Internship 2022 : Understand the Spanish culture
The amazing architecture, delicious food, friendly and warm people, and diverse celebrations are all peculiar characteristics of Spain. But how much do you know about the Spanish way of life? We hope to provide you with the key facts about Spanish culture that you need to get a closer look at life in this sunny and lively Mediterranean country.
A brief introduction to Spanish culture.
Spaniards are characterized by being open, passionate, outgoing and friendly as is typical of Mediterranean culture. When you introduce yourself to a Spaniard, expect to shake hands. From a social perspective, something that may also be unusual for foreigners is how loud Spaniards are when they are together, whether in a bar or at home. There is a tendency for closeness, when they are on the street or in the subway and on the bus as well as in bars; everyone is close enough to touch.
Spanish culture values collective living, or the concept of doing things in community and sharing moments with others. Another interesting thing that surprises first-time visitors to Spain is how vibrant its streets are compared to the rest of Europe and how the Spanish population enjoys spending time outdoors surrounded by friends and family.
Much of the social life takes place outdoors, especially in spring and summer. For example, fiestas are mainly held outdoors and bring the whole community together. On weekends you will find Spaniards staying up late after dinner, socializing with friends while enjoying tapas. Tapas being an important part of the gastronomy and a deeply rooted social custom in the country.
Greetings and introductions are a fundamental feature of Spanish culture. In an informal situation,
whether with close family friends or strangers, women are generally greeted with a kiss on each cheek. Men, on the other hand, often greet or say goodbye with a hug.
If you are not used to such close personal contact, you may feel a little uncomfortable at first. But it’s just a part of the Spanish culture that over time you will adopt; they like to touch, hug and kiss their friends and family.
Food is a solid foundation of Spanish culture. The communal lifestyle is reflected in gatherings around a table with good food and drink. Spaniards often show their love for others by cooking food for them.
If you receive an invitation to a home for dinner, bring a small gift to the host or hostess. It could be a nice bottle of wine, flowers, chocolates and/or a dessert to accompany the dinner. If the dinner hosts have children, it is considered good etiquette to bring a small gift for the children.
When addressing someone, keep in mind that only first names are used when addressing family, friends and children. Otherwise, when talking to older adults always use the prefixes Don and Doña, which is the equivalent of Señor and Señora. This is a way of showing them respect and formality.
We hope this article helps you a little to learn about Spanish culture and the traditions that influence how Spaniards live their lives. Experience it for yourself and plan your internship in Spain, thanks to Animafest. The stylish fashion, incredible architecture, delicious food, colorful rhythms and rich Spanish culture will captivate you.
Register on our website animafestexperience.com and do your internship with us.
