S2, Ep : 79. The Fallas de Valencia!

Hola Loopers!We’re back with another brand-new episode and this one It’s gonna save your wallet… literally.Travel has become part of our everyday lives. From jaw-dropping monuments to world-class museums, there's a whole planet out there waiting to be explored. But wherever there are crowds and cameras, you’ll also find… pickpockets. Yep, the sneaky side of travel nobody talks about enough.In our years as tour guides, we’ve developed what you might call a sixth sense for spotting those slippery hands. We've seen it all—from almost magical sleight-of-hand tricks to wild, unbelievable distractions that feel straight out of a movie. If we hadn’t witnessed them ourselves, we wouldn’t believe it either.In this episode, we’re sharing easy, practical tips to help you travel the world without worrying about losing your wallet, phone, or passport. No stress, just smart moves, things you can start doing today.And here’s the thing: most of the time, all it takes is being just as alert as you are at home.So, tune in for some stories, a few laughs, and helpful advice straight from the heart.The goal? Enjoy every second of your trip without that shadow of worry.Travel smart. Stay aware. And most importantly, have fun!Because life’s too short to be paranoid… but just long enough to be prepared.Listen now—only on Spanish Loops!

A profound silence has fallen across the world today as Pope Francis, the 266th leader of the Catholic Church, has passed away. In his final months, his health visibly declined, bringing an end to a papacy marked by transformation, compassion, andbold leadership.Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, his path to the Vatican was anything but traditional. Entering religious life later than most, he brought a unique worldview forged from years of real world experience. From his first days as pope, he broke with convention, bypassing lavish tradition for humility, dialogue, and reform.Pope Francis’s legacy is undeniable. He spoke openly about climate change, inequality, and the need for inclusivity within the Church. He reached across borders: geographic, ideological, and spiritual, to build bridges and heal wounds. His papacy has left a lasting impact not only on the Church but on global consciousness.In today’s special episode of the Spanish Loops, Fran and I reflect on this monumental figure. With reverence and depth, we explore his life, unexpected path into the Church, and the institutional transformations he inspired. This episode also poses essential questions: Will his reforms hold? Who will lead next?Fran and myself, like millions around the world, hoped this reflection would not come so soon. But death, inevitable and indifferent, reminds us of the finite nature of human legacy, even one as vast as Pope Francis’s.His deep spirituality, love for the marginalized, and vision for a modern Church will continue to be studied, debated, and cherished for generations. As we grieve, we also give thanks to a leader who dared to change, to question, and to love beyond tradition.Rest now, Pope Francis. Your voice may be gone, but your words will always echo.

Hey hey, travelers! We've got a surprise drop for everybody today, and trust us, you don’t wanna miss this one.This episode is an exclusive, Chicos! That’s right, our 2026 tours are officially LIVE!, and you're hearing it here first! We’ve been cooking up something really special behind the scenes, and now it’s time to let the cat out of the bag... kinda.We’re talkin’ Francisco, leading two epic adventures:One in the fresh bloom of spring and another in the cozy colors of fall. And then there’s Jorge, who’s taking things up a notch with three tours:Two in spring and one in autumn. These are bucket list experiences, designed with love and packed with that signature magic our travelers keep coming back for.But here’s the deal, we’re not dropping all the juicy details just yet. No spoilers here! If you wanna know where we’re headed and what surprises we’ve got planned, you’ll have to tune in to the episode, on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform.And heads up: this episode looks a little different too. We tried something extra for this one, and we think you're gonna love it.!Oh! And if you’re already dreaming of joining us, shoot us an email. Early birds get priority booking, and spots go fast.So go on, press play, and start imagining yourself on the adventure of a lifetime.Let’s go places together!

What’s up, Loopers?? It’s your favorite voices in your earbuds, and we’ve got some spicy news for you this week! We just dropped a brand new episode of Spanish Loops, and let me tell you, this one’s got rhythm, soul, and a whole lot of passion.We're diving much into the History of Flamenco, and who better to guide us than Ana, our amazing guest who lives and breathes this art form. Ana’s a professional flamenco dancer at Las Carboneras, one of the top tablaos in Madrid. Yeah, the real deal! Born in Australia to Spanish immigrant parents, she’s been holding tight to her roots ever since she could walk, and flamenco has been her heartbeat since day one.In this episode, Ana opens up about her journey, how she found her way from Down Under to the heart of Spain, and what flamenco means to her. She breaks down the history, the cultural fusion that shaped the dance over the centuries, and even gives us an exclusive behind-the-scenes peek at how a flamenco night really comes together. From tuning guitars to last-minute choreography tweaks... it's electric.So grab your headphones, hit that play button, and get ready to feel the duende. You don’t wanna miss this one.Catch it now—only on Spanish Loops! Find us in Youtube!!

Spain is a country where coffee isn’t just a drink, it’s a way of life. But if you think ordering a simple “coffee” will get you what you want, think again. Every region has its own way of serving that perfect cup, and today on Spanish Loops, we immerse you into the rich world of Spanish coffee culture.From the classic café solo (a strong espresso) to the creamy café con leche, knowing what to ask for is key. But what happens when you visit Málaga? There, coffee ordering reaches an entirely new level of precision. Want your coffee with just a splash of milk? Ask for a sombra. Prefer more milk than coffee? That’s a nube. And if you want the perfect balance, go for a mitad. The locals have perfected the art of customization, and by the end of this episode, so will you.Join us as we break down the different types of coffee, regional variations, and tips on how to sound like a pro when ordering. Whether you’re visiting Spain for the first time or just want to level up your coffee game, this episode is for you. Grab your cup, hit play, and let’s talk coffee!

Hola amigos!, welcome back to Spanish Loops! Today, we're digging into the life of Miguel Servet, a 16th-century Spanish polymath. Born around 1511 in Villanueva de Sigena, Aragon, Servet was a theologian, physician, and humanist. He had a knack for languages, mastering Latin, Greek, and Hebrew early on. His academic journey took him to Toulouse for law and later to Paris for medicine.​Servet's medical insights were groundbreaking. He was among the first Europeans to describe pulmonary circulation, detailing how blood moves from the heart to the lungs and back—a revelation that challenged existing beliefs.​But it was his theological views that stirred the pot. In works like "De Trinitatis Erroribus" (1531), he questioned the concept of the Trinity, ruffling feathers in both Catholic and Protestant circles. Facing backlash, he adopted the pseudonym Michel de Villeneuve and relocated to France.In 1553, Servet published "Christianismi Restitutio," further challenging mainstream theology and including his findings on blood circulation. This led to his arrest and trial in Geneva, where, under John Calvin's influence, he was condemned for heresy and burned at the stake on October 27, 1553.​Servet's legacy is profound, influencing religious tolerance debates and advancing medical science.That's it for today's episode on Miguel Servet. Stay curious, and keep looping in!

In this episode, we get into one of Spain’s most mind blowing festivals: Las Fallas of Valencia! Every March 19th, the city transforms into a massive, fiery celebration of art, tradition, and community.We’ll take you through the origins of Las Fallas, which started with Valencian carpenters burning leftover wood to honour Saint Joseph. Over time, these humble bonfires evolved into towering, intricately designed sculptures called fallas, which now fill the city streets with creativity and satire.But it’s not just about the fire! We explore the impact of the festival on Valencia, how it brings people together, boosts tourism, and keeps centuries old traditions alive. The entire city vibrates with energy, from the deafening mascletàs (firecracker shows) to the Ofrenda de Flores, where locals in stunning traditional attire offer flowers to the Virgin Mary.And of course, we break down La Cremà, the grand finale where all the sculptures are set ablaze in a spectacular farewell to winter. It’s an experience like no other!Join us for this explosive episode as we uncover why Las Fallas is a must see event!Experience the magic of Las Fallas with Spanish Loops!

Hola Spanish Loopers! We’ve got a brand new episode dropping, and trust us, you do NOT want to miss this one.March is all about celebrating the power, resilience, and brilliance of women, and we’re taking this opportunity to spotlight some incredible women from Spain who are making waves across the globe.From shaping world economics to commanding royal influence and dominating the entertainment industry, these powerhouse women are rewriting the rules and inspiring generations. Whether they're running major corporations, influencing global policies, or captivating audiences worldwide, their impact is undeniable.In this episode, we look into their journeys, struggles, and successes. We’re talking about the challenges they’ve faced and the legacies they’re building.Get ready for some eye-opening insights, inspiring stories, and a whole lot of admiration.So, if you’re all about celebrating ground breakers, empowerment, and Spanish excellence, hit that play button and join us for this special tribute. Let’s give these extraordinary women the recognition they deserve!Don’t forget to subscribe, share and enjoy!

Hey everyone, and welcome to a brand-new episode! This week, we're diving very deep into the shifting global panorama, analysing the latest moves from the Russian government, the new dynamics in the White House, and how Europe is responding to these ongoing challenges.First up, the concept of a unified European army takes centre stage. With the U.S. adopting a more reserved stance on international engagements, Europe is moving towards strengthening its own defence mechanisms. The challenge lies in whether a coalition of European nations can develop military capabilities comparable to those traditionally supported by the U.S.Next, Europe's efforts to reduce dependency on Chinese communications components continue to gain power.In an era where data is the new gold, securing independent communication channels has become a big priority. The transition is very challenging, requires strategic planning and a lot of investment to ensure stability and security.We'll also discuss the buzz around Norway's potential EU membership. With its substantial oil reserves, Norway's entry could reshape the EU's energy landscape. But what does this mean for other member countries and the wider geopolitical balance? Ukraine remains central in global politics. Despite halted U.S. military aid, its forces resist Russian advances. The impact of this suspension shapes the region's future.The Middle East, always in flux, feels the effects of shifting global dynamics.Join us for this insightful discussion, where we peel back the layers of these pressing issues and offer our humble perspectives.Don't miss out!

We're back with another exciting episode, and this time, we're taking you on a journey to the vibrant city of Oporto, Portugal!Join our very own Francisco as he shares his personal experiences and insider tips about this charming coastal gem.In this episode, we'll explore:Historic Landmarks: From the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge to the picturesque Ribeira district, discover the stories behind Oporto's most famous sites. Historic Landmarks: From the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge to the picturesque Ribeira district, discover the stories behind Oporto's most famous sites. Culinary Delights: Indulge in the rich flavors of Portuguese cuisine, and learn about the world-renowned Port wine that originates from this very city and the world known Bacalau. Cultural Insights: Dive into the local arts scene, traditional music, and sites that make Oporto a cultural hotspot.Whether you're planning a trip or just curious about Portuguese culture, this episode is packed with fascinating insights and travel tips. So grab your headphones, sit back, and let's embark on this Portuguese adventure together!Don't forget to subscribe and leave us a review if you enjoyed the episode. Your feedback helps us bring more exciting content to the Spanish Loops community!