Haggling can feel like a cultural minefield. In some places it’s expected, in others it’s frowned upon. In this episode, we break down when and where to negotiate, share the fascinating history of bargaining, and give you insider tips for doing it the right way. From friendly street market interactions in Mexico to knowing when to hold back in Argentina, we’ll help you navigate the dos and don’ts of regateo so you can save money, connect with locals, and avoid awkward moments.

Key Takeaways:

• How cultural norms around haggling differ across Latin America and Spain
• Practical strategies for negotiating politely and successfully
• Useful Spanish phrases to use when bargaining

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• Shopping in Spanish [YouTube Video]
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  • Listen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrases
  • Test your comprehension with a multiple choice quiz

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Whether you’re texting a friend, planning a trip, or simply want to level up your Spanish, knowing how native speakers actually type is a game changer. In this fun and practical episode, we share some of the most popular Spanish abbreviations like TQM, NTP, XFA, and more—plus the cultural context behind them. If you’ve ever seen messages like “XQ” or “GPI” and felt lost, this episode will help you feel confident using and understanding them like a native.

Key Takeaways:

• Discover 7+ must-know Spanish acronyms you’ll see in texts and comments.
• Understand the cultural and historical reasons behind these abbreviations.
• Learn when and how to use these phrases to sound natural in casual Spanish conversations.

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• 191 – ¿Qué Onda Con Whatsapp? | What’s Up With Whatsapp?
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  • Get the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a word
  • Listen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrases
  • Test your comprehension with a multiple choice quiz

If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!

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Gentrification has become a hot topic in Mexico City—especially in popular neighborhoods like Roma and Condesa. In this episode, we share our perspective as a bicultural couple living in Mexico and unpack the complexities behind the recent protests. We talk about housing concerns, immigration policy, local frustrations, and how foreigners can travel more responsibly while still feeling welcomed in Mexico.

Key Takeaways:

• The recent protests are more about housing inequality and lack of regulation than about foreigners themselves.
• Mexico’s lenient immigration and Airbnb policies have contributed to housing issues in tourist-heavy neighborhoods.
• Responsible tourism and cultural respect are key to creating positive change for both locals and visitors.

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• 126 – ¿Gringos Gentrificando México? | Gringos Gentrifying Mexico?
• 093 – ¿México Ya No Quiere Más Gringos? | Does Mexico Not Want Any More Gringos?
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Naming our baby should’ve been straightforward—after all, we’d agreed on Santiago Fricker Larios years ago. But thanks to a suffix in my U.S. documents (“II”), things got messy fast. We dive into how this small detail caused major legal confusion in Mexico, how it affects our son’s future documents, and what it means for multicultural families navigating two systems. Along the way, we reflect on suffixes, identity, and how this tiny “II” changed everything. This is the real story behind Santiago’s full name, what it took to register it, and why we might be leaving him a little name drama to deal with at 18. 

Key Takeaways:

• How suffixes like “II” or “Jr.” are handled differently in Mexico and the U.S.
• Why naming a child in a bicultural marriage can get legally complicated
• What to consider when dealing with international documents and identity

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• Level up your Spanish with our Podcast Membership
  • Get the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a word
  • Listen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrases
  • Test your comprehension with a multiple choice quiz

If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima

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Narcocorridos are narrative songs that paint vivid pictures of drug trafficking, organized crime, and the lives of real or fictional figures in the narcotics world. In this episode, we discuss where this genre fits within regional Mexican music, the ethical concerns it raises, and how it reflects deeper social realities in Mexico. We also take a look at the history of narcocorridos, some of the most iconic songs, and how this music intersects with power, reputation, and even violence.

Key Takeaways:

• Narcocorridos are not just music—they’re cultural expressions shaped by Mexico’s social and political history.
• These songs walk a fine line between storytelling and glorifying criminal lifestyles.
• From “Camelia la Tejana” to “Jefe de Jefes,” narcocorridos remain a powerful (and polarizing) part of Mexican musical identity.

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• 060 – El Santo De Los Narcos | The Saint Of Narcos
• 218 – La Música De Banda – El Sonido De Sinaloa | Banda Music – The Sound Of Sinaloa
• Level up your Spanish with our Podcast Membership
  • Get the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a word
  • Listen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrases
  • Test your comprehension with a multiple choice quiz

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We’re breaking down the many colorful, confusing, and creative ways chingar shows up in everyday Mexican Spanish. From expressions like chingón, chingadera, and chingadazo to more obscure gems like chingaquedito, we cover the meanings, the contexts, and why they matter. Whether you’re a language nerd, an advanced Spanish learner, or just curious about how locals really talk—this episode will entertain, educate, and probably make you laugh.

Key Takeaways:

• Learn the multiple meanings and tones behind the word chingar and its many variations.
• Understand when (and when not) to use this type of slang in Mexican culture.
• Discover how El Chingonario became a cult favorite and why it’s a fun tool for Spanish learners.

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• 261 – Usando Slang Sin Hacer El Ridículo | Using Slang Without Sounding Ridiculous
• Mexican Spanish Slang Phrases To Help You Sound Like A Local
• 086 – Las Groserías Mexicanas Con Mextalki | Mexican Swear Words With Mextalki
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  • Get the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a word
  • Listen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrases
  • Test your comprehension with a multiple choice quiz

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Come along as we sit down with our friend and guide Susana to uncover the many treasures of the Yucatán Peninsula. We dive into the stories behind Mérida’s grand European-style mansions built during the henequén boom, and we share why this crop shaped the region’s fortunes. You’ll also hear about ancient Maya archaeological sites, hidden cenotes perfect for a refreshing swim, and the incredible local dishes you can only truly experience here. Whether you’re curious about Mexico’s cultural diversity or dreaming of your next adventure, this episode will inspire you to discover Yucatán for yourself.

Susana Ojeda Orranti, originally from Guanajuato, Mexico, has developed a distinguished career in tourism and environmental conservation across several regions, including Baja California Sur, Yucatán, and Guanajuato. She has served as a university professor, specializing in tourism studies and heritage interpretation. In the academic sphere, her research has focused on the traditional and festive culinary practices of Guanajuato.

For more than a decade, Susana has also worked as a cultural and nature tourism guide with Cacomixtle, her family’s business. Her expertise spans mining history, regional gastronomy, hiking, and mountain biking, reflecting her commitment to sharing Mexico’s rich cultural and natural heritage with visitors.

Key Takeaways:

• Discover why Mérida’s architecture looks so European and what the henequén industry meant for the region.
• Learn about the most impressive archaeological sites beyond Chichén Itzá, including hidden gems you may not have heard of.
• Get a taste of Yucatán’s unique cuisine—from cochinita pibil to agua de chaya—and why it’s worth the trip alone.

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• The Best Cenotes Near Playa Del Carmen
• Visit Chichen Itza in Yucatan, Mexico (YouTube Video)
• Follow Cacomixtle Guanajuato on Instagram
• Connect with Susana on Facebook
• Visit Susana's website and learn more about Guanajuato
• Boost your confidence in real-life Spanish conversations with our Spanish Immersion Retreats
• Level up your Spanish with our Podcast Membership
  • Get the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a word
  • Listen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrases
  • Test your comprehension with a multiple choice quiz

If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!

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If you’ve ever wondered what mole poblano is—or why it’s considered by many to be Mexico’s national dish—this episode is for you. We talk about the ingredients that make it so complex, its colonial and pre-Hispanic roots, and how it’s typically served during major celebrations like weddings and New Year’s. From our own tasting experiences to the endless variations across regions, we explore what makes mole more than just food—it’s a reflection of Mexico’s history and identity.

Key Takeaways:

• Learn about the fascinating legends behind the invention of mole poblano and how it evolved over time.
• Discover what goes into making this richly flavored dish—from chiles and spices to chocolate and even tortillas.
• Understand why mole poblano holds such a special place in Mexican culture and how it brings people together during important celebrations.

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• 192 – Los 7 Moles Oaxaqueños | The 7 Oaxacan Moles
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If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!

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We explore why Cholula sauce, named after our hometown, isn’t actually made here—and why most locals don’t even use it. From its humble beginnings in a Mexican kitchen to its massive $800 million acquisition by McCormick, this episode uncovers the cultural, historical, and economic journey behind one of the world’s most popular hot sauces. Plus, we share personal stories and local perspectives that reveal how much (or how little) this famous sauce matters to everyday Mexicans.

Key Takeaways:

• The real story behind Cholula sauce—and why it’s not made in Cholula
• Why hot sauce can cost $1 in Mexico but $12 abroad
• How marketing, history, and globalization turned a homemade recipe into an international empire

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• 104 – ¡Al Chile! – Chilis: Straight To The Point
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We explore the BCG vaccine and why it’s commonly given to newborns in countries like Mexico. You’ll hear what we learned from our pediatrician, how vaccine practices differ around the world, and why this immunization still plays a critical role in public health. Whether you’re a parent or simply curious about global healthcare, this conversation offers helpful context and cultural insight.

Key Takeaways:

• Why the BCG vaccine is still necessary in countries like Mexico
• What makes this vaccine different from those given in the U.S. or Canada
• How a small scar can carry cultural meaning and public health significance

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• 171 – Turismo Médico En México – Experiencias Y Costos | Medical Tourism In Mexico – Experiences And Costs
• 253 – ¡Bebé A Bordo! | Baby On Board!
• 263 – Lo Que Nadie Nos Dijo Del Embarazo – Sorpresas, Retos Y Momentos Reales | What No One Told Us About Pregnancy – Surprises, Challenges, And Real Moments
• 270 – Padres Primerizos – ¡Bienvenido, Santi! | First-Time Parents – Welcome, Santi!
• Level up your Spanish with our Podcast Membership
  • Get the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a word
  • Listen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrases
  • Test your comprehension with a multiple choice quiz

If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more list

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