In this episode of Poco A Poco, we head to the beaches of Valencia and beyond to explore what they’re really like in the quieter winter months. From dog-friendly stretches of sand where pups can run free, to the seasonal disappearance of chiringuitos and beach facilities, life by the Mediterranean shifts dramatically after summer ends. We’ll talk about the weather changes, what to expect if you’re planning a seaside stroll, and why checking the wind is essential. Whether you’re a dog owner, a winter wanderer, or just curious about life off-season, this episode offers a glimpse of the beach culture you won’t see on a summer postcard.

Spain is a country full of languages! In this episode, We explore the fascinating patchwork of languages and dialects across Spain. From the nationwide dominance of Castellano to the co-official languages like Catalan/Valencian, Galician, Basque, and even Aranese, each carries deep history, identity, and politics. We share our personal experiences navigating life in Valencia, where Valenciano sits alongside Spanish in schools, workplaces, and everyday life. Along the way, we unpack the difference between a dialect and a language, why these distinctions matter, and how language shapes everything from bureaucracy to the playground. Whether you’re curious about Spain’s linguistic diversity or considering life here yourself, this episode offers both cultural insight and on-the-ground perspective.

Think mayonnaise is French? Think again! In this episode of Poco A Poco, we uncover its tasty Spanish backstory on the island of Menorca, where “mahonesa” was born during the 18th-century siege of Port Mahon. From classic mayonesa to its garlicky cousin alioli, we explore how these sauces became staples of Spanish kitchens and tapas tables. Join us for a fun dive into food history, regional twists, and the Spanish side of the world’s favorite condiment.

Raising kids in Spain might sound affordable, but hidden costs add up fast—especially in Valencia. We dive into the real price of schools, uniforms, field trips, tutors, and extracurriculars from fútbol to ballet (and even horse riding). Plus, we cover braces, birthday parties, babysitters, and those lifestyle extras that sneak up on families. From bargain rec-center gymnastics to orthodontics that rival a car payment, we share our surprises, laughs, and tips for budgeting smart as expat parents in Spain.

Madrid is a city packed with art, history, and more than 40 museums—but where do you even start? In this episode, we dive into Madrid’s famous “Golden Triangle of Art”: the Prado, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen-Bornemisza, three world-class museums all within walking distance. From Velázquez and Goya to Picasso’s Guernica and Van Gogh’s vibrant masterpieces, these collections span over 700 years of creativity. But the art adventure doesn’t stop there—we’ll also share some of Madrid’s hidden gems, like the Costume Museum, the Naval Museum, and even the quirky Ratón Pérez. Whether you’ve got one day or a whole week, we’ll give you the strategy, pro tips, and fun facts to make the most of Madrid’s museum scene.

Thinking about moving abroad? In this episode, we break down the top 10 things you need to do before making the big move to Spain. From sorting out visas and healthcare to downsizing your belongings, planning finances, and finding the right housing, we’ll cover the essential steps to make your transition smoother and less stressful. We also talk about preparing emotionally, building a support network, and understanding local culture so you can settle in with confidence. Whether you’re moving solo, with family, or even with pets, these tips will help you avoid common pitfalls and start your new adventure on the right foot.

Modern chess didn’t just appear out of thin air—it had a dramatic rebirth in 15th-century Valencia. Here, a slow, plodding game was supercharged with bold new moves, and the queen took center stage. In this episode of AH Spain Poco a Poco, we dive into how a city buzzing with Renaissance energy helped reinvent the game forever. It’s a story of poetry, power, and play that changed the way the world thinks about chess.  

In this episode of Ah, Spain, Tania and Gaetano share how they spent the summer of ’25, traveling with their families (and one with a dog in tow!) through Andalucía, Tarragona, Zaragoza, and Montpellier. One went south by train for a relaxed Andalusian adventure, while the other packed into the car for a road trip across Spain and into France. Along the way, there were siestas and pastries, grand monuments and quiet towns, smooth moments and a few surprises. It’s a lighthearted look at summer rhythms, family travels, and the little lessons that come from exploring familiar places in new ways.

Spain’s soups are more than just gazpacho. In this episode of Poco A Poco, we travel through Spain’s regions, exploring how history, climate, and humble ingredients shaped beloved dishes—from Andalusia’s chilled gazpacho and Córdoba’s creamy salmorejo to Galicia’s hearty caldo gallego, Castilla y León’s garlicky sopa castellana, and Asturias’ legendary fabada. Discover the ancient roots, cultural traditions, and flavors that make Spanish soups symbols of comfort and identity.

Thinking about moving to Spain with kids? Or just curious how schools work here? In this episode, we untangle the quirks of Spanish education—from public, private, and concertado schools to uniforms, buses, lunches, and why math suddenly looks like it came from another planet. We share what surprised us most (the good, the confusing, and the “wait… what?!”), plus tips on navigating new approaches to learning, extracurriculars, and even where to score school supplies. Whether you’re gearing up for one year abroad or hoping your child leaves fluent in Spanish and fractions, we’ve got you covered.

In this episode, we step inside one of Madrid’s most dazzling landmarks — the Royal Palace. We take a leisurely stroll through its history, from its 18th-century beginnings to the role it plays today, and explore some of its most impressive architectural details. Along the way we highlight a few of the palace’s most striking rooms and features, and share why this monumental building continues to be such a centerpiece of Spanish culture. It’s history, grandeur, and a dash of cheek — all served up poco a poco.

In this episode of Ah... Spain!, we chat about the joys and quirks of Spanish healthcare — from the mysterious SIP card to why so many expats end up juggling both the public and private systems. We compare our experiences with US insurance to Spain’s surprisingly affordable coverage, explain why “just go to urgencias” is often the go-to advice, and share tips on navigating GPs, specialists, and that DIY approach to preventive care. Along the way, we cover pharmacies (where meds are so cheap it feels like a scam), the oddities of dental and vision care, vaccines, mental health access, and the cultural differences that mean you’ll probably need Google Translate and a little patience. If you’re an expat wondering how healthcare here actually works, consider this your reassuring — and humorous — guide to why Spain’s system really isn’t so scary after all.

In this episode of Ah, Spain: Poco a Poco, we explore the deep connection between Ernest Hemingway and the country that captured his heart. From the sun-drenched streets of Pamplona to the cafes of Valencia, Hemingway immersed himself in Spanish traditions, bullfighting culture, and the rhythms of everyday life. We trace how Spain shaped his writing, from The Sun Also Rises to For Whom the Bell Tolls, and how his romantic yet unflinching gaze helped define Spain for readers around the world. Along the way, we’ll share stories, historical context, and a few surprising tidbits about the man behind the myth.

In this lively episode of Ah... Spain!, Tania and Gaetano take you on a tour through 20 colorful Spanish proverbs — expressions packed with wit, wisdom, and a touch of mischief. You’ll learn why dressing a monkey in silk doesn’t change much (la mona, aunque se vista de seda, mona se queda), what shoemakers should stick to (zapatero, a tus zapatos), and how centuries-old sayings still shape conversations in modern Spain. We share each proverb’s literal translation so you can enjoy the quirky imagery, as well as the real meaning so you’ll know when (and when not!) to use it. You’ll also find out which ones are our personal favorites, and why some make us laugh while others feel surprisingly profound.

In this episode of Ah Spain! Poco a Poco, we take a flavorful journey through the world of Spanish cheeses. We explore the basics—from the fresh, soft tiernas to the rich, aged curados—and touch on how different regions shape their unique styles. It’s the perfect primer for cheese lovers and curious listeners alike, setting the stage for deeper dives into individual cheeses in future episodes.

In Spain, grocery shopping is like visiting different friends.  One chain is where you go for the best bread, another for the freshest produce, and another for that one snack you can’t find anywhere else. In this episode of Ah Spain, we unpack the charming quirks of Spanish supermarkets—from oddly specific aisle layouts to the unspoken rule that one store can never have everything. Expect tales of crossing town just for your favorite salsa, discovering random gourmet treasures, and laughing about how eggs are never where you expect them to be. Along the way, we compare notes on our most surprising finds, reveal the strange items we now can’t live without, and share how these small rituals have become part of the Mediterranean adventure of making Spain feel like home.    

In this week’s episode of Poco a Poco, we explore the extraordinary life and work of Antoni Gaudí, the legendary Catalan architect whose creations continue to shape Barcelona’s skyline and spirit. From the dreamlike designs of Parc Güell to the iconic towers of La Sagrada Família, Gaudí’s work blends nature, faith, and imagination in unforgettable ways.

In this episode of Ah Spain!, we're talking trash as we dumpster dive headfirst into the wonderfully weird world of Spanish waste management. From deciphering the colorful dumpster system to figuring out what to do with your old clothes, used cooking oil, garden trimmings, and that broken IKEA chair you’ve been meaning to toss — we cover it all. Whether you’re new to Spain or just tired of nervously hovering over bins hoping you're not committing eco-crimes, this episode will clear things up. It might not be the sexiest topic, but trust us, understanding how to handle your trash in Spain will make your life cleaner, greener, and a whole lot easier. Tune in, laugh a little, and learn how not to get fined by your local ayuntamiento.

In this episode of Poco a Poco, we step into what might just be one of Valencia’s most awe-inspiring (and gloriously painted) hidden gems — the Church of San Nicolás de Bari. Often dubbed the “Sistine Chapel of Valencia” — and no, that’s not just tourist brochure fluff — this stunning Gothic church will have your neck craning and your jaw dropping. We dive into the centuries of history etched into its stone and splashed across its ceiling, from its humble medieval beginnings to the breathtaking Baroque makeover that turned it into a full-blown visual feast in the 17th century. Expect stories of saints and enough gold and pigment to dazzle even the most cynical traveler. Whether you’re an art nerd, a history buff, or just here for the transportation into another time, this lesser-known marvel is absolutely worth the detour. Come for the frescoes, stay for the light show.

How much does it really cost to live in Spain? In this episode of Ah Spain!, we get into the nitty-gritty of our monthly expenses as we navigate daily life in the sun-drenched city of Valencia. We’re pulling back the curtain on our budget and walking you through exactly what it costs for two people to live here — from rent and utilities to groceries, public transport, and spontaneous café con leche breaks that turn into three-hour people-watching sessions. We break down how much you can expect to pay for housing, what is the cost of healthcare for expats, and why your electricity bill might surprise you. Plus, we get real about how often we dine out, what it costs to enjoy a night of tapas and wine, and the little lifestyle extras that somehow sneak into the budget each month. Whether you’re actively planning a move to Spain, daydreaming from your desk, or just curious about how far your euros can stretch in Mediterranean paradise, this episode is packed with real numbers, practical insight, and our signature mix of humor and honesty.