Españoles

¿Como son los Españoles? ....

While living abroad I have definitely learned how to spot out a Spaniard from other Europeans walking down the street. It is not to fair to generalize, but I am going to do so, mostly for memories sake, so I can read back on this later after the image has already faded.

Like other Europeans, Spaniards are much more close, in terms of personal space. They kiss once on each cheek whenever they greet someone, whether it be a stranger or a family member. Streets here are a lot smaller, with narrow sidewalks, so people are more comfortable walking directly in your line of path; more often than not, no one moves out of your way. If it's raining out then you have to be extra careful not to get poked in the eye with an umbrella. However, no one talks on their cell phones or listens to I pods on the street.

Although they might not jabber away on blackberries, Spaniards in general are much more stylish than Americans. They might not wear Gucci or D&G like the Italians, but they have a definite style. Mostly it consists of black, or other dark colors, with boots, leggings, skinny jeans or flats. Hardly ever do women show their bare legs, even with shorts they wear tights. Many students here think they are crazy for dressing this way with the sun beating down they way it has been.

In my opinion, this is not as crazy as the white trash teenagers, with their ridiculous style. Weird haircuts and highlights, bright colored shirts and baggy jeans (almost a modern day Jnco that tightens at the ankle) - baggy jeans for girls mind you, the boys wear tight little jeans. It is definitely interesting to look at, almost like Jersey shore meets Spain.

More than meets the eye... Spaniards are intense people, regardless of style. When they talk to you they stop what they are doing and look you directly in the eye. Questions are direct and forward; being politically correct hardly exists in Spain. Chinos are little convenience stores, owned by Chinese people and just happened to be called Paki's in Barcelona. Weird. Either way, if you accidentally bump into a Spaniard on the street (which you will) they give you a death stare and dramatic huff, as if it's your fault you couldn't melt away into the building wall to avoid running into them.

Despite the glares on the street, they enjoy having fun. In fact, a huge stereotype is that Spaniards don't work at all and only drink wine. However, I am starting to wonder if it's true. After all, stores close for a few hours everyday during siesta and even a friends 83 year old Senora stays out at the bars drinking wine and enjoying tapas until 12 at night. The streets and bars are always full of people, their kids, and their dogs. No need for a sitter, little ones are forced to stay out as long as their parents and often times fall asleep in chairs alongside the bar, or out on the terrace.

Music is just another ingredient for a good time. After spending a couple nights out with a University band called Tuna. They wear 17th century type clothing and play at various bars, often fun dancing songs that everyone seems to know the lyrics too. Ellie and I have even started to rock "solamente tu, y tu y tu y nadie más que tu".

While Spaniards might not be as environmentally conscious as the Scandinavians, they do live a more green way of life within the city. Hallway lights in apartment buildings and most public bathroom turn off after two minutes. They are only allowed a certain amount of hot water each day. Most of this is because energy is costly here, as it should be to encourage people to use less of it. I am going to miss seeing Coca-Cola workers wheel stacked crates of empty glass bottles to their trucks, taken away to be washed, refilled and reused.

Almost a much as I'll miss hearing the cutest little dark complected kids speaking Spanish in their high pitched voices, dressed in the latest fashion as well. The government gives parents 4000 € for each child they have, which makes for a lot of little children running wild. "No pasa nada" or no big deal, is often a popular parental method which leaves kids screaming, crying, or pouting in public places.

However, regardless of loud children, awkward teens, and wanderers on the sidewalk, Spaniards are wonderful, accepting people. Nearly everyone I have met is extremely relaxed and understanding. They know how to slow down and realize it's the simple things in life that are the most enjoyable, such as family, food, and an active culture.