Katholische Universität San Antonio de Murcia, Spanien

I travelled to Spain to study and learn Spanish, but I did not only improve my language skills, but also learned about the habits of the Spanish people. Although Germany is not too far away from Spain, I noticed a few things here that are completely different from our German habits.

Siesta:

It was invented by the Spaniards and I don’t know any other country where everyone sticks to the famous siesta like they do here in Spain. After lunch, at around 3 o’clock, everybody relaxes for at least 30 minutes to recover from the unbelievably high temperatures and the exhausting work/lectures. It is said that siesta is as healthy as eating Serrano ham or drinking a glass of wine.

Spanish eating habits:

Since the day in Spain generally starts later than at home in Germany, the meals also take place a few hours later. At around 10 o'clock they’re having the "Desayuno" (breakfast) which usually only consists of a coffee and a piece of pastry (e.g. Churros). The two to three-course lunch is always served between 2 and 4 o’clock.

The most important meal, apart from the countless tapas you eat all day long, is dinner with your friends in a bar. We often sit at our table until midnight and enjoy that even during the week many people are still out on in the streets of Murcia.

Punctuality:

Somehow, being punctual is not possible for the Spaniards - except for very important appointments. When arranging to meet somebody, they agree on the time but only as a rough orientation. Delays of 30 minutes or more are thus absolutely legitimate.

Greeting:

While Germans typically greet with a handshake, Spaniards greet friends with two kisses on the cheek. For me, this and the way they talk to each other again represents the relaxed and friendly nature of the Spaniards.

Noise is part of your everyday life:

Spaniards are quite noisy people. You can hear wild discussions and celebrating people everywhere, which always results in a high noise level. In Murcia there is a big nightlife district...those who live close to this district, can prepare for many sleepless nights.