Coca is a herb that has a long and mystical history in many parts of South America; whereas cocaine does not. There is much confusion around coca as it is a (very very small) part of the cocaine production process. Partly for this reason, coca is illegal in many countries. In this episode, we explain coca’s fascinating history and important cultural elements.

Advanced Spanish – Episode 005 – Coca y Cocaína

Our audio podcasts are aimed at advanced and intermediate Spanish learners. They cover a wide range of relevant, up-to-date topics so that you can quickly understand Spanish-speaking culture as well as the language. We also think that we are truly unique for two reasons:  1. We speak in the most widely spoken Spanish - Latin American Spanish - and have a particular focus on Colombia.  2. We go one step further than your Spanish textbook - and include words that local people actually use.  Based on work that we have done before, we know that if you listen to one of our 19-minute audio podcasts each day or each week, it will be a great help on your way to fluency!

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The Feria de las Flores is one of the great cultural events of Medellin – and one of the biggest parties in a country of many fiestas. The 10-day long event attracts tens of thousands of people and has a number of exciting events and parades. But just what is the best flower…? Today we reveal all about a great Colombian event!

Advanced Spanish – Episode 026 – Feria de las Flores

In certain parts of the world plastic surgery is very popular. The USA has the most plastic surgery operations, while it is also popular in parts of Europe and South Korea. Another region of the world where it is popular is Latin America. Countries such as Brazil and Colombia have quite high levels of plastic surgery. In today’s episode we look at the facts and (opinions!) behind it. Where is it most popular? What operations do people have? Why is it more popular in some countries than others? All will be revealed in the new Spanish audio podcast!

Advanced Spanish – Episode 025 – Cirugía Plástica

Every country and every culture has a variety of sayings that people use in all manner of situations. They are often illogical and used in only certain parts of a country or region. But, they are essential in truly understanding a culture and a language. Today we share with you a variety of interesting and popular refranes from Colombia…

Advanced Spanish – Episode 024 – Refranes

Before the Europeans arrived to the American continent, a variety of cultures were living - and had lived – on the continent over the years. In this episode, we discuss two of the most incredible from Colombia. We start by looking at La Ciudad Perdida, a city that had been lost for hundreds of years until the 1970s. Then we look at the fascinating site of San Agustin – land of amazing statues. Both of these sites can be visited today and both have their share of interesting tales – as we tell you about in the Spanish audio podcast!

Advanced Spanish – Episode 023 – Culturas antiguas increíbles!

Much like legends, myths are important to many cultures. In this podcast, we discuss myths specifically related to how aspects of the world were made. We traverse the American continent and feature a story from Colombia, as well as the Tehuelches in Argentina and the Mayas in Mexico. So get prepared for some wonderful (and not so wonderful) myths from Latin America!

Advanced Spanish – Episode 005 – Coca y Cocaína

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