The topic I chose for this class project is lifestyle in Spain. The reason I chose this topic is because observing different cultural lifestyles is something I truly enjoy and find fascinating. I love learning about different daily routines in different cultures. The Spanish lifestyle is vastly different than the American lifestyle in that it is more family focused and less career competitive.
Before I started the class or traveled to the country, I knew very little about the Spanish cultural lifestyle. I knew that a daily siesta wasn’t uncommon and that family was a primary focus for each person.
In my research, I have discovered that Spanish people are very welcoming and warm people. Physical touch is a sign of friendly affection and always expected in greetings. Two kisses, one on each cheek, are a normality in greetings between family members, friends, and even new acquaintances. Aside from the physicality in greetings, close proximity when holding conversation is also very common.
When it comes to daily routines, the Spanish population is very relaxed. Mornings typically begin around 8am with breakfast and coffee with milk or orange juice. School and work days don’t typically begin till 9am. Many people, especially in urban areas, walk to school or work or choose public transportation. Spending time outdoors is a priority in Spanish culture as the weather is usually fair year round in most parts of the country. Lunch is the most important and largest meal of the day and occurs around 1:30pm in the afternoon. Lunches include lots of ham, bread, and beverages such as beer or wine. After lunch it is common to take a nap or siesta in the afternoon. This is to relax and conserve energy for the late nightlife. Dinner isn’t until late in the evening between 9:30pm and 11:00pm. Between lunch and dinner tapas are served at various bars and restaurants as pre-cursors to a late meal. After dinner, especially on the weekends, dancing and socializing at local bars happens until the early hours of the morning. This is why the Spanish daily routine doesn’t begin until at least 8am.
When I was in the country and making my observations, I noticed a lot of what I researched to be true. Our breakfasts were always fairly early and it was difficult to find lunch until at least 1pm. During siesta time, a lot of locations were empty or even closed. In Zaragoza, masses at El Pilar were on hold during certain hours of the afternoon to accommodate siesta time.
To say that the Spanish culture is family focused is an understatement. Family is everything to the Spanish people and I could see this in the affectionate ways that people communicated. I observed several public displays of affection between couples many times walking down the streets and eating at public restaurants. It seems to be a very romantic culture, and not just amongst the young. I saw several older couples still holding hands and kissing in public. This is a stark contrast from American older married couples that seem to barely acknowledge each other in a public setting, let alone in a romantic fashion.
I have concluded through my observations and daily notations that the Spanish lifestyle is one to be envied by the rest of the world. The laid back and affectionate lifestyle is a complete change of pace from the chaotic and sometimes cold American culture. The Spanish people are open and loving, always welcoming to visitors and those who want to learn more about Spanish culture.
Empty streets of Santiago de Compestela during Siesta time
Your research and observations were very interesting! I hadn't thought about the romantic aspect of the culture much, but after reading about it in your blog, I remember seeing a lot of couples of various ages being adorable. Great summary of the Spanish way of life!
Reply
Pilar Azmani
1/29/2015 01:00:05 am
I totally forgot to mention Siesta time. How dare I? It is interesting and kind of awesome how everything shuts down so people can rest and take some time to themselves. Us Americans could learn from that! and should!