Do's, Don'ts, and Dealing with Cultural Differences
Spain has a vibrant and social culture that flows from years of rich history, beautiful art and fantastic celebrations. Immerse yourself in this culture to enrich your study abroad experience. Read on for important Spanish customs to know before you go abroad.
Dining
Dining in Spain offers a unique experience with distinct customs to be mindful of. Spaniards have a later mealtime schedule compared to the U.S., typically serving lunch between 2:00-3:30 PM and dinner between 8:30-10:00 PM. It's important to note that tipping is not standard in the service industry, so it's not expected when dining or receiving other services, however it is customary to leave behind a few small coins or tip on large tabs. While exploring Spanish cuisine, be aware that vegetarian and vegan dishes might be less common than in the U.S. Furthermore, it's worth noting that smoking is a widespread habit throughout Spain, particularly if you choose to sit on a restaurant's terrace. Embracing and understanding these dining customs will enhance your culinary journey and cultural immersion while in Spain.
Clothing
In Spain, the dress code is generally more formal and conservative compared to some casual norms in the United States. For everyday wear, locals often opt for stylish and well-fitted clothing, favoring classic pieces and avoiding overly revealing, loud or casual clothing. When visiting religious sites, such as cathedrals or churches, it is customary to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. For more formal events, such as business meetings or upscale restaurants, dressing in business attire or smart-casual clothing is appreciated. By being mindful of the country's dress code and embracing its more refined fashion sense, you can show respect for the local culture and fit in during your time in Spain.
Punctuality
In Spain, punctuality is viewed with a more relaxed approach compared to some strict adherence to schedules in the United States. It is common for social gatherings and informal meetings to start a bit later than the designated time, and being fashionably late by a few minutes is generally accepted. Embracing this more laid-back approach to punctuality while understanding when it's important to be on time will help you navigate social situations and make the most of your experiences in Spain.
Language
While Spanish (Castellano) is the official language of Spain and widely understood, the local language, Catalan, holds significant importance in Catalonia, including Barcelona. Walking in the street you will hear a mix of these two languages. Catalans cherish their traditions and language, so making an effort to learn a few basic Catalan phrases can go a long way in fostering rapport.
Social Interactions
Because Barcelona is the heart of Catalonia, the people live out a rich heritage. Family and community play integral roles in Catalan life, and locals are usually open to welcoming newcomers into their social circles.
Remember that while these cultural differences might be generally observed, individual behaviors can vary widely, and it's essential to approach each interaction with an open mind and respect for the local customs and traditions.
During your On-Site Orientation your Site Director will go more in depth into the culture differences that you can expect during your time abroad.