We moved from Loganville, Georgia, United States of America. We sold it all, packed what was left into storage, and took off for a new life in Barcelona, Spain. We included me, my husband, my daughter, and my dog. We didn’t know a single soul in Barcelona. We made the leap February 18, 2018. It was a really brave move and risky decision. That thought process and adventure is left for another post (coming soon!). But once we finally arrived in the gorgeous city of Barcelona, we were beyond stunned at some of the cultural differences. After 2 years of living here, we have mostly come to terms but it is good to describe our thoughts for those that have never traveled abroad. Here are my most shocking cultural differences that we experienced:
- Smoking. Everybody smokes. The young, the old…everyone. There is no real campaign on the dangers of smoking like there is in the US, with exception to the gruesome photos on every cigarette packet. They do not make the smokers hide like lepers or shame them like we do in the US. It was as if we stepped back in time to 1978. Hand rolling cigarettes is common. Everyone puffs without consideration to the air of others, including while eating. Even after the 2 years here, I am still in shock and this is one activity that I have not quite come to terms. As a non-smoker, this is quite bothersome.
- Walking around with Spaniards is definitely different. In general, the Spanish are small framed people and they do not smile much. They either walk leisurely and slow, or walk with purpose. They often cut in front or push their way out or in. This is not rude to them as they have learned that buses and metros have limited time for open doors, and over politeness is not necessary. When I first arrived in Barcelona, I thought the people were snotty, rude, and aloof. I found that this is just the culture and nearly all the locals are incredibly friendly and kind and helpful.
- Nobody cares what you look like. The people here look diverse. Besides being an international city, Barcelona celebrates individuality and provides a non-judgement place. No one is looking at you and analyzing your clothing or looks (with exception to the pick pocketers – they are always looking for opportunity), and the same is expected back. There are many people (including professionals) with tattoos, piercings, colored or shaved hair…and this is not a sign of a thug or gangster or drug addict. It is a sign of creativity and individuality. Simply, nobody cares what you look like. It is quite refreshing to reduce that social anxiety.
- Nobody picks up the dog poop. In most of Europe, dogs poop everywhere, including sidewalks and streets and parks. I do not know why the owners do not pick up the poop. So, it is important to look down when you walk despite all the beautiful buildings and architecture and details. I have stepped in poop more than once.
- Graffiti everywhere. There is graffiti on everything that can be accessed; walls, trains, doors, buildings, park structures… I don’t even see it anymore because it is so common. I was shocked when I first arrived and felt like it cheapened an area or it was disrespectful to the building. This is all over Europe and now I can appreciate some of the street art that I see. But, take note that graffiti does not mean that an area is dangerous. Additionally, most flats and houses have bars over the windows and doors. This also does not denote a threatening area. You have to remember that Spain recently came out of a dictatorship and civil war. The buildings here are old and protection is just common.
- Summer is unbearably hot (and I grew up in sticky humid Georgia). July and August. These are the 2 hottest months of the year and also tourist season. Not only is it scorching, but there are more people than normal packed in small areas (likes buses and tourist sites). Because the weather is quite nice for the remaining 10 months, air conditioning is not always present. The US has wonderful air conditioning everywhere, and it is central and strong. In the US, one normally walks from the house (centrally cooled) to the auto-start car (running and waiting with the AC on) to the work place or store (fully chilled at all times), never actually feeling the outside air. This is not the case here! Because you are walking everywhere and taking public transport, you will be in the sun longer than one would be in the US so it feels exponentially hotter. Taking multiple cool showers a day and carrying a personal fan is common! I have learned to wear more sunscreen and a hat, follow routes with plenty of shade, drink lots of water, carry perfume and a sweat towel, and wear loose clothing. Additionally, in Barcelona, there are lots of public water fountains. The water is potable unless otherwise noted so bring a water bottle with you and fill up for free! Splash your face and arms to cool off when walking around.
- The beaches really are nude.Like most of Europe, many women sunbathe and swim without a top. There are also many areas where the people will be fully nude. This is not sexual. This is simply how they cool off and enjoy the beach. It is important to let your children know that they will encounter many exposed boobies, and, on occasion, a fully nude female or male body. We now prepare all our guests before coming and, with advance education, it has not been an issue with any one. A body is a body and we all have the same parts. Additionally, breast feeding in public is completely common. There is no shame or covering this act between mother and child.
- Respect for the elderly.It is lovely to watch the younger generation walk with their parents and grandparents around Barcelona. It puts a smile on my face to see them walking arm in arm just talking, going to the market, and simply spending time with each other. The family is a very important component to the community here. Additionally, there are several seats on the buses and trains that are reserved for the elderly and disabled. These seats will go empty until filled by someone in need. If you are young or a tourist and seating in a reserved seat, the older people will shame you and request that you move. You will often see other able bodies get up and offer a seat to someone older or needy. The respect is inspiring!
Loosely Lucy 