Hello, listeners!  Welcome to another episode of Slow Portuguese with Maria! 🌟 Today, we’re exploring the differences between three essential Portuguese verbs: "conhecer" (to know/meet), "encontrar" (to find/meet up), and "conhecer-se" (to get to know oneself/each other).  While these verbs may seem similar, each has a distinct meaning and use. In this episode, you’ll learn how to use them correctly in sentences like: "Eu conheço Lisboa" (I know Lisbon). "Vou encontrar a Joana às...

In this episode of Slow Portuguese with Maria, I talk about the emotional challenges of being far from my family in Portugal. I share how I stay connected through technology and how affordable Ryanair flights make visiting home easier. I also discuss the feelings of homesickness, guilt, and how I try to balance the physical distance with emotional closeness. If you're far from your family, I hope this episode brings you some comfort and useful tips. If you enjoyed the episode and would like...

In this episode of Slow Portuguese with Maria, we dive into the useful expression "ir ter com", which means "to go meet" someone you already know. I explain the structure and usage of this phrase through practical examples, making it easy for you to incorporate it into your everyday conversations. Whether you're meeting friends, family, or acquaintances, this expression is essential for sounding more natural in Portuguese. If you enjoyed the episode and would like to support the podcast, you...

In today’s episode of Slow Portuguese with Maria, I’ll be sharing my experience learning Swedish. From the initial challenges of memorizing words and relying on English to those moments when I finally felt confident speaking Swedish on my own, this is my language-learning journey. I’ll also share some useful tips for anyone learning a new language and remind you that the process can be fun if we approach it with the right attitude. I hope my story inspires you to keep going or start your own...

In this episode of we cover three essential verbs in European Portuguese: "Gostar", "Começar", and "Acabar". You’ll learn the rules and prepositions that accompany these verbs in various contexts. We’ll also explore the idiomatic expression "a torto e a direito", used to describe chaotic or disorganized situations.  "Gostar de" is always used with the preposition "de". "Começar a" indicates the beginning of an action. "Começar por" is used in a sequence. "Acabar de" means that...

In this episode of Slow Portuguese with Maria, I take you on a personal journey through my hometown, Aveiro. Known as the "Venice of Portugal" for its stunning canals and colorful striped houses, Aveiro holds a special place in my heart. I’ll share stories about my childhood, how my perspective on life there has changed, and my thoughts on city living, car culture, and sustainable habits. Enquanto – While Litoral – Coastline Praticamente – Practically or basically Maneira – Way or...

In today’s episode we look into the differences between these three tricky constructions in European Portuguese: "ir a", "ir para", and the rarely used "ir em". You’ll learn when to use each one, whether it’s for a short visit, a more permanent move. Fui ao supermercado: I went to the supermarket (a short visit). Vou a Lisboa amanhã:  I am going to Lisbon tomorrow (a short visit). Vou ao médico:  I go to the doctor (a short visit). Vou para casa: I am going home and I will no come back...

Great News! Supporters on Buy Me a Coffee now have exclusive access to the complete transcription of this episode! It’s a helpful resource to improve your listening skills and follow along with ease. https://buymeacoffee.com/slowportuguesewithmaria/5-a-minha-viagem-austrlia In this episode, I’ll talk about my upcoming trip to Australia! I’ll share how I planned the journey, what I’m packing, where I’ll be staying, and some of the activities I’m excited about—like snorkeling at the Great...

Exciting News! If you’re supporting the podcast on Buy Me a Coffee, you can now access the full transcription for this episode. It’s a fantastic tool to enhance your learning and follow along more easily. https://buymeacoffee.com/slowportuguesewithmaria/4-gramtica-andar-p-andar-de-carro Today we learn a bit more about the prepositions a and de when we go somewhere. Here's the examples I talk about in this episode: Eu vou ao supermercado a pé. Ela vai para o trabalho de bicicleta...

Good news! If you’re a supporter on Buy Me a Coffee, you now have access to the full transcription of this episode. It’s a great way to follow along and boost your comprehension! https://buymeacoffee.com/slowportuguesewithmaria/3-a-minha-rotina-em-estocolmo In today’s episode, I’ll talk about my daily routine here in Stockholm, Sweden. I’ll share how my days go, from studying Swedish in the mornings and teaching Portuguese online, to walking in nature and spending time at home. I also...

Welcome to the very first episode of this podcast! In this episode, I’ll introduce myself and give you a bit of background about who I am, where I live, and my age. I’ll also share what this podcast is all about and who it’s for. Whether you’re a beginner learning European Portuguese or just curious about life and culture in Portugal, this podcast is for you. I’ll be talking about various topics such as: Portuguese culture and daily life in Portugal. Answering your questions (feel...

Neste episódio, conto-vos a minha história de como vim parar à Suécia há quatro anos para estudar Ciências Ambientais na universidade. Falo sobre como foi a adaptação, desde estudar online e fazer amigos, até conhecer o meu namorado através de um encontro no Tinder. Partilho também o que adoro neste país: o estilo de vida com a natureza sempre por perto, as ciclovias, os transportes públicos de qualidade e a comida incrível. A língua sueca foi um desafio, mas com o tempo fui aprendendo,...