Before I came to ECELA, I studied Spanish for the equivalent of six years in the United States. Despite that, however, I did not have the ability to speak fluently. In fact, I could not understand native Spanish speakers in more complex conversation. So, I knew without a doubt that I needed to go abroad […]
Archives for October 2012
Cultural Tidbit: Stargazing in Chile
If you get a chance to visit Chile, don’t miss out on a trip to the Atacama desert, one of the driest–and darkest–places on earth. If you live in a city, or even a suburb, chances are you’ve never seen the night sky in all its star-filled glory. Light from homes, business, and street lamps […]
Modismo del Día: El movimiento se demuestra andando.
Spanish Saying: El movimiento se demuestra andando. Literal Translation: Movement is demonstrated by walking. English Equivalent: Actions speak louder than words.
Language Learning: How to Practice with Locals
Even if you’ve traveled halfway around the world to learn Spanish or another language, you will still find yourself faced with many temptations to continue speaking in your native tongue. Maybe you will meet other people from your home country in your language classes, or maybe your home stay mom happens to know a few […]