7 BEST shows in Spanish that you should watch on Netflix

If you're going to binge-watch a series or get addicted to a new show, you might as well do it in Spanish!  So read on if you want to learn how to maximize your language study while watching shows on Netflix.

A good TV series is a great way to immerse yourself without having to travel. Shows offer you an interesting setting and a gripping story with a plethora of characters which will help you recall the new words you learn. Once you are immersed into the story and get attached to the characters, you'll keep coming back for more.

Tips for watching you favorite shows in Spanish

Keep track of idioms

There are some words that do not directly translate to English because they are idioms. Idioms are special expressions specific to the language and culture. Don't be alarmed if the idioms do not make sense, rather, write them down and try to keep track of the different instances that they were used. After watching, you can research these expressions and see if the meanings match with how they were used in the scenarios you first heard them.

Talk about the story

Challenge yourself to talk about what you just watched in Spanish! Talk about the setting, the plot and ongoing dilemmas in the story. Discuss the characters, and talk about what you like or don’t like about them. Make predictions about the story or how the issues in the story come up in real life. 

Watch with dual subtitles

If you've been on your language journey, you've probably struggled with the subtitle dilemma: to watch a show with English subtitles, or not to watch a show with English subtitles? Choosing English subtitles means forgoing the opportunity to learn new Spanish words. That said, choosing Spanish subtitles can mean feeling completely lost! Thankfully there are tools to solve this problem. Language extensions such as,Language Learning with Netflix, gives you the opportunity to see both translations at the same time! What's more, the premium option of the extension allows you to save unfamiliar words into a word bank and keep track of all the new words you saw during the show.

Relax

Don't burden yourself with having to translate every single word! The most important thing is that you are following the story. With enough viewings, words that were previously unknown to you will naturally reveal themselves. The most important thing about this exercise is that as you grow to enjoy watching content in Spanish and you’ll naturally soak up the language as it becomes habitual.Now without further ado, here are some of the best Spanish language programs on Netflix that will help you level up your Spanish!

1) Money Heist

What happens when ten people from the wrong side of the tracks get together to pull off one of the greatest heists of all time? Chaos. Money Heist is one of the greatest shows of all time. Period. This show is jam packed with action, drama and plethora of characters that you'll fall in love with. Even if you’ve grown tired of heist plot lines, this isn't like a heist you've ever seen.  There are four seasons, with a fifth season arriving this December so you are in for a treat! If you’ve been learning Mexican or Latin American Spanish, it’s in Spain Spanish so don’t feel distressed if you don’t immediately understand. It’s a great way to learn a new accent and expressions.

2) Who Killed Sara

If you liked the American show Revenge, you'll definitely appreciate Who Killed Sara. Who Killed Sarah is a Whodunnit series that follows Alex Guzman, a young man who was wrongfully accused of killing his own sister. Guzman is on track to avenge his sister against a wealthy family who played a role in his sister’s death...or so he thinks. This show is a thrilling ride with many twists and turns. 

3) Elite

Elite is Spain's answer to Gossip Girl, with a bit of a twist. The show follows the wild experiences of a group of teens who have to navigate the thrilling yet dangerous ecosystem of an elite high school. If you love drama, fish-out-of-water story lines, and murder, then this one is  for you

4) Made in Mexico

Fancy a peek into Mexican high society? Made in Mexico might just be the show you're looking for! Made in a reality TV format akin to the The Real Housewives franchise, the show follows a group of friends living the high-life in Mexico city. You’ll love the saucy characters, high drama and delicious views of Mexico City.

5) Always a Witch

Netflix's Always a Witch is a series about a young Afro-Colombian girl who is granted the power of time-travel before being sentenced to death in the 1600. If you love period dramas, a bit of romance, and a sprinkle of controversy, this is one not to miss.

6) Narcos

Narcos tells the tale of the rise and fall of Pablo Escobar, the notorious Colombian drug-lord who ran Columbia in the 80's. If you aren't too squeamish and enjoy movies like Scarface and Goodfellas, then this is the show for you. You won't be disappointed by the many twists and turns along with the excellent performances in this series.

7) Street Food

Latin AmericaIf you're curious about Latin American food, you're in for a treat! Street Food Latin America will give you a taste of what to expect when you begin your travels! This six episode extravaganza will take you on a journey to a few places in Latin America. Curious about the food scene here in Mexico?  Check out episode three which features food from Oaxaca, Mexico. Don't have Netflix? Don't worry! Another way to access shows in your target language is to use a VPN. VPNs or Virtual Private Network, is a tool that can help you gain access to TV programs in other countries. There are free and premium options on the internet, some going for as little as 10 dollars a month.

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