VOL 4. SUMMER 2014
VISIT IT
LIVE IT
SPEAK IT
ALL MÉXICO The Pacific Coast
Visit México THE PACIFIC COAST, THIS ISSUE:
Live México
• • •
Day to day Cultural Hints Christmas in Oaxaca, by Christine McMahon Why Oaxaca? by Chris Aronson
Oaxaca City •Oaxaca •Huatulco Escondido •Puerto •Monte Albán
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Speak Spanish CD recorded by native • speakers to get the right pronunciation Useful expressions
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Table of Contents Historical Overview
Oaxaca
Oaxaca city Read the full section in our printed version
Huatulco & Puerto Escondido Read the full section in our printed version
Live in Mexico
Los Números
Christmas in Oaxaca
Greetings
Monte Albán Read the full section in our printed version
Listen to the CD to get the right pronunciation
Learn basic “saludos” to get you by
by Christine McMahon
Spanish Idioms Learn to use Spanish Idioms in our full printed version
Why Oaxaca? by Chris Aronson
Mezcal: Mexico’s Iconic Spirit
Learn Spanish Read the full section in our printed version
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other laws. This publication and its content may not be copied, imitated, reproduced, republished, uploaded, posted, transmitted, modified, His founder has 10 years indexed, catalogued, background as a university professor at the University of mirrored or distributed in any way, in whole or in part, Mexico in Mexico City. without the express prior Jesús Rivera has been teaching Spanish in Canada written consent of Spanish since 2006 in institutions like World. Malaspina University College now Vancouver Island All Mexico endeavors to provide current and accurate University and group and private classes. In 2010 information on the Jesus Rivera started Publication. However, Spanish World, a place misprints, errors, where anyone interested in inaccuracies, omissions or other errors may sometimes the language can find instruction, supportive occur. All Mexico cannot learning material, guarantee that products and translations and interpreting services included or services. advertised on the publication will be available. All Mexico All Mexico, the Pacific Coast does not warrant that the is intended for your general content of the publication knowledge only. The including, without limitation, information included in the descriptions or photographs, is accurate or complete. publication has been gathered from personal observation and different Spanish World reserves the sources that are right to: correct any error, acknowledged thorough the inaccuracy or omission at text. Any similarities are any time without prior notice coincidental. All content, or liability to you or any other images, other information in person. Spanish World text, graphical, video and welcomes any comments audio forms, designs, etc. related to content that may are property of Spanish help to improve its accuracy. World, and is protected by All contributions will be Canadian and international properly acknowledged. copyright, trademark and Spanish World is a Canadian Company located in Beautiful British Columbia, Canada.
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All Mexico, The Pacific Coast is published by Spanish World™ General Director: Jesús Rivera Content Coordinator: Iliana Correa Text Contributors: Alvin Starkman Carl Borgstrom Chris Aronson Christine McMahon Eileen Strap Tracy Harrison Cover design: Photo Tepeji57 Photography: Alvin Starkman Chris Aronson Christine McMahon Natllely Díaz Photo Tepeji57 Voices:
Sara Alvarado Daniela Mondragón Stephanie Bell
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Oaxaca Oaxaca (pronounced wa-hah-kah) is a Mexican state located about 482 kilometers (300 miles) south of Mexico City, on the Pacific Coast. The state has almost 600 kilometers of Coast. The mountains that surround the state act like a barrier from the wind coming from the Gulf and the Pacific Ocean, and because of that, the weather is mostly mild. The average temperature varies from 22°C
He wants the following changes: Take all words out of yellow speech bubble – Except words “Spanish classes” Add “HOLA!” into Bubble An outdoor market (mercado)
with like a piñada tree. He would image of globe of Christine McMahon world. We haven’t promised this, but would like to appease him, as to 28°C. the coldest months,or the we only gotInthis yesterday average temperature is 18°C. Saturday.
The name Oaxaca comes from the Nahuatl: Huaxyacac, and it means “On Remove 1stof4thelines of (an text on the nose huajes” endemic white background, replace plant), but the name and was adapted by the to removed its current name. The withSpaniards text you from Historic CenterLeave of Oaxaca (the yellow bubble. lastCity 2 points capital of the state), and the as is archeological site of Monte Albán are designated a “Cultural Heritage of Humanity.”
One of the most interesting aspects of Oaxaca is the composition of its population and the presence of numerous indigenous groups. More than 16 ethnic groups inhabit the state and their history and traditions can be seen and experienced on the streets. The most important indigenous groups that remain in Oaxaca are the Zapotecs and Mixtecs, but all together the native population surpasses a million people and represents 32% of the total population of Oaxaca.
mole, alcoholic drinks, such as mezcal, varieties of cheese, bread and chocolate amongst other products and dishes. Here you can dine on almost any type of meat or vegetables as well as fantastic fresh fruits. A vast variety of insects are consumed in the state: grasshoppers, maguey worms and even ants (known as Chicatanas). Every region has distinctive flavours and traditional dishes that have been passed down from generation to generation.
Oaxaca is one of the most Beautiful women fill the streets of biologically diverse states in Oaxaca, often wearing colourful Mexico, ranking third for its volume dresses and proudly wearing of reptiles, amphibians, mammals traditional clothing - a sight that and plants. It also offers mountains, may take you back in time to pre(group If or private) jungles, valleys, caves and beautiful Hispanic and Colonial times. you for all Vast experience university levels and needs. Includes beaches in its eight differentprofessor in are into modern resorts and western international programs supportive learning material regions. accommodation, you can(text find it here First language Spanish books, dictionaries, (also French,asPortuguese and Italian) well. In Oaxaca, the old the CD’sand and DVD’s) The state is internationally famous new co-exist in harmony for you to for its cuisine. Oaxaca is well discover. known for its different types of
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Group or private for all levels and needs. Includes supportive learning material (text books, dictionaries, CD’s and DVD’s) Websites translations Interpreting services
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Historical overview The history of Oaxaca is very rich. It is possible that you wouldn’t find a state in Mexico in which you can live and experience history as you would in Oaxaca. The numerous indigenous peoples and cultures enrich the streets and fill them with folklore and colour. Evidence of human habitation dates back as early as 11,000 BC in the Laguna Zope area. Later settlements of this area, between 1200 and 900 BC have been traced back to other Meso-American cultures, such as the ones once located in Guatemala and the Olmecs. The two most important groups were the Zapotecs and Mixtecs that inhabited the valleys of Oaxaca. These two groups were often in conflict during the pre-Hispanic period. These religious groups erected elaborate ceremonial centers, were knowledgeable in astronomy and developed systems of writing that are reputed to be the oldest in North America.
The Zapotecs, who believed they came from rocks, trees and jaguars, were the earliest people to dominate the Central Valley region. Its dominion was centered in Monte Albán that flourished from 500 BC until 750 AD. At the height of its splendor, the Empire had close to 40 thousand inhabitants in the surrounding areas of Monte Albán. From 800 AD onward, Monte Albán lost its presence and importance, and in 1325, the Mixtecs overran the Zapotecs, taking over Monte Albán and developing other areas in the region. In the 14th and 15th centuries, the Aztecs worked on an expansion into Oaxaca and the Zapotecs and Mixtecs formed an alliance to fight them and protect their lands and the commercial routes leading to what are today Chiapas, Veracruz and Guatemala. In 1457, Moctezuma I invaded Mixtec territory, demanding tribute and establishing military outposts. Shortly after, the Aztecs expanded into the Pacific Coast and
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invaded the Zapotecs’ territory. The Aztec expansion was only stopped by the Spanish Conquest. Very soon after the fall of Tenochtitlan, Spaniards arrived in Oaxaca looking for gold, and trying to establish trade routes to Asian spice markets. The Zapotecs and Mixtecs decided to negotiate instead of fighting, in order to retain most of the old hierarchy but ultimate authority to Spain. Soon afterwards, different religious groups, such as the Dominicans, Jesuits and Mercedarians, settled in the area and established the first churches. The Spanish founded Antequera in 1529, today Oaxaca City, and the Santo Domingo de Guzmán convent became a religious centre. The Spanish conquest and subsequent colonization had a devastating effect on the native population, due to the spread of diseases and forced labor. Archeological evidence indicates that between 750 and 1521, when Hernan Cortés arrived in México, there may
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have been indigenous population peaks as high as 2.5 million. In about one hundred years, the native population decreased to 150,000. This would eventually prompt the Spaniards to import African slaves into the area.
symbol for the indigenous population of the state. Juarez was born on March 21, 1806 in the village of San Pablo Guelatao. He inherited his Zapotec past and became a promoter of education and equality. He acted as Chief of Justice of the Mexican Supreme For much of the colonial period, Court. In 1847, Juarez became Oaxaca remained relatively isolated, governor of Oaxaca and in his and the indigenous peoples second term worked to remove maintained much of their culture privileges and properties from the and identity despite the Spanish church. This effort would develop domination. into what was called the Reform War. This movement ended with the By 1810, when the movement of creation of a modern and secular Mexican Independence started, the Constitution in 1857. A year later, city of Oaxaca had 18,000 Juarez became President of Mexico inhabitants. At the beginning, the for the first time. During this time, government of this area remained the French forces invaded Mexico loyal to the Spanish Crown. and Juarez defended the country However, after 1812, insurgents (the against them. Between 1864 and pro-independence group) started to 1867, the French managed to place have some success in the state, but Maximilian I, an Austrian prince not in the capital, which remained in promoted by Napoleon III as royalist hands until the end of the Emperor of Mexico. In the war in 1821. In this same year, the meantime, Juarez was trying to find city was no longer called Antequera international support to defeat them. and became the seat of a Finally, in 1867, Maximilian was municipality, becoming Oaxaca. de-throned and Juarez recuperated the presidency that he held until During the XIX Century, after the 1872. Independence of Mexico, Oaxaca was split between liberal (federalist) Porfirio Díaz was born in Oaxaca on and conservative (centralist) September 15, 1830. He was raised factions. During these decades, by his Zapotec mother since his Oaxaca experienced economical father passed away when he was an crisis, epidemics and drought. infant. At the beginning of his career, he was a liberal and Benito Juarez is possibly one of the supported the Reform War. In the most important and iconic French intervention of 1862, when personalities of Oaxaca. He is Juarez was president, he played an considered to be a legend and a important role, acting as brigade
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general and fighting in what is internationally known as “5 de Mayo”, an epic battle against the French in the State of Puebla. After the triumph over the French and the restoration of Juarez, Díaz became more active politically, and by 1870 he was running for president, which he managed to win in 1876. There was a gap of four years before Díaz came back as president again in 1884 and he remained president until the Mexican revolution in 1910.
During this time, a number of modernization efforts were undertaken in Oaxaca and in the country: public lighting, gas, electricity, oil production, railroad lines, new agriculture techniques and the revitalization of commerce.
Some of these important Mexican advances however, were made at the expense of the country’s poor and indigenous citizens, causing social differences to grow and discomfort to increase. These events would turn into a civil revolution that created a new constitution and the establishment of modern institutions for its application and follow up. The years that followed the Revolution were relatively positive for the country and for Oaxaca as well, however, in 1931, there was an earthquake that devastated a number of cities along the coast of the state. This, along with the Great Depression, and other natural disasters prompted a huge migration of Oaxacans to Mexico City.
Christine McMahon
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In the following two decades, new infrastructure projects began. A section of the Pan-American Highway and the Miguel Alemán Dam were built. These improved the conditions and communication and helped some isolated areas to
connect to larger communities. development projects in the state. From the 1980s to present day, there has been much Zapotecs – This is the largest development of the tourism indigenous group in the state industry in the state. After the about 350,000 people, construction of the Oaxacarepresenting about 31% of the Mexico City highway in 1994, indigenous population. Unlike tourism increased a lot more, other groups, the Zapotecs especially in the Central don’t have a migration story Valleys area and beaches such and have traditionally as Huatulco and Puerto inhabited the Central Valleys Escondido. region, around the capital city of Oaxaca. Its language is the Nowadays, the largest sector most widely spoken in the of Oaxaca’s economy is state. agriculture, mostly done communally. Agriculture is Mixtecs – This is the second followed by commerce and the largest group, with about service industry, tourism being 240,000 people, or 27% of the a very important part of this indigenous population. They last one. Unfortunately there is established themselves in the a still lot to do in terms of northwest of Oaxaca and the infrastructure, education and far south of Puebla over 3,000 years ago.
Natllely Diaz
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OAXACA CITY Natllely Diaz
Oaxaca (Wah-háh-kah) Located about 482 kilometers south of Mexico City, in southern Mexico.
One of the most fascinating and colorful destinations in Mexico, Oaxaca was named a World Heritage site due to its treasure of historic
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colonial buildings and monuments. With pleasant sunny days and cool evenings, it is the perfect climate for walking and exploring the city’s charms.
The capital city of the state, Oaxaca has a pleasantly mild climate, due to its altitude of 5,000 feet above sea level. The annual average temperature is 22°C, although due to the altitude, there is a big difference in temperature between morning and afternoon. The warmest months are April and May, and the coldest are December, January and February. The city of Oaxaca, initially named Antequera, was founded in 1529. The city is the economic, political, social, religious and cultural center of the state. The breathtaking Historical Centre of Oaxaca comprises an area of 5,000 square kilometers and 247 blocks. A total of 1,200 historic monuments have been identified in the city as a testimony to more than four centuries of art and history. The layout of Oaxaca City follows the traditional colonial town plan, with a zocalo (main square) surrounded
www.oaxacadream.com
by a cathedral and several government buildings. Many of the city’s colonial-era buildings, dating from the 16th century, have been exquisitely restored and now house galleries, museums, hotels and restaurants. Major religious monuments, patrician town houses and the general layout of the streets create a harmonious cityscape that may take you back in time. These streets are
By day or evening, there is always something interesting going on here – various bands, musical groups, dancers, human statues, marimba players, protests, theatrical presentations, even an acrobatic hula-hoop girl! Vendors selling jewelry, textiles, shawls and blouses walk about carrying their goods on their shoulders. You can have your shoes polished and drink a coffee at the same time. A host of restaurants around the fringes offer al fresco dining. Christine McMahon
Christine McMahon
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oaxacadream@hotmail.com
an example of urban planning in New Spain in the XVI century, a style that was later adopted in other colonial towns, not only in Mexico, but also in Central America. Since Oaxaca is a highly seismic zone, its architecture is characterized by thick walls and low buildings (don’t worry about this though, the seismic zone has been identified and there are sensors that set off alarms that are transmitted via the radio and public buildings Oaxaca is well prepared for this).
The older buildings are constructed on an unusual greenish volcanic stone that takes on a golden tone when the sun is low on the horizon. Others are painted bright turquoise or pink. Bougainvillea and roses tumble over walls, geraniums spill out of huge clay pots, and when the Jacaranda trees are in bloom they form masses of purple. Completing this colourful palette is the sky, which is most often an azure blue. In the last several decades, regulations have been established to protect the historical monuments, control urban growth, regulate land use and promote the conservation of the city. Oaxaca City was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1987. The strong cultural identity found in Oaxaca has made this city one of Mexico's leading art centers. In the last few decades a group of artists, all native to the state, have converged here to produce artwork that is stylistically diverse but rooted in themes relating to the lives of the indigenous groups who populate the many rural villages surrounding the city.
December 23 - La Noche de Rábanos (The Night of the Radishes)
By Christine McMahon
This festival, unique to Oaxaca, is held just before Christmas, where local craftspeople create intricate scenes out of carved radishes. The custom originated in the 1800s when vendors in Oaxaca’s markets started to create more and more elaborate displays to attract clients. In 1897, the City declared it a formalized competition. Artisans can also compete in two other categories of flor inmortal (dried flowers) and totomoxtle (corn husks). View of the La Noche de Rábanos from a restaurant above the Zócalo (right). The evening closes with a spellbinding show of fireworks in front of the main cathedral, featuring an elaborate vertical framework (castillo) and cascading waterfall of light from the roof of the cathedral.
The peak tourist seasons in Oaxaca are Holy Week and the Christmas season. If you have a particular interest in colonial architecture, spend a day touring the cathedrals and churches and another visiting the museums.
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Something more than Spanish! Morelos 1107, Centro Histórico, Oaxaca, Oaxaca, Mexico. Tel. (+52 951) 503-4228 Cell. (044 951) 181-3580 oaxaca@oaxacainternational.com
There are many churches and cathedrals that are worth visiting; for instance, visit Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad, dedicated to Our Lady of Solitude, the patron saint of Oaxaca. Museo Casa de Juárez contains relics from man’s early days and will also give you a glimpse of day-to-day life in 19th century Oaxaca.
local delicacies at the Mercado Benito Juárez and hit the market food stalls in the Mercado 20 de Noviembre for lunch. Try the ice cream stalls clustered in the nearby square, where the vendors are famous for their local flavours such as mezcal and tuna (cactus fruit). You can also take a bus tour to explore nearby craft villages or markets, which will usually fill up an entire day. For nighttime entertainment, including music and people watching, there's no better place than the main plaza at one of Oaxaca’s swank European-style cafes or traditional Mexican bars and restaurants.
mole negro (a rich sauce made of ground chilies and a multitude of other ingredients) or squash blossom soup. Other traditional dishes are a local type of string cheese called quesillo, large tortillas prepared with cheese called tlayudas and spicy fried grasshoppers known as chapulines. The delicious tamales called oaxaqueños, which are wrapped in banana leaves are a must-try in Oaxaca. Enjoy a tasty distinctive coffee or a champurrado, a drink prepared from tortilla dough, a beer, or any drink typical of the city.
Among the many important fiestas that take place in Oaxaca City For dinner, try tacos at a zócalo throughout the year, some that stand stand or fine dining at one of the out are the Guelaguetza, Day of the many high-end restaurants that offer Dead and Noche de Rabanos (Night Oaxacan traditional cuisine such as of the Radishes).
The bustling city markets are certainly worth a visit, especially on Saturdays. Spend the morning shopping and take in a few downtown attractions in the afternoon. Shop for shoes, handembroidered clothing, folk art and Shopping Oaxaca is a shoppers’ paradise, offering crafts (artesanías) from all regions of the state: pottery, carved wooden animals (alebrijes), tinware, leather, woven rugs, textiles, handembroidered blouses, shawls, and dresses (ropa típica). Christine McMahon
Christine McMahon
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The Christmas Posadas
 By Christine McMahon
The posadas are joyous processions with lots of singing that re-enact the story of Mary and Joseph finding no room at the inn (posada). The posadas are held on each of the nine nights before Christmas throughout the city. All those who join in the procession are invited to eat and drink at the final destination, a private home where there is a Christine McMahon piĂąata, its five points representing the Star of Bethlehem. It is an exciting time for children who often dress up as shepherds or angels. Anyone is free to join in on the fun. On Christmas Eve (La Nochebuena), the ninth and final evening of the posadas and the calendas, a representation of the Christ Child is placed in the mangers of all the Nativity scenes. The calendas all pass by the Main Cathedral to be blessed. Typically most people go to a mass at 11 pm (Misa de Gallo or Mass of the Rooster), followed by eating, drinking, playing games, and celebrating with family until early morning. On Christmas Day everything is closed and everyone
New Year's Eve (La Nochevieja)
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Christine McMahon
Christine McMahon
Frida Kahlo celebrated by the Oaxacan Aguilar Sisters Tracy Harrison and Carl Borgstrom
Apparently, the Aguilar family has a long history of living and sculpting Oaxaca has always tugged on my clay in the rural town of Ocotlan de Frida Kahlo fan heart strings. I have Morelos in Oaxaca state. The potters studied Frida extensively as an Art of Ocotlan, like those in most small Therapist, an Artist and an towns, created traditional utilitarian Accommodation Provider with pottery (dishes and cookware) until cottages that celebrate her life and Isaura Alcantara Diaz got her hands art work on Salt Spring Island in in the clay. She began sculpting British Columbia, Canada. To me human figures engaged in the the state of Oaxaca feels like it everyday activities of rural village contains the roots of Frida's exotic life in Oaxaca. Her husband Jesus look and nature. When my friends Aguila Revilla would draw the Patrice (they both have the same figures on paper and she would name) heard I was going to Oaxaca execute them with immense detail in they exclaimed “You must see the clay and decorate them with bright Aguilar sisters of Ocotlan de vivid colours. Oxacan women were Morelos, particularly Irene”. I had sculpted wearing indigenous no prior knowledge of the sisters but clothing carrying food, water jugs, when I heard they sculpted Fridas in clay like me, I knew I had to find them.
nursing babies, selling at the market, etc. Isaura and Jesus were well recognized for their work. It was noticed and purchased by collectors of Mexican Folk art including Nelson Rockefeller who purchased numerous pieces in the 1960s and 70s. Many of their figures are in the collections of museums, such as the San Antonio Museum of Art and the Mexican Museum in San Francisco. The couple had four daughters – Josefina, Concepcion, Guillermina and Irene who learned the craft and have developed their own styles and interests. Guillermina and Irene are the most accomplished gaining “Grand Master” status by the Fomento Cultural Banamex for their figures expressing the indigenous life and culture of Oaxaca as well for their figures
Guillermina’s Fridas
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expressing the indigenous life and culture of Oaxaca as well for their figures capturing the essence of Mexican icons Frida Kahlo and the Virgin of Guadalupe.
families dedicated to this clay and the ancient craft. Further down the highway of Oaxacan imagination we came upon the town of San Martin Tilcajete known for the creative brightly Intrigued and excited to meet the coloured wooden animals called daughters, especially Guillermina “alebrijes”. These fantastical and Irene who sculpt Frida. I hopped wooden creatures were born from on a bus heading South out of the woodcarving traditions of the Oaxaca city on Hwy 175 – a valley and the influence of Mexico highway of impressive Oaxacan City artist Pedro Linares who is artistry and imagination. Enroute to famous for his dream and Ocotlan de Morelos we stopped and development of morphing bizarre admired Barra Negro pottery - shiny creatures such as donkeys with polished black clay work of the butterfly wings, roosters with bull potters in San Bartolo Coyotepec. horns, etc. Apparently, Diego and Located 11 km South of Oaxaca this Frida took a real interest in his work town and other small towns near it and purchased several pieces from make up a community of 600 him.
Fridas Villa
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Back on the highway, we arrived in Ocotlan de Morelos the home of the Aguilar sisters. Just before town the Aguilar sister's studios begin to appear on the right. We counted to 4 and hopped off walking our way back through the studios to Irene's. The clay sculptures by the Augilar sisters and their families moved from organic primitive renderings to a more refined perfection of form as we moved up the street. The studios of Concepcion and Josefina had a variety of work including the delightful Oaxacan village characters their parents created and fantastical dreamlike sculptures of devils, skeletons, skulls, chest games and prostitutes overflowing in their sparkly outfits. There were very few Fridas, but those present were delightful.
Irene and Tracy finished cornucopia Frida
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When we entered Guillermina's studio Fridas lined up on the shelves beside Oaxacan women giving a clear indication of the Oaxacan impact on Frida's clothing and hair styles. She also had a number of Frida skeleton figures with menancing looks. She had several large Frida sculptures waiting to be painted with acrylic paint. These sculptures featured Fridas love of birds (pic included). It was great to see them in raw bisque form before the bright Mexican colours were applied in acrylic paint. When we entered Irene's studio, it was clear she had maintained a more traditional practice of work and focused on the subjects her parents would have made. She and her daughter worked together in the studio. The Fridas we saw in her studio had all been created and painted by her daughter as Irene had just been to a show where all her work was sold. She did however show me a bisqued Cornucopia Frida holding the abundance of the harvest in a very traditional Mexican look with wired flowers around her head. Irene explained this piece was a lot of work and she had not intended to sell it. Rather she was thinking she would keep it for herself. However, the more we talked and she realized what a Frida fan I am, the more she seemed determined to make it available for me. She told me she would not be making Christine McMahon
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another one for sale, but she would make one for herself again. We laughed and talked pottery for quite a while agreeing to work together at some point in her studio and make each other Frida mermaids. Irene had beautiful long grey braids with brown ribbons bending and twisting through them. When my husband asked if he could take a picture of us, she quickly twisted her long flowing braids in a knot and perched them on her head. I gasped with delight realizing Frida would have done this and felt confirmed I had met a woman who somehow shared the essence of Frida! And yes, I did buy the beautiful Cornucopia Frida and she did paint it that night and deliver it to me in Oaxaca city the next day before I left the city. (pic of Irene with finished piece). I left Oaxaca with a humble sense of gratitude and a better understanding of the female Oaxacan traditions which influenced Frida's choices in clothing and hair styles. Several visits over the years to Fridas home Casa Azul in Coyoacan outside Mexico city and most recently an Exhibition with clothing from Fridas wardrobe had not provided the same depth of understanding that this wonderful trip to Oaxaca provided.
Puerto Escondido Puerto Escondido (“hidden port”) is located about 113 kilometers (70 miles) west of Huatulco, via highway Mex 200. The town was once named Punta Escondida, which described the rocky outcrop that protects a half-moon bay.
a shipping point for coffee grown in the vicinities.
The international airport is only about 3 kilometers (2 miles) west of town, off Mex200. It receives flights from Mexico City and Oaxaca. You could also get there by boat, if sailing on the Pacific Coast, since port was established here in 1928 as
On the way to Puerto Escondido, below the highway, you will find a tourist-geared waterfront, with hotels, restaurants and shops spread out for about a mile along the main avenue, Avenida Pérez Gasga.
Puerto Escondido remained unknown for many decades. In the 1960’s, the area opened up to tourism due to the construction of Highway 200, which connected Huatulco and other towns to this The town can be reached from port. Among the first visitors were Oaxaca city by taking highway surfers, who were drawn to the big Mex175, a winding 6 to 8 hour drive waves that have characterized this over the mountainous terrain to the area. Lately, Puerto Escondido has junction with coastal Mex200, then been visited by travelers preferring a west about 81 kilometers (50 miles). more laid-back alternative to Bahías As a precaution, do not drive after de Huatulco and other carefully dark. planned seaside resorts.
Test your Spanish! Read this traditional legend, answer the question on our Facebook page and get a surprise from Spanish World:
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LEYENDA DE LA SANTA CRUZ.- En 1587, siendo Alcalde de la población Don Juan Renjito, se produjo un arribo del pirata inglés Thomas Cavendish, protagonista de la legendaria Cruz de Huatulco, que según tradición de los pobladores, fue plantada hace 2000 años por un hombre de túnica y barbas
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largas, quien hablaba la lengua mixteca y que convivió con sus nuestros antepasados por varios días, pasando la mayor parte del tiempo en oración. Thomás Cavendish, al tomar por asalto al puerto de Huatulco, no encontró un botín a la medida de su ambición, por lo que ordenó incendiar y arrasar el puerto.
Running east from the rocky cove beneath the lighthouse is Playa Principal, the in-town beach. Here the stretch of sand is narrow, the water is calm and the beach is backed by rustling palms. To the east of Playa Principal is Playa Marineros, which begins at the jutting rocks below the Hotel Santa Fe. Here, the shoreline begins curving towards the south and increasingly faces the open ocean. In this area the surf gets rougher, and caution should be exercised.
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Further to the southeast is Playa Zicatela, one of the world’s best surfing beaches. The wide expanse of golden-coloured sand stretches for miles, and the thundering Pacific breakers crashing onto it are impressive. The biggest waves occur
between August and November. Surfers from all over the world congregate at Zicatela, especially for the international tournament held annually in November. This tournament coincides with “Fiestas de Noviembre” which includes gastronomical exhibitions, beauty contests, a spear fishing tournament, concerts, dancing and a lot of fun. Further west is Playa Bacocho, another open strip of sand. The waves and undertow in this area make it better for sunning and hiking than swimming. Most of the expensive hotels are located around this beach. If you are looking for a place to relax at the beach, and enjoy a notso-crowded, beautiful and warm destination, Puerto Escondido is the place.
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Photo Tepeji57
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Huatulco Also known as Bahias de Huatulco, Huatulco is located where the foothills of the Sierra Madre del Sur Mountains meet the Pacific Ocean, 500 kilometers (310 miles) south of Acapulco. Huatulco’s tourism industry is centered on its nine bays and numerous small coves stretching along 26 kilometers of jagged coastline, including 36 sandy beaches. Huatulco’s coastline is comprised of four main districts. Tangolunda is where most of the resorts are located, Santa Cruz is a small town with the main marina and Santa Cruz beach, la Crucecita is another small town just inland from the beach area which provides support services to the area, and Chahué is a fantastic area between Santa Cruz and Tangolunda that is definitely worth seeing.
Chahué (meaning fertile or moist land in Zapotec) has a marina for large and small yachts along with three principal beaches: Cahué, Facts about Huatulco National Park: 9000 species of plants are located in the park 264 fauna species have been identified, including armadillos and white-tailed deer 701 bird species, including hummingbirds, pelicans and hawks 470 amphibian and reptile species, including Black Iguana, salamanders and snakes 100 marine species identified (dolphins, whales and turtles are often seen here)
Esperanza and Tejón. Chahué area was recognized in 2013 by The Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), which only happens when a beach or marina meet its stringent standards. The
La Esperanza beach, Huatulco, México
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The criteria include standards for water quality, safety, and environmental education. The Huatulco National Park is located in the Santa Maria Huatulco town, to the west of Santa Cruz. This is a protected area created in 1998. It contains 6,375 hectares of lowland jungles and 5,516 hectares of marine areas.
In 2005, Huatulco was awarded the Green Globe International Certification as a sustainable tourist area. Huatulco was the first to receive this award in the continent and third worldwide (only Bali and Kaikoura had received this award previously). This prestigious award was given because the area had developed programs that focus on an environmentally friendly culture that aims to conserve its natural resources. In 2011, Huatulco received the Earthcheck Gold Certification which placed it as the first tourist destination in America to be free from carbon, and established it as “Clean Beach.” Large portions of the Bahias de Huatulco resort area are located within an ecological zone, as the area is serviced by modern water and sewage treatment plants so that no waste goes into its pristine bays. Huatulco offers you a clean, warm and sandy beach to enjoy.
Monte Albán The archeological site of Monte Albán is located on a spectacular mountaintop setting, about 16 km (ten miles) west of Oaxaca City. This outstanding example of a preColumbian ceremonial center was the capital of the Zapotec civilization.
represents a civilization of knowledge, traditions and artistic expressions. The main buildings are aligned north to south, creating harmony between the structures and the empty spaces.
In Monte Alban, influences from Teotihuacan, located just outside Mexico City, can be seen. The ball The center was inhabited over a game court is an example of this period of 1,500 years, by both influence; this game named Zapotecs and Mixtecs. The grand “tlatchtli” in Nahuatl was played Zapotec capital flourished for since 1400 BC by different ethnic thirteen centuries, from 500 BC to groups and for religious and 850 AD. However, before the ceremonial reasons. The actual rules colonization, the Mixtecs took over of the game are unknown, but it is the area, displacing the original believed that there might have been inhabitants. a sacrifice at the end of the game, possibly of the winning team. In The terraces, dams, canals, pyramids Monte Alban you can also witness and artificial mounds of Monte magnificent temples, tombs and basAlban were literally carved out of reliefs with hieroglyphic the mountain and are the symbol of inscriptions. a sacred topography. Monte Alban
Monte Albán is busiest on Sundays, when admission is free. While this can be festive and fun, go on a weekday if you would prefer a quieter visit to these mysterious ruins. Excursions to each site also could be combined with a shopping expedition. Guided tours are a good option, especially if you don’t want to miss out on historical information and observations that you may not make on your own. Hotels and travel agencies offer various sightseeing packages. Itineraries usually include nearby market villages, craft centers and archaeological sites, a general tour of the city or tours of churches and museums. Another option is to hire a licensed guide to visit specific sites. There is no question that Monte Albán is the most important archaeological site of the Valley of Oaxaca, but there are several others that are also well worth your time, such as Mitla (capital of the Mixtec civilization), Yagul and Dainzu. Monte Albán Zapotec and Mixtec settlements occupied the valley of Oaxaca for thousands of years before the Spaniards arrived in 1521. The ruins of these civilizations can be seen at Monte Alban, about a half-hour bus ride from town and an absolute must-do. Christine McMahon
Christine McMahon
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Tehuacรกn-Cuicatlรกn Biosphere Reserve The biosphere was created in 1998 and is located between the States of Puebla and Oaxaca. Its total area is 490,187 hectares and it is bordered by the Sierra Mixteca to the west and to the east by three mountain ranges: Sierra Zongolica northward, in the middle by the Sierra Mazateca and Sierra de Juรกrez southward.
The reserve houses 2,868 species of vascular flora (plants with vascular tissues which distribute resources throughout the plant, such as flowers and coniferous trees), great faunal diversity, a vertebrate group that has reports of 600 or so species, and the largest concentration of columnar cacti (erect, cylinder-shaped stemmed cacti) in the world.
The reserve represents a complex physiographic mosaic, with internal valleys separated by numerous mountain ranges, which makes for great biological and ecosystem diversity. Due to its composition and altitude, three types of climate are found here: tropical rainforest, dry and temperate rainforest. Three different eco-regions have been identified: Pine-Oak Forest of the Sierra Madre, Cactus Scrubland of Guerrero and Dry Balsa Forest.
It is believed that this area has been a key factor in the domestication of various species in Pre-Columbian America such as corn, chile, avocado, amaranth and pumpkin among others. If you have time to visit, it would be a fascinating opportunity. This area has been compared to the Grand Canyon National Park in diverse ecosystems and species and Talampaya Natural Park (in Argentina) in cacti concentration.
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Mezcal: Mexico’s Iconic Spirit Alvin Starkman, M.A., J.D. Mezcal, the agave-based distillate, has finally emerged from the shadow of tequila. While its production in Mexico dates to 1578, if not earlier, its star on the international stage has risen only in the past few years. Alcoholic drink aficionados have come to appreciate that mezcal is a sipping spirit, akin to fine brandies and single malt scotches.
happened in other parts of the world, including of course the US, as well as England, Russia, Hong Kong, South Africa and Europe – Germany now has its first mezcaleria.
While not to knock tequila, it does have its limitations when it comes to competing with other spirits, especially mezcal. Although it is a type of mezcal because it is distilled from agave, to be called tequila it must be made with only blue agave which has been grown in the state of But Canada has been slow on the Jalisco or other circumscribed uptake, primarily because of the regions. While there are excellent arduous import and distribution artisanal tequilas on the market, regulations of the LCBO (Liquor most product sold outside of Mexico Control Board of Ontario). has been commercially distilled However the warm welcome that using modern stainless steel mezcal has been receiving in British equipment. Although some mezcals Columbia and Alberta suggests that are similarly made, the vast majority Ontario, with 38.5% of the country’s of brands on Canadian store shelves population, may not be far behind, are hand-crafted, using centuries old and that the entire country may soon embrace the spirit. It has already
recipes passed down through generations of rural distillers – palenqueros as they’re known in the southern state of Oaxaca. Although agave spirits are produced in 26 Mexican states, most exported mezcal is distilled in Oaxaca. This fact, together with the nature of artisanal production, suggests that mezcal has unbridled potential, with innumerable nuances and arguably unrivalled complexity. Production of mezcal is not restricted to the use of any one variety of agave (commonly referred to as maguey) from any region. There are eight species and upwards of 20 subspecies of each, currently being harvested, baked, crushed, fermented and finally distilled here in Oaxaca. From this alone one can readily understand how the spirit surpasses others in terms of diversity of aroma and flavour notes. Agave used in mezcal production takes anywhere from 6 to 20 years to mature, sometimes longer, after which time the plant is optimum for harvest. While highly adaptable, different agave species are best suited to particular soils, elevations, levels of precipitation, days of sunshine, temperature ranges, and so on.
Left: Palenquero at work crushing; traditional method with animal dragging "tahona" over baked agave Alvin Starkman
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Throughout these extended periods of growth, cultivated maguey species at times have rows of corn, beans, squash, alfalfa and garbanzo in between them. Crops may vary from year to year. And wild agave is always subject to surrounding weeds, shrubs and substratum. Variable terroir and difference in climatic region both significantly impact nuance. When considered with the fact that Oaxaca has a greater diversity of climates than anywhere else in Mexico, it becomes easier to appreciate why Oaxacan mezcal is highly coveted.
In traditional production, the agave is slow baked in an airtight inground oven over firewood. The palenquero is able to impart different characteristics to his mezcal by using the wood of one tree as opposed to another – pine, oak, mesquite, etc. The means of crushing the baked agave, to release natural sugars, arguably also impacts flavour, albeit to a lesser extent. Many use a beast of burden dragging a multi-ton stone or concrete wheel to mash, while some still use a heavy hardwood mallet to pulverize.
Hand-crafted mezcal is distilled using firewood as fuel. Copper stills are traditionally two parts, one being the large pot into which the bagaso is placed, the other a serpentine connected to it and submersed in water, the cooling agent. There are variations on the theme, in that other metals can be used; the large vessel can be encased in brick, adobe or cement; the water tank housing the serpentine can be made of any of these materials, or even an old oil tank or broken washing machine casing.
Alvin Starkman
The character of the water added to the baked agave fibre is key. Some use filtered water, while others draw and use their water directly from a stream or mountain spring. Different micro-climates are exposed to a variety of environmental yeasts. For artisanal mezcal production only naturally occurring yeasts are used to ferment
Alvin Starkman
the crushed agave. Studies have illustrated that these yeasts can change seasonally. While most stills in Oaxaca are made from copper, virtually any material can be used to distill the fermented bagaso, as it’s known; that is as long as there is enough heat to produce steam, and a means of condensing.
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Up: Rudimentary yet efficient clay pot distillation. Left: Mature Agave potatorum (tobalĂĄ) after 15 years of growth
Mezcal Educational Excursions of
Oaxaca
www.mezcaleducationaltours.com
Similarly, single unit stills may vary, fabricated from copper, galvanized metal and other materials. In Oaxaca the most common single unit still is made of clay pots, imparting different nuances than when metal is used. Furthermore, pots produced using clay from one region of the state inevitably yield different tones than when the mezcal is distilled in clay vessels from elsewhere.
These and other variables employed in making mezcal help us to understand how and why each small batch is inevitably a little different from the next, part of the spirit’s allure. The romanticism in artisanal mezcal production will enhance its popularity and industry growth into the future, as more global consumers develop a discerning palate, at the same time appreciating true craftsmanship.
Each distiller has an idiosyncratic method for producing the spirit, with no two palenqueros following the same recipe unless the closest of family members. He knows almost by instinct the precise time to harvest, how long to bake and ferment, and the means by which to achieve desired nuances concomitant with percentage alcohol.
Alvin Starkman is the author of “Mezcal in the Global Spirits Market: Unrivalled Complexity, Innumerable Nuances.” His book is an expanded version of the thesis proferred in this article. A mezcal and pulque aficionado for over two decades, Alvin now operates Mezcal Educational Excursions of Oaxaca. He can be reached at
Alvin Starkman
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mezcaleducationalexcursions@hotmail.com
WHY OAXACA? El Zocalo, Chris Aronson
Chris Aronson has been an ESL Instructor since 1987. He and his wife Susan have traveled through about fifty countries, live in five and raised five children adopted from Vietnam, Korea and Thailand.
Chris describes his experiences in Oaxaca and the reasons why he keeps returning to this fascinating city.
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Did you miss out on previous issues of All México? Order online! Visit: www.spanishworld.ca for details.
La Globera, Chris Aronson
Why Oaxaca? Hernan Cortez - “El imperialismo ha formado el alma del mexicano.” You see, Isaac is a Marxist, a Having arrived at what can only be practicing Marxist, and called an older age, and having lived unbeknownst to me I had just and traveled in many countries, I passed his assessment test. ask myself, why do we keep We met twice a week for the returning to the city of Oaxaca? duration of my stay and I learned Well, the alcohol is abundant, and that Isaac had taught philosophy and cheap, the cuisine renowned economics at the university and that throughout Mexico, the fresh fruits he had once spent a leave at Simon and vegetables as good as they get Frazer University in Burnaby. It had anywhere, the weather sublime, the been winter, so cold, and although colonial architecture stunning, the the Canadians he met were friendly many indigenous cultures are very enough upon meeting, there was much alive, and the ruin of Monte little follow-up. He became Alban is just over the hill. All good homesick. I learned too that he coreasons, but good enough to keep us hosts a phone-in radio program coming back? Let me give the whereon he fields the questions matter more thought. about politics, economics, philosophy, history – all the usual My spoken Spanish needed stuff. It didn’t take long though to liberation from the present tense and realize that Isaac was not the tutor I my ability to understand when had set out to find, a tutor prepared spoken to sucked, so I had resolved to drill me in verb tenses and to to hire a tutor the next visit. The guide me into the subjunctive mood. initial meeting would be at no But his usual stuff is my usual stuff, charge to me so that I could assess and my listening was improving. A the suitability of the proposed tutor. modus vivendi evolved. I would We had said our “buenosdiases” and arrive with a question or two: for “mellamoed” when immediately example, Why doesn’t Mexico play Isaac strode to the whiteboard like a greater role on the world stage? or the professor he had been and wrote What is it about Mexican men and ‘1918’ and ‘Trotsky’. I waited, he their mothers anyway? Always said nothing, I waited some more, edifying, his answers invariably but nada, so I volunteered, “la began with Cortez and from there revolucion rusa”, and then he began, off we would go into explorations of began where he would begin most how imperialism in so many ways every answer to most every question had shaped the Mexican soul. – with the Spanish conquistador By Chris Aronson
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Posada Oaxaca, Chris Aronson
Christine McMahon
Advertencia: Should you decide to enroll in a language class or hire a tutor, be forewarned that you can have no idea what you are getting into until you have experienced a lesson or two. And beware of multi-level classes. Thinking about Isaac started me wondering why Oaxaca attracts such interesting characters: our neighbor Lolita, for example. Her name suggests ….. well, a Lolita, and our Lolita fits the moniker – the incongruity between her age and the rest of her. She has just returned home after pushing her shopping cart the ten blocks from the supermarket and is resting squatted on her stoop. She greets us with a smile, we chat, she laughs often while telling of her plans for an upcoming trip to the pottery villages of Michoacán, and then suddenly she confides that she had a great shock the past year, “Can you imagine, breast cancer at eighty nine?” I quickly do the math. She’s been living in Mexico since retiring twenty one years ago and she’s ninety now, so she upped and moved to Mexico from the U.S. at age sixty nine.
of people watching, and today people listening. A very respectable rendition of My Way surprised me from the rear of the bus. I hadn’t seen him board, maybe he got on with his saxophone through the rear door, but he was sixty something, with a little ponytail dyed too black and sporting a lilac suit and a cowboy hat. He followed with Body and Soul, then something I had heard Dexter Gordon play many times. Bus ride concerts aren’t so rare in Mexico, but what surprised was that when the saxophonist made his exit down the aisle from the rear to the front of the bus most every passenger dropped something into his hat, and they thanked him.
Even something as mundane as a bus ride can become something more in Oaxaca. From the huge central market through the gritty south side of town to our apartment the ride is good for about twenty five minutes
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Advertencia: There are other surprises to be had on buses. Standing in the aisle of a bus is a great place to get robbed. Four young men boarded at the front door and jostled their way down the aisle, a pair to each side of the standing passengers, then exited from the rear door at the very next stop. Which struck me as odd until later in the day when my friend, who had been standing in the aisle, reported her change purse was missing.
Special Events “The Guelaguetza”, meaning “offering” is a centuries-old festival celebrated throughout the state. Community troupes present their regional costumes, dances, songs and music in a specially designed open-air theatre built into the side of Cerro del Fortin, the hill in the northern part of the city. The show presents The Legend of Princess Donají, which includes staged re-enactments of battles between Zapotec and Mixtec warriors. Even if you have tickets, arrive early -at least by 8 am- for the best seats. Note: bring water and wear a hat or appropriate gear for protection from the strong sun. Performances are given on the two successive Mondays following July 16. Check in advance with the travel agency and buy your tickets no later than May.
Music is ubiquitous throughout the city centre during the winter months, and add to the musical offerings those of dance, film, opera, live theatre, academic lectures, sports and the many gallery and neighbourhood cultural centre exhibitions and one’s problem becomes not what to do tonight but how to decide from among the many options. Artists have to compete for the attention of their audiences with the various venues themselves: tastefully renovated colonial structures from the homes of historical notables, cloisters, convents, government office buildings, theatres and libraries to cathedrals. What pleases me about the nightly entertainment options, almost as much as the fact that they are so often free, is that it is not unusual for them to be scheduled for early evening, seven or even five o’clock. And most venues are within walking distance of the zocalo.
The zocalo? The zocalo is the heart of the city and on those rare evenings when there is nothing to do or when you feel like just a walk, there’s always the zocalo. Two offset, contiguous blocks surrounded by great colonial structures: cathedral, government office buildings, hotels, post office and the many porticoed cafes. Great trees provide shade and ground the architecture. There are flower beds beneath the trees, and open areas large enough for the concerts, dances, and all manner of exhibitions held there. There are clowns, a myriad of balloon sellers, shoeshine stands, a too small baroque bandstand with toilets beneath, native women and children hawking foodstuffs and drinks and embroidered clothing, beggars, mariachi guitarists and ambulatory marimba orchestras set up in front of the cafes, a gauntlet of souvenir stands, and from all over the city the
Chris Aronson
El Globero, Chris Aronson
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Oaxaquenos come to stroll with friends and dance and listen to music and people watch and play in their zocalo. To keep abreast of the goings-on in the zocalo and of the plethora of cultural offerings around town, there is help. Online you will find the Oaxaca Calendar and plastered on walls throughout town you will find handbills.
Advertencia: All is not music and balloons in the zocalo though. It is also the epicentre of protest, Oaxacan style. From all over the state, whole backcountry villages, union members like teachers and agricultural workers, indigenous minorities, any
group that is organized and with a serious grievance, may turn up in the zocalo after marching through town. There they park themselves in front of what used to be the state government offices building on the south side to demand to be heard and seen and justice. We are talking large numbers, with microphones and sound systems, staging, graphic posters and banners, some groups prepared to camp out there. Their grievances are often very serious, like people disappeared or murdered, like resources and land grabbed from under them. It’s their zocalo too.
Arbol del Tule Drive 13 km east of Oaxaca (if you don’t have a car, catch a colectivo, or a group taxi) along Highway 190. Stop in Santa María del Tule to see the giant and ancient Árbol del Tule, which is somewhere between 2,000 and 3,000 years old. This tree has a circumference of 42 meters and is 43 meters tall. This tree is so big that it was originally thought to be multiple trees, but DNA testing has proved that it is only one tree.
Local Zapotec legend holds that this tree was planted about 1,400 years ago by Pechocha, a priest of Ehecatl, the Aztec wind god. The dates indicated in the legend somewhat match estimates done by scientists. This tree, also called “Tree of Life” was placed on a UNESCO tentative list of World Chilli Vendor, Chris Aronson
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https://www.facebook.com/pages/ Spanish-World-Nanaimo-ParksvilleErrington/334383589929742
LOS NÚMEROS - NUMBERS The Spanish numbers. Listen to the CD for the correct pronunciation.
Learn Spanish
No.
Número
No.
Número
1
uno
16
dieciséis
2
dos
17
diecisiete
3
tres
18
dieciocho
4
cuatro
19
diecinueve
5
cinco
20
veinte
6
seis
21
veintiuno
7
siete
30
treinta
8
ocho
40
cuarenta
9
nueve
50
cincuenta
10
diez
60
sesenta
11
once
70
setenta
12
doce
80
ochenta
13
trece
90
noventa
14
catorce
100
cien
15
quince
1000
mil
Time of Day / La hora The basic formula is:
Cd, tracks 2 and 3
Learn a Language
• ¿Qué hora es? What time is it? • Son las dos. It's two o'clock. Other expressions: • Es la una de la mañana. It is 1:00 am. • Son las tres y media de la tarde. It is 3:30 pm. • ¿A qué hora tienen ustedes clases? At what time do you have classes? For time after the hour, use “y”: • Son las dos y cuarto. It's 2:15 • A la una y media. At 1:30
www.wentworthlanguages.ca
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SALUDOS • Hola. Hello, hi.
Greetings
• Adiós. Goodbye. • Hasta mañana. See you tomorrow • Hasta el lunes. See you on Monday • Hasta luego. See you later (not taken literally). • Buenos días. Good day good morning. • Buenas tardes. Good afternoon, early evening. • Buenas noches. Good night (also used as a farewell). • ¿Cómo estás? How are you?; ¿Qué tal?. How are you? • ¿Cómo te va? ¿Cómo le va? How is it going? • ¿Qué pasa? How’s things? • ¿Qué hay? What’s new? • Muy bien, gracias. Very well, thank you.
Cd, track 4
• Por favor. Please. • De nada. You’re welcome.
approaches you,
• Perdón. Excuse me. Perdóneme. Excuse me
Cultural note
• Lo siento. I’m sorry.
• ¿Cómo te llamas? literally: What are you called? • Mi nombre es Chris. My name is Chris.
and friendly.
blocking them with
Frequently, they
your hand can be
may be inclined to
seen as offensive.
touch your children
• Me llamo Chris. I am called Chris. • Mucho gusto. Encantado. It’s a pleasure to meet you. • Igualmente. Likewise • Bienvenido. Welcome (not used as a reply to thank you).
That's one reason you should learn some of these common greetings before visiting an area where Spanish is spoken. Even if your knowledge of Spanish is rudimentary, it can make your conversation a bit smoother to know some
don’t be scared to
Mexicans are warm touch them, as
• ¿Cúal es tu nombre? What’s your name?
First impressions count
vibe, something NOTA called “mal de ojo”. CULTURAL If a child
of these statements or questions of common courtesy. Phrases in common use can vary with location and sometimes with age or social status. But except where indicated, those listed on the page can be used appropriately in almost any situation.
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or compliment
Mexicans enjoy
them, just like
physical contact
Canadians like to
and they will easily
compliment each
hug you or shake
other’s pets. In
your hand. If it is
Mexican culture, if
your birthday or
you think a baby or you are celebrating child is cute, you
a special occasion,
should touch him
be prepared to get
or her so you don’t a hug. generate a negative
Mis veranos en Puerto Vallarta This story focuses on the Imperfect tense. By filling in the blanks you can practice this tense and learn to differentiate it from the Past tense.
Película de Cine Alternaivo A smart, surprising story by creative Sylvia Andrews.
Jimena A story of new beginnings that takes place in Spain and other European cities, written by Daniela Mondragón.
Rebote A fun, beautifully written story of strength, heartache and love... life. By Kim Moes.
NEW FROM SPANISH WORLD Javier and other Easy to Read Spanish Stories
This new book published by Spanish World offers you interesting Spanish and English stories side by side so you can practice and improve your reading skills in Spanish, with the support of your native language. As you read, you can check your comprehension by comparing the two versions of the story. At the same time, learn cultural hints and practical use of expressions in different Spanish speaking countries. Focus on grammar: learn the proper use of the different Spanish tenses, from present tense to
Learn more at www.Spanishworld.ca or give us a call (250) 585-1888 [32]