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Speaking Spanish in Colombia is a great way to connect with local people, but direct translations from English can sometimes create funny or confusing situations. Here are some common mistakes—and how to avoid them. 1. Saying “Estoy caliente” In English, I’m hot usually means that you feel warm. However, “Estoy caliente” can have a sexual meaning in Spanish. Say this instead: Tengo calor.I’m hot. 2. Confusing “embarazada” with “embarrassed” The words look similar, but they ha

If you travel through Colombia’s Pacific region, you may hear the word viche—also spelled biche. But what does it mean? Viche is a traditional alcoholic drink made by fermenting and distilling sugarcane juice. It is produced by Afro-Colombian communities in the Pacific departments of Chocó, Valle del Cauca, Cauca, and Nariño. More than a beverage, it represents ancestral knowledge, community, and cultural identity. Colombia officially recognizes and protects viche as part of

“Cali Pachanguero,” performed by Grupo Niche, is one of the most iconic songs in Colombian salsa. Its lyrics express love, pride, and nostalgia for Cali, a city known for its joyful spirit, nightlife, and strong salsa tradition. The song also offers students a great way to learn vocabulary related to cities, emotions, and local culture. Lyrics Cali pachanguero, Cali luz de un nuevo cielo Cali, city of celebration, Cali, light of a new sky. De romántica luna, el lucero que es