The main language spoken in La Rioja is Spanish, which is also referred to locally as Castellano.
The currency used in Spain is the euro. The value of euros is similar to the value of U.S. dollars. For example, one euro is the equivalent of approximately $1.11 U.S. dollars.
Here in La Rioja, a bottle of water costs about one euro. La Rioja is famous for growing grapes and making fresh wine, so wine is very common and affordable here. In fact, many people usually drink fresh local wine instead of water, and a bottle of water is more expensive than a glass of wine. Imagine that!
The best meal that I ate this week is a typical dish called ranchero. It is a stew made with warm broth, fresh carrots, potatoes and tender pork. It is usually served with a small baguette, and I like to dip my bread into the stew. It has a very rich flavor, and it is absolutely delicious!
One of the Spanish teachers at my school recommended that I listen to music by the Spanish artists named Antonio Orozco and Manuel Carrasco. One song that I really like is called "Que Bonito es Querer" by Manuel Carrasco. Give it a listen sometime!
