Ah Spain!

In this episode, we step inside one of Madrid’s most dazzling landmarks — the Royal Palace. We take a leisurely stroll through its history, from its 18th-century beginnings to the role it plays today, and explore some of its most impressive architectural details. Along the way we highlight a few of the palace’s most striking rooms and features, and share why this monumental building continues to be such a centerpiece of Spanish culture. It’s history, grandeur, and a dash of cheek — all served up poco a poco.

In this episode of Ah... Spain!, we chat about the joys and quirks of Spanish healthcare — from the mysterious SIP card to why so many expats end up juggling both the public and private systems. We compare our experiences with US insurance to Spain’s surprisingly affordable coverage, explain why “just go to urgencias” is often the go-to advice, and share tips on navigating GPs, specialists, and that DIY approach to preventive care. Along the way, we cover pharmacies (where meds are so cheap it feels like a scam), the oddities of dental and vision care, vaccines, mental health access, and the cultural differences that mean you’ll probably need Google Translate and a little patience. If you’re an expat wondering how healthcare here actually works, consider this your reassuring — and humorous — guide to why Spain’s system really isn’t so scary after all.

In this episode of Ah, Spain: Poco a Poco, we explore the deep connection between Ernest Hemingway and the country that captured his heart. From the sun-drenched streets of Pamplona to the cafes of Valencia, Hemingway immersed himself in Spanish traditions, bullfighting culture, and the rhythms of everyday life. We trace how Spain shaped his writing, from The Sun Also Rises to For Whom the Bell Tolls, and how his romantic yet unflinching gaze helped define Spain for readers around the world. Along the way, we’ll share stories, historical context, and a few surprising tidbits about the man behind the myth.

In this lively episode of Ah... Spain!, Tania and Gaetano take you on a tour through 20 colorful Spanish proverbs — expressions packed with wit, wisdom, and a touch of mischief. You’ll learn why dressing a monkey in silk doesn’t change much (la mona, aunque se vista de seda, mona se queda), what shoemakers should stick to (zapatero, a tus zapatos), and how centuries-old sayings still shape conversations in modern Spain.

We share each proverb’s literal translation so you can enjoy the quirky imagery, as well as the real meaning so you’ll know when (and when not!) to use it. You’ll also find out which ones are our personal favorites, and why some make us laugh while others feel surprisingly profound.

In this episode of Ah Spain! Poco a Poco, we take a flavorful journey through the world of Spanish cheeses. We explore the basics—from the fresh, soft tiernas to the rich, aged curados—and touch on how different regions shape their unique styles. It’s the perfect primer for cheese lovers and curious listeners alike, setting the stage for deeper dives into individual cheeses in future episodes.

In Spain, grocery shopping is like visiting different friends.  One chain is where you go for the best bread, another for the freshest produce, and another for that one snack you can’t find anywhere else. In this episode of Ah Spain, we unpack the charming quirks of Spanish supermarkets—from oddly specific aisle layouts to the unspoken rule that one store can never have everything. Expect tales of crossing town just for your favorite salsa, discovering random gourmet treasures, and laughing about how eggs are never where you expect them to be. Along the way, we compare notes on our most surprising finds, reveal the strange items we now can’t live without, and share how these small rituals have become part of the Mediterranean adventure of making Spain feel like home.

In this week’s episode of Poco a Poco, we explore the extraordinary life and work of Antoni Gaudí, the legendary Catalan architect whose creations continue to shape Barcelona’s skyline and spirit. From the dreamlike designs of Parc Güell to the iconic towers of La Sagrada Família, Gaudí’s work blends nature, faith, and imagination in unforgettable ways.

In this episode of Ah Spain!, we're talking trash as we dumpster dive headfirst into the wonderfully weird world of Spanish waste management. From deciphering the colorful dumpster system to figuring out what to do with your old clothes, used cooking oil, garden trimmings, and that broken IKEA chair you’ve been meaning to toss — we cover it all. Whether you’re new to Spain or just tired of nervously hovering over bins hoping you're not committing eco-crimes, this episode will clear things up. It might not be the sexiest topic, but trust us, understanding how to handle your trash in Spain will make your life cleaner, greener, and a whole lot easier. Tune in, laugh a little, and learn how not to get fined by your local ayuntamiento.