Here are a few colloquial phrases to help foreigners understand proceedings, blend into the crowd and, if properly timed, even get invited to a cold "caña" (draft) or two.…
Spain
8 Free things to Do in Madrid
If you're living abroad, it's quite likely that you're a student or an intern. It's also quite likely that you're a little strapped for cash. Here’s a list of free, and almost free things to do in Madrid, the city of infinite bars...…
All You Need to Know About the Catalonian Referendum
Most Spaniards are worried about the uncertainty going on these days in Catalonia (7.5 million people, 16% of Spain). There are too many legal issues floating around and strong emotions are overflowing in Dali´s region, bringing even newer unanswered questions to the fore. Certainly, events are developing very…
Where to go: Studying in Spain
Top Universities in Spain Spain has highly regarded universities of which most are state funded and run while half are private or are run by the Catholic Church. Here are some top picks: Universitat de Barcelona > Una publicación compartida de Universitat de Barcelona (@unibarcelona) [https://www.instagram.com/p/…
5 Things to Do as a Local in Barcelona
Barcelona. The city of Gaudí. The Catalan capital. Cosmopolitan to its core. The city is without a doubt one of the most authentic places in all of Spain. And it’s crawling with tourists. They’re everywhere. All down La Rambla. Climbing over each other on the Barceloneta. Clogging the…
What Madrid Neighborhood Do You Fit In? [Infographic]
Ever wondered what neighborhood you belong in? Let’s face it, neighborhood stereotyping has always been a “thing” in Madrid, considering there are unique neighborhoods in the city that offer residents very different living experiences. Please note that these are average room prices and will vary depending on your type…
7 Jobs in Barcelona for English Speakers
Days spent gazing at the Sagrada Familia. Sunsets on the Barceloneta. Nights out on La Rambla. Barcelona is an absolutely enchanting city, and it’s no wonder that it draws so many people in. You go there once, maybe twice. And then you start to wonder: how can I make…
10 Reasons Moving Abroad In Your Twenties Can Be The Best Thing You Can Do
When I was 22, I got a job offer to work in London. My parents tried hard to stop me going, scared that something horrible would happen to me, but they failed. I packed my bag and went. Nobody, including myself, knew that a 3-month internship would turn into a…
Quick Facts: 4 Important Historical Events in Barcelona
Barcelona is absolutely magical to visit – Sagrada Familia, the beach, beautiful views, endless parties, charming squares, captivating culture…the list is endless! If you haven’t made your way to Barcelona, you need to get on it. Just trust us on this one. But do you know what are some…
5 Things You'll Love About Semana Santa in Seville
It’s almost that time of year again in Spain– Semana Santa time. And, during what is arguably the most interesting time to visit or travel around España, Seville reigns king. As the bastion of Spanish traditions, Seville takes their Semana Santa celebrations seriously. So what should you expect from…
The 5 Best Tapas Bars in Granada
Everyone loves tapas. And when in Granada, do as the locals do: eat lots and lots of them! But how do you know where to go? We’re here to help. These are our top picks for Granada’s best tapas – qué aproveche! 1. Bar Poë This place is my…
Top 5 Neighbourhoods to Live in Bilbao
Written by Matthew Dykes, the Spotahome Copywriter With its world-class architecture, sublime cuisine, evergreen mountains, rugged beaches and a mysterious language and culture – Bilbao is one of our favourite cities in Spain. Once you’ve decided to say kaixo! (hello) to Bilbao, the only hard thing is deciding which neighbourhood…
Tips for Erasmus Students in Barcelona
So, you’ve decided to become an Erasmus student in Barcelona, huh? Well, you’re in for quite an adventurous time. Barcelona prides itself on being one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Spain and benefits from having fantastic people mixed with awesome culture – and let’s not forget to…
Things to Know Before Becoming a Digital Nomad
The Digital Nomad lifestyle is becoming increasingly popular. Thousands of people worldwide are leaving their 9-5 to travel and work online full time, moving to a new city every few weeks or months. And while being a Digital Nomad allows incredible amounts of freedom and adventure, there are some hurdles…
From Canada to Granada - Zalaikha's Story
My name is Zalaikha Williams, I’m originally from Toronto but do full-time studies at the university of Ottawa and this July I’ll be 22 years old (wow). I’m studying to achieve my honors BA in Second Language Teaching with a minor in Spanish. In 2015, I decided…
Things I Learned About Dating While Travelling
As I write this, I am sitting in one of the many gorgeous cafes in Chiang Mai, Thailand. The sun is slowly setting behind the mountains and I’m sipping on yet another delicious flat white. I have been here almost two months and I can’t get enough of…
The Most Romantic Neighbourhoods of 6 Spanish Cities
Spain is magical on its own and if you’ve never been to Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia or any of the smaller cities, you are missing out. Not only does Spain have some of the friendliest people you’ll meet – it also has the relaxed and romantic atmosphere as you walk…
Guide to Best Museums in Madrid
Madrid may not have a beach to soak up the sun on, but what it lacks in waves it more than makes up for in museums and history. It’s absolutely full of them! If you’ve got some time to spend in between trips to the Plaza Mayor and…
5 Breathtaking Parks in Madrid You Should Visit
Madrid is magical. And for a traditional Spanish city, it sure does have a surprising amount of absolutely breathtaking parks where you can chill away your worries and enjoy the Spanish sun. And it’s not just grass – these parks feature rose gardens, mazes and sunset views – what more could…
Getting a Driver's Licence in Spain
So, you will be living in Spain for an extended period and are planning on driving while you are there. Depending on whether you are getting your very first licence or are planning on using your current one, you need to be informed on driving licence regulations. Here are some…
8 Locals Share How to Find Accommodation in Madrid
So, you’ve just moved to Madrid, huh? They probably told you how hard it can be to find accommodation in Madrid, right? If not, you might be in for quite a surprise. It’s precisely why startups are disrupting today’s real estate scene and enabling users to book…
5 Bizarre European Christmas Traditions
With Christmas fast approaching (have you picked out presents yet for all the expats in your life? We got you!), we thought we’d give you a lowdown on some bizarre Christmas traditions across Europe. Well, bizarre for us and completely normal for them. Let’s find some of the…
5 Most Important Places in El Born, Barcelona
El Born is a neighborhood typically beloved by many Barcelona’s locals, including our own home checker Clothilde. And why wouldn’t it be? The typical characteristics of this neighborhood are artsy, beloved by locals and a perfect nightlife spot. On top of that, it’s completely centrally based and…
21 Food Bloggers Share Best European Christmas Sweets
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! The time where century-old traditions come back into play and you’re allowed to consume as many Christmas sweets as you can manage. Christmas is a special holiday for many and no one does Christmas sweets better than Europe (sorry America)…
Guide to Best Banks for Expats in Spain
From traditional Spanish banks like Sabadell to online app-based bank like Revolut, here are some of the best banks for expats in Spain.…