Argentina, the vibrant land of tango, towering peaks, and tantalizing flavors, holds a wealth of wonders waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or an armchair explorer, delving into the depths of Argentina’s rich tapestry is an adventure like no other. Here are 21 captivating facts that will leave you in awe of this South American gem:

1. Land of Grandeur: Argentina proudly holds the title of the eighth-largest country globally and the second-largest in South America, following only Brazil.
2. A Shimmering History: The very name “Argentina” is steeped in history, derived from the Latin word for silver, “argentum.” Early Spanish explorers were lured by tales of a land abundant with silver along the Rio de la Plata.
3. Peaks of Majesty: Towering above all else is Aconcagua, the highest peak in both the Western and Southern Hemispheres, standing tall at a breathtaking 6,960.8 meters (22,837 ft) above sea level.
4. Avenue of Splendor: In the bustling heart of Buenos Aires, you’ll find the Avenida 9 de Julio, the widest avenue in the world, boasting up to seven lanes in each direction.
5. Birthplace of Passion: Argentina is the revered birthplace of the passionate dance form known as tango, born in the smoky bars of Buenos Aires during the late 19th century.
6. Bountiful Lands: The fertile plains of the Argentine Pampas rank among the world’s most productive agricultural regions, yielding abundant crops such as soybeans, wheat, corn, and serving as a leading exporter of beef.
7. Gateway to the Ends of the Earth: At the southernmost tip of Argentina lies Ushuaia, often dubbed the “southernmost city in the world,” nestled amidst the rugged landscapes of Tierra del Fuego.
8. Champion of Equality: Argentina made history in July 2010 by becoming the first country in Latin America to legalize same-sex marriage, marking a significant milestone in the fight for equality.
9. Nobel Heritage: The illustrious ranks of Nobel laureates include five esteemed individuals hailing from Argentina, recognized for their contributions to the realms of science and peace.
10. Untamed Wilderness: Embark on a journey through the Argentine Patagonia, where vast expanses of pristine wilderness unveil breathtaking vistas of glaciers, mountains, and crystalline lakes.
11. Glacial Majesty: The Perito Moreno Glacier, nestled within the enchanting confines of Los Glaciares National Park, stands as a testament to nature’s grandeur, captivating visitors with its inexorable advance.
12. Territorial Claims: Argentina asserts sovereignty over a portion of Antarctica and the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas), South Georgia, and the South Sandwich Islands, territories administered by the United Kingdom.
13. A Culinary Tradition: Indulge in the Argentine tradition of “asado,” a sumptuous barbecue feast where an array of meats sizzle tantalizingly on the grill, delighting palates with every savory bite.
14. Pioneers of Identification: Argentina pioneered the use of fingerprinting as a method of identification in 1892, laying the groundwork for modern forensic science.
15. Equestrian Pursuits: Immerse yourself in the thrill of “pato,” Argentina’s national sport, a riveting game played on horseback that combines elements of polo and basketball.
16. Parisian Flair: Buenos Aires exudes an air of sophistication, earning its moniker as the “Paris of South America” with its enchanting blend of architectural splendor, cultural vibrancy, and bustling boulevards.
17. Natural Wonders: Discover the awe-inspiring majesty of the Iguazu Falls, a natural marvel straddling the border between Argentina and Brazil, where cascading waters plunge into a breathtaking abyss.
18. Sip of Tradition: Delight in the ritual of mate, Argentina’s beloved national beverage, a caffeine-rich infusion cherished for its communal spirit and invigorating flavor.
19. Melting Pot of Cultures: Argentina boasts a diverse population shaped by waves of European immigrants, particularly from Italy and Spain, whose influence permeates the nation’s rich cultural tapestry.
20. Ancient Origins: Journey back in time to Argentina’s San Juan Province, where the oldest dinosaur species ever discovered, Eoraptor lunensis, roamed the earth over 230 million years ago.
21. Wine Wonderland: Raise a glass to Argentina’s esteemed wine heritage, renowned worldwide for its luscious Malbec varietal, flourishing amidst the sun-drenched vineyards of the Mendoza region.

Embark on an epic voyage of discovery through the captivating landscapes and vibrant culture of Argentina, where every twist and turn reveals a new tale waiting to be told. Whether you’re drawn to its natural wonders, cultural riches, or culinary delights, Argentina beckons with open arms, promising an adventure of a lifetime.

Why is it Easier for Brazilians or Italians to Learn Spanish at Mondify?

At Mondify, we understand that learning a new language is an exciting and challenging journey. Our Spanish program stands out for being practical, fast, and efficient, specially designed for Brazilian and Italian students to make the most of their time with us and master Spanish more quickly and effectively.

Intercomprehension between Portuguese, Italian, and Spanish

Mondify’s Spanish program focuses on intercomprehension between Portuguese, Italian, and Spanish. We recognize the similarities and differences between these languages and use this understanding to facilitate the learning process. Our goal is for learning to be a constant discovery and continuous development of our students’ communicative skills.

Reduction of Study Time

Our unique approach allows us to significantly reduce the time needed to complete Spanish levels. While the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) proposes between 60 and 90 hours of study to complete a level, with our plan, in the same time, we cover two levels: A1-A2/B1-B2/C1-C2. This means that our students can progress faster and reach higher levels of language proficiency in less time.

Communicative and Meaningful Practice

At Mondify, we believe in practical and meaningful learning. Our activities and materials are designed for students to practice Spanish communicatively and meaningfully in real-life situations. We ensure that students engage in the concrete functioning of the language, allowing them to acquire language skills that they can apply in real life.

Development of Comprehensive Skills

Our goal is to equip our students with a wealth of development in language, social, cultural, artistic, and digital competencies. We recognize that being competent in a language goes beyond simply mastering grammar and vocabulary, and that’s why our program focuses on developing comprehensive skills that are essential in today’s world.

Exclusive Advantages of Mondify

At Mondify, students enjoy advantages that they won’t find in any other Spanish school. They stay with a local host family that only speaks Spanish, immersing them completely in the language and culture. Additionally, they have the unique opportunity to participate in a volunteer or internship project, allowing them to use Spanish in a real work environment. This total immersion in Spanish significantly contributes to rapid progress and mastery of the language.

In summary, at Mondify, we offer a Spanish program specially designed for Brazilian and Italian students to make the most of their time with us and learn the language more quickly. Our combination of a practical approach, intercomprehension between languages, comprehensive skills development, and exclusive advantages makes learning Spanish a rewarding and effective experience for all our students. Join us and start your journey to Spanish fluency today!

When asking any Spanish speaker which variants of the language they consider the most correct, those of their own country usually prevail.

If we go to the movies, during the film we might have “pororós” in Argentina; but if we do it in Mexico, Chile, or Spain, it will be “palomitas” or “palomitas de maíz”; “crispetas” in Colombia; “cotufas” in Venezuela; “millo” in Panama, or “rositas de maíz” in Cuba, not to mention the Anglicism “popcorn”.

Spanish is spoken by almost 600 million people, and it is the mother tongue of 500 million. These Spanish speakers, spread throughout the world, do not have a homogeneous speech but rather great diversity: their variants can be dialectal (diatopic), social (diastratic), or stylistic (diafasic); “guay,” “chévere,” “padre,” or “bacano” belong to informal styles, as opposed to “excelente” or “espléndido,” with the same meaning but of a more formal character.

Given such diversity, there is a pan-Hispanic norm common to all Spanish speakers: spelling is the same for everyone. But there are other norms that are not general since they concern specific areas: in Spain, there is a difference between the pronouns “vosotros/ustedes,” but not so in America, where only “ustedes” is used.

Another example is “voseo”: in Rioplatense Spanish (Argentina, Uruguay), it belongs to the educated norm, and we find it in advertising; however, in other places, it either does not exist (Cuba, Mexico, Spain), or it acquires a different status (Central America, Colombia, Chile).

Geographic Differences

Geographic varieties lead many speakers to wonder: is there a “better” Spanish than another? More correct, or closer to an ideal Spanish? A quick or enthusiastic answer does not always imply truth, as there is no Spanish better than the rest from a territorial point of view.

To reflect on whether there is an ideal Spanish according to its geographic or dialectal variety, two parameters can be established: the beliefs of the speakers, on the one hand, and what the experts say (prescriptivism), as manifested by the institutional stance represented by the Royal Spanish Academy (RAE) and the Association of Spanish Language Academies (ASALE).

“The Best Spanish,” According to Institutional Stance

The academic position has evolved over time. The first works of the Royal Spanish Academy (Dictionary of Authorities from 1726-1739, Spanish Orthography of 1741, and the Grammar of the Castilian Language of 1771) showed a concentric view of Spanish, which identified the Spanish of northern Castile as almost exclusively normative. However, it must be recognized that, for the time, they offered an open perspective by including typical voices from other areas, among which Americanisms are found. Although the presence of these Americanisms was very scarce, from the late 19th century, the Academy aimed for Hispanic American lexicon to be reflected in the Dictionary, an attitude that intensifies since the 1925 edition (15th). Currently, both the RAE and ASALE affirm to maintain a pan-Hispanic language policy, emphasized since the publication of the 1999 Orthography, followed by works such as the Pan-Hispanic Dictionary of Doubts and the New Grammar of the Spanish Language of 2009.

This institutional stance does not highlight some variants over others and insists on the concept of “pluricentrism”:

“The principle here is that the norm today has a polycentric character. The linguistic cohesion of Spanish is compatible with the fact that the social valuation of some grammatical constructions may not coincide in different linguistic areas.” Page XLII of the prologue of the Manual of the new grammar of the Spanish language edition.

Dominant Variants

Therefore, from the institutional point of view, the norm of Spanish is pluricentric: the Spanish of Spain is not more correct for distinguishing the sounds of the graphemes “s” and “z” than that of America.

The problem lies in determining how many prestigious variants or linguistic models there would be: Spanish from Spain, Spanish from Mexico and Central America, or Andean Spanish, Rioplatense Spanish, and Austral Spanish? Would it be better to specify by countries? Would all these variants have the same level of prestige?

If institutions do not pronounce on this issue, the speakers themselves may do so.

What Do Spanish Speakers Think?

There are several studies on the attitudes of Spanish speakers towards the varieties of Spanish, among which stands out, for its pan-Hispanic character, the work “Linguistic Attitudes of Spanish Speakers Towards the Spanish Language and Its Varieties” carried out in 20 countries between Hispanic America and Spain.

In this work, it is observed that, regardless of origin, great importance is attached to “speaking well,” that is, to linguistic correctness. Consequently, the variants considered more correct will be those of greater prestige.

In the research, when asking the respondents which variants of Spanish they considered the most correct, those of the respondents’ own country prevailed, along with others such as those from Spain or Colombia.

Thus, these beliefs do not imply linguistic uniformity since, just as they all agreed on the importance of “speaking well,” they also agreed on diversity.

Therefore, there is no better Spanish in relation to countries, neither institutionally nor by beliefs. Simply, there are speakers who use the language well and others who do not, but having synonyms in the lexicon like “alubias,” “caraotas,” “frijoles,” “habichuelas,” “judías,” or “porotos” contributes to diversity, and this creates the richness of Spanish.

Amalia Pedredo González
Associate Professor of Spanish Language, CEU San Pablo University

In the realm of language education and meaningful international experiences, Mondify emerges as the undisputed leader, offering a unique blend of Spanish courses and volunteer programs in the heart of Latin America. Discover the key reasons why choosing Mondify is your passport to an extraordinary journey.

Unlocking Language Proficiency:

Mondify’s Spanish courses are crafted to propel your language skills to new heights. From beginner to advanced levels, our experienced instructors employ immersive teaching methods, ensuring a rapid and effective learning experience. Whether you’re in Buenos Aires, Cordoba, or the Galapagos Islands, linguistic fluency becomes second nature.

Tailored Volunteer and Internship Opportunities:

Mondify goes beyond conventional learning by providing tailored volunteer and internship programs. Engage in projects aligned with your passions, be it community development, environmental conservation, or human rights. Make a tangible impact while gaining invaluable hands-on experience in diverse fields.

Cultural Immersion Beyond Borders:

At Mondify, we understand that true understanding comes from cultural immersion. Our programs integrate local excursions, cultural events, and homestay options, fostering a profound connection with the communities you engage with. Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant politics of Latin America.

Guidance Every Step of the Way:

Navigating a foreign country is made seamless with Mondify. Our dedicated team ensures your safety, comfort, and satisfaction from pre-departure preparations to on-the-ground support. With Mondify, you’re not just a participant; you’re part of a global community committed to your success.

For those seeking the premier destination for Spanish courses and volunteer opportunities in Latin America, Mondify is your gateway to unparalleled experiences. Whether you’re looking to enhance your language skills, contribute to impactful projects, or embark on transformative internships, Mondify stands as the beacon for global students.

Choose Mondify – where education meets cultural immersion, and every experience is a step towards personal and professional growth. Elevate your learning and impact in Latin America with Mondify. Your journey begins here.

Guillermo Cogorno

Director

Mondify Blog

In the realm of global education and professional development, Mondify stands as a trailblazer, offering unparalleled opportunities for Medicine Internships in the captivating city of Cordoba, Argentina. In this exclusive note, we delve into the significance of prior experience, even for those uncertain about studying medicine, and how Mondify seamlessly combines medical internships with Spanish classes. Additionally, we explore the unique chance to witness the distinctions between public hospitals and private clinics in Argentina, enriching your understanding of healthcare systems.

Why Prior Experience Matters:

Embarking on a medical journey with Mondify is not just for seasoned medical students. We recognize the importance of prior experience, even for those contemplating a career in medicine. Our programs cater to a diverse audience, allowing participants to explore the field and gain insights that can shape their future academic and professional endeavors.

The Fusion of Medicine Internships and Spanish Classes:

Mondify takes a holistic approach to education, seamlessly blending Medicine Internships with Spanish classes. This unique combination not only enhances your medical knowledge but also facilitates effective communication with patients and colleagues. Break down language barriers and elevate your medical skills in a multicultural environment.

Exploring Healthcare Systems: Public vs. Private:

One of the highlights of Mondify’s Medicine Internship program is the opportunity to explore the contrasting landscapes of public hospitals and private clinics in Argentina. Gain firsthand experience in both settings, understanding the nuances that shape healthcare delivery in this diverse South American nation. This exposure is invaluable, providing a comprehensive view of medical practices and patient care.

For those seeking enriching Medicine Internships in Cordoba, Argentina, Mondify emerges as the premier choice. Our programs cater to individuals with varying levels of medical interest and expertise. Whether you’re exploring a future in medicine or seeking a transformative international experience, Mondify’s Medicine Internship in Cordoba is your gateway to unparalleled growth and learning.

Choose Mondify – where Medicine Internships transcend boundaries, language barriers are broken, and experiential learning becomes a cornerstone of your professional journey. Elevate your medical career with Mondify in Cordoba, Argentina.

Guillermo Cogorno

Director

Mondify

Embark on a career-transforming journey with Mondify! If you’re a dynamic student, our immersive programs in Argentina and Ecuador promise not just language proficiency but a skill set that will skyrocket your chances of landing your dream job. Here’s how Mondify shapes your future success:

1. Multilingual Mastery: The Global Edge

Mondify’s Spanish courses in Cordoba and Buenos Aires open the door to multilingual excellence. Mastering Spanish isn’t just about language—it’s a strategic advantage in today’s global job market. Boost your communication skills and become a sought-after candidate with the ability to navigate diverse cultural landscapes.

2. Cultural Intelligence: Navigating Diversity

Immerse yourself in the vibrant cultures of Argentina and Ecuador. Beyond language, our programs hone your cultural intelligence, a crucial skill in any international workplace. Gain a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives, fostering adaptability and empathy that employers highly value.

3. Leadership in Action: Volunteer and Internship Projects

Participate in our volunteer and internship projects, shaping you into a leader in your field. Whether it’s contributing to conservation efforts in the Galapagos or engaging in community projects in Cordoba, you’ll develop practical skills that set you apart. Employers seek candidates with hands-on experience, and Mondify delivers just that.

4. Networking Excellence: Connect Globally

Build an international network that transcends borders. Mondify brings you in touch with like-minded individuals, local professionals, and industry experts. Networking is a powerful tool in today’s job market, and our programs provide the perfect platform to connect globally, opening doors to exciting career opportunities.

5. Resilience and Adaptability: Thriving in Change

Navigating a new country and culture fosters resilience and adaptability. These qualities are invaluable in today’s fast-paced work environment. Mondify’s programs challenge you to step out of your comfort zone, cultivating resilience that will set you apart as a candidate who thrives in change.

Conclusion: Your Passport to Success

Mondify doesn’t just teach you Spanish; it transforms you into a well-rounded, globally-minded professional. Your international learning experience becomes your passport to success, equipping you with skills that elevate your career trajectory. Join us in crafting a future where your dream job is not just a goal but a tangible reality.

Don’t just dream about your ideal job—make it a reality with Mondify. Your journey to success starts here! ¡Vamos juntos! (Let’s go together!)