10 UNSPOKEN RULES Tourists Keep Breaking in Spain

Summary

In this video, the creator shares ten unspoken rules that tourists often break when visiting Spain. These tips cover various cultural nuances, such as being assertive when dining out, understanding Spain's relaxed attitude toward tipping, and syncing with local schedules. Key advice includes embracing the laid-back pace of service, adjusting to Spain's distinct dining hours, and following unwritten transportation etiquette. Additionally, the video provides insights into social customs, such as the comfort with prolonged eye contact and maintaining peace with neighbors. By following these tips, tourists can enjoy a more authentic and memorable experience in Spain.

Takeaways

• 😀 Be assertive when dining out in Spain: don't expect waitstaff to be overly attentive; you'll need to ask for drinks, the menu, or the bill.
• 🍽️ Tipping is not mandatory in Spain, as waiters are paid a living wage, but you can leave a tip if you’re happy with the service.
• 👋 Customer service in Spain might seem impersonal, but it's often focused on efficiency rather than friendliness. Don't mistake it for bad service.
• ⏰ Understand Spain's unique schedule: shops often open late (around 10-11 AM), close for lunch (2-5 PM), and stay open until 8 PM. Restaurants serve lunch at 2 PM and dinner around 8:30 PM.
• 🚉 Follow transport etiquette: stand on the right on escalators, only use elevators when necessary, and allow people to exit trains before boarding.
• 🚖 Consider walking or using public transport instead of taxis in historic Spanish city centers to avoid long travel times due to traffic.
• 🍷 Day drinking is common in Spain, but the focus is on socializing and enjoying food, not heavy drinking. Zero-alcohol beer is also popular.
• 🚶‍♀️ Public drinking laws vary by city, but generally, drinking in parks or enjoying a drink during a meal is acceptable, but excessive drinking in public places might attract police attention.
• 🚽 Public toilets in Spain are scarce and often not well-maintained. The local habit is to buy something in a bar or café and use their restrooms.
• 🚗 Driving in Spain can be chaotic, with drivers often not using indicators and roundabouts being particularly unpredictable. Always stay alert on the roads.
• 🕒 Be mindful of noise in residential areas, especially during the traditional quiet time from 4 to 7 PM, and dispose of trash properly, as recycling rules vary by city.

Q & A

What is the key advice for tourists wanting a more authentic experience in Spain?

Tourists should try to sync with the locals' rhythms, such as understanding the local dining times, lifestyle, and being more assertive in their interactions at restaurants and bars.

How should you approach waiters in Spanish tapas bars or restaurants?

In Spain, waiters are less attentive, so you need to be assertive. Raise your hand, catch their eye, and politely ask for service if needed. Waiters might not approach unless you ask for the bill.

Is tipping mandatory in Spain?

Tipping is not mandatory in Spain as waiters are paid a living wage. However, it is optional and based on the quality of service. In some touristy areas, a suggested tip may appear on the bill, but this is not typical.

What is the general attitude towards customer service in Spain?

Customer service in Spain is focused on efficiency rather than politeness. While it may seem impolite, the service is fast and effective, and the emphasis is on getting through large crowds quickly.

What are the typical operating hours for shops and restaurants in Spain?

Shops generally open around 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. and may close for a long lunch break between 2:00 to 5:00 p.m., reopening until around 8:00 p.m. Restaurants often serve lunch from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and dinner from 8:00 p.m. to midnight.

What should you know about using public transportation in Spain?

When using escalators, stand on the right side to allow others to pass. Always stand back to let passengers exit before boarding the train. Also, taxis may take longer than public transport due to traffic in historic city centers.

Can you drink alcohol in public in Spain?

Drinking alcohol in public is regulated at the city level. While it's generally accepted for individuals to drink during the day, large groups causing disturbances may be fined. In some cities like Madrid, drinking in public spaces is not allowed, especially for groups.

What is the drinking culture like in Spain?

Day drinking is common, with wine or beer often consumed during meals. Spaniards generally drink slowly and in moderation, focusing more on the company and food than on getting drunk. Non-alcoholic beer is also very popular.

What are the rules for finding public toilets in Spain?

Public toilets in Spain are rare and often not in the best condition. Locals typically use the restrooms in bars or restaurants, ordering a coffee or drink to justify using the facilities.

How should you behave in terms of noise when staying in Spanish apartments?

Keep noise to a minimum, especially when moving suitcases late at night or early in the morning. Remember that Spanish apartments often have thin walls, so noise can easily disturb neighbors. Be mindful of quiet times, typically between 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.