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Bridging Cultures in Manilva: How a Language Exchange is Bringing Locals and Expats Together
Language can be both a bridge and a barrier. For many expatriates in Manilva, the warmth and hospitality of the Spanish people are undeniable, yet communication can often prove challenging. Similarly, many Spaniards are eager to improve their English but lack opportunities for real-life practice. It was this shared experience that led to the creation of the Manilva Language Exchange Group, a welcoming community that meets every Saturday at 6:30 pm at Bonifacio Café & Tapas in Sabinillas.
The group was originally started by a local resident who, like many, recognised the need for a space where Spanish and English speakers could come together and help one another improve their language skills. While the original founder eventually moved on, a small group of dedicated members kept the initiative alive. Among them was Tanya Maksimova, who has played a key role in maintaining and growing the group over the years.
Image © Tanya Maksimova
When Tanya first arrived on the Costa del Sol, she quickly realised that making friends was easy, but communicating was another matter. She, like many other newcomers, found herself surrounded by friendly Spanish neighbours who were eager to chat, yet she could barely understand them. Determined to improve, she took Spanish lessons but soon discovered that textbooks and grammar exercises were not enough. The real challenge lay in using the language in everyday situations.
Recognising that many others were facing the same difficulty, she became one of the early members of the language exchange, helping to shape it into the thriving community it is today. What began as a small gathering of three or four people has since flourished into a well-established group with hundreds of members engaging both in person and online.
Each Saturday evening, attendees gather to take part in a structured yet relaxed language exchange. The first half of the evening is dedicated to speaking in Spanish, allowing English speakers to practise in a real-world setting. After about thirty to forty minutes, the conversation switches to English, giving Spanish speakers the same opportunity. There are no formal lessons or strict rules—just natural conversation in a friendly and supportive environment. Native speakers are always happy to help, and even complete beginners are encouraged to listen, absorb, and participate at their own pace.
Yet the group has become more than just a place to practise languages. Over time, it has evolved into a social hub where people from all walks of life come together. Members celebrate birthdays, Christmas, and other special occasions as a community, and the mix of backgrounds—from teachers and engineers to artists and business owners—ensures that conversations are always engaging and varied.
The group is truly international, with members from Spain, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Poland, Russia, Sweden, Hungary, Finland, Estonia, and many other countries. This diversity adds a cultural dimension to the exchange, as participants not only learn a new language but also gain insight into different customs, traditions, and perspectives.
For those looking to improve their Spanish or English in a natural and enjoyable way, the Manilva Language Exchange Group offers the perfect opportunity. It is a place to meet new people, engage in meaningful conversation, and become part of a growing international community.
The group meets every Saturday at 6:30 pm at Bonifacio Café & Tapas in Sabinillas. Those interested can also connect through the Facebook group “Manilva Intercambio de Idiomas / Language Exchange Manilva” or join the WhatsApp group “Intercambio Duquesa Sábado New.”
Whether you are new to the area, eager to practise your language skills, or simply looking for a welcoming social space, this group offers something for everyone. In a world where communication is key, it proves that language is not just about words—it is about connection, understanding, and shared experiences.
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