’, which is a synonym for receipt. You will need it if you regret what you have bought or if you have tried it on again and you are not convinced.

16. Muchas gracias por su ayuda.

(Thank you very much for your help.) When you help us with our purchases, you are making our task easier than we think. Always be kind, you will see that the results are better and there is nothing like making someone’s day.

iScribo and the Correct Use of Spanish

Speaking and writing well in Spanish is essential wherever you are to preserve and spread the good use of the language. There is nothing more gratifying than a long day of shopping knowing that you have used the language as it deserves to be used. These are small, everyday tests that encourage you. Writing and speaking Spanish well is in your hands. Try our Spanish spelling and grammar checker. It also suggests improvements and synonyms, so you can learn as you write. Use it with any type of document and Spanish register, you will see that its results will surprise you. Have you tried it yet? Before you go, can you tell us in which Spanish-speaking countries you have been shopping?

Tags a great day of shopping, a long day of shopping, a shopping day, shopping in spanish language, spanish shopping words

Culture around Spanish language

20 Tips In Spanish For Going to a Restaurant

Post author By Maria del Mar Pérez
Post date July 5, 2023
No Comments on 20 Tips In Spanish For Going to a Restaurant

20 Consejos en Español Para Ir a Un Restaurante | iScribo

Whether it is for business or pleasure, when visiting a country, going to a local restaurant is highly recommended, sometimes even mandatory. Do you want to go to a restaurant? There are phrases to order in a restaurant in Spanish that can be key to a completely satisfactory experience.

Language problems can lead to miscommunication and, therefore, an unpleasant situation that could have been avoided.

Read on to discover some tips on how to order food in a restaurant in Spanish so you only have to worry about preparing for your trip. Discard and avoid all the unnecessary stress of being in a foreign country and stepping out of your comfort zone. Eating abroad can be an unforgettable experience as many of the memories we create often come from the cuisine.

First Steps

Do you wonder how to ask for something at a restaurant in Spanish? Decide what type of restaurant you want to visit – you can ask someone who has already traveled to that country or friends you know who live there.

1. ¿Qué restaurante me recomiendas?

(Which restaurant do you recommend?)

2. ¿Hay algún restaurante cerca que sirva comida típica?

(Is there a restaurant nearby that serves typical food?)

Once you know where to go, we are going to give you some tips on booking a table in a restaurant in Spanish as you don’t want to wait, sometimes a long time, for the terrace to become free:

3. Me gustaría reservar una mesa para hoy a las 20 horas para tres personas.

(I would like to reserve a table for today at 8 pm for three people.)

4. La reserva es a nombre de Pedro Martín y mi número de teléfono es 123 456 789. Gracias.

(The reservation is in the name of Pedro Martin and my telephone number is 123 456 789. Thank you.)

Once at the Restaurant

5. Buenas tardes, tengo una reserva a mi nombre.

(Good afternoon, I have a reservation in my name.) This way you won’t have to wait for an available table.

6. ¿Nos puede traer agua mineral, por favor?

(Can you bring us some mineral water, please?) Water is a must for a meal.

7. ¿Tiene la carta de vinos?

(Do you have the wine menu?) If you wonder how to order how to order in a restaurant, think first that there is nothing more typical than accompanying a meal with a good local wine.

8. ¿Cuáles son las especialidades de la casa?

(What are the house specialties?) You’ll want to try the local specialties.

9. ¿Tienen algo fuera de carta?

(Do you have anything off the menu?) The local market always surprises the locals with some fresh product to prepare something special that day.

During the Meal

10. ¿Puede traernos otra botella de vino?

(Can you bring us another bottle of wine?) Conversations and after-food conversation in Spain, for example, can last a long time!

11. ¿Podría pedirle otro plato para acompañar este?

(May I ask for another dish to go with this one?) Don’t leave with an empty stomach…

12. Perdone, ¿sería posible pedir este plato sin cebolla?

(Excuse me, would it be possible to order this dish without onions?) Most restaurants adapt to the tastes and needs of the diners.

13. ¿Cuál es el postre típico de la zona?

(What is the typical dessert of the area?) Try what they recommend, it is always the best.

14. ¿Nos puede dar la carta de postres?

(Can you give us the dessert menu?) You will surely find some homemade liqueur to go with your favorite sweets.

15. ¿Tienen café descafeinado?

(Do you have decaffeinated coffee?) Maybe you don’t need more energy for the rest of the day.

Before you Go

16. Muchas gracias por todo, la comida estaba buenísima.

(Thank you very much for everything, the food was great). A good meal in the best company is always appreciated.

17. ¿Nos puede traer la cuenta, por favor?

(Can we have the bill, please?) The most unpleasant part of a meal… isn’t it?

18. ¿Podemos pagar por separado?

(Can we split the bill, please?) A trendy thing to do.

19. ¿Podemos pagar con tarjeta?

(Can we pay by card?) The most convenient way to go out nowadays.

20. ¡Hasta la próxima, volveremos pronto!

(See you next time, we’ll be back soon!) There is nothing more satisfying for the restaurant than expressing gratitude. But, mind you, say it only if you really mean it and intend to come back, there is no need to lie.

iScribo and the Diversity of Spanish

Bear in mind that each Spanish-speaking country is different, so when it’s time to go to a restaurant, think that the vocabulary of a restaurant in Spanish varies from one area to another. For example, in Spain we call the person who works in the restaurant and serves the food “camarero/a” while in Venezuela they are called “mesero/a”.

Remember to always ask and communicate with kindness no matter what country you are in. Spanish-speaking countries generally make their living in the service sector, so the workload is usually high. iScribo helps you improve your written Spanish, which you can then practice speaking. And you, do you know more phrases to order in a restaurant in Spanish? Have you ever identified the difference in words from one Spanish-speaking country to another? Have you already tried iScribo? Tell us about it in the comments.

Tags booking a table, do you want to go to a restaurant, how to ask for something at a restaurant in Spanish, how to order food in a restaurant in Spanish, how to order in a restaurant

Culture around Spanish language

Challenges of Working in Spain as a Foreigner

Post author By Maria del Mar Pérez
Post date June 14, 2023
No Comments on Challenges of Working in Spain as a Foreigner

Extranjeros: la Dificultad para Encontrar Trabajo | iScribo

Working in Spain as a foreigner, or in any Spanish-speaking country, is not easy but not impossible. The first major difficulty in finding a job, if you are a foreigner, will be the time it takes to regularise your situation. If you are a foreigner who is looking for work abroad, like in Spain, the first thing you will need is to get your foreigner’s identification number in order to register with the social security. In other Spanish-speaking countries, the requirements are very different. Be aware that the process can be long and tedious in some cases.

There are many Spanish companies looking for foreign workers, so if you wonder ‘what are the challenges of finding a job abroad?’, we’ll tell you the main challenges of finding a job in a Spanish-speaking country. Take note of these tips from iScribo to plan your adventure in the best possible way.

Main Barriers

If you are wondering about the integration of foreign workers into the labour market in Spain or any other Spanish-speaking country, we can tell you it works exactly the same as in any other country. Social barriers are the most difficult taboo to overcome wherever you go.

If Spanish is not your mother tongue, language will continue to be a major handicap. It’s all right because there are companies hiring foreign workers as they don’t mind you not having a native accent. Bear in mind that there are many Spanish speakers who face the same problem: an accent from Chile is not the same as an accent from Western Sahara, for example.

Labour inclusion, equal opportunities and decent employment are other issues to be taken into account. Many foreigners with a postgraduate education and extensive experience are forced to start out in low-paid, basic jobs, which can lead to frustration.

Other Difficulties

Integration is synonym of cultural adaptation. Integration into a different culture takes time and is sometimes not achieved even if you have been in the target country for many years. It’s not easy, but learning and practising a foreign culture will increase your job opportunities. Think that you will also be contributing to your personal growth. Knowledge does not take up space. If it is too difficult for you, you may have to seek the help of a native speaker to explain to you the key aspects of the culture and teach you how to understand it.

Racial discrimination is no less important. This is a problem in many countries and, although there are laws and measures in place to try to eradicate it, there is still quite a lot to improve. We cannot guarantee you will not experience a negative situation because of this, but we can tell you that not everyone is the same and that, just as you might be rejected, you may be welcomed with open arms. You’d be surprised how many people are there to help you in times of difficulty.

What Can We Do?

We can also do our bit with good and healthy practice. It is up to all of us to create a better world to share.

Promoting diversity and welcoming new cultures enriches society. Campaigns to raise awareness and sensitivity to labour integration have positive effects and gradually improve the outlook for all foreigners who want to work in Spain.

Let us fight the lack of a support network for all newcomers. It’s hard enough to move to another country without having to deal with social and employment problems, isn’t it?

Before moving to a Spanish-speaking country, find out about the documentation you need and about the recognition of qualifications if you have higher or postgraduate education. The more you prepare, the fewer nasty surprises you will encounter.

And above all, respect all cultures you meet, not just the culture of the country you are in. Applying moral values opens many doors – not only in the workplace.

iScribo Breaks Down Unnecessary Barriers

iScribo aims to put an end to the difficulty of working in Spain as a foreigner. Writing correct Spanish doesn’t have to be a difficulty in finding a job – there are already too many of them! Focus on the cultural aspects, your education and your desire to learn. Let our spelling and grammar checker do the rest. Have you moved to a Spanish-speaking country? What barriers have you faced and how have you overcome them (or are you overcoming them)? Tell us in the comments so that we can learn and reduce today’s employment barriers.

Tags challenges of finding a job, companies looking for foreign workers, difficulty in finding a job, finding work abroad, hiring foreign workers, what are the challenges of finding a job

Culture around Spanish language

14 Series of Recommended Novels in Spanish

Post author By Maria del Mar Pérez
Post date March 22, 2023
No Comments on 14 Series of Recommended Novels in Spanish

14 Sagas de Libros Imprescindibles en Español | iScribo

Reading is the passion of many people. Through literature, we can discover the best novels in Spanish around the globe. Whether they are books on Spanish culture, or the best Latin American authors to read, these books in Spanish will help you to see the difference between styles from different countries.

You can find and discover these recommended novels in Spanish on the shelves of any library. You can also enjoy debates and discussions on the Internet. Get excited to learn in a different way with these must-read book sagas with different literary genres, such as historical, romantic and crime books in Spanish.

Spanish Contemporary Authors & Their Series

Spain boasts a wealth of literary talent on all four sides. Today we bring you some famous and recommended Spanish books that come in series for you to enjoy and learn at the same time:

1. The Baztan Trilogy: For any thriller lover, this trilogy by Dolores Redondo brings you a story of Basque and Navarre mythology in an interesting plot that will not leave you indifferent.

2. The Snow Girl: This trilogy by Malaga-born author Javier Castillo shows us a series of intrigue surrounding the disappearance of a young girl at the Thanksgiving parade. You will discover a well elaborated plot with jumps in time as you try to crack the case like a real detective.

3. The Cemetery of Forgotten: Not only is it a homage to 20th century Barcelona, but this tetralogy by Carlos Ruiz Zafón ranges from thriller to true horror.

4. Episodes of an Endless War Series: The iconic and much-loved writer from Madrid, Almudena Grandes, was a true master of series and the exaltation of women in society. If you want to discover a bit of Spanish history through dramatic narratives, this series will not leave you indifferent.

5. Julia Domna Series: The Valencian writer and winner of the 2018 Planeta Prize, Santiago Posteguillo, is a master of historical narrative. His great knowledge of the emperors and the Roman era takes us on a journey through history.

Sagas & Trilogies from Mexico

6. Mundo Umbrío: Jaime Alfonso Sandoval surprises us with this saga of literature and fiction in a plot of secrets and otherworldly murders that shake the life of a girl who seeks justice. Interesting, right?

7. Quidea Legends: Juan Comparán Arias delights us with a fantasy saga in a world, Quidea, but in different times in each book. It is catalogued as an endearing series full of kindness that can touch your soul.

8. Maya: Discover the Mayan culture with Carlos Gavira and Martha Athie. This science fiction saga helps us to discover the prophecy of the Mayas with touches of fantasy.

Other Latin American Sagas

9. Brooklin Brujas: The Ecuadorian-American writer Zoraida Cordova brings us a fantasy series with the story of different witches who have to face curses and challenges because of their own condition.

10. Santiago Quinones: The Chilean writer Boris Quercia brings us this very entertaining crime and intrigue series to get to know the multifaceted city of Santiago.

11. The Night Will Be Long Series: this trilogy by Colombian Santiago Gamboa combines stories of journalism and the FARC in a gripping crime novel that will not only teach us, but also keep us entertained.

12. Patagonia Trilogy: Argentinean author Cristian Perfumo dazzles us with this suspense saga set in Patagonia. The mystery behind each chapter will make us “devour” each page until the end.

13. Alonso Christiano Series: discover the history of ancient Peruvian civilisations with love, adventure and intrigue, what more could you ask for from Peruvian writer Miguel Salomón?

14. Un Dulce Encuentro: this saga by Honduran writer Kris Buendía presents a romantic story with drama, adventure and suspense.

Learn From Home

Books open frontiers and allow us to travel even if we can’t afford it. The series we have suggested today will help you improve your Spanish and broaden your knowledge of different cultures. What grammatical structures stand out to you when you read famous authors from Spanish-speaking countries in their best-selling series? Practise the way you write with iScribo’s grammar checker and tell us in the comments.

Tags books in Spanish, books on spanish culture, crime books in spanish, famous authors from spanish speaking countries, iscribo, latin american authors to read, novels in spanish, recommended spanish books, spanish contemporary authors

Culture around Spanish language

Spanish Territories Around the World & Iberian Peninsula

Post author By Maria del Mar Pérez
Post date February 15, 2023
No Comments on Spanish Territories Around the World & Iberian Peninsula

Diferencia entre España y la Península Ibérica | iScribo

Do you know the Iberian Peninsula countries? The Iberian Peninsula is a piece of land in Europe, below the Pyrenees, surrounded by water and connected only in a part of its northern side with a European country, France.

Is Spain in the Iberian Peninsula? Well… Yes, but there are also other countries in the peninsula and other overseas territories of Spain outside the peninsula. This sounds like a tongue twister, but if you think about it, there are many nations that have overseas territories or that share geography with other countries. Let’s not go any further, we are talking about the United Kingdom.

Discover today with iScribo which territories make up Spain and which are the other countries that have the privilege of sharing the Iberian Peninsula with Spain.

Iberian Peninsula Countries

In the introduction we’ve explained what the Iberian Peninsula is, so now it’s time to explain which countries make it up. You probably thought it was just Spain, but no, the peninsula, despite being incredibly small, is shared by four countries:

– Spain (of course it is!).

– Portugal, located to the west of the Iberian Peninsula.

– Andorra, that curious Principality located between Spain and France.

– Gibraltar, a British territory.

Different Islands in Spain

We have just learned about peninsular Spain, but this country also has an amount of islands.

The Balearic Islands, which we already told you about in another blog post, is an archipelago located to the east of the Iberian Peninsula, in the Mediterranean Sea. The islands that make up this group are Mallorca, Cabrera, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera.

The other archipelago, famous for being a sun and beach destination for tourists, is called the Canary Islands. This group of volcanic origin is located to the east of the African continent and is made up of Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Tenerife, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro and La Graciosa, as well as several islets.

Not only Canary Islands and Balearic Islands, Spain has other small islands around the world, such as Pheasant Island, between Hendaye (France) and Irun (Spain), whose sovereignty it shares amicably with France. It is curious that each country governs it every six months. The Chafarinas Islands, between Morocco and Spain, are another example, as are the Ahucemas Islands and Alboran Island.

Do you know Spanish Micronesia? It is a group of tiny islands and islets in the Pacific that are no man’s land due to political oversight, but the last owners were the Spaniards. These islands are Kapingamarangi, Mapia, Nukuoro, Rongrik and Ulithi.

Spanish Territories Around the World

Do you know that there are Spanish territories in Africa? They are Ceuta and Melilla, two Spanish autonomous cities in Moroccan territory, on the Mediterranean shore. Ceuta and Melilla are located in a privileged political enclave as the gateway between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. They have belonged to Spain for centuries.

Llivia is a small village in France. Most Spaniards ignore this place, but it exists and it is Spanish.

Spain’s territory reaches as far as Antarctica. Yes! That’s right. Antarctica does not belong to any country, but it is true that there are more than twenty nations that have a base on it. It is this fact that makes Spain’s portion of territory so far away, as it has two permanent bases. Curious, isn’t it?

The Wonders of Geography

Politics plays an important role in the allocation and appropriation of territories. There are some islands that are not sovereign to any country but which, because of their location, Spain defends. This is El Perejil, an islet south of Gibraltar.

What about the Embassies? They do not function in the same way as Antarctica since Embassies are regulated and under international jurisdiction. If, in addition to know what the Iberian Peninsula countries are and the Spanish territories around the world, you want to write its wonderful language, Spanish, better, try the iScribo tool and let us know what you think in the comments!

Tags canary islands and balearic islands, different islands in spain, iberian peninsula countries, is spain in the iberian peninsula, iscribo, spanish territories around the world, spanish territories in africa

Culture around Spanish language

Celebrating Christmas in Spanish-Speaking Countries

Post author By Maria del Mar Pérez
Post date December 28, 2022
No Comments on Celebrating Christmas in Spanish-Speaking Countries

La Navidad en Países Hispanohablantes del Mundo | iScribo

Christmas in Spanish-speaking countries mixes local tradition with the Catholic tradition, but the family bond is the most important part of the celebrations.

Family is what binds us all together during the most magical time of the year while celebrating Christmas in Spanish-speaking countries. From Christmas Eve gatherings to meals on the twenty-fifth of December, sharing these days of the year with your loved ones is at the heart of Christmas in Spanish-speaking countries around the world.

iScribo tells you the most curious traditions of some countries so that you can learn a bit of Christmas culture around our favourite language.

The nueve posadas and the Año Viejo

Christmas celebrations start in Mexico on 16 December with “las nueve posadas” (the nine inns), which represent Mary and Joseph seeking shelter. When they reach the ninth and final posada, which is a family home offered for the occasion, a great feast is held. The Christmas celebrations last until January.

In Argentina, the most curious tradition is in the cities of Buenos Aires and La Plata, where the inhabitants make a huge straw doll, the “Año Viejo”, which they burn in the New Year. The spectacle of fire can be seen from a long distance. Other countries such as Peru, Uruguay, Chile, Cuba, Panama, Nicaragua and Honduras also celebrate this tradition with modifications.

It is also a tradition to hang a red sock on the door of every house in the country.

The Inmaculada Concepción and the Día de las Velitas

In Spain, Christmas starts on the eighth of December with the feast of the Immaculate Conception. The Spanish decorate their homes with the famous nativity scene.

In the north of the country, it is traditional to eat lamb on Christmas Eve, and in the south, turkey. This is accompanied by countless starters and delicious fish and seafood, not forgetting mantecados and turrones for dessert.

Christmas culminates with the Three Kings parade on the 6th of January.

One of the most spectacular Christmas lights in the world is the one in Medellín, Colombia. In this beautiful country, Christmas begins with the “Día de las Velitas” (Day of the Candles) on the 7th of December.

In Medellín, Colombians decorate the river with lights and in Barranquilla and Bogotá they decorate the streets with candles.

During all the festivities, Colombians will eat the famous ajiaco from Santa Fe, lechona, natilla and buñuelos.

The Espíritu de la Navidad and the Avenidazo

Venezuela begins celebrating Christmas on 4 December with Santa Barbara, when homes are decorated. The “Espíritu de la Navidad” (Spirit of Christmas) is celebrated on 21 December, when Venezuelans light candles and drink tea, signifying prosperity for the year to come.

Don’t miss out the Christmas Eve dinner with hallacas, dulce lechosa and pork-based dishes on a night that culminates in the giving of gifts.

In Costa Rica, there is a tradition that is celebrated every year, this one between the fifth and eleventh of December, which marks the beginning of Christmas. This is “El Avenidazo“, where the Central Avenue of San José is closed to traffic so that people can dedicate those days to Christmas shopping. The tradition includes meals in the restaurants along the avenue and the throwing of confetti every other day to the rhythm of concerts. Costa Ricans throw the confetti to simulate the Christmas snow. Of course! In Costa Rica the temperature is very mild, even on these holidays.

Travel this Christmas and Write in Spanish

At iScribo we love the Spanish language, that’s why, as well as helping you to write better with our spelling and grammar checker, we bring you closer to the culture surrounding the language. Christmas in Spanish-speaking countries around the world is as special as it is diverse. What’s more, the way Christmas is celebrated in Spain crosses borders and has brought the very same Three Kings parade on January 6th to the centre of New York. Christmas traditions in Latin America are famous and worth seeing, their beauty is unique and unrepeatable. Do you know more Christmas traditions in Latin America? Tell us in the comments about your experience and let’s get to know together a little bit more about the diversity of Spanish around the world.

Tags celebrating christmas in spanish speaking countries, christmas in spanish speaking countries, facts about christmas in spanish speaking countries, iscribo

Culture around Spanish language

The Importance of the Olive Tree History in Spain

Post author By Maria del Mar Pérez
Post date November 16, 2022
No Comments on The Importance of the Olive Tree History in Spain

El olivo en España y su producto estrella, la aceituna u oliva, es fundamental en la dieta mediterránea. Descubre con iScribo el símbolo cultural de este país.

Tell a Spanish that you are going to dress their salad with something other than authentic Spanish olive oil. The situation will probably end in a fierce argument. For the Unesco-endorsed World Olive Day on 26 November, iScribo teaches you some interesting facts about this tree, as well as the importance of olive oil in Spanish culture.

The cultivation of the olive tree has been rooted throughout the Mediterranean for centuries. The climate and terrain of the Mediterranean geography have made it grow in a healthy and fruitful way. There is evidence of the existence of olive tree varieties as far back as 12,000 BC. Its origin is marked by Greek mythology through a Greek legend.

Do you know where the word olivo comes from, and do you know how to form words from its root? Discover some linguistic and grammatical facts in this article and impress your friends with this symbol that Spaniards use and consume with pride.

Jaen, Land of Olive Oil

Spain is the country with the most olive trees in the world. It is normal that in Spain they feel immense pride when talking about their tree, even more so in the south.

Jaen, a province located in Andalusia, is home to the largest number of olive trees in the country. In total, this province yields 586,000 hectares to more than 70 million olive trees, which represents 78% of the province’s agricultural area and 20% of the world’s olive oil production. Such is the euphoria that it is marketed under the name AOVE, extra virgin olive oil.

As if this were not enough, Jaen offers olive oil tastings in almost all its municipalities. Come along, you won’t regret it!

Olive oil is the basic ingredient of the well-known Mediterranean diet, with numerous properties that benefit your health. What’s more, its flavour is unmistakable and adds a taste to food that will make you smile.

Etymology and Curiosities

To understand the history of a word we must look at its etymology. As in all Romance languages, the influence of Latin is more than frequent in Spanish vocabulary. We also have Arabic influence, so many other words derive from this language.

Our star product could not have a longer history, as its etymology comes from both Latin and Arabic, depending on where we are.

If we go to the north of the Iberian Peninsula, we are talking about “olivo” and “oliva”, which come from the Latin olea, which in turn comes from the Greek eala.

On the other hand, the Arabic word for the tree is zaitum, which comes from zait, a common root in Semitic languages. In the southern part of the Iberian Peninsula, of course, the word aceituna is used because of the Arabic influence of the word zaytunah.

Lexical Family of Aceite and Olivo

The lexical family of a word is formed by adding prefixes or suffixes to its root or lexeme. From aceite, we find words such as:

– Aceitoso: something that has a lot of oil in it.

– Aceitera: small container with oil, for example for salads.

– Ajoaceite: a sauce based on garlic and olive oil, which in turn is synonymous with alioli.

As for the olivo, we have derived words such as:

– Olivete: small olive tree.

– Olivillo: the same as the previous one, it is a diminutive of olive tree.

– Olivar: field with many olive trees.

– Olivera: synonym of olive.

There are also proper names derived from the olive tree:

– Oliver: is a masculine name meaning “blessed by the olive tree”.

– Olivia: is a feminine name that literally means “olive”, as a symbol of peace. Pretty, isn’t it?

Immerse Yourself in the Culture

Olive oil has been known since ancient times as “liquid gold” because of the benefits of the olive oil and its immense and incomparable attributes. Also, depending on the type of olive, the colour will be more yellowish, almost golden, another reason for the name.

At iScribo we not only take care of the language, but we also make sure that you learn about the culture that revolves around all Spanish-speaking countries so that you increase your love for this language, just like us.

With our spelling and grammar checker, you can practice the use of synonyms and lexical families in real-time. Remember that knowledge is a gift and writing well provides you with countless employment benefits.

Tags authentic spanish olive oil, benefits of olive oil, iscribo, olive tree history in spain, olive tree varieties, olive trees in spain

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