Learn Spanish and Go

We sit down with Flor, a local Spanish teacher with a background in biology and a master’s focus on ecology, to talk about her journey, her Yucatecan roots, and how she became part of our immersion program in Mérida. Together, we explore fascinating topics like whether coyotes in Yucatán are invasive or naturally expanding, and we highlight emblematic animals of the region such as the jaguar (Balam), pink flamingos, endemic rattlesnakes, white-tailed deer, and the iconic pájaro reloj. We also talk about ethical nature tourism, conservation, and how travelers and locals alike can better understand and respect Yucatán’s ecosystems while connecting more deeply with its culture.
Key Takeaways:
How Flor’s background in biology adds a unique layer to learning Spanish and exploring Yucatán
The ecological stories behind Yucatán’s most emblematic animals
Why ethical, science-based nature tourism matters for conservation and travelers
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
Level up your Spanish with our Podcast MembershipGet the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a word
Listen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrases
Test your comprehension with a multiple choice quiz

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From figuring out which bus to take to knowing when and how to signal the driver, we walk you through the reality of using urban buses in Mexico. We talk about routes, schedules (or the lack of them), payment methods—from cash to modern app-based systems like Mérida’s Va y Ven—and the essential Spanish phrases you’ll actually need on board. Along the way, we share etiquette tips, safety advice, and personal stories that will help you avoid common mistakes and turn public transportation into a fun, immersive travel experience instead of a stressful one.
Key Takeaways:
How to choose the right bus route and get reliable information when Google Maps isn’t enough
What to say and do to make the bus stop, get off correctly, and pay without confusion
Practical etiquette and cultural tips to ride buses in Mexico confidently and respectfully
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
Level up your Spanish with our Podcast MembershipGet the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a word
Listen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrases
Test your comprehension with a multiple choice quiz

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From Cholula to Tabasco, we explore how some of the world’s most famous hot sauces are named after places they don’t actually come from. We break down the real origins of Tabasco sauce, how it was created in Louisiana using Tabasco chilies, and how it became the best-selling hot sauce in the world—traveling everywhere from seafood plates to space missions. We also share our honest take on its flavor, how it’s used differently in the U.S. versus Mexico, and why homemade Mexican salsas still hold a special place in our hearts.
Key Takeaways:
Tabasco sauce is named after the chili, not the Mexican state where many assume it comes from
Its global popularity contrasts with how Mexicans typically experience and use hot sauces
Homemade salsas remain central to Mexican food culture, flavor, and identity
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
104 – ¡Al Chile! – Chilis: Straight to the Point
272 – ¿La Salsa Cholula no Viene de Cholula? | Cholula Hot Sauce Doesn’t Come from Cholula?
Level up your Spanish with our Podcast MembershipGet the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a word
Listen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrases
Test your comprehension with a multiple choice quiz

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We explore the growing fear that AI and instant translation tools make language learning unnecessary, and we explain why that mindset misses the point. From real-life cultural misunderstandings and gestures to sarcasm, tone, and relationship-building, we share examples that show what technology simply can’t teach. You’ll walk away with a clearer idea of how to use AI as a powerful learning tool—without losing the deeper goal of language learning: connecting with real people and cultures.
Key Takeaways:
Why AI translation is useful but cannot replace real human connection
How cultural context, gestures, and tone play a huge role in communication
The best ways to use AI to support your language learning without relying on it completely
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
148 – Mejora Tu Español Usando Inteligencia Artificial | Improve Your Spanish Using Artificial Intelligence
239 – Mejora tu Español Usando Inteligencia Artificial Parte 2 | Improve your Spanish Using AI Part 2
Level up your Spanish with our Podcast MembershipGet the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a word
Listen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrases
Test your comprehension with a multiple choice quiz

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In this episode, we conclude our real-life battle with Sam’s Club after buying a couch that arrived incomplete and went unresolved for months. We share how filing a complaint through PROFECO and ConciliaNet led not only to a full refund, but also to the legally required 20% compensation—despite resistance and delays from the company. If you live in, travel to, or shop in Mexico, this episode shows you that you do have rights as a consumer and that PROFECO is a powerful tool when a business refuses to respond.
Key Takeaways:
PROFECO can successfully force companies in Mexico to respect consumer rights.
You don’t need to be a Mexican citizen or resident to file a PROFECO complaint.
Persistence, documentation, and knowing the law can make a real difference in high-value purchases.
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
289 – La Saga del Sillón y la PROFECO Parte I | The Saga of the Couch and PROFECO, Part I
222 – Protégete de las Estafas con la PROFECO | Protect Yourself from Scams with PROFECO
How to Defend Your Consumer Rights in Mexico With PROFECO [Blog Post]
Level up your Spanish with our Podcast MembershipGet the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a word
Listen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrases
Test your comprehension with a multiple choice quiz

Support the show