Learn Spanish and Go
Spanish and Go
Do you want to learn Spanish and travel? Learn Spanish and travel the world with Jim and May from Spanish and Go.Advance your listening comprehension through incredible travel stories, cultural conversations, Spanish tips, and interviews with Spanish speakers from around the world.You’ll hear natural conversational Spanish perfect for the intermediate or advanced Spanish learner. With Spanish and Go, not only will you supercharge your Spanish, but you’ll gain the tools to travel abroad with confidence.May is a Spanish teacher from Mexico, and Jim is a gringo with a passion for adventure. Together they’ll help you take your Spanish to the next level.Get the most out of each episode by signing up at https://spanishandgo.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books
7 snips
Jul 29, 2025 • 27min
Fuera Gringo - Gringo Go Home
Gentrification sparks heated debates in Mexico City, especially in trendy neighborhoods like Roma and Condesa. The recent protests highlight housing inequality rather than anti-foreigner sentiments. The discussion dives into the role of lenient immigration policies and Airbnb in exacerbating local struggles. A focus on responsible tourism reveals how cultural respect can create a positive exchange between locals and visitors. Community advocacy emerges as essential to address these pressing social issues.
Jul 22, 2025 • 31min
El Nombre Más Complicado en México - Most Complicated Name in Mexico
Hosts navigate the emotional rollercoaster of new parenthood and discuss the complexities of naming their child within Mexican traditions. They share humorous stories about the bureaucratic challenges they faced while registering their son, Santiago. The conversation also dives into the legal nuances of name changes across borders, emphasizing the importance of proper documentation. Plus, listeners can enhance their Spanish skills with vocabulary breakdowns designed to make learning engaging and accessible.
Jul 15, 2025 • 26min
Los Narcocorridos - Narcocorridos (Drug Ballads)
Explore the captivating world of narcocorridos, narrative songs that delve into drug trafficking and organized crime. Discover how this genre intertwines with Mexico's social and political landscape, and its rich history dating back to the Mexican Revolution. The hosts discuss the ethical dilemmas posed by these tales, the evolving themes from banditry to modern-day narcotics, and whether such music glorifies or reflects societal issues. Iconic tracks like "Camelia la Tejana" and "Jefe de Jefes" are highlighted as quintessential examples.
Jul 8, 2025 • 34min
El Chingonario - The Chingonary
Dive into the rich world of Mexican Spanish with a focus on the versatile word 'chingar.' Discover its many meanings, from endearing compliments like 'chingón' to playful terms like 'chingadera' for miscellaneous items. Learn when to use this colorful slang and when to hold back, especially around authority figures. Explore quirky expressions like 'chingaquedito' and 'la chingada'—each adding a unique flavor to everyday conversations. It's an entertaining journey through language that’s sure to tickle your funny bone!
Jul 1, 2025 • 31min
Mérida, Yucatán, y Las Tierras del Mayab - Mérida, Yucatán, and the Lands of the Mayab
Join Susana Ojeda Orranti, an expert in tourism and environmental conservation, as she unveils the hidden gems of Mérida, Yucatán. Discover how the henequén boom financed the region's striking European-style architecture. Hear about the captivating archaeological sites like Uxmal and the pristine cenotes that beckon for a swim. Indulge in local culinary delights such as cochinita pibil and unique street foods, all while appreciating Yucatán's rich cultural tapestry. Perfect for adventure seekers and food lovers alike!
9 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 26min
Mole Poblano - El Sabor Profundo de México - Mole Poblano - The Deep Flavor of Mexico
Dive into the world of mole poblano, a dish brimming with history and flavor. Discover its colonial and pre-Hispanic roots that make it a symbol of Mexican culture. Experience the unique variations from Puebla and Oaxaca, and learn about its role in major celebrations. Explore how ingredients like chocolate and spices create its rich taste while embodying tradition and unity in Mexican cuisine. Plus, enjoy insights into the culinary rivalries across regions that bring this beloved dish to life.
Jun 17, 2025 • 25min
¿La Salsa Cholula no Viene de Cholula? - Cholula Hot Sauce Doesn't Come from Cholula?
Discover the surprising truth about Cholula hot sauce, which isn't made in Cholula at all! The hosts dive into the sauce's origins, tied to the José Cuervo family, and its unlikely rise to fame in the U.S. Learn why locals rarely use it and how marketing turned a humble recipe into an $800 million brand. They also discuss wild price differences between Mexico and abroad, and the shift from home kitchen to global sensation. It's a flavorful exploration of culture, economics, and the hot sauce industry!
Jun 10, 2025 • 23min
La Vacuna BCG - Un Símbolo de Identidad Mexicana - The BCG Vaccine - A Symbol of Mexican Identity
In this conversation, the hosts dive into the significance of the BCG vaccine, specifically its role in Mexico’s public health. They compare vaccination practices between Mexico and countries like the U.S. and Canada. With insights from their pediatrician, they highlight the cultural implications of the BCG scar, often seen as a symbol of Mexican identity. The discussion also touches on parental concerns regarding infant pain and the importance of researching vaccine options for their newborn.
Jun 3, 2025 • 33min
Padres Primerizos - ¡Bienvenido, Santi! - First-time Parents - Welcome, Santi!
New parents share their journey welcoming baby Santiago. They recount the surprising calm before the planned cesarean, the challenges of choosing the right hospital and doctor in Mexico, and the joy of transforming into parents. Personal reflections highlight the emotional rollercoaster of childbirth and the comparisons of caring for a newborn versus a pet. The discussion also covers the medical costs of becoming parents and the frantic preparations leading up to Santiago’s arrival, all sprinkled with heartfelt anecdotes of their first-time experiences.
May 27, 2025 • 22min
¿Dolar o Peso? La Historia y Uso del Signo - Dollar or Peso? The History and Use of the Symbol
Discover the intriguing origins of the dollar sign, which likely stems from the abbreviation for pesos, not the U.S. currency. Learn how Mexico and other Latin American countries used the symbol long before the United States adopted it. The discussion covers various theories about its origin and how the same symbol represents distinct currencies today. Travelers also get practical tips for distinguishing between dollars and pesos and advice on payments in Mexico. This deep dive into a symbol we often take for granted is both enlightening and entertaining!
