Catalan - one of nine Romance languages descended from Latin - is spoken by approximately 9 million people in and around the Mediterranean. Not only is it the first language of Catalunya, it is also spoken, in various forms, on the Spanish mainland (as far south as Valencia and Alicante), in the Balearic Islands of Majorca, Minorca and Ibiza, in France (in the area around Perpignan), in Andorra, and in one small Sardinian port, L'Alguer.

Catalans are fiercely proud of their language, understandably so when you consider that for many decades under General Franco all expressions in Catalan, including publishing, teaching and even speaking Catalan in the street, were banned. Now, however, Catalunya's regional government, the Generalitat, is making great efforts to restore Catalan as the first language of daily life.

During your stay in Sitges you will see and hear Catalan everywhere you go - on street signs, menus, posters, in shops and other public spaces and on television and radio. And although not knowing any Catalan (or, for that matter, Spanish) will not impair the enjoyment of your holiday, understanding and using a little of the language may win you favour with the locals.

Below are a few words and phrases you could use to win friends and influence people.