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Violeta by Isabel Allende: One Hundred Years on the South American Continent Mhairi MacLeod Friday, 29 April 2022 Author of La casa de los espíritus, Isabel Allende, has recently released her new novel, Violeta, spanning South American history from the Spanish flu to the Covid-19 pandemic. Mhairi, gives us the lowdown on the novel and the value of reading the work in Spanish. For those who study Spanish or have an interest in the Spanish language, the author Isabel Allende will be a very familiar name. The phenomenal Chilean author has sold millions of books around the world that have been translated into at least 33 languages. Since its publication at the start of the year, Allende’s latest novel Violeta has been met with great success. A spellbinding story that follows one woman during her one hundred years on earth. From the beginnings of the Spanish flu in 1920s South America right up until the start of the coronavirus pandemic, the novel is a testimony to the unbreakable family bond through disaster, political upheaval, economic hardship, and violence. So what is this story all about? Violeta is born one stormy day in 1920s South America, just as the Spanish flu has started to infiltrate the continent. The youngest girl in a family of five sons, she is born into an affluent family however this fortune does not last as the effects of the Great Depression eventually come to haunt them. The family loses everything they own, including the grand mansion in which they live, so they are forced to reside in the rural countryside, a stark difference from their previous life. This is where the young Violeta grows into a woman who will face the world and throughout the book, we follow her on this reminiscent and reflective journey. The novel is written in the form of a letter to Camilo, a person who we later discover has great significance in Violeta’s life, and it is set against the backdrop of historical and political events in South America. Without giving too much away, this is certainly an eventful read with multiple references to socialist movements, dictatorships, political exile, and democracy. Whilst this sounds very heavy and serious, the novel is also peppered with saucy romantic endeavours, exciting and funny extracts from Violeta and her bold tone is a constant throughout. It must be said that this novel does not come close to Allende’s most successful and award-winning La casa de los espíritus (The House of the Sprits), nevertheless Violeta is still an epic family saga that spans multiple generations in true Allende style. You’ll find strong, passionate women at the forefront of Allende’s stories and this is especially the case in Violeta , a story about women who stand up for their rights and fight for their voices to be heard throughout their lifetime. For Spanish language enthusiasts and learners, there is so much to be learnt from Allende’s novels. Whether that be from tackling her stories in Spanish whilst accompanied by perseverance and a good Spanish dictionary or for the curious who wish to learn more about South American history and politics. Isabel Allende’s novels are a truly enriching experience that will project your language and cultural knowledge leaps and bounds ahead. Note: Please look up the trigger warnings before reading this book. About the Author Mhairi is currently in her final year studying Spanish and Chinese. On her year abroad, Mhairi spent her time in Barcelona, Taiwan and Peru. She joined Lingo Mag as Deputy Editor 2022/23 to share her enthusiasm for languages, culture, and travel. "Learning a language is so much more than memorising verb patterns and grammar. Immersing yourself in films, books and music is where the magic happens." Barcelona’s Hidden Gems: Live like a local and escape the tourists Mhairi MacLeod Translation and the Untranslatable Aidan Cross Encanto: The Deeper Meaning Behind Disney's Award-winning Latino Film Mhairi MacLeod Images provided by Mhairi Macleod. For more content, follow us on Instagram , and like our Facebook page for more articles and information on how to join the Lingo Team. Have an article ready to send in? Submit it here . Tags: Mhairi Macleod Language Learning Spanish Literature Culture Books Categories: Culture Review Language and Linguistics Share: Let us know what you think 3.0 150 Article ratings average rating is 3 out of 5, based on 150 votes, Article ratings WRITE A COMMENT Thanks for submitting a comment! Barbara Dawson average rating is 3 out of 5 Lovely tasty dish. Try it you won’t be disappointed. Time Published Aunty Liz average rating is 3 out of 5 Very tasty and cheap. I often have this for tea! Time Published BETTS average rating is 3 out of 5 Being a bilingual family (French mother and British father,) living in France I thought your article was extremely interesting . Have you research on bilingualism ? It seems that when the mother is British and the father French and they both live in France their children seem to be more bilingual than when the mother is French and the father is British . This is what we called mother tongue , isn't it ? Time Published Niamh average rating is 3 out of 5 Such an interesting article! Time Published LOAD MORE

A Beginner’s Guide to K-Dramas Isabelle Monteiro Thursday, 16 October 2025 The global appeal of South Korea’s addictive TV Exports and where to start watching. Over the last two decades in the West, the popularity of South Korean entertainment and media has surged. This phenomenon, dubbed “The Hallyu Wave”, refers to the rise of global interest in South Korean popular culture, led primarily by the spread of K-pop, K-dramas, and films. Recognised as a form of soft power, this has been an important economic asset for the East Asian country, generating revenue through both exports and tourism. Despite having a population of just 52 million, South Korea produces a significant number of both scripted and unscripted television. As a result, K-dramas have prioritised storytelling over cinematography to keep viewers engaged. This approach gave rise to the popularity of soapy melodramas, known as makjang , which many now associate with Korean television. However, the expansion of streaming platforms with subtitles, coupled with a growing demand for high-quality local content that rivals the crème de la crème of international TV, have transformed the industry, with cable networks and global platforms such as Netflix now investing in creative productions that elevate both form and narrative. These shows are often single seasons, having 16 to 24 episodes, which typically run for 60 minutes, with occasional finales lasting nearly 90 minutes. Plus, they air on consecutive days, meaning that viewers get up to two-and-a-half hours of new content each week. But why, exactly, are K-dramas so popular? Their success can be attributed to high-quality production and storytelling that spans a wide range of themes and genres, from romance and historical epics, to thrillers and slice-of-life dramas. These shows tell thoughtful, character-driven stories that explore topics people genuinely care about, often delivering messages that resonate with global audiences, even when rooted in cultural and social contexts unique to South Korea. But it is particularly the romance-based series that have gained international traction by catering to the ‘female gaze’, offering emotional depth and nuance often overlooked in Hollywood, where the ‘male gaze’ tends to dominate. K-dramas also stand out for their attention to aesthetic detail, creating a visually pleasing and immersive experience that sets them apart from many mainstream Western productions. Given their unique appeal and growing global fanbase, it’s no surprise that more people are wanting to dive in. So, here are a few K-dramas that make the perfect starting point for newcomers: Guardian: The Lonely and Great God (2016-2017) Premise : Ranked as the seventh highest-rated drama in Korean cable television history, Goblin follows the cursed immortal Kim Shin on his quest to find a human bride who can remove the sword from his chest and end his life. Along the way, he meets a grim reaper and Ji Eun-Tak, a sprightly school student. Episodes : 16 Crash Landing on You (2019) Premise : This sweeping romance follows successful businesswoman and chaebol heiress Yoon Se-Ri, who crash-lands in North Korea during a paragliding accident. There, she meets Captain Ri Jeong-Hyuk of the Korean People’s Army and persuades him to help hide her and return her safely to the South of the country. Episodes : 16 My Liberation Notes (2022) Premise : For a quieter, introspective watch, My Liberation Notes centres on three siblings and a mysterious stranger, exploring themes of fulfilment, loneliness, and personal growth amid the monotony of adulthood and working life. Episodes : 16 The Glory (2022) Premise : (Partially) based on true events, The Glory is a psychological revenge thriller centred on Moon Dong-Eun, who was a victim of school violence as a child. Years later, she seeks retribution by becoming the homeroom teacher of her bully’s child. Episodes : 16 Marry My Husband (2024) Premise : When Kang Ji-Won is diagnosed with terminal cancer, her world shatters further when she discovers her husband is having an affair with her best friend. After he kills her in a confrontation, she wakes up ten years prior and vows to change her fate. Episodes : 16 Business Proposal (2022) Premise : In this lighthearted romantic comedy, Shin Ha-Ri disguises herself to sabotage a blind date on behalf of her friend. However, plans go awry when her date turns out to be her CEO and, worse still, proposes to marry her. Episodes : 12 Hospital Playlist (2020-2021) Premise : Hospital Playlist tells the story of five doctors who have been close friends since medical school. Now colleagues at Yulje Medical Centre, they balance life, death, and friendship, bonding through music and the everyday realities of hospital life. Episodes : 24 Taxi Driver (2021-2023) Premise : Former Special Forces officer Kim Do-Gi is devastated by his mother’s murder after she is killed by a serial killer. He joins Rainbow Taxi, a secret organisation that delivers revenge for victims failed by the legal system. Episodes : 32 (2 seasons) The Legend of the Blue Sea (2016) Premise : This romantic fantasy stars Lee Min-Ho as a charming con artist and Jun Ji-Hyun as a mermaid named Shim Cheong. Their love story spans both modern-day Seoul and the Joseon era, exploring themes of fate, reincarnation, and unfulfilled love. Episodes : 20 About the Author Hailing from Malaysia, Isabelle is a final year English student with a passion for food and the arts. She views Lingo as an opportunity to explore her interests in culture and travel, as well as to develop her writing skills. Valentine’s Day Traditions Around the World Vicki Mileson Violeta by Isabel Allende: One Hundred Years on the South American Continent Mhairi MacLeod The Rise of Foreign Language TV Holly Cromwell Image courtesy of Ravi Sharma via Unsplash For more content, follow us on Instagram , and like our Facebook page for more articles and information on how to join the Lingo Team. Have an article ready to send in? Submit it here . Tags: Culture Korean Foreign TV Around the World Drama Isabelle Monteiro 1943 Categories: Cultural Guide Culture Global Culture What's On Share: Let us know what you think 3.0 150 Article ratings average rating is 3 out of 5, based on 150 votes, Article ratings WRITE A COMMENT Thanks for submitting a comment! Barbara Dawson average rating is 3 out of 5 Lovely tasty dish. Try it you won’t be disappointed. Time Published Aunty Liz average rating is 3 out of 5 Very tasty and cheap. I often have this for tea! Time Published BETTS average rating is 3 out of 5 Being a bilingual family (French mother and British father,) living in France I thought your article was extremely interesting . Have you research on bilingualism ? It seems that when the mother is British and the father French and they both live in France their children seem to be more bilingual than when the mother is French and the father is British . This is what we called mother tongue , isn't it ? Time Published Niamh average rating is 3 out of 5 Such an interesting article! Time Published LOAD MORE

Surviving Language Student Life: Scheduling Jess Henrys Tuesday, 29 March 2022 Studying for a language degree is no mean feat, with what can seem like endless grammar tasks, vocab lists and verb tables. For this edition of Welfare Wednesday, one of our Welfare Secs, Jess Henrys shares her top tips for scheduling to help you stay on top of your language learning. The life of a language student is harder than it looks. Although learning another language leads to the joy of cultural exploration and creative expression in more than just your native tongue, the road to proficiency seems to be full of obstacles, and more often than not, just pure hard work. I’ve certainly found that learning a language is less like a straightforward road, and more like a mountain. Whether it’s a grammar point you can’t seem to make sense of, an impossibly long list of irregular verbs to learn, or a fear of actually speaking in the language, preparing for those treacherous paths can be disheartening. In fact, with exams and essay deadlines around the corner, it can feel outright impossible. And there is no quick fix for that: language learning takes hard work. But it also takes rest. If you’re climbing that language mountain, remember that your brain may not be a muscle, but it needs time to rest too. So, how do you do that? How do you ensure that you are reaching your language goals and giving yourself space to breathe? How do you balance that new Netflix show you’re just dying to binge with an impending essay deadline for that French book you still haven’t read? How do you make a dent in your Spanish vocabulary lists without being a stranger to your friends? The answer may be obvious, and yet it’s something you and I so often overlook. It’s scheduling. Perhaps you have tried scheduling before, and it didn’t work for you. You couldn’t stick to it, or it felt too restrictive, or it takes too much time to create that you would rather spend actually working. These are all the problems I faced before. Struggling with workload-related anxieties, drowning in deadlines, I didn’t believe what my therapist said: that creating a schedule could make even one iota of difference. But it did. And maybe, if you’re anything like me, it’s worth a shot for you too. So, where do you begin? 1. Choose the form of your schedule Would you prefer a physical schedule on paper, that you can see and touch with your own hands? Try creating one with your classes and tasks on post-it notes so you can easily visualise and even rearrange your tasks from week to week, staying flexible for those Thursday afternoon coffee dates, or that one Saturday morning shift you can’t get out of. If you would prefer a digital schedule to access wherever you go, why not try Google’s hourly schedule template? Or for something looser and more flexible, try our own general schedule with morning, afternoon, and evening blocks. 2. Schedule your fixed tasks The first things to schedule in are any regular, fixed obligations. This means blocking out your regular classes, work shifts, fitness classes, or any other recurring task that you would consider of highest importance. 3. Schedule your rest times Your rest is just as important as your classes! Schedule in something fun or relaxing every day, maybe even highlight it in your schedule in a different colour to remind you that you have something to look forward to. This could be: Lunch with a friend A walk in the fresh air An episode of your favourite tv show A phone call with a loved one Going out in the evening Or anything else you can think of. 4. Schedule homework time In your language degree, there may be homework you have regularly every week, such as preparation for a seminar, reading for a lecture, or grammar exercises for your language classes. My top tip is to choose a day when you will do a particular homework task every week. It will never take you by surprise, never be forgotten, and you won’t have the “night-before” stress of trying to get it all done at once. Schedule these tasks around your rest time, not the other way around. You don’t have to earn your rest. You rest and recharge in order to have the energy to do these tasks. 5. Schedule independent language tasks Finally, write down those tasks you feel you never have time for – vocab, grammar points, independent reading or listening. Even watching TV in your target language can be a great way to subtly improve your language independently of your classes and assigned work. 6. Try to stick to it (but be kind to yourself!) The only way to make this schedule work is to do your best to stick to it. But be kind to yourself. If you need to rearrange a task to make way for new obligations or extra rest time or if you’re just having a bad day and need a change, do it. Your schedule should help you, not hinder you, on your learning journey. And if this doesn’t work for you, don’t panic! We are all different, and we learn differently, and it’s simply about finding methods of learning that resonate with you! If you would like to discuss any concerns with our welfare team, please do not hesitate to get in touch at lingomagwelfareteam@gmail.com so we can signpost you to some of Nottingham’s many, helpful support services. And remember, it’s a long way to the top of this language-learning mountain, but the view is spectacular! About the Author During her year abroad, Jess spent a semester in St Petersburg, Russia. According to Jess, when she first arrived, she barely knew a word in Russian and felt completely overwhelmed, but the city soon revealed its delights to her, and it became a home. She hopes that by sharing some of my Russian experiences, other travellers to the city can be comforted, and learn to love it as much as she did. Jess also jetted off to the French capital so she certainly had an incredible year abroad! Jess also has experience of being a Peer Mentor and is very knowledgeable about the university’s Support Services. She’s got a lot of enthusiasm to bring to this role! Jess was one third of our 2022/23 Welfare Team. 5 podcasts to help you improve your French Niamh Woodhouse The economic value to the UK of speaking other languages: realistic or idealistic? Rosie Loyd Our top 5 tips for keeping on top of your Chinese Rosie Loyd Images provided by Jess Henrys. For more content, follow us on Instagram , and like our Facebook page for more articles and information on how to join the Lingo Team. Have an article ready to send in? Submit it here . Tags: Language Learning Jess Henrys Mental Health Scheduling Time Management Categories: Welfare Language and Linguistics Language Tips Share: Let us know what you think 3.0 150 Article ratings average rating is 3 out of 5, based on 150 votes, Article ratings WRITE A COMMENT Thanks for submitting a comment! Barbara Dawson average rating is 3 out of 5 Lovely tasty dish. Try it you won’t be disappointed. Time Published Aunty Liz average rating is 3 out of 5 Very tasty and cheap. I often have this for tea! Time Published BETTS average rating is 3 out of 5 Being a bilingual family (French mother and British father,) living in France I thought your article was extremely interesting . Have you research on bilingualism ? It seems that when the mother is British and the father French and they both live in France their children seem to be more bilingual than when the mother is French and the father is British . This is what we called mother tongue , isn't it ? Time Published Niamh average rating is 3 out of 5 Such an interesting article! Time Published LOAD MORE

“Mother of God, banish Putin”: A Reflection on Pussy Riot’s performance in Nottingham Jess Henrys Friday, 10 February 2023 Welfare Sec Jess reflects on last month's powerful performance by Russian pop-punk protest group Pussy Riot. Rescue Rooms, Nottingham, 10/11/22. The screen shows a young boy with a sign in his hands: “Let Moms Go”. For many, 2012 seems a lifetime ago, but the last ten years are as vivid as ever for Maria “Masha” Alyokhina, a founding member of Russian pop-punk protest group, Pussy Riot . At Nottingham Rescue Rooms on Thursday 10 November, the group forwent the traditional “concert” in favour of a performance-poetry experience, titled Riot Days . Over the course of an hour, Masha, along with her compatriots Taso Pletner, Olga Borisova and Diana Burkot, deliver bruising political commentary set to a cacophony of techno-punk in a harrowing memoir of the events surrounding her arrest for her part in the band’s “Punk Prayer” in Moscow’s Christ the Saviour Cathedral in 2012. A short but spitting criticism of then-Prime Minister (now President) Vladimir Putin and troubling support for him from the Russian Orthodox Church was instead condemned as "hooliganism motivated by religious hatred". Alyokhina and two of her fellow bandmates were disproportionately sentenced to two-years imprisonment in a penal colony; a move described by the now-imprisoned opposition leader, Aleksei Navalny, as “Putin's personal revenge”. The girls were released shortly before the end of their sentence in what is believed to have been an act of propaganda to paint Putin in a generous light prior to the Sochi Winter Olympics. However, in the nine years since, Masha has been less than free. Fiercely engaged in a cat-and-mouse game with the Russian authorities and refusing to dim her rebellious spark in favour of liberty, Alyokhina has been detained, assaulted, detained again, placed under house arrest, sentenced multiple times to 15 days in jail, placed on parole, arrested, re-arrested, and finally sentenced yet again to time in a penal colony for protesting “Putin’s Russia”. Finally, in April 2022, with the help of friends at home and abroad, she crossed the border out of the country and fled. This November, she was in Nottingham. (Maria “Masha” Alyokhina recalls the “Punk Prayer” in Moscow Cathedral. Subtitles on the screen read: Virgin Mary, Mother of God, banish Putin! Banish Putin, banish Putin!). The famous words of the “Punk Prayer” – “ Virgin Mary, Mother of God, banish Putin!” – appear on the screen. The girls scream their Russian equivalent into the microphone, their faces stony and haunted. Other refrains, some serious, some sarcastic – “Putin will teach you to love the Motherland” , “We’re Not Doing Things Right” and “Anyone can be Pussy Riot” – are repeated viciously with mesmerising effect. Far from giving up on her motherland, Alyokhina’s flight from Russia has given her an outside opportunity to save it. She criticises not her country, her home, but Putin’s poisonous politics, and dreams of the day that Russia will be freed from his clutches. Kate Hutchinson for The Observer called it “engaging” and “experimental”. More than that, the performance is unexpected, unafraid, and utterly unignorable. Even when the performers begin to throw bottle after bottle of water on the front rows, the crowd is transfixed. Alyokhina’s vulnerability is not only confession and criticism, but a call to arms. Her impassioned condemnation of the invasion (or so-called “special military operation”) in Ukraine is followed by a call for the end of indifference, and an opportunity to financially support a Ukrainian children’s hospital. No matter what happens next – whether Masha remains abroad or risks a return to Russia – this performance leaves no doubt that, whether in chains or on stage, this is a woman who, by her own fierce independence and her refusal to resign her moral code, is free. Her last words, “ Are you?” , pose a challenge to us all. For Alyokhina and her band mates, these are the Riot Days . In the face of instability, injustice and invasion, ignorance is inexcusable. About the Author During her year abroad, Jess spent a semester in St Petersburg, Russia. According to Jess, when she first arrived, she barely knew a word in Russian and felt completely overwhelmed, but the city soon revealed its delights to her, and it became a home. She hopes that by sharing some of my Russian experiences, other travellers to the city can be comforted, and learn to love it as much as she did. Jess also jetted off to the French capital so she certainly had an incredible year abroad! Jess also has experience of being a Peer Mentor and is very knowledgeable about the university’s Support Services. She’s got a lot of enthusiasm to bring to this role! Jess was one third of our 2022/23 Welfare Team. Hungry in St Petersburg? My Top 5 Restaurants for Visitors Jess Henrys European Music Festivals to Attend This Summer Niamh Woodhouse French Connection: An Interview with a True Parisian Part 1/2 : The City of Lights Jess Henrys Images provided by Jess Henrys. For more content, follow us on Instagram , and like our Facebook page for more articles and information on how to join the Lingo Team. Have an article ready to send in? Submit it here . Tags: Jess Henrys Russia Music Politics Ukraine Protest Categories: Culture Review Share: Let us know what you think 3.0 150 Article ratings average rating is 3 out of 5, based on 150 votes, Article ratings WRITE A COMMENT Thanks for submitting a comment! LOAD MORE

5 podcasts to help you improve your French Niamh Woodhouse Tuesday, 15 February 2022 Looking for easy ways to improve your French and expand your vocab? Niamh, a French third year, shares with us her favourite podcasts that help her improve her French language skills. Podcasts are an easy, accessible way to learn, even when you're hands aren't free. They cover a wide range of topics from fashion and food to comedy and news, and lucky for us language learners, there are also plenty of podcasts created with the aim of helping listeners improve their French. Below are some of my top picks to pick up vocab, listen to new voices and learn to speak like a local. News in slow French This podcast is exactly what it says on the tin – news stories read slowly for language learners. As the headlines are read slower than you would hear on TV or radio, listeners can hear every word distinctly and therefore easily pick up new vocabulary and understand the context of the podcast. With each episode being split into several sections, featuring different news stories, conversations between the hosts and some grammar points, it is perfect for French learners, both beginner and intermediate. One thing in a French day I love this podcast as it is similar to a vlog and lets you into the daily life of a French person. Laetitia, the host, posts short entries three times a week (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday) and as they are never more than five minutes, you don’t need to dedicate a lot of time to listen to them. It is perfect for a quick but helpful dose of French! The podcast gives insight into French culture, history, and society so you also learn about the context of the language you are learning. As well as this it is deliberately spoken softly and clearly with the intention of being for language learners. I definitely recommend listening in to this ‘small slice of a Frenchwoman’s day’. Français authentique This podcast is great for advanced learners and is a realistic, authentic representation of how real native French people speak. The host, Johan, is honest in his teaching, telling listeners that although they’ll be able to speak like a local, this doesn’t really matter! Even though the topics and vocabulary may be too much for beginners, it is excellent for learning pronunciation and cadence from real French speakers. They even provide transcripts of episodes on their website! Horoscope - Tendance Ouest Of course, as well as podcasts targeted towards learners of the language, there are also podcasts made for the native French speaker! This option is for a more advanced speaker of French rather than a beginner as the conversations will be faster and vocabulary more complicated - but take this as a challenge and opportunity to pick up new words and phrases! A popular genre of podcast across all languages are horoscopes and this is no exception for French. My horoscope of choice is Horoscope by Tendance Ouest, hosted by Camille and posted every day. Typically around a minute and a half, I find it the perfect way to start my day with a quick dose of French! L'heure du crime Another widely listened-to type of podcast is true crime and mystery. L’heure du Crime (Crime Hour) is a top-rated French podcast that discusses a different criminal case each episode. Although it is not as tailored as other podcasts as it is made up of excerpts from a radio show, it is still interesting to hear the tales of crimes and unsolved cases. Again, L’heure du Crime is more for the advanced French speaker, as it is more intensive and not aimed at language learners. However, it is great if you have a good level of French and an interest in true crime. As there are often interviews on the podcast, you can get exposure to a range of different accents from across the French-speaking world. About the Author Niamh was the founder of Lingo Magazine, was Editor-in-Chief for 2022/23, and is now a Lingo alumni. Speaking French and Spanish, she has a particular interest in articles about history, culture and travel! Whilst studying in Cadiz, Niamh met other language students from universities across the UK and soon discovered that many of them write for language magazines at their universities. Seeing this gap in the market for a language magazine, she set up the magazine alongside an amazing committee for her fellow and future language students at the University of Nottingham! The Problem with Pronouns Niamh Woodhouse 5 podcasts to help you improve your French Niamh Woodhouse The economic value to the UK of speaking other languages: realistic or idealistic? Rosie Loyd Copyright free images via Unsplash. For more content, follow us on Instagram , and like our Facebook page for more articles and information on how to join the Lingo Team. Have an article ready to send in? Submit it here . Tags: Niamh Woodhouse French Podcasts Language Learning Beginners Categories: Language Tips Language and Linguistics Share: Let us know what you think 3.0 150 Article ratings average rating is 3 out of 5, based on 150 votes, Article ratings WRITE A COMMENT Thanks for submitting a comment! Barbara Dawson average rating is 3 out of 5 Lovely tasty dish. Try it you won’t be disappointed. Time Published Aunty Liz average rating is 3 out of 5 Very tasty and cheap. I often have this for tea! Time Published BETTS average rating is 3 out of 5 Being a bilingual family (French mother and British father,) living in France I thought your article was extremely interesting . Have you research on bilingualism ? It seems that when the mother is British and the father French and they both live in France their children seem to be more bilingual than when the mother is French and the father is British . This is what we called mother tongue , isn't it ? Time Published Niamh average rating is 3 out of 5 Such an interesting article! Time Published LOAD MORE

English BA (Hons) < Back Rachel Lara Hoddes Rachel is a Second Year English student who outside of her degree, lives everything theatre. She is Technical Manager for the Nottingham New Theatre so when she's not doing coursework, she's probably at the theatre rewiring a light or telling off a speaker for not listening to her. She also love climbing, swing dancing, baking and singing, as well as writing for lingo! She likes to write about topics that really grab her attention or mean a lot to her. Latest Articles by this Author Things I Wish I Knew Before Going Interrailing 14/07/24 What is Lingo Magazine? Let's ask ChatGPT... 10/07/24

Recipe of the Week: Vegetable Soup Emily Dawson Thursday, 24 November 2022 Recipe of the Week with @ems.homecooking will teach you a new dish from around the world. This week's recipe is a hearty vegetable soup, perfect to keep you warm and full as we enter winter. Serves: 4 Difficulty: 3/5 Time: 1 hour The use of ras el hanout in this recipe creates a plentiful and unique combination of flavours. This spice is a mixture of cumin, coriander, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, pepper and cardamom, native to North Africa. This dish is a perfect lunch served on its own or as a dinner with garlic bread or salad. As the days get darker and colder, soup is a perfect tummy warmer to come home to or to take to university with you! Ingredients 1 onion 3 cloves of garlic 1 potato 2 carrots 1 courgette 1 pepper 1 cup of peas ½ cup of lentils 1 tin of chopped tomatoes 1 tbsp tomato puree 1 chicken or vegetable stock cube in ¾ litre of water 2 tsp paprika 2 tsp ras el hanout 1 tsp cumin Salt and pepper Olive oil Method Chop all the vegetables into 1-inch cubes, place in bowls of water to keep them fresh. In a large pan on a medium heat, cook off the onions and garlic in the olive oil. Once the onions have softened, add in the paprika, ras el hanout and cumin and cook off for a couple of minutes. Add in the chicken stock, chopped tomatoes and tomato puree. Stir to combine everything together. After adding in the stock, chopped tomatoes and puree, add in the carrots and cook for about 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, add in all the other vegetables, including the lentils which should be soaked in boiling water for 2 minutes prior. Season the soup with salt and pepper. Cook on a low heat for 40 minutes until everything is soft. Leave the lid off for a thicker soup or leave the lid on for a thinner soup – this is personal preference. You can blend the soup once it is cooled, however I like to leave mine chunky. Again, this is personal preference. Enjoy! For more savoury and tasty treat recipes, follow @ems.homecooking on Instagram. About the Author Emily is a fourth-year student, studying Spanish, Chinese and Business. She is an avid baker turned chef who can often be found in the kitchen making content for her Instagram (@ems.homecooking). Emily was our 2022/23 Treasurer. Recipe of the Week: Shakshuka with Merguez Emily Dawson Recipe of the Week: Chicken Curry Emily Dawson Recipe of the Week: Vegan Pasta Bake Emily Dawson Images provided by Emily Dawson. For more content, follow us on Instagram , and like our Facebook page for more articles and information on how to join the Lingo Team. Have an article ready to send in? Submit it here . Tags: Emily Dawson Cuisine Cooking World Food Soup Categories: Culture Recipe of the Week Share: Let us know what you think 3.0 150 Article ratings average rating is 3 out of 5, based on 150 votes, Article ratings WRITE A COMMENT Thanks for submitting a comment! LOAD MORE

24 hours in... Barcelona Grace Whitaker Tuesday, 26 April 2022 Grace, currently on her Year Abroad in Spain, gives us a snapshot into her girls’ trip to Barcelona. Read on to find out her top tips and best recommendations for anyone who wants to visit the Catalonian capital. For the Spanish part of my Year Abroad, I opted to study at the University of Valencia, on the eastern coast of Spain. Barcelona lies just a couple of hours north on a high-speed train and so naturally, my friends and I planned a weekend girls’ trip there. Here’s what we did with our 24 hours in Barcelona. 12 am – Barcelona’s Nightlife Barcelona has some of the best nightclubs in Europe and in true European fashion, they open and close later than our beloved Nottingham counterparts. We decided to go to Downtown , which is situated in the University Zone of Barcelona. Normally, there is an entry fee, however, on certain nights you can get in for free through Shaz Guest List (a Barcelona-based Instagram account that gives you free entry to clubs). The club plays an eclectic mix of anglophone music as well as Hispanic reggaeton. The décor was muy guay (very cool) with huge LED lights on the walls. Also with the metro running 24 hours in Barcelona, it was easily one of the best (and cheapest) nights out of my Year Abroad. 11 am – Parc Güell One of the must-see attractions in Barcelona is Parc Güell, where you can view some amazing houses designed by Gaudi. It is a steep climb to the top, but the viewpoint and the park itself are phenomenal. As well as this, how close you can get to the houses allows you to really admire them and immerse yourself in Gaudi’s art. Throughout the park, there are plenty of benches, so I recommend bringing a picnic and embracing the landscape around you. 2 pm – Sagrada Familia Perhaps the most famous site in Barcelona, the Sagrada Familia truly lives up to its reputation. Looking up at this magnificent church, you truly can appreciate the depth in detail as well as its immense scale. As a student, you can buy a discounted ticket to the basilica, which includes an engaging audio guide. The inside, framed by several coloured stained-glass windows, is just as astonishing as the exterior. There was a certain serenity felt upon entering; I would certainly recommend this to anyone visiting Barcelona. 5pm – Moco Museum. In Barcelona, you will find an array of excellent museums. Moco was the one we decided to visit, a modern art museum with a sensory and light experience. This was undoubtedly the highlight of my trip. With artwork from Andy Warhol to Dalí to Damien Hirst as well as an instagrammable sensory experience. It was easily the best 9 euros I have spent! It is situated in the beautiful Gothic quarter, which is also worth a wander around. 7pm – Dinner Living on the continent as a vegetarian can be difficult, often being limited to Italian restaurants. Thanks to TikTok, I found this amazing vegan fast-food restaurant called Vegan Junk Food Bar . As someone who has tried very few non-meat substitutes, I was slightly sceptical about the taste and texture of the food before dining here. However, both the food and cocktails were delicious and definitely changed my opinion on vegan substitutes. Sunset – The Bunker To finish off the day, watching the sunset at Bunkers del Carmel is a must. The Bunker is essentially a large hill with a panoramic view of Barcelona, from the sea to the Sagrada Familia. Unfortunately for us, the sky was cloudy and therefore we were not treated to the golden sky that we were hoping for. However, the view itself is worth the climb. I had such a good time on my trip to Barcelona and we managed to see many of the fantastic sites it has to offer. It is definitely worth a visit for anyone who finds themselves in Spain on their Year Abroad! About the Author Grace is a final year languages student studying French and Spanish. She is openly a member of the LGBTQIA community - an area she would love to focus on in her articles! Barcelona’s Hidden Gems: Live like a local and escape the tourists Mhairi MacLeod 48 Hours in Seville: Spain's Sunny City Niamh Woodhouse 7 Reasons to visit Santo Domingo Millie Adams Images provided by Grace Whitaker. For more content, follow us on Instagram , and like our Facebook page for more articles and information on how to join the Lingo Team. Have an article ready to send in? Submit it here . Tags: Grace Whitaker Barcelona Food Spain 24 Hours Culture Categories: Travel City Guide Share: Let us know what you think 3.0 150 Article ratings average rating is 3 out of 5, based on 150 votes, Article ratings WRITE A COMMENT Thanks for submitting a comment! Barbara Dawson average rating is 3 out of 5 Lovely tasty dish. Try it you won’t be disappointed. Time Published Aunty Liz average rating is 3 out of 5 Very tasty and cheap. I often have this for tea! Time Published BETTS average rating is 3 out of 5 Being a bilingual family (French mother and British father,) living in France I thought your article was extremely interesting . Have you research on bilingualism ? It seems that when the mother is British and the father French and they both live in France their children seem to be more bilingual than when the mother is French and the father is British . This is what we called mother tongue , isn't it ? Time Published Niamh average rating is 3 out of 5 Such an interesting article! 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Spanish and Mandarin < Back Mhairi MacLeod Mhairi is currently in her final year studying Spanish and Chinese. On her year abroad, Mhairi spent her time in Barcelona, Taiwan and Peru. She joined Lingo Mag as Deputy Editor 2022/23 to share her enthusiasm for languages, culture, and travel. "Learning a language is so much more than memorising verb patterns and grammar. Immersing yourself in films, books and music is where the magic happens." Latest Articles by this Author YEAR ABROAD TALES: the highs and lows of au pairing 24/05/22 Encanto: The Deeper Meaning Behind Disney's Award-winning Latino Film 15/02/22 Violeta by Isabel Allende: One Hundred Years on the South American Continent 29/04/22 The International Booker Prize 2022 Revealed: The Award that Celebrates Authors and their Equally Gifted Translators 10/04/22 Celebrating Women in Languages this International Women’s Day 08/03/22

Hispanic Studies < Back Aysha Harris As someone who has been brought up in a bilingual household and across several countries, similarities and differences in languages and different customs are one of my key interests. Lingo explores these topics and beyond in a digestable and informative manner most importantly. I also enjoy running and all sorts of arts and crafts. Latest Articles by this Author

Rugby: A culture of respect? Eleanor Curtis Sunday, 26 November 2023 Following the recent Rugby World Cup, there has been an increase in discussion about the role of the referee. For a sport sometimes famed for the interpersonal respect demonstrated by players and coaches alike, the criticism of referees is surprising, and perhaps symptomatic of changes within the sport. Invented in 1823, rugby has remained a globally popular sport for 200 years. The game is regulated by many old and convoluted laws, and each match is governed by an on-field referee. The referee is respected; they manage the game like a teacher would manage a class. Players will address referees with deference, accept their decisions graciously, and allow them to advise on and guide the direction of play. The most recent Rugby World Cup has, however, called this status quo into question. Held in France, with the final occurring on the 28th of October, this year’s men’s World Cup title was retained by the South African side, who clung onto their precarious title with a 12-13 scoreline against New Zealand. They had previously beaten England and France to get to the final. In the quarter final, played on the 15th of October, there was a similarly narrow scoreline, with the victors beating the vanquished by only one point (FRA 28-29 RSA). This match sparked debates over the quality of refereeing in the competition, with Ben O’Keefe of New Zealand being criticised for slow and inconsistent decisions. This came to light after an early moment in which he stopped play due to a slap-down by Eben Etzebeth, disrupting the flow of the play as France were still in possession of the ball. Head Coach of Les Bleus claimed that this incident was ‘key’ in allowing the Springboks to equalise and eventually win the match. O’Keefe has been criticised by French captain Antoine DuPont, who said in a post-match interview that the referee was ‘not up to the challenge’ presented by the match. O’Keefe also presided over the World Cup semi-final, in which South Africa took victory from English hands, with the Springboks leading for a mere 2 and a half minutes and closing the game at 15-16. Given the close nature of their knock-out encounters, it is possible that referee decisions allowed them to gain these slight advantages, with missed penalties and the slowing of match speed brought about by new laws and inconsistent mastery of others. The final match of the cup was refereed by the Englishman Wayne Barnes, who showed the first recorded red card in a final to Kiwi player Sam Cane for a high tackle. This required the use of the Television Match Officials or TMOs, a relatively new entity which exists to review the escalation of a yellow card to a red card in an isolated environment away from the field. A yellow card automatically incurs a penalty of 10 minutes off pitch, during which, if signalled by the on-field referee, the off-field officials will deliberate if a red card is needed. Therefore, decisions are removed from the field, potentially leading to a breakdown of respect on field. There was another incident in the final where the TMOs were involved in the disallowance of All Black’s Aaron Smith’s try, following a knock on. The TMOs only have the right to look back two phases, thus missing the broader context of Kiwi possession for four phases in the run up to the try. Since the final, this try has been reviewed and World Rugby have conceded that the disallowance was unlawful, and the try should have stood. This potentially could have led to a kiwi victory. Following the final, Wayne Barnes, an esteemed referee with an extensive international career of 111 tests, has received threats against his life for the decisions he made on the field, and their potential to change the outcome of the match. Ben O'Keefe has received similar threats following his involvements in the RSAs two other knockout matches. These situations draw into question the very DNA of Rugby: has the culture of respect degraded so much that referees are targeted and blamed for their decisions, even after the players have left the field? For those of us who are interested in rugby, it is unnatural to see this level of impolite conduct. Therefore, we must question the direction of the sport. In further questioning, should the TMO system be retained, despite arguments that it causes more problems than it solves? This level of discussion following the end of a competition is unprecedented, and surely something must change for the sport to continue its legacy as the game that we know and love. About the Author Eleanor was Lingo's Treasurer for 2023-24. She is very interested in cultures across the world, and how languages and history influence these. She loved being a part of Lingo Magazine, a collaborative community showcasing all the elements of language and culture that our world has to offer! Film in Flux: Conflating Creativity and Artificial Intelligence at Gothenburg Film Festival Francesca Beaumont Falling for Autumn: why are autumn traditions in the US so at odds with the weather? Eleanor Curtis Rugby: A culture of respect? Eleanor Curtis Copyright free images via Unsplash . For more content, follow us on Instagram , and like our Facebook page for more articles and information on how to join the Lingo Team. Have an article ready to send in? Submit it here . Tags: sport current affairs rugby culture debate Eleanor Curtis Categories: Global Culture Global Affairs Share: Let us know what you think 3.0 150 Article ratings average rating is 3 out of 5, based on 150 votes, Article ratings WRITE A COMMENT Thanks for submitting a comment! Barbara Dawson average rating is 3 out of 5 Lovely tasty dish. Try it you won’t be disappointed. Time Published Aunty Liz average rating is 3 out of 5 Very tasty and cheap. I often have this for tea! Time Published BETTS average rating is 3 out of 5 Being a bilingual family (French mother and British father,) living in France I thought your article was extremely interesting . Have you research on bilingualism ? It seems that when the mother is British and the father French and they both live in France their children seem to be more bilingual than when the mother is French and the father is British . This is what we called mother tongue , isn't it ? Time Published Niamh average rating is 3 out of 5 Such an interesting article! Time Published LOAD MORE

How to ace being a solo female traveller Chloe Brewster Thursday, 27 October 2022 Chloe, a French finalist, describes the advantages of travelling solo during the year abroad and how to do so successfully! Usually when we think of holidays abroad, we visualise being surrounded by friends, family, or partners, which corresponds to the social norms of travel. But what about travelling solo , particularly for women ? The world is sometimes seen as a ‘dangerous’ place for a woman, more so if she is alone, but there is something empowering and exciting about embracing yourself and evolving into a self-assured solo female traveller. And why not discover this side of yourself during your year abroad? The background Prior to my study placement in France last year, I had only embarked on a handful of solo day trips (who hasn’t treated themselves to a cosy afternoon in a chilled coffee shop?), so I threw myself somewhat blindly in the phenomenon of solo travel. My first big ‘trip’ took place during a freezing February weekend to Munich, which was just over five hours away by coach. I braved a rather long coach journey to the Bavarian capital which was perhaps not the most comfortable mode of transport, yet it only cost £15 per way from my departure point (Strasbourg). A win-win and proves that you can be both a brave and a savvy solo traveller! Since those exhilarating and magical forty-eight hours in Munich earlier this year, I have embraced my inner traveller and travelled solo several times for the sheer enjoyment of it. Is it always easy? Not at all, and it wouldn’t be fair to gloss over the difficult moments that you may experience once in a while (top tip – always bring a phone charger so that you never risk being cut off from Google Maps!). But it is those challenges and hurdles which strengthen and make you into the dynamic person that you are destined to be. Marienplatz, Munich (Germany). With some hard-fought wisdom and perspective, here are some top tips for successfully acing solo female travel: Be organised You have probably gritted your teeth many times when your head of year has implored everyone to be ‘organised’ and keep track of things, but I really can’t stress this point enough. Your future travelling self will be grateful if you make some plans in advance. For example, download maps of the key places that you will be visiting during your trip, such as the train/bus station or airport in case you lose internet access. Don’t panic if you can’t find the bus station twenty minutes before the final one leaves like I once did in Munich – being prepared will hopefully keep you cool (albeit not in a scorching Parisian heatwave!) come what may. The same also applies for accommodation (Airbnb, hotel, hostel) – prepare all documentation and check-in beforehand if necessary. Unlike in the UK, proof of ID is generally mandatory in European countries, so keep your passport/visa with you to check-in with ease (and in case you are stopped for proof of identity which can happen). Of course, the trip should be about having fun but sorting out the basics makes a difference so you can enjoy yourself without worry. Stay safe An obvious, yet undeniably important element of solo travel is ensuring your safety. Perhaps this factor is the most influential in discouraging more young women from travelling independently, but it needn’t be a barrier. Websites such as the Solo Female Travellers Club and numerous social media groups aimed at female travellers are really helpful for advice and support in planning and going about your travels. Certain countries are regarded as ‘safer’ for female travellers so it may boost your confidence if you visit those places first before adventuring further afield. So do your research but aware stereotypes and don’t automatically dismiss places which are deemed ‘dangerous.’ During my solo travels, I made sure to message a friend or family member every so often (usually to send some of the many pictures I had taken during my museum or cultural visits!) and carried an alarm just in case anything happened. These small measures can be very reassuring and are often part and parcel of women’s daily lives, whether we are going out with friends or travelling abroad. Musée des Beaux-Arts (Dijon) Meet other people! When you are travelling solo, there is no right or wrong way to do it. You should simply pursue the activities that interest you the most - otherwise, why go travelling?. But of course, the experience is even more enriching when you can meet and speak to other people which truly transforms you into a global citizen. For example, the below picture of myself in the Musée d’Orsay was taken by a fellow solo female traveller who I then pictured because, despite our linguistic and cultural differences, we shared a common aspiration: travelling and immersing ourselves in foreign cultures (and fabulous art!). It is those unexpected encounters which are usually the most poignant during a solo trip abroad because you probably wouldn’t meet these people – especially those who are alone – if you were travelling in a group, and so being a solo traveller broadens your perspective of the people surrounding you. If you are really keen to make friends during your trip, go on guided walking tours of cities or stay in a hostel (many have female-only dorms). After meeting a fellow Erasmus student in a tour of Munich, I subsequently visited a majestic palace with her and treasure those memories. Hostels can be hit-or-miss but you definitely have more opportunities to socialise and encounter fellow solo travellers than if you stay in accommodation alone. In my artistic element at the Musée d’Orsay (and gratefully escaping the 35c heatwave!) You do you! What often holds back young women from travelling alone is the fear of being stigmatised or judged for being ‘lonely’ and ‘friendless.’ Indeed, there have been awkward moments when I have asked for a ‘table for one’ in certain eateries, and yes the world really does need to evolve into being a more hospitable place for solo people, especially women. But don’t wait until that happens – go out there, do what you want, explore for as many hours as your feet can tolerate, eat your heart out in a restaurant even when surrounded by couples or groups. It takes a certain strength and audacity to be your authentic self , and you will discover more about yourself by taking the plunge and travelling. And who knows, your friends may want to follow suit, too! About the Author Chloe is a final year French student who has studied abroad in Strasbourg and wants to share her experiences of travelling - including as a solo female - in Europe. She is particularly interested in French culture (if there is a fine arts museum around, she will find it!), but living in Strasbourg has exposed her to other cultures (German, Swiss, Luxembourgish, you get the gist...). 24 Hours as an English Student in Paris: A Survival Guide Kit Sinclair Saving your centimes: How to do Paris on a Budget Francesca Wren YEAR ABROAD TALES: A Reflection on Being LGBTQIA Abroad Grace Whitaker Images provided by Chloe Brewster. For more content, follow us on Instagram , and like our Facebook page for more articles and information on how to join the Lingo Team. Have an article ready to send in? Submit it here . Tags: Chloe Brewster Solo Travel Abroad Germany France Categories: Travel Tips Travel Share: Let us know what you think 3.0 150 Article ratings average rating is 3 out of 5, based on 150 votes, Article ratings WRITE A COMMENT Thanks for submitting a comment! LOAD MORE