Spain, the land of flamenco, siestas, and savory tapas, has long captured the attention of people worldwide. But underneath these stereotypical depictions, you’ll encounter several surprises that only reveal themselves when one immerses fully into Spanish life.
Moving to Spain?
Then you don’t want to miss this post! As someone who’s been living in Spain for 10 years now (first in Madrid and then in Bilbao), I realized that the commonly held perceptions barely scratch the surface of what it’s really like. Here are five things that surprised me upon moving to Spain:
1. The Clocks Tick Differently:
In Spain, time operates on a different schedule. For instance, meal times are notably delayed compared to other parts of the world. Lunch isn’t served until around 2 pm, and dinner seldom begins before 9 pm. Adjusting to this new rhythm can be challenging for some, especially since restaurants tend to follow the late schedule as well. But it’s not just about eating habits…
The entire pace of the day seems shifted. Did you know that the sun actually rises later in Spain, due to its geographical location (that doesn’t really correspond their Central European time zone)? While it can be tough to get up in the mornings when it’s still pitch-black outside, you’ll surely enjoy the long, light-filled evenings.
Even mundane tasks like running errands require a change in routine when you’re moving to Spain; supermarkets often don’t open until 9 or 10 am. Schools start around 9 am. While it may take some time for early birds to adapt, the extended evenings also offer a unique charm.
2. Patience as a Virtue:
One of the most striking aspects of Spanish culture is the patience and kindness shown by its people – even to strangers.
I’ll be honest: there have been countless times I stood in line at a store, nervously watching the minutes tick by as the clerk engaged in a leisurely conversation with another customer. In my home country, Austria, such delays would prompt frustration and agitation. In Spain, however, it’s considered impolite to rush others. Instead, Spaniards patiently wait their turn – and then receive the same caring attention from the clerk.
This culture of patience also extends beyond stores. Ask anyone for directions on the street, they’ll stop and do their best to help you out. It’s also common to see cars halting if no parking space is available – warning lights on, and off to run a little errand! Drivers are remarkably nonchalant when it comes to navigating around wrongly parked cars, without a hint of honking or swearing. This would be impossible in other countries… so don’t tell anyone that I’ve started doing it and loving it too :-)!
3. Tapas/Pintxos Are Not a Meal
Tapas or Pintxos, those delicious bite-sized delights, are an integral part of Spanish cuisine. Tourists love them too – but many don’t know that they aren’t actually considered a meal in themselves.
Many bars offer a great variety of tapas, at very attractive prices, and I’ve always considered that by just indulging in 3 of them I’d eaten lunch.
But Spaniards enjoy tapas as an aperitif, often accompanied by a glass of wine or beer (which is totally acceptable, even on weekdays). Afterwards, it’s common in Spain to have a three-course meal, consisting of a first, vegetable or bean-based course; a main dish of fish or meat; and a desert – which might simply be some fruit.
4. The Work Ethic Myth:
If you think of Spain as the land of siestas and fiestas – think again. While you can certainly find plenty of both, the reality of Spaniard’s work ethic has surprised me. While efficiency may not always be the top priority, dedication and professionalism are abundant in the workplace!
Relationships are certainly prioritized over efficiency. So for instance, rather than sending an e-mail, you’d pick up the phone and call – or you’ll even drop by the place you need to speak with. “In-person interaction” might actually get you better solutions or deals, also. If speaking to a colleague or associate, don’t forget to start with some friendly banter before getting down to business!
Working late into the evening is common in Spain, which again shows their commitment. Even after closing time, store clerks will still let you in and assist you in a friendly way.
5. The Mosaic of Spanish Identity:
When moving to Spain, it might come as a surprise that the country consists of diverse identities. From the Catalans to the Basques, from the North to the South, from the Spanish-speakers and those who speak other languages; different regions have their own unique self-images.
In places like the Basque Country or Catalonia, people don’t like to be thrown into a pot with the rest of the country. They prefer you to refer to the Spanish language as “castellano”, to be more inclusive towards their own languages.
These various identities and occasional rivalries have deep roots in history, complex stories, and a strong sense of pride that Spaniards share.
For foreigners looking in, the differences might not be as stark; after all, certain differences are naturally found among nationals of all large countries. However, cultural sensitivity is crucial in Spain, and will be greatly appreciated!
Now I’m curious: What has surprised you when moving to Spain? Or about life in your current host country? How does it differ from your home culture?
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