The Spanish language has a rich and fascinating history that has evolved over centuries.
Its origins can be traced back to Latin (like French, Italian and Portuguese), with significant influences from the Roman Empire.
As time passed, Vulgar Latin transformed into what is now known as Castilian Spanish, with the Iberian Peninsula playing a crucial role.
Spanish also made its mark in the Americas, where it developed differently across regions.
The language underwent standardization with the help of the Royal Spanish Academy, while also incorporating Arabic influences from the time of Muslim rule, who were in the Iberian Peninsula for almost eight centuries (from 711 to 1492)
Today, Spanish has become a global language, with widespread usage and official status in many countries.
Origins of the Spanish Language
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Cultural differences are well-recognised: every country does things slightly differently, although they may have similarities with others around the world. These differences don’t just stop at eating habits, beliefs, dress codes or family dynamics – they extend out of the home into the world of work too.
In this blog post, we explore the fascinating subject of how interview techniques differ around the globe.
Skills and competencies vs motivations and values
In Western culture, there is a large emphasis on skills and competencies when it comes to interviews. From a practical perspective, this makes sense – your potential employer needs to be confident that you can do the job. Relying on a CV won’t be enough; the interviewer will want to know details about when you’ve put the skills you’ve listed into action.
However, having the right experience and qualifications doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re the best fit for the company. In the Eastern hemisphere, there’s a greater focus on letting the qualifications speak for themselves, and taking the interview time to get to know the candidate. The conversation is more likely to focus on motivations and values, to make sure that the applicant will be a good holistic fit for the team.
Verbal and non-verbal cues
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If you’ve got a bad case of wanderlust, but want to continue your education, then why choose between the two? Studying abroad, even for a year, is a fantastic way to truly experience the culture of a new country whilst also keeping up your academic commitments. Plus, it can increase your independence and confidence, showing you just how much you’re capable of.
But moving abroad can be daunting, even with the support mechanism of your chosen institution behind you. From accommodation to packing, a bit of preparation can go a long way. One of the things you’ll need to work out is how you’re going to pay for your study abroad semesters – not only tuition, but also living expenses.
Worried? Don’t be. Let’s take a look at some top tips to help you realise your dreams of studying abroad.
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The English language has evolved over centuries, shaped by a rich and complex history.
Its origins lie with the Germanic peoples of northern Europe, and the language was influenced by Viking invasions and the Norman conquest. Old English reflected the varied origins of the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms, while Middle English saw significant changes in pronunciation and grammar. Early Modern English incorporated loans from Latin and other European languages, and modern English became a dominant global language through British colonization.
Phonological and grammatical changes contribute to its unique character, while regional dialects and accents add diversity.
Origins of the English language
Germanic influence in England
The origins of the English language can be traced back to the influence of Germanic tribes in England. During the Roman Empire, Germanic-inhabited areas of Germania remained independent, and tribes like the Angles, Saxons, and Jutes settled in Britain post the end of Roman rule. This migration led to the establishment of the heptarchy – seven Anglo-Saxon kingdoms that laid the foundation for Proto-English.
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- Categories: Culture, Languages
- 16 Jan 2024
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When it comes to learning a language, you want to make sure that you’re getting the best quality education available to you. Often, this means employing the help of a foreign language tutor. To ensure you’re choosing someone who will support and guide you through your lessons successfully, here are three things you should look for when making that initial booking.
Relevant qualifications and experience
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- Categories: Learning, Study, Tips
- 10 Nov 2023
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You’ve got your annual leave booked, and you’re surely looking forward to a well deserved break from work – but how do you make the most of your time off? Often, we can be so stressed about not being at work, that we struggle to switch off and enjoy our time away.
Let’s explore how to get the most out of your time on an annual leave.
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- Categories: Tips, Work
- 16 Oct 2023
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When you think of the Mediterranean, it is easy to imagine lush beaches with blue waters and stunning heritage sites that glisten under the golden sun. As such, the Mediterranean continues to be a popular tourist destination among British travellers looking to spend time in more exotic places. CNN even shared reports that the rocketing temperatures in the region have not deterred Brits from heading to Southern Europe. Surveys from the European Travel Commission reveal the Mediterranean is still the top choice for most holidaymakers.
Considering the popularity of the Mediterranean, there is a wide variety of ways to enjoy the region. One increasingly in-demand option is by way of a cruise. Presently, about 1.7 million Brits take a cruise each year. Here are some reasons why cruises, and more specifically, luxury cruises, have an increasing demand:
Exquisite comfort while at sea
Luxury cruises can provide the same comfort level as a top-rated hotel without sacrificing opulence. These journeys aim to provide guests with spacious suites at sea, even an on-call butler assigned to the suite, and often a private balcony. When passing through Greece or Italy, guests may even spot dolphins and other sea animals swimming near the ship. Furthermore, cruise companies such as the Royal Caribbean renovate their ships every three to five years, which typically involves giving the cruise ship design updates to technical systems onboard and upgrades in the interior.
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- Categories: Lifestyle, Travel
- 10 Oct 2023
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Moving to a new country is exciting, but it would be wrong to suggest there aren’t any hurdles for those brave enough to make the leap to pastures new. For some, the prospect of learning a new language is a daunting task.
But just how vital is picking up a second tongue? While it would be wrong to suggest it doesn’t matter at all, there’s definitely an argument to be had for those who don’t have the time or skill set to pick up a totally new vernacular.
Here are some pros and cons when it comes to learning a native language after relocating internationally.
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For some holidaymakers, going abroad is a chance to discover new cultures and learn about their history. Whilst there’s nothing wrong with a good beach holiday, getting out and about and exploring can really help you feel like you’re getting an authentic experience.
Spain is a renowned tourist destination for its sunny weather, picturesque beaches and tasty food. But there is so much more to this diverse country than meets the eye. A cultural holiday in Spain is the perfect way to experience the country’s rich history and traditions. From the Moorish architecture of Granada to the Iglesia de Santa María in Toledo, there are countless sites to explore:
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Mallorca is one of Spain’s Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean Sea. It’s known for sheltered coves, beach resorts, Roman and Moorish remains and limestone mountains. Would you like to know what to do and visit in this excellent destination that receives around 2 million international visitors a year…?
The island capital is Palma de Mallorca, where you can enjoy its vibrant nightlife, or visit the Moorish Almudaina royal palace, the 13th-century Santa María Cathedral, the Bellver Castle, some Roman remains, or the Jewish quarter.
Apart from the capital, there are some amazing places worth visiting, like:
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