Cockney, a term originally used to refer to those born within the sound of Bow Bells in East London, has come to represent a unique dialect and culture known for its creative use of language. Cockney speakers are known for their playful and inventive way of communicating, often using rhyming slang to replace common words(…)
Learn Languages with This Year’s Oscar Nominees!
Did you know that, among the 10 hopeful contenders for this year’s Oscar for Best Picture, four are non-American productions? In the last few years, the Academy seems to have opened up to international productions, and we couldn’t be happier to have so many foreign Oscar nominees in the main categories. Whether due to the(…)
Essential Phrases to Get By in Arab Countries
Do you ever picture yourself walking through the street bazaars in Cairo? Do you ever imagine what it’d feel like walk into the pool of one of Dubai’s most exclusive hotels? Or perhaps you would rather lie on a Moroccan beach… I definitely would. Whatever it is you picture yourself doing during your stay in(…)
Hebrew Idioms: Not As Serious-Sounding As You Might Think!
Because Hebrew is the language of the Bible, people who travel to Israel sometimes think that in order to mingle with the crowd they have to act all solemn and wise. Modern Hebrew, however, is anything but solemn. On the contrary, it is a vibrant, ever-changing, fast-paced language full of colourful expressions that make just(…)
5 Things Expats in Italy Should Know (But Usually Don’t)
Living in Italy offers expats a life of cultural richness in a country that has a fascinating sense of history. Once home to groundbreaking painters and ancient civilizations, present-day Italy boasts world-class gastronomy, lush vineyards, and of course, an ever-present air of romance. Complemented by a thriving economy and a rich and lively culture, it(…)
Learn French With Emily in Paris: What to Say and What Not to Say
Emily in Paris is the story about how an American travels to Paris and falls in love with the city. Yet, things are not as perfect as she had imagined, mainly because she does not speak French. Though she was able to survive thanks to her amazing bilingual friends, such as Hannah or Gabriel, chances are(…)
5 Things You Should Know Before Learning Turkish
If you are planning to learn Turkish, you probably already know some of its most noticeable differences with English, like its alphabet. But the more you study the language, the more discrepancies appear! Let’s explore some below. 1. Turkish Has a Different Word Order One of the things many learners are not aware of before embarking(…)
12 Simple Russian Phrases You’re Guaranteed to Need
Russian is one of the hardest languages for native English speakers to learn. Still, this shouldn’t keep you from studying the language. Doing so will allow you to visit the beautifully diverse Russia, where you can find modern cities to rival the Western capitals, as well as vast natural landscapes. If you want to get ready(…)
The Best 5 Beer Festivals for Language Lovers
If you love languages and beer, you can combine them at a beer festival! They are the perfect place to party, taste exotic beers and brush up on your informal vocabulary in your target language. It doesn’t matter if you’re learning German, French or Chinese, you’ll be able to find a beer fest for you anywhere(…)
