Spanish Customs and Housing Conditions That Many People Find Really Surprising

Spain is one of the most popular tourist destinations. Breathtaking views, hot weather and plenty of attractions make it one of the best holiday destinations. Still, some of the customs there are somewhat unusual.

Spain is one of the countries with the siesta tradition. This is why most shops and restaurants will be closed between 2:00 and 4:00 pm. And this is when you can spot quite a few people having a nap on a street bench.

You won’t find slippers in any of the houses there (this trend is more common in eastern Europe). The Spanish will never ask you to take off your shoes when you enter their house. And don’t be surprised to see the tiles on the floor not only in the kitchen and bathroom, but also in the living room!

If you see toothpicks and other garbage on the floor, normally you just turn around and walk away. But in some parts of Spain this is nothing but an invitation. The mess means that the place is popular so the food there must be good. Remember that this refers to bars only. Spanish restaurants to everything to ensure impeccable order.

Corrida is a famous Spanish custom which has got more and more… opponents. The fights are thought to be cruel and in many parts of Spain they have been already outlawed.

The Spanish love conversations which is clearly visible in their everyday manners. When you meet somebody in the street, you can’t just say ‘hello’ and walk away. You need to stop for a few minutes and have a short chat. Otherwise you will be perceived as rude or having a bad day. If, however, you are in a hurry and you explain it to the person, then they won’t mind it at all.

The Spanish soul is also visible in the way they treat some of the traffic rules. Don’t be surprised to see many of them completely disregard red lights at the pedestrian crossing.

You’d better not shake hands there. You might be perceived as a cold and emotionless person. That is why they greet each other giving two kisses in the cheeks.

And unfortunately it’s not about people. The climate there is perfect for cockroaches, present almost everywhere. That is why the shelves are full of pesticides killing these disgusting insects. Though they are not quite happy to have them around, Spaniards are already used to them.

Spaniards are fans of coffee and this is what they start their day with. You will never find any kettles as they don’t drink tea. There is also bad news for those who drink instant coffee – it is not a common commodity there.

The Spanish don’t know what central heating is as many houses there… don’t have such systems. Due to the geographical location of the country (the proximity of the Mediterranean Sea), the winters are usually warm there. If, however, the frost surprises them from time to time, they put on some extra clothes, switch on electric heaters or use heating pads and blankets. It is also pretty common to see people warming their underwear in microwaves or just spending all days in heated cafes. This is also when they cover the tiled floors with some rugs and blankets. Is there anything worse than a cold floor in the morning?

Have you ever visited sunny Spain?