In Barcelona we celebrate April 23rd, Sant Jordi (Saint George) , as a "lovers day". Sant Jordi day is the most romantic day of the year. Continue reading
Category Archives: Travel
Doing hanami and saying Sayoonara to Tokyo
Eric talks about what he's been learning recently with Platinum Japanese: the extremely useful verb, shimasu which means do. Continue reading
From France with Love: Kisses in French Culture
#8216;Tristan et Iseult’ by Gaston Bussière, French Symbolist painter In France, kissing is everywhere, everyday! The ubiquitous kiss in France is la bise (kiss on the cheek), or le bisou (kiss on the cheek typically, but can be used for kissing … Continue reading
Semana Santa, Easter in Spain
Semana Santa (Holy Week) is celebrated in every corner of Spain by the Catholic community. The streets of big cities and small villages become the stage for religious devotion. Holy Week features processions (las procesiones) which are large groups of … Continue reading
Celebrate Take a Walk in the Park Day!
In celebration of Take a Walk in the Park Day (5/30), we’re looking at some beautiful parks in four countries: Japan, Taiwan, Spain and France. Famous Parks in Japan By Sakura 新宿御苑 Shinjukugyoen (Tokyo) [Map] Shinjukugyoen is a 145-acre oasis in … Continue reading
Celebrate Spring with the Japanese Cherry Blossom Viewing
While St. Patrick’s Day and Easter are some of the spring events people celebrate in the U.S., 花見 hanami (“flower viewing”) is the most notable spring event in Japan. The traditional custom of enjoying the beauty of 桜 sakura (“cherry … Continue reading
Spanish comfort food: Caldos
Caldo (stock) is my favorite Spanish comfort food. Whether you drink a hot bowl of caldo by itself or boil some pasta in it to serve it as an appetizer, this delicious comfort food can be made easily and will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Continue reading
‘L’Amour, toujours’ – Valentine’s Day in France
Quel est ton Valentin/Valentine ? Who is your Valentine? (m/f.) Fêter la saint Valentin (to celebrate St Valentine's Day) often means offering des petits cadeaux (small gifts) in the form of flowers, a romantic diner, wine and chocolates. Continue reading
Send a Card to a Friend!
Get out your stationary--today is Send a Card to A Friend Day! Why not write your card in the language your learning? Our etutors have gathered some common words and phrases that are perfect for greeting cards. Check them out here! Continue reading
Brazilian Carnival
To say Carnaval is the most greatly anticipated holiday in the country would be an understatement. Millions of Brasileiros (Brazilians) and tourists alike will tell you that the year can only begin after the Carnival festivities, when passion meets talent and great music, and the entire country stops its day to come together in celebration. Continue reading