10 Cultural Faux Pas to Avoid While Living in Spain

Moving to a new country can be an exciting adventure, but it also comes with the challenge of adapting to a new culture. Spain, with its rich history and diverse customs, is no exception. As an expat, it's important to be aware of cultural norms to avoid unintentional disrespect or awkward situations. Here are 10 tips to help you navigate Spanish culture and avoid making cultural faux pas.

1. Understand the Spanish Schedule

Spain operates on a different timetable compared to many other countries. Lunch is typically eaten between 2 pm and 4 pm, while dinner often doesn't start until after 9 pm. Shops may close for siesta in the afternoon, especially in smaller towns. Adapting to this schedule can help you integrate more smoothly into daily life and avoid the frustration of finding closed businesses during traditional siesta hours.

2. Respect the Siesta Tradition

The siesta is a well-known aspect of Spanish culture. While not everyone takes a nap, many businesses close in the early afternoon, and the streets can be quite empty. It's important to respect this quiet time by keeping noise levels down, especially in residential areas. This is a time for rest and relaxation, and being too loud can be seen as disrespectful.

3. Greet Properly

When meeting someone, it's customary to give two kisses, one on each cheek, starting with the left. This applies to women greeting men and women, but men usually shake hands unless they are close friends or family. Understanding this greeting etiquette can help you make a good first impression.

4. Dress Appropriately

Spaniards generally dress well and take pride in their appearance. Even in casual settings, they tend to avoid overly relaxed attire like shorts and flip-flops, except at the beach. Observing and emulating local fashion can help you blend in and show respect for the culture.

5. Learn Some Spanish

While many Spaniards speak English, especially in larger cities and tourist areas, making an effort to learn and speak Spanish is greatly appreciated. It shows respect for the country and its people and can greatly enhance your daily interactions and experiences.

6. Be Punctual for Business, Flexible Socially

In professional settings, punctuality is important and expected. However, social events often start later than the scheduled time. Being flexible and patient with social plans can help you navigate these situations without stress.

7. Understand Dining Etiquette

Spanish dining etiquette has its own set of rules. For example, it's customary to wait until everyone is served before starting to eat, and bread is often placed directly on the table, not on a plate. Observing and following these dining customs can help you avoid awkward moments at the table.

8. Appreciate the Importance of Family

Family is central to Spanish life, and it's common for multiple generations to live close to each other or even in the same house. Respecting family values and the time people spend with their relatives, especially on Sundays and holidays, is crucial.

9. Be Aware of Regional Differences

Spain is incredibly diverse, with distinct languages, traditions, and customs in regions like Catalonia, the Basque Country, and Galicia. Be mindful of these differences, and show respect for regional identities and languages.

10. Participate in Local Festivities

Spain is famous for its festivals, which are an integral part of its culture. Participating in local festivities is a great way to understand and appreciate Spanish traditions. Just remember to respect the customs and the significance of each event.

We hope these tips help you navigate the cultural landscape of Spain with ease and confidence. Remember, making mistakes is a part of the learning process, and most locals will appreciate your efforts to respect their culture. Share your experiences and seek advice on Expat Exchange's Spain forum to connect with fellow expats.

Expats Confess Their Cultural Faux Pas in Spain

"In Spain, it is important to be aware of certain cultural norms to avoid inadvertently offending people. For example, when entering a building, it is polite to greet those you pass with a warm 'hola', even if you don't know them. Additionally, when dining out, you should always wait for your host to start the meal before you begin to eat. It is also considered impolite to ask for a takeaway without first finishing the meal. Furthermore, due to the strong religious nature of the country, take care not to discuss topics such as politics or religion. Finally, be sure to take off your shoes when entering someone's home as a sign of respect," commented an expat living in Spain.