Weekend in Madrid!

Living in Salamanca makes it very easy to journey to other places as it is affordable with good reliable transportation lines. I took the opportunity to go to Madrid for a couple of days. Getting to Madrid from Salamanca is very easy; you have the choice of either taking the bus or the train. It usually takes 2 ½ to 3 ½ hours depending on which you transport you choose and students usually travel to Salamanca via Madrid.

 

Madrid is a very interesting city and it is easily navigated. Armed with maps of the city and the metro, I and my companion set off to discover the charms of Madrid. We used taxis solely during our initial entry and departure from Madrid and the remainder of the time we used the metro which was clean, very affordable and with our maps handy we were able to get around easily. We bought our metro tickets at an automatic machine in the station and we were assisted by a very friendly attendant.

In our first excursion we visited The Retiro Park with its boating lake and took some time to just relax and look at the beautiful well-manicured surroundings with the lake. Our subsequent visits included visiting Madrid’s Plaza Mayor, other parks and stores, Real Madrid’s Bernabéu Stadium and Mercado de San Miguel. One of my favorite moments was during our visit to the Museo Reina Sofía in Madrid. I had the opportunity to view the world famous painting Guernica by world acclaimed artist Pablo Picasso! It portrays the devastation caused by the Nazi’s bombing the town of Guernica on April 26, 1937 during the Spanish Civil War. It was one of the most powerful statements in Picasso’s work and many people visit the museum today to catch a glimpse of this painting.   

Madrid is a very interesting city and there is so much to do and experience. I’m happy that I took the time to visit and I hope during my next visit I will have the time to visit some more of the historical monuments and museums in Madrid!

 

Debra, Student in Tia Tula

http://www.museoreinasofia.es/

http://www.mercadodesanmiguel.es/

http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jardines_del_Retiro_de_Madrid

http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Estadio_Santiago_Bernab%C3%A9u

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plaza_Mayor,_Madrid

Practice makes perfect…Poco a Poco!

In Tia Tula there are so many international students here and all of them focused on learning Spanish and improving their speaking, writing and reading capabilities. One of the most interesting things for me in interacting and getting to know all of these students is the sharing of the cultures. Not only am I learning about Spanish but I am also learning about so many other different cultures that it’s definitely adding to my experience while I am here!
 

I really enjoy speaking and practicing with various students. Even though I may be in a different class from some of my friends here it’s really easy to meet and make friends in Tia Tula as the school encourages mingling among the students during daily activities, as well the school has an intimate atmosphere so this makes it really easy to interact with each other.

The school encourages speaking Spanish both in and out of class and it’s definitely best to do so. When we are together we are always speaking Spanish and taking the opportunity to correct each other and this way I’ve learned a lot of new words or how to correctly phrase a sentence and conjugate a verb. Even when I am out in the city and interacting with locals in the stores etc. and I make a mistake or don’t know a word they help me by supplying the word or correcting my Spanish.
 

This is what I love about being in Salamanca because I have the opportunity to practice at class, with my friends, at my apartment, as well in the streets!  It’s a great opportunity to practice your conversational skills and if you are in Salamanca I would advise you not to be shy. It is expected that you will make mistakes as you are learning a new language, so laugh off the mistakes, they will make for a good story one day!

Debra, student in Salamanca.

 

Have some Paella!!

If you are in Spain or you’re still researching on what you are going to do when you get here, one of the things that you’ve undoubtedly read about would be the delights of the gastronomy. One of the most popular dishes is Paella. This would definitely be on your list of things to eat when you get to Spain!

 

To give you a little history on the origins of Paella, It is a Spanish rice dish which originated in Valencia in the mid-19^th century and is considered to be Valencia’s regional dish but it is popular throughout Spain. In typical Valencia tradition the dish is made with rice, vegetable, rabbit and chicken meat, beans, saffron, oil and seasoning. Other paellas are also made with Seafood or there may be a combination of both.

Paella is very popular here in Salamanca and can be eaten in restaurants by the plate or as a Tapa serving. As part of the extra-curricular activities at Tia Tula we have cooking classes and sometimes we will have a tutorial on Paella which the students always enjoy. I recommend when you get to Spain or if you are already in Salamanca that you try the Paella, I’m sure that you will love it!

 

Debra, student at Tia Tula

Saturday adventures!

There is so much to do here while in Salamanca! I had a great day exploring the neighboring city of Avila with my fellow student Nari! On Saturday morning we got up early and headed off to the bus station. Bought tickets for the 8.30am bus and in no time we were on our way. Avila by bus is only one hour and a half away so in between chatting and having a cup of tea the time passed very quickly.

When we arrived we had breakfast at one of the many restaurants populating the city and then heading to the tourist office for a map and information on the city. The entrance to the Wall of Avila is actually in the tourist office so after paying a small fee we excitedly started our walk around the city on top of the Wall. The views were beautiful and the walls are well preserved. The weather in Avila was great, not too hot or cold so we had a good time leisurely strolling along the Wall, climbing the turrets, stopping to take photos and to read the plaques that are set in stone along the way.

After the Wall we walked through the streets of the city and stopped off at the Museum and the 17^th century Convent of St Teresa. Everything is well preserved and absolutely beautiful. I have to say though my favorite place that we visited was the Cathedral of Avila. It is suggested the building of the Cathedral started in 1091. It is a combination of Romanesque and Gothic architecture and it is stunning in person. After spending the day in Avila we returned to Salamanca on the train which has a shorter journey time.

Later that day with some of the other students from the school, I attended a concert in Salamanca featuring a group called The Rey Sisters from Ghana. The venue, Santo Domingo garden, was packed with locals and international students and the group didn’t disappoint! Tired but extremely happy from having such a great day I can’t wait to continue my adventures in Salamanca!

 

Debra, Student in Salamanca.

Unforgettable … My time in Salamanca.

I came to Salamanca for five months to learn Spanish, enjoy the city and maybe see some of the rest of Europe. I leave to go back to my country of Trinidad and Tobago fully satisfied that I have achieved my objectives.

When I first arrived in Salamanca I didn’t have much knowledge of the language beyond the very basics and I must say that while I have had some very frustrating moments I have also had a very rewarding experience.  Initially I was a bit shy to speak as I didn’t know the proper use of the grammar or have the vocabulary to adequately express myself. Surrounded by teaching Professionals like Vanessa, Beatriz, Alicia and the other staff has motivated me “Poco a Poco..”Now thanks to the dedicated teaching of the staff at Tia Tula, and from my time spent as an Intern being constantly encouraged by Ana and the rest of the Administrative staff, I am well equipped to communicate with other persons in the language. I also want to give many thanks to my room-mate Noriko and the many other students who I met while at Tia Tula who encouraged me and corrected me during our conversations.  Their input and motivating words really helped a lot. I now feel more confident in my ability to communicate in the language and I look forward to continuing my studies in my country.  My time here was well spent and I think that no other experience can top being immersed in the culture and language if you are trying to learn another language.

Salamanca is a beautiful city and this is an understatement. A well preserved historic city with truly stunning architecture and a wide variety of cultural activities keeps one from getting bored as there is always something new to do, discover or to see.  I felt warmly embraced by not only the school but also the city. The many events, concerts etc. that I attended in Salamanca showcases the city in such a positive way and it is heartwarming to see how proud Salamintos are of their city and its heritage.

When I came to Salamanca I was focused on experiencing Spanish culture but what I did not expect was to also become familiar with so many other different cultures as well. Being in Tia Tula I have met students from so many different countries and it has definitely improved my experience here.  One of the things I enjoyed the most was all the different foods that I learned to prepare from my international friends in Salamanca. I can’t wait to go home and show off my new found skills! To Noriko who taught me to make sushi, Nari who taught me Korean food, Valeria who taught me Tiramisu thank you for the pleasure! I also learned to prepare popular Spanish foods as part of the extra-curricular activities of Tia Tula. I’m going to be very popular when I get back home!J

This was my first time in Europe and being in Salamanca made it easy to travel around. I enjoyed visiting other parts of Spain and I also had the opportunity to visit Portugal, London and France.  All the countries were definitely beautiful in their own way and I will carry special memories with me from my first visits to these places.  I feel very blessed and as I embark upon another journey in my life I wish to truly thank the staff of Tia Tula for a phenomenal experience! You have added to the enrichment of my visit and I am grateful.

To everyone at Tia Tula, staff and students “Muchas gracias, buena suerte y mejores deseos!! Besos!!”

Debra, student at Tia Tula.

A student's experience in Tia Tula and Salamanca.

Today I decided to interview fellow student at Tia Tula Japanese national Miyuki, with whom I am sharing this experience of learning Spanish at Tía Tula. I asked about her experience in Tia Tula and her general experience in Salamanca. This is what she had to say.

Me: Why do you want to learn Spanish?

Miyuki: At the University I attended in Japan, one of the courses I took was Spanish. I wanted to learn to speak fluently and so I decided to further my studies, also I enjoy practicing the language with foreigners!

Me: How long have you been studying in Spain?
Miyuki: I have been here for one year.
 
Me: Why did you choose Salamanca?

Miyuki:  Salamanca is known as a place where persons speak fluent, clear Castilian and it is also a city where many foreigners study. For me it is ideal, I can focus on studying among other persons pursing the same goal. Also the price of living in the city is very affordable, which provides for a good quality of life.
 
Me: What is your objective during your time learning Spanish in Salamanca?

Miyuki: I want to pass the DELE B2 exams, as well I want to achieve fluency and to communicate in Spanish without any problems. In Spain I have many Spanish friends, which has helped me greatly in improving my communication skills.

 
Me: Do you want to leave a comment for prospective students who are thinking of coming to Salamanca and enrolling in Tia Tula?
Miyuki:  The atmosphere in Tía Tula is very intimate, I always feel like I am at home! The staff makes you feel very welcome and you will make friends with other international students throughout the school.  The teachers are very kind and patient and the school also offers a variety of activities each week. Personally I definitely recommend coming to study Spanish at Tía Tula!

Thanks Miyuki!!

Interview by Noriko, student internship in Tía Tula.

Extra-curricular activities 26th - 30 August, 2013

Monday 26 August 18.00: Ice Cream and Garden visit. First we will go for ice cream in Plaza Mayor and then after we will visit and learn the history of the garden Huerto Calixto y Melibea.  Price: between 2-3€ (depending on your consumption). Meeting place: Tia Tula – Duration approximately: 1h

 

Tuesday 27 August 17.30: Movie – The Perfect Crime - Alex de la Iglesia (2004) Rafael is the best salesman in the biggest department store of Madrid. He is a fascinating man; all his colleagues fell in love with him. He tries to live a high-standard life. He is definitely ambitious and aspires to be the new head of sales on his floor. But he has to beat Don Antonio: the best salesman in the man wearing sector. Competition gets harder and harder, until Rafael kills Don Antonio but there is one witness to his crime.. Lourdes…Place: Tia Tula – Duration 106min.

Wednesday 28 August 18.00: Picnic. We will enjoy a picnic on the banks of Rio Tormos or in Park Jesuitas. Do not forget to bring your snacks and your desire to have fun during the games that will be proposed! Meeting point: Tia Tula – Duration approximately 1h30.

 

Thursday 29 August 16.30: Pool. Wear sunscreen, bring your towel and your swimsuit and let’s go chill by the pool San Jose. We will also enjoy a breathtaking view of Salamanca. Price: 3,29€. Meeting point: Tia Tula – Duration approximately 1h30

 

Friday 30 August 19.00: Spanish Tortilla. Come learn how to make Tortilla with potatoes and after you can eat it. Price: 6€. Meeting place: Tia Tula- Duration approximately 1h

 

Remember to sign up for the activity at the reception beforehand (the minimum number of people needed for each activity is 3). If the cost is not stated then the activity is free. We recommend that our students participate in the activities so they can get to know other students in the school, so they can broaden their knowledge of Spanish culture and to practice and improve their Spanish in a fun way.

Summer time and concerts in Salamanca

Last week Saturday I was out and about Salamanca enjoying various cultural events which the city has ongoing as part of its Cultural programs for the year.  This month Salamanca will be hosting two concerts every Saturday which gives me the opportunity to go out with my friends and enjoy the sights and sounds of the city.

The first concert we attended was held at The Cave of Salamanca and the group Tarantella Quartet played a mixture of Jazz, Classical and Modern renditions. The concert which started at eight lasted about an hour and we spent it taking in the sounds of Mozart and Beethoven. The venue though small had an intimate feeling and we had an enjoyable time.

After the first concert we decided to have dinner close to the Plaza Mayor while we waited on some other friends to join us for the second concert. After enjoying a delicious dinner at our favorite Mexican restaurant (Salamanca has a bit of everything) we were on our way to the second concert.

The second concert was held in the Garden of Santo Domingo and started promptly at 10.30pm. The band played a mixture of Spanish music with reggae beats! They were so good that at the end of the one hour and a half performance the audience called for an encore and the band obliged!

We had an enjoyable evening attending these concerts and we are already looking forward to attending another, as well, I am looking forward to sampling some of the other events that Salamanca will be having for the summer!

 

Debra, student in Tia Tula

Salamanca and surroundings. Discovering Bilbao!

Since quite some time has passed since I'm in Salamanca, last weekend I decided to visit one of the many beautiful cities that are nearby: Bilbao. Many of the people I spoke with recommended Bilbao, as well Salamanca has good transportation links with other surrounding cities so it was very easy to get there. I decided to go by train because it was very fast and very affordable.

 

Although it is different than Salamanca, Bilbao is a very interesting and there are plenty of things to do! When I arrived on a Saturday I walked around the old town, where there are shops of all types. The streets have that style that is typically Spain: very narrow houses, closely built next to each other with small balconies where tenants had hung flowers of different colors.

 

There are many old stone churches and museums. I visited the most famous, the Guggenheim Museum. Despite the long time it took to get in as it was quite crowded, it was worth the wait! The exhibition is contained on three floors, and where there is displayed modern works and movements by Pop Art Andy Warhol (with the famous image of Marilyn Monroe) with Breton and Surrealism, Picasso and many others ... On leaving I also saw the famous sculpture that looks like a spider, with many tourists waiting around to get a chance to take a photo with it.

 

Another museum that I visited and which I recommend is the museum of local traditions, showing dances suits, dresses old fishermen, found objects belonging to the Paleolithic period.

 

On Sunday at midday I decided to eat in the main square, under the arcades where you will find there are many places that offer snacks and tapas of all types. What I loved most was the city at night, many places open late and the streets are all lit, creating a special atmosphere, a mixture of an ancient and modern city.

Before returning to Salamanca on Sunday via train, I took some final moments in the city to take a walk near the river and cross the famous bridge build by architect Santiago Calatrava. On the platform that runs along the river there are many tourists and locals who take advantage of the views to either take a walk or bike

Bilbao is a city suitable for anyone who is interested in going somewhere that is easy to get around on foot, has a festive nightlife, it’s cultural and I’m certain you will have fun! I did!

 

Valeria, student internship in Tía Tula.

Student Activities Monday 19th - Friday 23rd August.

Monday 19th, 18.00:  El Cielo de  Salamanca. In the University Collection in one of the classrooms in the courtyard is "Cielo de Salamanca", an extraordinary mural. It is now one of the icons of Salamanca and we will go to view it. Price: € 2 Meeting point: Tia Tula - Approximate duration: 45 min.

 

Tuesday 20th, 17.30: Yincana. Come play this game with us to discover more about Salamanca! The winning team will be featured in an article in Tia Tula’s blog. Minimum of 2 teams of 2 persons. Meeting place: Tia Tula – Approximate duration: 1h30

 

Wednesday 21st, 18.00: Cave of Salamanca. Come to know the history of the ancient mystical cave of Salamanca. Meeting point: Tia Tula. Approximate duration: 45 min.

 

 

Thursday 22nd, 17:00: Movie. El Laberinto del Fauno de Guillermo del Toro (Pan’s Labyrinth) (2006). In 1944 fascist Spain, a girl, fascinated with fairy-tales, is sent along with her pregnant mother to live with her new stepfather, a ruthless captain of the Spanish army. During the night, she meets a fairy who takes her to an old faun in the center of the labyrinth… Location: Tia Tula - Movie length: 112 min

 

Friday 23rd, 19.00: Tapas route.  Lets go  the area of  Van Dyck for tapas (Typically an area where Salmantinos go to eat tapas) Price: + - 6 €. Meeting point: Tia Tula - Approximate duration: 1H30

 

Remember to sign up for the activity at the reception beforehand (the minimum number of people needed for each activity is 3). If the cost is not stated then the activity is free. We recommend that our students participate in the activities so they can get to know other students in the school, so they can broaden their knowledge of Spanish culture and to practice and improve their Spanish in a fun way.

Day trip to Segovia!!

I planned to take a daytrip to Segovia with four of my companions from class.  I was unable to go purchase my ticket but my friends from school visited the bus station and they were able to purchase all the tickets for our trip to Segovia. We set off on the 8.30am bus last Saturday for our adventure in Segovia!

 

The bus stopped off to pick up passengers in Avila and we had a moment to view the historic Walls of Ávila. It was a beautiful sight and we are planning another day trip in the future, this time to Avila to visit this beautiful city! The bus ride to Segovia was uneventful and I was so relaxed I slept most of the way.

The bus delivered us to the terminal at around 11.30am and we headed directly to the Tourist office in the terminal to chat with the Tourist Adviser there who gave us good advice on the best route to take to visit all the monuments. If you are worried that as a student it will be difficult to correspond with the Adviser, don’t be, she also spoke flawless English.

Our first stop was the famous Roman Aqueduct which is stunning! The view of the city after climbing the steps was also gorgeous and the city is full of a well preserved historic charm. There were many tourists walking through the streets and you can hear their excited chatter in many different tongues.  We wandered through the streets after that taking in the beautiful architecture, various statues, museums and the Cathedral. Our final stop before lunch was the beautiful Alcázar of Segovia. It was originally built as a fortress but has since served as a royal palace, a state prison, a Royal Artillery College and a military academy. The castle is also one of the inspirations for Walt Disney's Cinderella Castle.  

After walking around visiting the various monuments and shops, we stopped off to buy some postcards and then decided it was time for lunch; and what better dish to try than Segovia’s famous Cochinillo Asado (Roast Suckling Pig)! My friends ordered it and said it was delicious! I don’t eat a lot of meat but the restaurant had a wide range to offer if you prefer something else. 

After a delicious lengthy lunch it was time to head back to the bus station for our return trip to Salamanca. All of us had a nap on the return journey as we were quite tired by then. We got back to Salamanca at around 10.00pm tired but happy. We had a great time!

Debra, student in Tia Tula

Learning to make Spanish paella!

One of the most famous dishes of Spanish cuisine is undoubtedly Paella. This dish is not only appreciated by the excellent combination of ingredients, but also because it is a unique dish very nutritious and healthy. I've always wanted to learn to cook Paella, but unfortunately never had the opportunity until I reached Tia Tula!

 

 

In the daily list of extracurricular activities organized by the school was a Spanish cooking class to learn how to make paella and I did not hesitate for a moment to sign up. I was so excited! What better time to learn the art of Spanish cooking! The class is held in a place that is not far from the Main Center, where the owner: Mayte very kindly entertained us during the class.

I was very happy when I heard during class that we were going to prepare Paella with fish because from the wide varieties of Paella, this is my favorite! We started by gathering and chopping, cleaning, slicing etc. all the ingredients needed to prepare the dish and once we finished this stage, Mayte began to explain, step by step, how we had to do everything, giving suggestions and practical advice.

I learned some tricks and methods that I didn’t know before. The class was very exciting and I’m happy I participated. I can’t wait to attend another so that I can learn to prepare Spanish cuisine!  Attending this class also gave me the opportunity to meet and bond with the students in Tia Tula. We had a great time attending this cooking class together and we were so happy with the results! As you can see from the photo it was delicious!  Enjoy!

 

Valeria, Intern at Tia Tula.

Getting familiar with Spanish Food terms!

As a newbie in Spain and with a long way to go in terms of speaking the language, one of the most intimidating things for me was trying to figure out the menus when ordering food.I would initially get pretty confused, as did some of my classmates, but my confusion has cleared up. What helped me to understand were the explanations given to me by Aline, who works at Tia Tula. Thanks Aline! 

 

In many of the bars and restaurants are menus written mostly on blackboards and they would have above the food offering the terms - Tapas, Pinchos, Raciones etc.  Apart from understanding that they were priced differently I had no clue as to what makes them different. Here´s what I found...

 

 A 'Pincho' (also known as Pintxos) comes from the verb 'pinchar', which is 'to pierce'. Pinchos for example Jamon, are traditionally pierced with a cocktail stick to attach it to a piece of bread. However, as Basque cuisine has evolved, the food is now less likely to be pierced to a piece of bread than before.

Tapa which comes from the Spanish verb ´Tapar´ which means to cover and a tapa, sometimes just a piece of bread, was used in olden days to ´cover´ one´s drink and prevent flies etc. from getting into it.

In many cities in Spain, a large plate sized portion of, for example fried potatoes (Patatas) will be called a 'ración', with a half-size portion called a 'media ración' and a quarter-size portion a 'tapa'.

If you are in Salamanca you will also see the terms Sandwiches and Bocadillos/Bocatas. There is a difference: A sandwich is made with modern-day white bread, called pan de molde whereas a Bocadillo or Bocata is made with a rustic barra de pan or baguette-style bread loaf.

If you are in Salamanca and you come across food names that had you initially puzzled but you´ve since figured it out please feel free to spread the knowledge! In the meantime enjoy the food in Spain!

 

 

Debra, Student in Tia Tula
 

Getting around as a Newbie in Salamanca!

Salamanca is a small city and it’s relatively easy to navigate by foot. If you are a new student arriving in Salamanca and at Tia Tula don’t worry too much because Tia Tula will give you all the information you need to start you off on a hassle free stay.

 

Carrying a map of the city is essential! These are easy to access and usually one is provided for you during your first day at class. I always carry my map with me. It’s falling apart right now from being so well used! A map is especially handy when you’re learning Spanish like me and you have to ask persons in the street or store for help or advice in finding a certain place or store. Thanks to this I verified that the people of Salamanca are a friendly bunch and usually a few simple words and pointing at the map will encourage some helpful advice and you will soon be on your way.

My map is also marked with the places I NEED to remember such as a newly discovered shoe store, the new hairdresser that I just found, the Art Studio that I started taking classes at and the tiny Chinese store that I go to get my wantons and oyster sauce etc. I am delighted to see that my list of preferred sites is increasing every day! Some people don’t mind wandering around without one and I do that as well. That’s when I find the most unexpected beautiful sights as I turn a unknown corner or discover the most delicious tortilla stopping off for a refreshing drink at a newly-found outdoor restaurant.

But when it’s time to head back, I whip out my trusty map and find the best route to take me to my home in Salamanca!

 

 

Debra, Student in Tia Tula
 

Extra-curricular activities 29th July to 2 August, 2013

Monday 29, July Yincana 16:30 - Discover Salamanca.  Come play this game with us to discover more about Salamanca! The winning team will be featured in an article in Tia Tula’s blog. Minimum 2 teams of 2 persons. Meeting place: Tia Tula – Approximate duration: 1h30

 

Tuesday 30, July Billiards/Foosball 19:30 - Concentration, agility... we put to test your abilities playing Billiards and/or Foosball. Price: Your consumption + participation in each game (+-1€). Meeting place: Tia Tula. Approximate duration: 1h

 

Wednesday 31, July Dance class 18:30 - Latin Dance class with Dance Academy Raquel Gomez. Minimum of 8 students. It is important to register with the secretary before 2.00pm on Tuesday 30. Price 4€. Meeting place: Tia Tula. Duration of the class: 1h

 

Thursday 1, August Movie 16:30 – AMADOR de Fernando Leόn de Aranoa (2010). Marcela is a young woman facing economic hardship. For the summer she has been entrusted to care for an old man who is bedridden. But there is a secret that no-one knows about them...  Place: Tia Tula - Duration of movie: 112m

 

Friday 2, August Climb the Clercia Towers 18:45 - The towers were designed to bring believers closer to heaven, simply being there is pure delight.  It will allow you to scan the horizon. As Unamuno used to say, Salamanca "Soto de torres" (a copse of towers). The Clerecía Towers is a like a unique stairway to heaven from which you can enjoy a spectacular view of the city Price: 3,75€. Meeting Place: Tia Tula – Approximate duration: 1h

 

Remember to sign up for the activity at the reception beforehand (the minimum number of people needed for each activity is 3). If the cost is not stated then the activity is free. We recommend that our students participate in the activities so they can get to know other students in the school, so they can broaden their knowledge of Spanish culture and to practice and improve their Spanish in a fun way.

 

Flamenco….Bailar!!

I attended the Azabache Flamenco show in the Palacio de Congresos with some of the students from Tia Tula to view the Flamenco themed performance. We loved it!!  For me, it was the first time I’ve seen Flamenco performed in Spain and it was fabulous. The dancer performed with such a joyous expression and passionate movements you couldn’t help but be drawn into the performance. The singers and the band were excellent and we all had a great time!

 

The performance lasted for an hour and a half and at the end the lead singer’s two sons came on stage. Afterwards the lead singer and his two sons gave an impromptu performance together, with the younger son aged about 10 years, singing lead! We were captivated! He was excellent and the audience encouraged him with cheers and applause! It was a great moment.

 

I hope I can attend another flamenco performance during my time in Salamanca because I definitely enjoyed this one!

 

Debra, student in Tia Tula

Extra-curricular Activities 22nd - 25th July

Monday 22, 18:00: Card Game. Do you know the Spanish card game chinchón? Come with us to learn and play chinchón in the shade of a park. Meeting point: Tia Tula - Approximate duration: 1h

 

Tuesday 23, 19:30: Cooking Class You will learn to make Paella and then you can eat it. Price: € 7.

 

Wednesday 24, 17:00:  Cinema – Blancanieves (2012) de Pablo Berger Drama Spain / France. As part of the cycle of "a summer of Spanish cinema", Tia Tula accompanies you to the cinema to see this film. Price: 5,50 €. Meeting point: Tia Tula - Movie length: 90min.

 

Thursday 24, 18:30: Exhibition- Archivos de la Guerra Civil. We'll go to see the exhibition that has files of civil war and view a Masonic lodge. Meeting Point:  Tia Tula. Approximate Duration: 1H

 

Friday 25, 19:00: Tapas Tour. Come take a Tapas tour in the Centre. Price: + - 6 €. Meeting point: Tia Tula. Approximate duration: 1:30

Remember to sign up for the activity at the reception beforehand (the minimum number of people needed for each activity is 3). If the cost is not stated then the activity is free.

My experience visiting a Flea Market

One of the activities organized by Tía Tula last week Sunday was a short trip to a nearby pueblo to visit a flea market. Last week Sunday, I along with some friends of Tia Tula travelled to a nearby town named Holy Carbajosa to experience the flea market.

 

The market was in the main square, which has a beautiful small old stone church in the center. On the church close to the bell, which is still rung by hand, there was a nest of storks, which although very often seen in Salamanca, always has the ability to charm and fascinate me.  

It was a small “mercadillo” and the items for sale varied from books, magazines, dvds, clothing to older collectible items. Some stalls sold clothing, jewelry, bags, shoes ... all the things which brought happiness to us!! I guess it was a little different for Sergio, the only guy who was with us in the group but he had a good time browsing through the many dvds and books on sale.

 

What caught my attention was seeing an old movie player with the projector and reels of film also offered for sale. I thought with the exception of the one my dad has, those had disappeared from the face of the Earth! My father is still keeping his, along with film of when I was a child.  Seeing this item in a little flea market in Carbajosa brought back good memories of my childhood.

 

Afterwards, we all sat on the terrace of a bar in the square for tapas and continued practicing our Spanish. After this visit, I can definitely say that there is always something new and interesting to be discovered in the activities organized by Tía Tula. It was a great way to spend my Sunday morning!

 

Irene D'Ambra, a student at Tía Tula

Extra-curricular Activities 15th – 19th July

Monday 15th, 19:30: Ice cream + The garden of Calixto y Melibea. What's better than an ice cream and the shade of the trees of the garden to face the heat? We will buy the ice cream  at the El Novelty and we will discover the story of the Garden of Calixto y Melibea .
Meeting point: Tía Tula. Approximate duration: 1h00

 

Tuesday 16th, 19:30: Río Tormes tour. We will visit  the Tormes river on a boat. ( 2 persons/boat : maximum 15 people ). It is necessary to sign in at the reception before Monday  15th at 12pm. Price: 3,50 euros. Meeting point: Tía Tula. Approximate duration: 1h30.

 

Wednesday 17th, 17:00:Cinema. “Sola Contigo ( 2013 )” by Alberto Lecchi. Thriller Spain / Argentina. As part of the cycle of "a summer of Spanish cinema", Tia Tula accompanies you to the cinema to watch this film. Price: € 5,50. Meeting point: Tia Tula. Approximate duration: 98 minutes

 

Thursday 18 th, 15:30: Multiaventura. Do you want to do water sports and sunbathing? Come with us to Pelayos. More details of the activity on the Student Activity Notice Board.

 

Friday 19th, 22:15: CATCH THE LIGHT OF THE NIGHT OF SALAMANCA. We will meet at the school and we will leave for 3 of the best parts of the city to see and photograph their views (Roman Bridge with views of the Casa Lis, Vaguada de la Palma, Plaza Mayor). Location: Tula Tia Portal Approximate duration: 1h

Remember to sign up for the activity at the reception beforehand (the minimum number of people needed for each activity is 3). If the cost is not stated then the activity is free.

Extra-curricular Activities 8th – 12th July

Monday 8th, 19:30: Tapas tour.  We will go to some bars in the city center to eat tapas. Price: +- 6 euros. Meeting point: Tía Tula. Approximate duration: 1h30

Tuesday 9th, 18:30: Dance class. Flamenco class. With Raquel  Gómez’s dance academy . Minimum 6 students. It is necessary to sign up at the reception  before  Monday at 14pm. Price: 4 euros. Meeting point: Tía Tula. Approximate duration: 1h.

 

Wednesday 10th: Flamenco show. Azabache show. Time: 22h00. Price: € 10. Location: Palace of Congresses. Tia Tula does NOT accompany  you to the show but we can help you to buy tickets. It is necessay to sign up at the secretary  before Monday at 14pm.

 

Thursday 11th, 19:00: Party. Come with us to celebrate the summer arrival. Tia Tula organizes a party in the school. Location: Tía Tula. Approximate duration: 1h.30.

Friday 12th, 15:30: Multi-adventure. Do you want to do water sports and sunbathing? Come with us to Pelayos. More details of the activity in the information panel.

 

Remember to sign up for the activity at the reception on beforehand (the minimum number of people needed for each activity is 3). If the cost is not stated then the activity is free.