Shows
Ah Spain!How We Are Finding The Cost Of LivingHow 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 e...2025-07-291h 04
Ah Spain!Poco A Poco: JamónIn this episode of Ah, Spain: Poco a Poco, we slice into the world of Jamón, Spain’s most iconic cured meat. We explore the traditions, breeds, and flavors that make jamón a national treasure. We discuss the differences between Jamón Serrano and Jamón Ibérico, uncovering how breed, diet, and geography influence taste and texture. We also explain the various classifications of Jamón Ibérica - Bellota, Cebo de Campo, and Cebo- and what those labels mean for your palate and wallet. Whether you're a seasoned Jamón aficionado or new to this delicacy...2025-07-2414 min
Ah Spain!10 Quirky Spanish SuperstitionsIn this lively and entertaining episode of Ah Spain!, Tania and Gaetano dive into 10 quirky Spanish superstitions that are still alive and well across the country today. From lucky grapes at New Year’s to the mysterious powers of Tuesday the 13th, they explore the strange, surprising, and sometimes hilarious ways superstition is woven into everyday Spanish life. You’ll laugh, learn, and maybe even start to question your own daily rituals.
More than just a list, this episode offers cultural context, personal anecdotes, and a fun conversation that brings each superstition to life. Whether you're planning a tr...2025-07-2228 min
Ah Spain!Poco A Poco: Joaquín SorollaIn this episode of Ah, Spain: Poco a Poco, we take a closer look at the life and legacy of Joaquín Sorolla, one of Spain’s most celebrated painters. Known for his luminous, sun-drenched canvases, Sorolla captured the essence of Mediterranean life with remarkable warmth and sensitivity. We explore his early years in Valencia, his rise to international fame, and the distinctive style that earned him the nickname “the painter of light.” Along the way, we reflect on what makes his work feel so deeply connected to Spanish identity, and why his paintings continue to resonate today. Whether you're...2025-07-1714 min
Ah Spain!What To Expect In Your Spanish HomeMoving into a Spanish home can be full of surprises for newcomers. In this episode, we explore the unique features of Spanish houses that often catch expats off guard. From solid concrete and stone construction designed for durability and climate control, to the surprising lack of central heating or air conditioning in many homes, we dig into how Spanish architecture reflects the local environment.
We also talk about long hallways that seem to stretch forever, bars on windows that serve both security and airflow, and other quirks that might feel unusual at first. Whether you're planning a...2025-07-1554 min
Ah Spain!Poco A Poco: RebajasIn this episode of Ah, Spain: Poco a Poco, we explore one of Spain’s most exciting cultural and commercial traditions: Rebajas, the official Spanish sales seasons that happen every winter and summer. From the history of Rebajas in Spain to what’s typically on sale — including fashion, electronics, home goods, and more — we cover everything you need to know about these popular Spanish shopping events.
Discover how Spanish retailers and shoppers prepare for Rebajas, when to find the best discounts, and how this tradition reflects Spanish lifestyle and culture. Whether you’re planning a trip to Spain, liv...2025-07-1010 min
Ah Spain!How We Summer Like The LocalsSummer in Valencia is a fiesta on repeat—and we are right in the thick of it. The Gran Fira de Julio turns the city into a full-blown celebration in Turia Gardens—and fireworks every Saturday night because, let’s be honest, what’s Valencia without fireworks?
By day and night many are cooling off with friends at the beach or a pool, or simply enjoying marathon siestas. Suburban families know how to dodge the heat by zooming off to water parks and reveling in their town fiestas all summer long.
Here is a crazy twist… when Valencia t...2025-07-0846 min
Ah Spain!Poco A Poco: PaellaToday your two friendly expats, Tania and Gaetano, dig into the glorious, saffron-hued world of paella! Spain’s most famous rice dish and the source of more food debates than you’d expect from a country known for siestas and fiestas.We chat about the Valencian origins of paella, the many types you'll find from coast to countryside (seafood, rabbit, and even snails), and why every Spaniard swears their version is the only correct one.
Whether you’re a language learner, a food lover, or just here for the laugher, come along as we stir up some histor...2025-07-0313 min
Ah Spain!Where We Get The Things We NeedSo, you've just arrived in Spain—welcome! Now comes the big question: where do you actually get the stuff you need to live? In this episode, we’re talking beds, coffee makers, towels, and all the random things you suddenly realize you don’t have.
We’ll guide you through the typical options for setting up your life here, from department stores to big box retailers. Need tools or home improvement supplies? We'll talk about Spain’s version of Home Depot. Also what is the local equivalent to Walmart? And of course, we can't leave out the neighborho...2025-07-0156 min
Ah Spain!Poco A Poco: Noche De San JuanIn this episode, we explore one of Spain’s most magical nights — La Noche de San Juan — as celebrated in the vibrant coastal city of Valencia. Coinciding with the summer solstice, this iconic festival marks the arrival of summer with fire, water, and centuries-old traditions deeply rooted in Spanish culture.
Whether you're an expat living in Spain, planning a visit, or just curious about Valencia travel and local customs, we’ve got you covered. From jumping over bonfires for good luck to taking a midnight dip in the Mediterranean, we share firsthand experiences, cultural insights, and tips on how t...2025-06-2610 min
Ah Spain!How We Acclimated Our Kids... Before & AfterToday we take you through the real process of preparing our kids for the big move to Spain, and easing the transition once we arrived! From discussing the decision with them and calming their nerves to making sure they were excited about starting life in a new country, we share how we got everyone on board for this family adventure.
Did we visit first? How did we get our friends, extended family, and even teachers on board to support our kids for the unknown? Tune in as we talk about the ups and downs of getting our l...2025-06-2448 min
Ah Spain!Poco A Poco: FlamencoFlamenco takes center stage in today’s episode. Learn about the origins of flamenco in Andalusia, shaped by Romani, Moorish, Jewish, and Andalusian influences, and how it developed into a deeply expressive art form. A symbol of Spanish identity, flamenco is more than music—it's raw emotion, rhythm, and resistance. We unpack the history, passion, and cultural fusion behind cante (song), toque (guitar), and baile (dance), tracing flamenco’s journey from the margins to the global stage.
Whether you're a lover of Spanish music, fascinated by cultural traditions, or just curious about the sound of Spain’s soul—thi...2025-06-1915 min
Ah Spain!What We Wish We Knew Before We MovedIn this candid episode we explore the real-life surprises and lessons we've learned since making the move to Spain. From our feline companions (old and new) adjusting to a new life abroad to our own struggles with picking up the language (spoiler: it’s harder than we thought), we’re sharing the things we wish someone had told us before we packed our bags.
We talk about the subtle art of distinguishing yourself as a resident, not a tourist, and why WhatsApp groups are an unexpected lifeline in your new community. We also reflect on the challenges of s...2025-06-1759 min
Ah Spain!Poco A Poco: The Turia GardenIn this Poco A Poco episode, we’re talking about Valencia’s Turia Garden—once an unpredictable, wandering riverbed, now a lush 9-kilometer park that snakes through the heart of the city. Along the way, you’ll pass playgrounds, bike paths, shady palms, the City of Arts and Sciences, the Palau de la Música, and even a giant Gulliver you can climb on. Discover how a devastating flood led to a bold transformation, and why locals still affectionately call it “the river.” It’s a story of resilience, reinvention, and a little Valencian pride.
2025-06-1212 min
Ah Spain!Introducing Poco A PocoWelcome to Poco A Poco. In these bite-sized episodes of Ah... Spain!, we explore fascinating cultural, historical, and everyday insights about Spain—one small piece at a time. Perfect for curious minds and fans of our longer deep-dive episodes on life in Spain, Poco A Poco helps you discover Spain, poco a poco (little by little).
2025-06-1201 min
Ah Spain!How We Live... Mountains Versus CityToday we discuss one of the most asked questions for expats and locals alike: Is it better to live in the city of Valencia or in a nearby mountain town like Náquera? Join Gaetano, who lives with his family in the heart of Valencia, and Tania, raising her family in the tranquil mountain town of Náquera, as they compare two very different versions of life in Spain.
From the convenience of city living—walkable neighborhoods, schools, and nightlife—to the peace and beauty of the countryside, with larger homes, private pools, and stunning views, we weigh...2025-06-1059 min
Ah Spain!How Spain Does DrinksWe dive into the bold, flavorful world of Spanish beverages. From the daily rituals of Spanish coffee culture to the party-ready cocktails that define summer in Spain, this episode is a fun, honest, and slightly boozy tour through how Spain really does drinks. We explore the fiery and popular Valencian cremaet, compare café solo, cortado, and other local coffee favorites, and unpack the difference between Tinto de Verano and sangria (spoiler: we have opinions). We also get into Agua de Valencia—a sparkling citrus cocktail that’s as strong as it is celebratory—and laugh over the surprising bebidas we've e...2025-06-031h 00
Ah Spain!How We Make Lemonade Out Of Pitfalls & PratfallsLucky episode #13! We dive headfirst into our most memorable pitfalls that we experienced as expats in Valencia, Spain. We share our personal stories of navigating unexpected challenges—from missing trains and dealing with flooded apartments to getting lost down the city’s enchanting labyrinth of streets.
Join us as we share stories of how funny setbacks and a dash of resilience have turned these hurdles into unforgettable memories. Whether you're dreaming of relocating to Spain, already knee-deep in expat life, or just curious about the Mediterranean lifestyle, you’ll find plenty of inspiration and laughs in our tales...2025-05-2756 min
Ah Spain!How Spain Puts A Smile On Our FacesJoin us, Tania and Gaetano, as we share the everyday joys of expat life in Spain, especially in sunny Valencia. From friendly restaurant owners to free gift wrapping in stores, we explore why Spain’s warm culture feels like living on Sesame Street.
Hear about birthday party etiquette, beautiful neighborhoods, beach life, and why locals always greet you with a smile. Whether you're dreaming of moving to Spain or just love feel-good stories from Europe, this episode will lift your spirits.
2025-05-2053 min
Ah Spain!How We Mostly Talk About TapasJoin us, expats Gaetano and Tania as we dive into our favorite tapas and what makes Spanish cuisine so irresistible. In this fun, food-filled episode, we chat about classic dishes like patatas bravas, sepia, tortilla española, and more, all from the perspective of living and eating in Spain. Perfect for foodies, travelers, and fellow expats in Spain!
2025-05-1356 min
Ah Spain!How We Travel Around EuropeLiving in Spain has its perks—like spontaneous getaways across Europe! In this episode, Tania and Gaetano share funny stories and travel hacks about getting around the continent by train, plane, and car. Perfect for travelers, expats, and dreamers looking to explore Europe with ease. Tune in and escape like a budget conscious pro!
2025-05-0648 min
Ah Spain!How We Get Around ValenciaIn this episode of Ah, Spain!, We explore how to get around Valencia using public transport, if you are like Gaetano, or if you are brave, like Tania, you have your own car! Whether you're an expat moving to Spain, a digital nomad settling into life in Valencia, or a traveler looking for smart ways to explore the city, this episode has you covered. Expect practical tips, funny stories, and a casual, friendly conversation that’ll help you navigate Valencia’s transport system with ease. Perfect for anyone living in or visiting Spain!
2025-04-291h 00
Ah Spain!How We Make FriendsUprooting your life into the complete unknown can be scary and make you feel lonely. Today we talk about how we make friends in Spain. Valencia has many opportunities for expats to connect with people and forge new friendships. So even if you are an introvert, there are tons of ways to meet people... Spanish lessons, pottery classes, parent groups, and even the smiling strangers at the mercado!
2025-04-2247 min
Ah Spain!How We Dine OutMoving to Spain is not without its challenges and adjustments. Dining out is one of them. Today we discuss the 5 different meal times in our new country, and how they do not necessarily align with the times an expat may be used to. Whether you're heading out for tapas, paella, or just a refreshing beverage. We will help you understand the difference between desayuno, almuerzo, comida, merienda, and cena. In time, you will forget your old eating ways and embrace dining out the Spanish way!
2025-04-151h 01
Ah Spain!How We Settled InToday we talk about how we turned our new Spanish house (or flat) into a home. We would like to thank Jessica from Minnesota for asking the question which got this conversation started. What do we miss and what have we learned to live without...
2025-04-0852 min
Ah Spain!How We Do Fallas Part 2Fallas is over and Valencia has returned to the relatively sleepy town we love. On this episode, we regroup and recap about what we saw during the rest of the festival. Insanely loud mascletàs, brilliant night fireworks, and the blazing "Cremà" (burning of the Fallas)... it really is a magical, if not a little jarring, event! It is nice to have quiet again though for sure!
2025-04-0146 min
Ah Spain!How We Do WeatherWe are taking a break from all the Fallas chaos to talk about the weather on the Mediterranean coast. They lied in the brochures, its not sunny 365 days a year! Dare we say it, but there may even be four seasons here, ok three... We aren't complaining, just observing so you will remember to pack a sweater or two.
2025-03-2558 min
Ah Spain!How We Do FallasFallas is the biggest celebration here in Valencia that lasts almost 3 weeks, but in reality the entire year is spent preparing for this festival. We share our experiences and knowledge (if you can call it that!) of how this festival works, and what makes it fun!
2025-03-1752 min
Ah Spain!How We Moved HereOur first podcast! We chat about how we each arrived in Spain with our families in tow. Was it by boat, plane, train, hot air balloon, or all of the above? Listen to our crazy moving experiences and how we met!
2025-03-1740 min
Ah Spain!A Brief IntroductionHi, we are Tania and Gaetano... two foreigners raising families here in Spain. We are sharing our joys and missteps of this amazing experience!
2025-03-1701 min