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(Read on for a beginner's guide to Catalan... Or head here for a beginner's guide to Spanish!)
Put away the Spanish dictionary mi amigo, because if you want to get along with the notoriously nationalistic folk of Catalonia (Catalunya) you'll find a few choice Catalan phrases a sharper weapon in your armoury of charm. Yes, the Barcelonese are very protective about their beloved Catalonia, which they regard as a separate country to Spain (and needless to say a superior one!), and although you will get by just fine in Spanish you'll certainly pull away from the crowd with a few choice Catalan phrases up your sleeve. With that in mind Barcelona Life has thrown together some handy greetings, words and expressions that will undoubtedly prove your passport into the locals' hearts and affection. 
But first a little introduction. Catalan is an entirely separate language to Castilian Spanish, and not just a separate dialect as many assume. It is spoken by around 9.5 million people and as well as 6 million speakers from Catalonia, 2.5 million Valencians speak a regional version of the language, whilst Catalan is also the preferred tongue of residents of the Balearic Islands and the official language of Andorra. Those who were forced to learn latin at school will be pleased to have a small grounding in Catalan already, as it is a so-called Romance language derived from Cicero and chums. For modern speakers, think of a mix of Spanish and French with a bit of Italian thrown in and you're half way there.
Here are some phrases and beginners' vocabulary to get your tongue around, below. Meanwhile, if you're keen on learning some Catalan then head to our page on Catalan and Spanish language schools in Barcelona for some suggestions on where to study. a few words... 
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