In Spain, “guiri” refers to a tourist—someone who passes through and doesn’t return. The word originated in the 19th century during the Carlist Wars: the supporters of Queen Marie-Christine (the “cristinos”) were called “guiristinos” by the Basque Carlists, and later “guiri.” In Cádiz, being a “guiri” isn’t limited to foreigners: starting in San Fernando, […]
Being guiri: the lot of those who come from elsewhere Read more "
Where is Cádiz? Is there a beach there? That’s where it all began. In August 2015, those were our first questions before we settled here. Since then, we’ve heard others. Always the same seven. We’ll answer them here, straight up. So, rather than a long speech, here’s a video to answer themhttps://youtu.be/x8ppqBLMGwE Where is Cádiz?
7 frequently asked questions about Cadiz Read more "
The N.I.E., or “Número de Identificación de Extranjero,” is the “Green Card” for foreign residents in Spain. The N.I.E allows you to complete administrative procedures, open a bank account, purchase real estate, sign employment contracts, register for social security, and access various public services in Spain. How to obtain it
🔎 The best way to get your N.I.E in Cadiz fast Read more "
A lovely book published on April 8, purchased from Libreria Manuel de Falla, Plaza de Mina, two doors down from the building where the composer was born. Most of "El poema del Cante Jondo", first printed in 1931, was composed by Federico García Lorca as early as November 1921. Less
"El poema del Cante Jondo" Federico Garcia Lorca Read more "
The El Tío de la Tiza tavern, located in the La Viña neighborhood of Cádiz, has been serving the best tortillitas de camarones and grilled sea bream in the Old Town since 1979. Founded by Antonio Saborido and Loli Perales, it was originally called “El Pájaro Pinto.” The nickname “Tío de la Tiza” comes from the locals in the neighborhood,
Unusual: Taberna El tío de La Tiza Read more "
What does that word mean? There are several theories, some more far-fetched than others. Let’s look at two of them. Hypothesis 1: In the 19th century, a French family lived in Cádiz—the Sicourt sisters, dressed in Parisian fashion; a bit snobbish, too prim, and quickly becoming a laughingstock. Teasing them, the locals called out: “Si-Cur- Si-Cur Si-Cur-Si- Cur-Si…Cursi.” A metathesis for the
What language is spoken in Cádiz? An example with “Cursi” Read more »
Anda-luz! Las Ketchup is the name of an Andalusian band from Córdoba, originally made up of three sisters. They released the summer hit of 2002: “The Ketchup Song” or “Aserejé” in the Spanish version. It was impossible to miss—we’ve all danced to it. With nearly 8 million records sold, it reached number 1 in twenty
Las Ketchup: did you know? Read more "
“Guachisnai” (pronounced “gouachinaïe”) is the Cadiz term for a foreigner. It cannot be found in Spanish dictionaries. The story goes that it comes from “What’s your name?”, the question asked by English merchants who landed in the Bay of Cádiz in the 19th century. Heard, twisted, and reimagined by the people of Cádiz, “What’s your name
Guachisnai, a carnival word Read more "
All Saints' Day, or “Todos los Santos” in Spanish, is rendered as “Tosantos” in Gaditan, the local dialect of Cádiz that tends to slur words. Cádiz is known throughout Spain for its Carnival—a 10-day celebration in February that showcases Andalusian culture. Above all, it is a time when the people of Cádiz express themselves through song and satire
What is All Saints' Day in Cadiz? Read more "