If you're interested in studying Spanish in Madrid with don Quijote this winter, you're in for a unique spectacle. With the cool temperatures of autumn, the city enjoys a charming transformation: the air becomes crisp, t-shirts and sandals are put away and give way to sophisticated coats and boots, many dishes, comforting and warm, and the urban vegetation is tinged with vivid reds, oranges and yellows. Apart from the typical seasonal changes, Madrid also offers fun events during this season. So take your Spanish learning experience out of the classroom and pay attention to our guide of the best things to do this November in Madrid.

Let the weather guide your stomach

Let's start with everyone's favorite topic: food! Spanish gastronomy is known for its long tradition of seasonal dishes, tapas and drinks (just try to find a person who drinks gazpacho in winter, we dare you!). The weather, so cool, is perfect for comer con cuchara (eating with a spoon) and, as Spaniards, a good, healthy cocido madrileño. The city's most famous, cocido madrileño, is cooked with garbanzo (chickpeas), vegetables and meat. Other hot and traditional dishes in Madrid are callos (yes, they're beef intestines, but trust us... they're delicious!) and garlic soup.

Another dish you must try is the famous cochinillo de Segovia. Just an hour from Madrid, the city of Segovia will surprise you with its medieval beauty and, after a great walk, you can calm your stomach with this local specialty. And if you want your gastronomic route to go one step further, why not make a reservation at Casa Botín? Recognized by the Guinness Book of Records as the oldest restaurant in the world, Casa Botín was founded in 1725 and its specialties are typically madrilenians and Castellan dishes.

And, of course, don't forget to try the churros con chocolate, which are considered part of a typical breakfast in Spain... Because there's no better way to start a cold winter day than with churros and a good cup of chocolate.

Enjoy unique gastronomic festivals

November is a month of events and festivals in Madrid, designed to satisfy all palates. If you are a jazz lover, for example, you will love the International Jazz Festival that takes place throughout the month. This festival will not only offer you more than 100 musical performances, but also jazz-related discussions, film screenings and exhibitions. On the other hand, the Madrid en Danza festival starts on November 18 and stands out for its innovative aesthetics and its commitment to international and local dance.

For foodies, there is MadrEAT, an outdoor gastronomic market where you will have at your disposal more than 20 vans specialized in gourmet food and craft beer. MadrEAT takes place in the gardens of AZCA during the third weekend of November. Finally, for those with more diverse interests, Madrid also hosts Science Week (Nov. 7-20) and Madrid Horse Week (Nov. 27-27). Never seen a horse show? Why not do it this month?

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Get out into nature

Just because temperatures have dropped doesn't mean outdoor activities end. With the change in vegetation, areas of Madrid such as Retiro Park are transformed into a spectacular paradise of copper and golden colors. So why not take a bike or the metro and discover all the beauty of the city? In addition to the Retiro Park, you can visit others such as the Parque del Oeste, the Sabatini Gardens or the Dehesa de la Villa (former hunting ground of King Alfonso VII). The Casa de Campo is another gem: because it is the largest park in Madrid and because it houses the Parque de Atracciones and the Madrid Zoo. The park also organizes guided tours and walks.

Here it is! If you are studying Spanish in Madrid this year, don't let it go by without discovering all the beauty, culture and fun that the city has to offer!

If you come to learn Spanish in Valencia you’ll find our new, stunning donQuijote school waiting for you. It is a beautiful new location with 18 modern and spacious classrooms, large courtyards, terraces and gardens where you can relax between and after classes.

The school is located right in the heart of the city on Calle de Cadirers. So, besides being located in an excellent area that is well conntected with the rest of the city, the beach and beautiful parks, it is also found in the most historic part of Valencia. To give you an idea of just how historic the area is our new building was a Gothic Palace built in the 15^th century and was the city's former Círculo de Bellas Arts (Fine Art Center). If its walls could talk, they would tell a thousand stories about the city, its culture, history and art!

It is an impressive, majestic building but at the same time, it is also very welcoming. You'll feel right at home while studying Spanish there... And you'll find treasures of Valencian art throughout the school! For example, if you find yourself learning Spanish with us in this beautiful school, take a good look at the stairs while you walk up to your classes. Did you know that the little column you find at the start could be the work of Pere Compte, the architect of the famous and beautiful Lonja de la seda?

Journey into Valencia's Golden Age

It’s not that far-fetched... after all the Lonja de la seda, an example of Valencian Gothic architecture, is only a three minutes' walk from the school! It’s true, as soon as you finish class you can walk to this incredible building that is as grand as a cathedral. Built between the 15^th and 16^th century, it was dedicated to the activity of the increasingly influential Valencian bourgeoisie. Its wide nave, its twisting columns, high ceilings and the hidden messages found in its reliefs will make you feel as if you've wandered into the bustling Valencia of the Golden Age.

Lonja de la seda

Another magnificent Valencian monument linked to our school through its architect Pere Compte, are the Torres de Quart, about seven minutes' walk from the school. These impressive towers were part of the ancient walls that defended the city in the Middle Ages. They are both high and dramatic... one can imagine a crowd of alert lookouts, running up and down their stairs, taking shelter in their protective walls, guarding Valencia!

Torres de Quart

Our school is also found about four minutes from one of Valencia's greatest monuments, the Cathedral of Santa Maria. It is the pride of the city, a cathedral built in the 13^th century, which despite being a great example of Gothic architecture, includes other peculiarities, influences and add-ons from other centuries as well. And, if you didn't already know, it is said that none other than the Holy Grail is guarded within its walls. You can see this mythical relic without ever having to suffer the hardships or adventure of Indiana Jones!

Catedral de Valencia

A prosperous city filled with color

All of these magnificent works of art will give you an understanding of how rich and powerful Valencia has been for centuries. In fact, to prove it, you can travel through time, walking only four minutes from the school and visiting the Mercado Central, a Modernist building built in 1914 but still active and filled with life. We assure you it is an inspiring experience to admire the iron architecture while you do your shopping, feasting on the color and aromas of the freshest produce, meat, fish, cheese and more.

Mercado Central

Found right next to the market, but many times unnoticed, is the Church of Santos Juanes, a temple that was a mosque in the time of Al-Andalus, but which became a Gothic parish. It burned down and was reconstructed various times throughout the 14^th and 16^th centuries. As it stands, it is an example of many different architectural styles. It is a visual walk through the history of art!

Church of Santos Juanes

Ah! And we can't forget that just 10 minutes away, you'll find the city hall, a large Neoclassical building that is well known because every year, during las Fallas the famous mascletá, the biggest firecrackers you've ever heard, errupt in celebration in the city hall's beautiful plaza.

Valencia City Hall

There are many more things to enjoy while you're in Valencia and we could add them all to this list. But we think we’ll leave it to you to discover all of the city’s art and treasures for yourself! There's nothing like finishing class, going to any of the wonderful nearby restaurants or bars, and after having a refreshing glass of horchata, choosing a street and saying, "I'm sure there's something interesting down there", before you make your way to discover what it may be. In Valencia you're sure to be right! There are hidden treasures in this beautiful city everywhere you look.

Enjoy the best of autumn in Barcelona: the most extraordinary vineyards, exquisite wines and breathtaking landscapes in all of Catalonia.

In October autumn is officially upon us. And who doesn’t love this beautiful and refreshing season? The stifling heat of summer is finally waning, replaced by a brisk chill in the air that has us gleefully reaching for our favorite sweaters and scarves. No longer are the days of sticky sweat and ice cold showers! Gone are the bitter and contentious battles with your air-conditioning unit (because it’s either broken or running up your electricity bill)!

Autumn is the ideal season to come learn Spanish in Spain, especially in Barcelona. Along with the high temperatures, the intense crowds of tourists also dwindle, making conditions infinitely more agreeable to go out and discover this exciting city. And trust us, just because summer is over, it doesn’t mean the fun is as well! A plethora of concerts, music festivals, art expositions and other cultural events kick off in the fall months.

Of course, autumn also brings about breathtaking changes in Spain’s landscape. Rolling hills of lush green landscapes slowly transition into lovely panoramas of rustic yellows, oranges and reds. If you’re studying Spanish in Barcelona this season, it’s the perfect time to take a day or weekend trip out of the city and check out all the exquisite and colorful catalán countryside. And while you’re out there, why not take a tour of a local vineyard or get out to a wine tasting event?

Vineyards near Barcelona

It’s no secret that Spain is famous for its incredible wine, but did you know that Catalonia receives some of the most wine tourism in all of Spain? The vineyards in the region of Penedés, between Barcelona and Tarragona, are so popular in part due to their proximity to these great cities and the beautiful vistas they provide… but perhaps the most compelling factor is the cava. That’s right, this tasty sparkling wine (often known as the “champagne of Spain”), was originated in Catalonia and is primarily produced there to this day. If you haven’t tried this bubbly ambrosia yet, or are just generally a wine enthusiast, check out our recommendations for lovely vineyards near Barcelona where you can enjoy some terrific wine and cava tasting this autumn.

Cavas Codorníu

We’re starting with this winery as homage to cava’s origins. Codorníu is the world’s oldest producer of cava; its history dates as far back as 1551. The company continues to be the second-largest producer of this bottle-fermented sparkling wine. The breathtaking, sprawling complex was designed in 1895 and features the period’s great Catalan Art Nouveau architecture. The winery offers all types of visits and tours, including combined events where you can visit the Codorníu and also take a bicycle tour, a Simón Coll Chocolate tour or even visit the impressive Montserrat mountain. Or if you’re looking for a more laid-back experience, simply come hungry and enjoy a delicious Mediterranean breakfast or lunch on the estate.

Location: Cavas Codorniu, Avenida Jaume de Codorníu, s/n, 08770 Sant Sadurní d'Anoia

Distance from Barcelona: Approximately 45 km (40 minutes by car)

17^th century wine barrel in the entrance of the Codorníu winery

Oller del Mas

Oller del Mas is a small winery that boasts of 1,000 years of history. Located within a 10^th century medieval castle, this family-run winery creates a comprehensive experience for its visitors: you can do a tasting of their wines and olive oils, take a tour of the vineyards, the wine cellar and the castle, and even take a scenic ride on a mule-drawn cart! The estate also includes a restaurant and recreation area complete with swimming pool and sports such as volleyball, paddle tennis and golf. The idyllic grounds also offer breathtaking mountainous vistas, as it’s located at the foot of the Montserrat. Complete your perfect day visiting the monastery atop the Montserrat or checking out the nearby town of Manresa.

Location: Carretera de Igualada C37Z, km 91, 08241 Manresa

Distance from Barcelona: Approximately 60 km (1 hour by car)

The stunning Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey

Alta Alella

This modern, relatively young winery is located a mere 2 kilometers from the Mediterranean Sea, meaning you’ll get some stunning views of picturesque vineyards surrounded by vast blue waters. Alta Alella is known for producing some of the best cava in Catalonia, is a certified organic property. In fact, they’ve recently inaugurated their Celler de les Aus (“The Bird’s Winery”), an eco-friendly wine cellar that strives to remove the use of sulfites from the winemaking process. The winery also holds frequent events, such as seasonal wine tastings, yoga, poetry events, gourmet cooking workshop and even a wine art workshop for children!

Location: Camí Baix de Tiana, s/n, 08328 Alella

Distance from Barcelona: Approximately 22 km (40 minutes by car)

Vineyards of the Alella wine region along the Mediterranean Sea

Cavas Freixenet

This is a brand that might ring a bell; after all, this centuries-old, family-owned winery is one of the biggest producers of cava in the world! With 18 cellars throughout 7 countries, Cavas Freixenet is undoubtedly one of the biggest players in the game and a can’t-miss if you’re in Catalonia. Visiting its headquarters in Sant Sadurní d'Anoia, you’ll not only get a tasting and winery tour but a history lesson as well. Visitors first receive an audiovisual presentation of Freixenet’s history, then hop on a mini train to check out the cellars. Group and private tours are available, and they’ve even created kid-friendly visits so that the whole family can get involved!

Location: C/ Joan Sala, 2, 08770 Sant Sadurní d'Anoia

Distance from Barcelona: Approximately 45 km (40 minutes by car)

The headquarters of Cavas Freixenet in Catalonia

With all the magnificent vineyards and wineries to be discovered around Barcelona, this autumn is the perfect time to get out of the city and into its beautiful local countryside. So don’t wait, take advantage of all the magic the fall season has to offer and plan your day or weekend trip today!

One of the most curious phenomena of the Spanish language – and one that causes plenty of headaches for its students – is that our words have genders. As we know, masculine words tend to end in –o, and feminine words in –a (although there are plenty of exceptions to this rule!). Many times, the masculine or feminine character of a word is reflected by the actual gender of the person or animal; they are words that are within the same semantic category. For example chico vs. chica (boy vs. girl), toro vs. vaca (bull vs. cow) or caballo vs. yegua (horse vs. mare).  However, there is another phenomenon regarding the variation of gender between words that isn't related to the masculine or feminine quality of the object. In fact, in changing the gender of the word, it actually takes on a completely different meaning.   We'll give you some examples:

1. Caballo vs. caballa: yes, caballa does exist but, contrary to what you might think, it's not a female horse.  A caballa is a very popular type of fish in Spain (“mackerel”).

2. Trapo vs. trapa: a trapo is a piece of fabric used for cleaning purposes (“rag”), while a trapa is a system of rigs and holds used in sailing. 

3. Suelo vs. suela: the suelo is the ground or the floor, while the suela is the bottom, or sole, of a shoe. 

4. Bola vs. bolo: a bola can be anything that has a spherical shape, like a ball or a scoop of ice cream, yet a bolo is what we knock down during a game of bowling (“bowling pin”)!  Bolo can be easily confused with the ball used to play soccer, which is called a balón.

5. Río vs. ría: this pair is a bit more complicated. While a río is a wide current that flows into the sea or ocean (“river”), a ría is the body of water where the river meets the sea (“estuary”).  For example, in Spain the rías gallegas are very famous, and beautiful.  

A nice example, The ría of Vigo.

6. Huerto vs. huerta: this one is tricky, even for native Spanish speakers. A huerto is a small and enclosed area of crops, like a garden; in contrast, a huerta refers to a much larger area, such as an orchard or a field.  It's often the case that a huerta is comprised of various small huertos.

7. Velo vs. vela: a velo is an article of light fabric used to cover the head or face (“veil”), but a vela can be a candle or the sail of a sailboat.

8. Higo vs. higa: higo is the tasty fruit of a fig tree (“fig”). Higa is something quite different: it can be an amulet in the shape of a closed fist, often given as gifts to children, or even an offensive hand gesture. 

9. Brazo vs. braza: we all know that the brazo is the arm; a braza, however, is a measure of length used for water depth (the equivalent of about 6 feet), known as a fathom.

10. Bando vs. banda: while a bando is any type of proclamation or public announcement, a banda can have various meanings such as: a group of people (including, yes, a musical band), a type of belt or sash, or one of the longer sides of a sports field.

There you have it, more proof of how curious Spanish vocabulary can be. There are always surprises and new meanings to be discovered! By the way, do you know of any other examples?