From our blog
News, developments and articles from Regina Coeli
Prinsjesdag: a royal budget day in the Netherlands
If you live in the Netherlands, you’ve probably heard of Prinsjesdag. But what is it really about? Prinsjesdag is a big moment in Dutch politics. It’s when the government shares its budget and plans for the year ahead. But it’s also a day full of royal traditions, media attention, and cultural details. In short, it tells you a lot about how the Netherlands works. Here’s what happens and why it matters.
10 Spanish sayings that make your language sound more natural
You’re learning Spanish. You can already hold a conversation, but something’s still missing — that feeling of really being in the language. Sounding like a native speaker. There’s one simple but powerful way to take your Spanish to the next level: use sayings. Once you know how to use common Spanish expressions, your Spanish instantly becomes more colourful and natural.
Oktoberfest: more than beer and bratwurst
When you think of Oktoberfest, you probably picture giant beer mugs, lederhosen, and lots of partying. But did you know that the world’s biggest folk festival is more than just a Bavarian celebration? Oktoberfest has royal roots and even a business edge. In this article, we take a look at the history, key terms, and networking opportunities you’ll find at the Wiesn.
Sing your way to better Dutch with classic party songs
Picture this: it’s a Friday night in a Dutch pub. People are laughing, drinks are flowing, and suddenly, everyone starts singing. It’s not a concert. It’s not karaoke night. It’s just what happens when a popular Dutch song comes on. The whole room joins in, word for word. And there you are. Watching. Smiling. But not singing. Because… you don’t know the words. Yet.
Portuguese for everyday
Do you visit Portugal regularly? Do you have a second home there? Then you know that knowing a few words of Portuguese makes everything just that little bit easier. Portuguese people really appreciate it when you speak to them in their language. You don't have to be able to hold entire conversations right away. Just start with a friendly ‘bom dia!’ and see what happens.
Truffle hunting in Italy, a centuries-old tradition
Truffles: you'll find them in Michelin-starred restaurants, in small trattorias and at market stalls in Italian villages. But what you may not know is that the art of truffle hunting is so special that it was made part of UNESCO's list of intangible cultural heritage in 2021. In this article, you can read about how this tradition works, where to go and which Italian words you should know if you want to talk about this delicacy.