One of the main problems facing Spain at the moment is that of the economy. With unemployemnt on the rise, it surely makes sense that wages are being cut in an attempt to save jobs, however those on the receiving end are clearly not happy!   more »

Heading out on holiday to Spain sometime soon, for festivals or simply a break from everyday life? Here are some handy phrases to keep you going:   more »

So as temperatures continue to rise across Spain, and people race for the beaches and pools, it seems like the perfect time to consider what the longer-term effects of these sizzling days might be.

Indeed, this is exactly what scientists have done in one of Europe’s most vulnerable areas when it comes to climate change – Andalusia – where in June this year meteorologists recorded the region’s highest average temperature in the last 60 years.

A recent study on the future of the area revealed rather disheartening results. The environmental organisation reported an expected increase of between 6 and 8˚C in the already scorching Andalusian temperatures by the end of the century. That means the average high in Seville during July could be an incredible 43.3˚C!

Theorists predict grim consequences as a result of this temperature increase, including extended periods of drought, damage to ecosystems, threats to health and economic problems in the region, particularly as the tourist and agricultural industries are likely to be badly affected.

But things might be looking up, as on Tuesday a proposal was approved to try to mitigate these disastrous effects – the Programme of Adaptation to Climate Change. The plan includes flood management strategies for the region’s rivers, warning systems for other high-risk situations such as heat waves, as well as ideas on how to adequately adapt infrastructure in anticipation of climatic changes.

One of the main elements of the wider Andalusian Strategy to Combat Climate Change is a 19% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions between 2004 and 2012. For example, they have implemented light-pollution regulations, which impose fines of up to 60,000€ for excessive use of lighting. This alone has reduced CO2 emissions by 11%.

With such impressive results already, hopefully the new plans will be just as effective. And while these achievements should certainly be celebrated, let’s not only rely on official measures, but remember to do our bit as well. Switching off lights, taking public transport, using fabric rather than plastic shopping bags, buying un-packaged products and turning off the tap while brushing your teeth – these are all tiny lifestyle changes that can, collectively, produce excellent results for the environment.

Watch a candid interview with Penelope Cruz in which she speaks humbly of her background, her childhood, her dreams, and why she decided to take some time off.   more »

In the initial stages of learning Spanish, I remember most definitely the fear as I was presented with books and ...   more »

Great for your Spanish classes! Spain is launching its own version of the hit American series "The Golden Girls." It will be called "Las Chicas de Oro" and is being produced by Disney Media Networks and Latin World Entertainment. They have plans to release the Spanish series in the in the US in Spanish!   more »

So a historic change has taken place, and the region of Catalonia has voted to end bull-fighting in this part ...   more »

Yesterday, a 31 year-old Spanish man appeared before the press in Barcelona having undergone the world’s first full-face transplant. He thanked the surgeons for their work and the opportunity to enjoy life again.

Oscar represents the exciting culmination of years of work and research for surgeons all over the globe. Owing to a devastating incident five years ago, in which he accidentally shot himself in the face, the farmer was unable to breathe, speak or eat unaided. That is, until a pioneering operation in March this year.

Following 24 hours of surgery by 30 specialists, and months of recovery, Oscar can now move his eyebrows and jaw, swallow pureed food and talk. What’s more, it is expected that after 12-18 months of rehabilitation he will have regained 90% of normal movement and sensitivity in his face.

And this remarkable work all took place in Barcelona’s Hospital Vall d'Hebron. It seems Spain has far more than its recent sporting successes to shout about!

These slang expressions were originally published in our monthly newsletter.

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To be funny
Formal Ser gracioso, divertido
Informal (Ser) Salado

Low man on the totem pole
Formal Persona en lo más bajo de la jerarquía (sin poder ni influencia)
Informal (Ser) el último mono

An expression of superiority, to be very, very something 
Formal Algo o alguien con enorme calidad o talento.
Informal Como la copa de un pino

"I’m in!" (on plans with friends, for example)
Formal Unirse a un plan o proyecto
Informal ¡Me apunto!

Bad luck
Formal Mala suerte
Informal Mala pata

The nightlife
Formal La fiesta
Informal La marcha

To be a handyman
Formal Ser una persona habilidosa
Informal Ser un manitas

To be clumsy, be a klutz
Formal Ser una persona torpe
Informal Ser un manazas

To give a ring, to call
Formal Llamar por teléfono
Informal Dar un toque

Get lost!  Don't bother me! Go fry asparagus!
¡Piérdete!, ¡déjame en paz!, ¡Vete a freír espárragos!

The Córdoba Mosque, mixing Spain's Moorish and Roman Catholic History. In honor of this monument, a Spanish commemorative coin is being released in 2010.   more »

So you fancy a change of environment.. Where to go? An obvious choice, Madrid! The Spanish capital is only two and half hours, and about 25euros, away making it ideal for a quick break to experience the hustle and bustle of Spanish city life!    more »

The WORLD CUP will be on display in Madrid from the 22-23 of July!   more »