Spain is often celebrated for its sun-kissed beaches, delicious tapas, and vibrant culture, but there’s more to this beautiful country than what’s often highlighted in travel brochures. Expats who have settled in Spain shared some surprising and lesser-known aspects of Spanish life on Reddit, revealing a side of Spain that’s both heartwarming and occasionally puzzling. From the unique way older people are integrated into everyday life to the relaxed attitudes toward bedtime for children, these observations paint a picture of a country that’s full of character, tradition, and a deep sense of community.
One of the most touching and admiring observations shared by expats is the way older people are embraced and included in Spanish society. Unlike in many other countries where seniors might be relegated to nursing homes or less visible in public life, Spain seems to cherish its elderly population. Reddit users noted how common it is to see grandparents enjoying time with their teenage grandchildren in parks, cafes, and even as active participants in daily life. One user shared how beautiful it is to see older people socializing in the streets, sitting on benches, or simply enjoying a quiet moment in the sun. This visibility and integration of older people are a stark contrast to the more isolated experiences of seniors in countries like the United States, where elderly care is often institutionalized.
Another aspect of Spanish life that stood out to expats is the active role fathers play in family life. While some countries still struggle with traditional gender roles, Spain seems to have embraced a more modern and affectionate approach to fatherhood. Commenters marveled at how Spanish men are openly affectionate with their families and actively involved in childcare. One user pointed out the common sight of fathers taking their children for walks or outings without the mother, a scene that’s far less common in places like the UK or Ireland. This warmth and involvement of fathers not only reflect a progressive attitude toward parenting but also highlight the strong sense of family that is deeply rooted in Spanish culture.
Spanish customs and daily habits also left a lasting impression on expats, particularly when it came to unique traditions like the use of Persiana shutters. These lightweight, adjustable shutters are a staple in Spanish homes and are used to block out light and keep homes cool during the hot Mediterranean summers. Expats quickly fell in love with this practical invention, with one user even expressing bewilderment that such a simple yet effective solution isn’t more common in other countries. The ability to create a cool, dark environment during the day without resorting to heavy drapes or expensive blackout curtains is something that many foreigners quickly grew to appreciate.
Of course, not all aspects of Spanish life were immediately endearing to expats. One of the biggest culture shocks for many was the notoriously late bedtime routines, especially for children. While it’s no secret that Spaniards tend to dine late and stay up well into the night, the reality still surprised many foreigners. Reddit users shared stories of children playing in plazas well after midnight and of parents who seemed completely unfazed by their kids’ late bedtimes. One expat even admitted to wearing earplugs at night to block out the sound of neighbors watching TV or talking in the hallway, noting that such late-night noise seemed to be socially acceptable in Spain. While some found this relaxed attitude toward time charming, others struggled to adjust to the lack of a traditional bedtime routine.
Another challenge expats faced was the thin walls in Spanish buildings, which often left little to the imagination when it came to the daily activities of neighbors. From the sound of chairs being dragged across floors to the unmistakable noise of someone using the bathroom, the lack of sound insulation was a frequent source of frustration. While some expats found humor in the situation, others yearned for the thicker walls and greater privacy they were used to in their home countries. That said, not all hope was lost—some noted that older buildings or those with thicker walls could provide a bit more peace and quiet for those willing to seek them out.
Lastly, the unique pavement etiquette in Spain left many expats both amused and frustrated. Walking down a sidewalk in Spain can sometimes feel like navigating an obstacle course, as locals seem to have a knack for occupying the entire width of the pavement. One user humorously described how an older woman with a grocery cart managed to subtly shift her position to block their path, seemingly without even noticing. Others pointed out how groups of people would stop to chat in the middle of sidewalks or even in front of business entrances, completely unaware of the commotion they were causing. While this carefree attitude toward public spaces can be endearing, it can also make navigating busy areas a bit of a challenge for foreigners.
One final topic that sparked debate among expats was the quality of coffee in Spain. While some raved about how even the most unassuming bars served incredible coffee, others were less than impressed. One user shared their amazement at how consistently good the coffee was, even in places that looked like they hadn’t been updated in decades. Others, however, were less enthusiastic, with one person likening the coffee to “terrible” and another noting that even in the smallest bars, the coffee seemed to fall short of expectations. This divide in opinion highlighted the subjective nature of taste, but it also added to the charm of Spain’s vibrant café culture, where every cup tells a story.
In summary, Spain is a country that is full of life, tradition, and a deep sense of community. From the way older people are cherished and included in everyday life to the affectionate and active role of fathers, there’s a warmth and connection to family that is truly special. While some aspects of Spanish life, like the late hours, thin walls, and quirky pavement etiquette, might take some getting used to for expats, they also add to the unique charm and character of this incredible country. Whether it’s the timeless charm of Persiana shutters, the unpredictability of bedtime routines, or the rich flavors of Spanish coffee, there’s no denying that Spain is a place that leaves a lasting impression on those who call it home.
