From bossa nova to verb conjugations, we love exploring London’s lusophone cultures and improving our Portuguese language skills. Check out our latest Top Tips to help you with your studies!
Brazilian Cuisine
From feijoada and moqueca to churrasco and malagueta chicken, if it’s Brazilian food you’re after then be sure to pay Cabana Covent Garden a visit. With its fun interior and extensive Brazilian food and drinks menu, it’s a great place to get a feel for fun-loving Brazilian culture.
Practise your Conjugations
As with so many languages, they key to nailing Portuguese is mastering the verb conjugations. Although a chunky book, 501 Portuguese Verbs is a great resource to aid your study. It explains how the various verb forms work, and goes through the conjugations of each tense for 501 different verbs. The 501 series is in many ways a bible for those studying Portuguese – highly recommended.
Brazilian Film Night
Did you know, the Brazilian Embassy in London hosts regular film nights as part of their CineClub Brazil programme? On the 24th of April Antes que o mundo acabe will be showing at 18:45. The film received rave reviews and picked up the award for Best Brazilian Film at the São Paulo International Film Festival. The film tells the story of teenager Daniel who is growing up in the countryside of Rio Grande do Sul, and the trials and tribulations of high school life. The film screening is free to attend, just register online first.
Bossa Nova Legend
Sérgio Mendes – one of the kings of Bossa Nova who was at the heart of the music when it exploded onto the scene in the 60s – will be performing at the Royal Festival Hall on the 5th of May. With hits such as ‘Mas que nada’, he helped catapult Brazilian music over to international audiences, and has won countless awards including a Grammy. It promises to be a great night so get your tickets now!
Portuguese reading materials
Don’t forget, IH London students receive 10% off at The European Bookshop. The store has a wide range of options for all levels, from self-study books to easy-readers and popular novels. Whether you’re at beginner level or nearly fluent, the store has something for you!
