Seven islands in the middle of the Atlantic: even though the Canary Islands are part of Spain, they are far removed from the mainland and its culture. There are some big differences between Madrid and Lanzarote. Find out which ones here.
More than just the accent? How Spanish differs between the mainland and the Canary Islands
As in German, there are regional differences in Spanish. Someone who grew up in the Canary Islands speaks differently to a Madrilenean. The Canary Islands have always been a point of connection between Latin America and Europe. Accordingly, the Spanish spoken in the Canary Islands is reminiscent of that spoken overseas in some respects.
Spanish in the Canary Islands and on the mainland differs in three main ways:
● Vocabulary
● Pronunciation
● Grammar
For you as a language learner, these differences are particularly important if you want to try out your Spanish in everyday life in the Canary Islands.
Our language teachers at our language school on Lanzarote are native speakers. They will teach you classical standard Spanish, the so-called “Castellano”. However, if you speak Spanish on Lanzarote, you may come into contact with vocabulary or expressions from everyday Canarian language. This can be a real enrichment for learners. You will train your ear for linguistic differences and gain an insight into the many variations of Spanish.
Cultural differences between mainland Spain and the Canary Islands
The Canary Islands are like a bridge between the Spanish mainland and Latin America. It is not only their language that differs from the Spanish spoken on the continent. The way of life on the islands is also different. Far away from the Spanish mainland, the Canary Islands have developed their own culture. This is also due to the history of the islands.
The Spanish mainland was shaped by the Romans, Moors and Catholicism, among others. However, the Canary Islands are geographically closer to Africa than to Spain. Different cultures and civilizations left their mark on the Canary Islands – starting with the indigenous people, the so-called Guanches. Spanish colonization and Portuguese influences changed the local culture, as did contact with Latin America.
Culture and cuisine: peculiarities of life on the Canary Islands
All of this gives the Canarian culture strong characteristics. For example, there are carnival celebrations on the islands based on the Latin American model, as well as “Lucha Canaria”, a regional variant of wrestling.
Just like on the Spanish mainland, Canarian cuisine has its own special features. African, Spanish and Latin American traces can also be discovered here. Probably the best known is gofio, which is made by grinding roasted grain. Mojo, a spicy sauce, is also ubiquitous in the Canary Islands.
When you take a Spanish course on Lanzarote, you immerse yourself in a unique culture. Experience for yourself how rich life is on the islands . And who knows, you might come to the conclusion that those who claim that life is more relaxed on the Canary Islands are right.
Leisure activities: Pure nature for explorers or lively cities?
The Canary Islands are something very special. In a small area, you will find a rich variety of vegetation zones and habitats such as dense forests, black sand beaches and high mountains. The Spanish mainland is also rich in natural beauty. There are high mountains, clear lakes, dynamic cities and tranquil villages.
Nature on the Canary Islands invites you to discover it. At our language school on Lanzarote, we offer leisure activities such as hikes and water sports. A cultural program also awaits you here.
If you learn Spanish on the mainland, you will have the opportunity to discover cities such as Madrid, Granada or Seville. At the same time, you can relax on tours into the interior of the country.
The Spanish mainland awaits you with countless activities. The nature of the Canary Islands and the culture of this hub for sailors, on the other hand, is special. Both places are great for improving your Spanish. If you choose the Canary Islands, give preference to an active language course in a unique setting.
