Ah Spain!

Today your two friendly expats, Tania and Gaetano, dig into the glorious, saffron-hued world of paella! Spain’s most famous rice dish and the source of more food debates than you’d expect from a country known for siestas and fiestas.We chat about the Valencian origins of paella, the many types you'll find from coast to countryside (seafood, rabbit, and even snails), and why every Spaniard swears their version is the only correct one.

Whether you’re a language learner, a food lover, or just here for the laugher, come along as we stir up some history, and sprinkle in some cultural insights. Nothing brings people together like arguing over what does or doesn’t belong in a paella.

So, you've just arrived in Spain—welcome! Now comes the big question: where do you actually get the stuff you need to live? In this episode, we’re talking beds, coffee makers, towels, and all the random things you suddenly realize you don’t have.

We’ll guide you through the typical options for setting up your life here, from department stores to big box retailers. Need tools or home improvement supplies? We'll talk about Spain’s version of Home Depot. Also what is the local equivalent to Walmart? And of course, we can't leave out the neighborhood Chinese shops and local bazaars—those magical places where you can find a mop, a rice cooker, a phone charger, and a Halloween costume all in one trip.

Whether you’ve just landed or you're finally ready to stop sleeping on an air mattress, this episode will help you navigate Spain’s shopping landscape and get your home in order.

In this episode, we explore one of Spain’s most magical nights — La Noche de San Juan — as celebrated in the vibrant coastal city of Valencia. Coinciding with the summer solstice, this iconic festival marks the arrival of summer with fire, water, and centuries-old traditions deeply rooted in Spanish culture.

Whether you're an expat living in Spain, planning a visit, or just curious about Valencia travel and local customs, we’ve got you covered. From jumping over bonfires for good luck to taking a midnight dip in the Mediterranean, we share firsthand experiences, cultural insights, and tips on how to celebrate San Juan like a local.

Perfect for travelers, expats, and anyone looking to experience Spain poco a poco — one story at a time.

Today we take you through the real process of preparing our kids for the big move to Spain, and easing the transition once we arrived! From discussing the decision with them and calming their nerves to making sure they were excited about starting life in a new country, we share how we got everyone on board for this family adventure.

Did we visit first? How did we get our friends,  extended family, and even teachers on board to support our kids for the unknown? Tune in as we talk about the ups and downs of getting our little ones (and ourselves!) ready for life in Spain. Plus, hear about how we built a new circle of friends in a foreign place!

Whether you're planning a big move with your own family or just love a good cross-cultural story, this episode is for you!

Flamenco takes center stage in today’s episode. Learn about the origins of flamenco in Andalusia, shaped by Romani, Moorish, Jewish, and Andalusian influences, and how it developed into a deeply expressive art form. A symbol of Spanish identity, flamenco is more than music—it's raw emotion, rhythm, and resistance. We unpack the history, passion, and cultural fusion behind cante (song), toque (guitar), and baile (dance), tracing flamenco’s journey from the margins to the global stage.

Whether you're a lover of Spanish music, fascinated by cultural traditions, or just curious about the sound of Spain’s soul—this one's for you.

In this candid episode we explore the real-life surprises and lessons we've learned since making the move to Spain. From our feline companions (old and new) adjusting to a new life abroad to our own struggles with picking up the language (spoiler: it’s harder than we thought), we’re sharing the things we wish someone had told us before we packed our bags.

We talk about the subtle art of distinguishing yourself as a resident, not a tourist, and why WhatsApp groups are an unexpected lifeline in your new community. We also reflect on the challenges of staying connected with friends and family across time zones, the importance of embracing what’s available locally instead of longing for what you left behind, and yes — the hunt for a decent selection of English books.

Whether you’re considering a move, already here, or just curious about expat life, this episode is full of insights, laughs, and a few “we had no idea” moments.

In this Poco A Poco episode, we’re talking about Valencia’s Turia Garden—once an unpredictable, wandering riverbed, now a lush 9-kilometer park that snakes through the heart of the city. Along the way, you’ll pass playgrounds, bike paths, shady palms, the City of Arts and Sciences, the Palau de la Música, and even a giant Gulliver you can climb on. Discover how a devastating flood led to a bold transformation, and why locals still affectionately call it “the river.” It’s a story of resilience, reinvention, and a little Valencian pride.

Welcome to Poco A Poco. In these bite-sized episodes of Ah... Spain!, we explore fascinating cultural, historical, and everyday insights about Spain—one small piece at a time. Perfect for curious minds and fans of our longer deep-dive episodes on life in Spain, Poco A Poco helps you discover Spain, poco a poco (little by little).