Culture is embedded throughout the Amistades program. Each chapter of the textbook opens with a large-format photograph representing one aspect of the many cultures that comprise the Spanish-speaking world. The breadth of this cultural diversity is reflected in reading materials from Spanish-language newspapers, magazines, and websites, colorful photographs, and content of the learning activities. In addition, the Cultura sections of the textbook provide statistics about the featured regions and spotlight cultural concepts related to the chapter themes. Marginal annotations offer students and instructors suggestions for independent library and Internet research. Annotations also enrich cultural understanding by amplifying basic vocabulary and clarifying grammar usage. Like the textbook, embedded culture and authentic reading materials, including literary selections from the featured regions, characterize the Diario de actividades.