Spain Language

Language

We always call the language spoken in Spain and on the Canary Islands Spanish. The official name of this state language is Castillian, however.
In Spain the terms "español" (Spanish) and "castellano" (Castillian) are used interchangeably, but they mean the same thing.
The language is based on Latin, but it also displays influences of other languages. The aforementioned Visigoths brought about 100 words to Spain. The Moors then added 4000 more. In addition, many words have been derived from French, Italian and English.
For holidaymakers in Spain the language can sometimes be confusing, because different kinds of Spanish are spoken. Spain has a total of 5 official languages (Spanish, Catalan, Basque, Galician and Aranese) and two unofficial languages (Asturian and Aragonese). Spanish is the official language, however, even though the other languages are the dominant ones in some areas.
Spain also has a number of important dialects: Andaluz, Leones, Navarro, Aragonés and Asturiano.
Worldwide Spanish is spoken by more than 300 million people.

Because some areas in Spain rely heavily on tourism financially, it will not be a problem to communicate in English with the Spanish people during your winter vacation in Spain. The Spanish love it when you speak Spanish, or at least a few words; this is seen as a sign of respect for the country and its people. A introductory course in Spanish or a good dictionary can help you on your way when wintering in Spain and will give you a better picture of the country to boot.