Going to the Doctor in Spanish

Last week, like many other people, I was really sick and completely bedridden for almost an entire week. After two years in Spain, it was finally time to go to the doctor for the first time. Luckily for me, Raúl took care of finding the number of the nearest Sanitas doctor. This was great, except for the fact that it did not occur to him that it might make sense for me to see an English speaking doctor. I did not have the strength to undo what was already done nor could I fathom waiting any longer to get treated, so I sucked it up and made the appointment.

While the experience was positive overall, there are a few things I would have done differently to prepare myself if I could do it all over again. Even though my Spanish is strong, I still felt a bit lost. For better or worse, I am not used to discussing flu-like symptoms in Spanish, so those words just were not part of my vocabulary. I tried to tell the doctor that my ears hurt by saying “me duelen las orejas” but apparently that direct translation from English is just not a correct way of describing this symptom in Spanish. I quickly reverted to hand gestures, and before long the doctor did as well since it was clear to him that I was just not following. Looking back, my advice would be as follows:

• As a heads up, when you call to make the appointment, they are going to ask you what type of doctor you want to see. I did not know what to say (a doctor doctor, I was thinking). Try to have this one figured out before you call. In the end, I needed Medicina General, which makes sense in retrospect, but I have never had to make such a distinction when calling to make a doctor’s appointment back home.
• Write down a translated list of your key symptoms using an English-Spanish dictionary before you go. This is especially critical because I have noted there are several “false friends” in the health arena, such as constipada (hint: it has nothing to do with your digestion).
• Do not hesitate to ask the doctor to repeat himself several times; at the end of the day this is our health we are talking about. I left the doctor thinking that he prescribed me some sort of throat gargle that I needed to mix with hot water twice a day, only to find when I went to the pharmacy that he really prescribed me anti-biotic pills. I still have no idea how I got so mixed up.
• If you are on any other medications before you go, have the names written down along with that they are and what they do, translated into Spanish. The doctor is clearly going to ask you this, and if you are not sure, for example, what the words for insulin and what it treats are in Spanish, you could be putting yourself at risk.

All in all, this experience was not nearly as scary as it sounds, and I am lucky that I only had a throat infection (I think?) and not something more serious. The doctor could not be any nicer and more patient, and I am happy to report that the prescribed treatment worked and I feel so much better. Although I am proof positive that this can be done successfully without making these advanced preparations, in the end I think they can help quite a bit.

Getting Around Madrid with Very Little Spanish

I took Spanish ten years ago, but since then I haven’t had the opportunity to practice, until now. So, my first couple of months I struggled to get used the idea that no one speaks English here and, along the way, I learned a couple of tricks to avoid the misunderstandings. As always, I encourage you to sign up for a Spanish course to ease your initial experience, but here are a few tips in the meantime:

For starters, you can shop online with some of the larger supermarkets, such at Carrefour and if you spend a certain amount, they will deliver the items to your front door. At most of these stores you will find individual packaged meats and cheeses, so you don’t have to worry about ordering up at the deli counter. I now prefer to go to the municipal market not only to practice my Spanish, but because the prices are more competitive here than at the larger supermercados.

I also buy all of our Renfe tickets online, as well as plane tickets, or in English at the ticket machines in the station. Most of hotels also have websites in English that allow you to book online. For the bus and metro you can buy your tickets at an automated ticket machine in English.

If you have your health insurance through Sanitas, they have some English speaking associates, and they can provide you with a list of English speaking doctors. Although, be forewarned this list is not very accurate.

You can also go to restaurants that you know will provide you an English menu, such as Hard Rock, Foster’s etc. Also, if you are familiar with Mc Donald’s or Burger King’s menu, then you’ll have no problem ordering here in Madrid, but (for a more Spanish experience) most of the restaurants in the very center will have English speaking options.

The point of this is not to avoid speaking Spanish altogether, learning Spanish is one of the best parts of living here, but to help you along as you’re learning the language during those first couple of months. Buena suerte, good luck!

Spanish: Europe's fastest language

If you’re a student of Spanish and you have spent some time in Spain, you won’t be a stranger to the well known fact that Spanish is an extremely fast language and that overwhelming feeling when a Spanish person starts speaking. But just why is Spanish spoken so quickly?

The linguistic answer lies in the fact that Spanish syllables are fairly short. On average, they are formed by 2.1 phonemes, which are the distinct sounds in a language that differentiate one word from another, whereas other European languages are formed by a higher number of phonemes, for example German, 2.8, and English, 2.7. In short, this means that due to the nature of some Spanish sounds (for example the soft ‘d’), Spanish speakers, compared with other European language speakers, pronounce less fractions of a word.

In addition to this, it has been found that the pace of a language also comes down to the number of syllables pronounced per second, where, once again, Spanish speakers take the lead. As Spanish syllables are generally shorter than the average European language, there are more pronounced each second in comparison with other languages throughout the continent, meaning that Spaniards take the top spot when it comes to talking quickly.

So, don’t worry if you feel that you are struggling to understand when you are speaking to a Spanish person – the likelihood is that they’re speaking very quickly! In fact, in Croatian, there is a phrase which translates to ‘it sounds like Spanish’ which is used when someone doesn’t understand anything! Having said that, don’t be afraid to ask a Spanish person to speak a little slower – they’re often more than happy to¬ slow down and will love speaking Spanish with you!

Spanish and Arabic - More Similar Than They Appear

Spain has a fascinating history, full of twists and turns – for example, did you know that Madrid wasn’t always the capital city? Both Valladoid and Toledo have played their part as the centre of the country – it is hard to imagine Madrid as the small town it was hundreds of years ago!

The Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba

You may have heard references to “Moorish Spain” or “Al-Andalus” – the period from 711 to 1492, when what is today most of Spain and Portugal was a medieval Muslim territory. Given that Spain was under Muslim influence for so long, it is no wonder it's left its mark on Spanish culture and language. Some of the most famous Spanish landmarks are pieces of Arab architecture, such as the Alhambra palace in Granada, or the Mosque Cathedral of Córdoba. Most of all, the Muslim rule over Spain influenced the Spanish language greatly. Here we take a look at some Spanish words with an Arabic root – you may be surprised at just how similar they are!

Algodón (Spanish Arabic – alqutún)

Almohada (Spanish Arabic – almuhádda)

Azúcar (Spanish Arabic – assúkkar)

Do you notice something all these words have in common? They all begin with a- or al-, which are articles in Arabic – like “el” and “la” in Spanish. They were kept as part of the word when they were introduced into Spanish.

Here are some more:

Limón (Spanish Arabic – lamún)

Barrio (Spanish Arabic – barrí)

Ojalá (Spanish Arabic – law šá lláh) – This word is possibly the most recognizable to modern Arabic speakers, as it originates from the phrase “Insha'Allah”, meaning  “God willing/If God wills it”.

In fact, even Arabic nowadays is much more similar than you may think! Take a look below at the video of a Spanish and Arabic speaker saying the same words in their native languages!

The Top 5 Ways Learning Spanish Will Advance your Career

We’re guessing you’ve already seen articles on the personal benefits of learning Spanish, such as improved memory and longevity, but here at AIL Madrid we also know the importance of learning Spanish as a second language for professional purposes. Though this list could easily be much longer, we’ve boiled it down to the top five most important ways Spanish will help advance your career and encourage you to comment with any additional benefits you can think of:

A Spanish Christmas Carol: Traditions in Spain!

Holiday season is fully upon us here in Madrid so, for those of you lucky enough to be here this month, let’s do a rundown of how the Spanish celebrate Christmas Eve, New Years Eve, Three Kings Day, and more!

December 24th

The Spanish celebrate the birth of Jesus on Christmas Eve (Noche Buena) so, on this day, before attending the “Misa del Gallo” (Midnight Mass) they eat a large Christmas meal, which typically involves a turkey or lamb, stuffed with truffle mushrooms, or seafood.
Midnight Mass in Spain is known as “La Misa Del Gallo” because it is believed that a rooster crowed the night that Jesus was born. After mass, the Spanish traditionally walk through the streets carrying torches and playing music on guitars, drums, and tambourines.

The Top 5 Best Christmas Gifts from Madrid!

Christmas is just around the corner! We’ve got our shiniest and best Christmas thinking caps on again here at AIL and have prepared a list of the 5 best holiday gifts from Madrid, just to make your lives that much easier!

1. A Foodie Surprise!

Bring home some of the delicious traditional Spanish cuisine with a paella kit, Spanish jamón, or some of the traditional Spanish Christmas sweets (mazapán, turrón, polvorones etc.)!



TOP TIP: Make it extra special by buying it from one of the Christmas markets in Madrid!

New Siele Exam Unites Spanish Speakers Worldwide!

History was made this week as the Spanish royal family announced the launch of the Siele: An international Spanish language proficiency test, equivalent to the Cambridge exam. The test was created in conjunction with the Cervantes Institute, The University of Salamanca, and Mexico’s National Autonomous University, and is the first evaluation of its kind for the Spanish language. As one of Madrid’s leading Spanish academies, AIL Madrid is excited to bring you all the details and to prepare you for the Siele, so let’s review the basics:

The Top 15 Places to Take a Selfie in Madrid!

Madrid is a stunning, lively city with a million hidden nooks and corners: so whether you're here to a day or a year, we're sure you'll want to make the most of it! With that in mind, here are the 15 places you'll want to take a selfie before you leave (courtesy of AIL Madrid)!

7 WAYS LEARNING SPANISH WILL IMPROVE YOUR QUALITY OF LIFE

Its winter; you’re feeling sluggish, slow, and can’t remember why you went to stare into the depths of the refrigerator. You knew there was something you wanted, but you don’t actually feel hungry and your brain has been so fuzzy lately.

If only there was something to make you snap out of it, make you feel quicker, wittier, and more capable. You need a brain boost, but how?

Spanish Omelette Recipe

Spanish Omelette – you’ll love it! 

Autumn has finally arrived in Madrid, and as the temperature drops, the Spaniards are beginning to forsake the refreshing gazpacho of the summer months with something a little more substantial. If you’re looking for a typical Spanish dish that ticks all the boxes as winter closes in on us, we recommend an authentic Spanish omelette!

Halloween in Madrid

Halloween 2013 is coming! 

How important is Halloween in your country? If you’re reading this in the United States, we’re sure you already have a pumpkin on the porch and are busily figuring out your fancy dress with your friends for the big night this Thursday! Once this was a uniquely American holiday, but Halloween has really caught on in Spain – of course, who can resist the sweets, trick or treats and the lively atmosphere of Halloween? So read on to discover why a Spanish  Halloween in Madrid is one you will never forget!

Spanish National Holiday: 12th October

Amazing air display to celebrate 

the 12^th October in Madrid 

The 12th October is one of the most important dates in the Spanish Calendar. Do you know why? Because 12th October is Spain’s National Holiday, a day dedicated to celebrating Spanish culture! The date was chosen to commemorate the arrival in the Americas of Christopher Columbus on behalf of the Spanish Crown.  Recently, in 2010, UNESCO designated the 12th October as the official Spanish Language Day as well! So today, Spanish-speakers around the world will be sharing their culture and history with the rest of the world. Read on to learn about this exciting festival!

El Día E: the Spanish Speakers celebration!

 Join  the Día E celebration
in Madrid

Another summer is coming to Madrid and once again we have to talk to you about a special celebration: On Saturday 22th June marks the celebration of the “Día del español” or Día E, a festival which honors each of the 500 million Spanish speakers spread of the world's 5 continents.

In this article you will find all the details about this year’s Instituto Cervantes (by which AIL Madrid is accredited) events for this celebration. Join the Día E!

Study Spanish in Madrid and the Instituto Cervantes Library

We have experienced the summer, and now we have experienced the winter. We have let you in on our Valentine’s Day secrets and how to have a great Low Cost Weekend in Madrid. What we haven’t told you is how awesome Madrid can be for anyone studying the Spanish language.

The Instituto Cervantes of Madrid

Studying Spanish in Madrid – combine cultural activities, meet the friendly Spanish people and practice your language knowledge right away. Don’t be shy and try talking to somebody – as you might know, the Spanish culture is a really outgoing one and nobody will refuse small talk.

You may already know that AIL Madrid Spanish Language School is accredited by the Instituto Cervantes, but what exactly is the Instituto Cervantes about and what do they offer?

Beril's Review of her AIL Madrid Spanish Language Course

Beril's Review

A review from Beril, Spanish student

"AIL Madrid is not only a school but home. During the course I really felt as if I was with a family. With the help of my teachers and the nice people that work here, I had the chance to get to know Madrid and Spanish language. The lessons were perfect, I really had fun and learned so many things. Thanks a lot! I have met many new friends who I will miss!”

A review from Beril, 25,Turkey
Intensive Spanish Course
B2, 2 weeks

Feedback from student Stephanie about her Spanish Language Course

Feedback from Stephanie

Feedback from Stephanie

“I had an amazing experience and learned a lot. The class sizes are perfect so you are able to ask all of your questions and speak a lot so your Spanish improves quickly and correctly”

Feedback from Stephanie, 16, from America
Intensive Spanish Course
A2, 2 weeks

What happens in Vegas stays in....Madrid? The opening of Eurovegas in Spain

Las Vegas in coming to Spain - EuroVegas

Make sure to have your wallets at the ready because in the next few weeks, if not even sooner, Sheldon Adelson, the man behind Las Vegas Sands, is expected to announce his decision about the future destination of EuroVegas, the hotel, casino and sport complex that is set to take over one lucky part of Spain. 

Ruth's Review of her AIL Madrid Spanish Language Course

A review from Ruth

Ruth's Review
"Choose AIL Madrid! The teachers, the cultural activities, the students and the location are all spot on. It has been a fantastic experience and I would recommend it to anyone who wants to learn Spanish in Madrid!”

A review from Ruth, 25, England
Intensive Spanish Course
A2, 2 weeks

Hotel Veramar. Doce Rosas para Rosa

A great book to read by the pool in Madrid

Great summer books, and all in Spanish! Whatever your level, you can find something to interest you in the school's library. The library consists of short Spanish stories, but they are all very entertaining and just waiting for you to take them to the parks or the swimming pools here in Madrid. Make sure to ask in reception! My personal recommendation is the book "Hotel Veramar. Doce Rosas para Rosa" (Twelve Roses for Rose) - a Spanish book centering around Cari, who works as a hotel receptionist, but who then becomes overwhelmed after the arrival of a very large and very demanding family.