S2, Ep : 79. The Fallas de Valencia!

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!

Hola, Spanish Loops family! This week, we bring you an incredible journey of heritage, resilience, and rediscovery. Meet Maricar Donato, a proud descendant of Salvador Rivero, a Spanish man from Málaga who set sail in the late 1800s, seeking a better future in the Philippines. There, he built a life, fell in love, and started a family—one whose branches have since spread across the world, from the Philippines to the USA.Join us, as we sit down with Maricar to uncover her family's fascinating history. How did the Donato family keep their Spanish roots alive for five generations? What traditions remain strong, and how does she and her family embrace her identity today? From culinary heritage to language, this conversation is a heart warming tribute to the power of ancestry and connection.Tune in for an inspiring episode filled with history, culture, and personal discovery. Don’t miss it! 

Hola, Spanish Loops family!We are back with another thought-provoking episode, and this week, we debate into something that affects all of us when we travel... tipping! Ever wondered why tipping in Spain is so different from many other countries?Well, get ready for a lively debate as we break it all down. From the casual “keep the change” culture in Spain to the expected 15-25% gratuity in American restaurants, this episode compares tipping customs around the world. Do you leave a tip in a café in Madrid? Should you feel guilty for not tipping your taxi driver in Paris? And what about Japan, where tipping can be seen as rude? We tackle these questions with humor, personal anecdotes, and some surprising facts!Tune in now and find out whether tipping is a generous act or just an outdated system. Don’t miss it!Listen now and let us know your thoughts!

Alright, folks, buckle up because this new chapter is a wild one! We’re diving into a part of Spain that’s not in Spain… well, technically it is, but it’s in North Africa. Confused? Don’t worry, they break it all down for you! This time, the program takes us into the fascinating and complex history of Ceuta and Melilla, two Spanish cities sitting right on the coast of North Africa. These places aren’t just your average sunny Mediterranean spots, no way Jose! They’ve been military strongholds, trade hubs, and, let’s be honest, the center of some serious political drama. They get into everything: from how these cities became part of Spain centuries ago, their fortresses and strategic importance, to what they’re like today: modern, diverse, and full of life. But, of course, there’s some controversy. Morocco isn’t exactly thrilled that Spain still holds onto them, and that leads to some interesting political debates. It’s got history, international politics, and even a bit of intrigue. What more could you want? So grab your headphones, hit play, and get ready to impress your friends with your new knowledge about Spain’s unexpected corner of Africa! Don't forget to subscribe and Enjoy!

This week in Spanish Loops, we talk about the quintessential Spanish culinary tradition known as the "Menú del Día." Established in 1965 under a law enacted during Francisco Franco's regime, the Menú del Día was initially introduced as the "menú turístico", (tourist menu) to promote tourism.  This legislation mandated that restaurants offer a fixed-price midday meal, ensuring both tourists and local workers had access to affordable and nutritious lunch options. Traditionally available during lunchtime on working days, the Menú del Día typically includes three courses: a starter (primer plato), a main course (segundo plato), and a dessert (postre). Often, a beverage such as water, wine, or beer is included, and some establishments may also offer dessert and/or coffee to conclude the meal. This format not only provides a hearty meal but also reflects the Spanish custom of enjoying a substantial lunch, known as "la comida," which is the main meal of the day. Over the decades, the Menú del Día has become a tradition in Spanish restaurants, particularly during working days lunchtimes. It offers lunches with a  variety of choices at reasonable prices, making it a popular option among both locals and visitors seeking to experience authentic Spanish cuisine.  Despite changes in meals habits and economic conditions, the Menú del Día remains a cherished institution, embodying our rich culinary heritage and commitment to communal gatherings.