Ser or Estar … Dying to Know the Answer? (A1-C1)

When students first learn that there are two very different forms of 'to be' in Spanish they are often confused and perhaps even a little annoyed! "But why!?" is a very common reaction! Yet grasping the difference between 'ser' and 'estar' is often a watershed moment in the Spanish acquisition journey!

Best Tacos in Melbourne?

Once upon a time in Melbourne, Mexican food was solely hard shell tacos and nachos with sour cream. Thankfully our ever evolving, beautiful Melbourne has exploded with authentic, fresh, bursting with flavour REAL MEXICAN FOOD. We've made a list of our favorite taco spots - we don't want to fight about it but LET'S TACO 'BOUT IT.

Do you have a favorite? Did we miss something? Tell us on our Instagram! @elpatiospanish

Christmas traditions in the Spanish speaking world!

It's beginning to look a lot like Navidad! But what exactly does that look like in Spanish-speaking countries?

Get your Hispanic Christmas cheer on!

'Trick or Trial?' The Witch Hunt for Meigas and Sorginak

With the spooky season upon us, here are two bewitching tales from Northern Spain to get you in the Halloween spirit. Witches have always been a popular element of northern Spanish folklore, particularly in the regions of Galicia, Asturias and the Basque Country, a land where the mountains are high, the mist is thick, and there are plenty of caves for covens - the perfect recipe for witchcraft to thrive!

Crash course in Día de Muertos!

One of Mexico's most famous celebrations, Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), is coming around once again on November 2. But, while many of us have seen the pictures of elaborate dresses, ceremonies, and celebrations, there's a lot more to this Mexican tradition than meets the eye. Read on for a crash course on Día de los Muertos!

Tacos de Cochinita Pibil - Receta

This dish is one of the more iconic Mexican dishes. Straight from the Yucatán peninsula, its origin goes back to the pre-colonisation era, to the Mayan culture.

Slang and Profanity!

Spanish speakers have invented many vibrant expressions to convey strong emotions and paint colourful pictures. Some come from religion or relate to food or body parts, while others are just plain funny or absurd.

Even if you don't plan on using slang or profanity, it sure is helpful to know what others are saying - especially in high-stress situations! It's also essential to know the strength and cultural differences of the words you're using. Google translate can't help you with this!

It's time to let loose some "tacos" (swear words)! Here is a small selection to whet your appetite our new Slang & Profanity Workshop!

Receta de gazpacho andaluz

Andalusian gazpacho (gazpacho andaluz) is one of Spain's most popular summer recipes. Luckily for us, it's also one of the simplest! This traditional cold soup made from ripe tomatoes and cucumber is perfect as refreshing snack or entree on a warm afternoon.

Spanish puns in images by Ingesman

Ingesman is one of our favourite Chilean illustrators - his work is so simple yet so funny. You might have seen some of his pieces on our Instagram account.

Here are some of our favourite Ingesman creations, with explanations and translations attached.

Enjoy the delightful world of Ingesman!

Podcasts, in Spanish!

Podcasts can be seriously entertaining, funny, informative - and a wonderful resource for practising your Spanish!

Check out El Patio's Spanish podcast recommendations. There's something for every level!

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