Ben and Marina discuss the odd rituals of Spanish restaurants: customer service, begging for 'la cuenta', tipping, and honest waiters. Plus the 'simpa' and Ben´s related confession. See notesinspanish.com for the worksheets.

Ben and Marina discuss the surprising landscapes of Almeria, and what shocked them about the cultivation of fruit and vegetables there, compared to the Pyrenees. Plus organic food culture in Spain. Get the worksheets at notesinspanish.com

Ben and Marina discuss an article by Nobel laureate Mario Vargas Llosa about his stay in a Benedictine monastery, plus the rise of mindfulness in Spain, and the need for oases of peace in our busy world. Get the transcript/worksheet at notesinspanish.com

Ben and Marina discuss whether Spain is losing its wonderful Spanish-ness, especially in the restaurant sector. Is the family-run place a thing of the past? Get a full transcript of the conversation and much more in the worksheets at notesinspanish.com