Spain is a welcoming country, but it has its own social rules that can be strange for a foreigner. Knowing them will help you feel like a local.
1. Watch the Clock!
In Spain, everything happens later.
- Lunch (Comida): Between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM.
- Dinner: Never before 9:00 PM. If you go to a restaurant at 7:00 PM, it will likely be closed or empty.
- The Siesta: Many small shops close from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
2. Greetings
Spaniards are very physical.
- Women: Two kisses on the cheeks (right first).
- Men: A firm handshake or a hug if there's trust.
- In groups: Greet everyone when arriving and leaving.
| Situation | What you should do |
|---|---|
| In a bar | Ask for "una caña" (small draft beer) |
| When finished | Ask for "la cuenta" (they won't bring it automatically) |
| Tipping | Not mandatory, leave small change |
| Coffee | Taken after dessert |
[!WARNING] Warning: Don't be scared if people talk loudly or seem to be arguing. They're just being passionate! In Spain, it's normal to interrupt each other while speaking.
Travel with Confidence 🛫
Don't let a cultural misunderstanding ruin your experience. Our native teachers will teach you not only the language but the manners needed to succeed in Spain.
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Survival Words
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Vale | OK / Understood |
| Mola | It's cool |
| Tío / Tía | Dude / Girl |
| Tapeo | Going from bar to bar eating tapas |
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EasyLangs Editorial
Expert linguistic and cultural insights.