Just walking in Barcelona
Credit: Domenico Convertin, Flickr
With its passionate flamenco, delicious tapas, and storied past, Spain s culture attracts and holds on to its foreign residents.
As a result, many expats find themselves deeply connected to the unique experiences and quality of life that Spain provides.
The Weather and Relaxed Way of Life
From the sunny beaches of Costa del Sol to the temperate climate of Andalucia, Spain s weather is a significant draw for many.
The usual sunny climate, with an average of 3,000 hours of sunshine per year, seems to be the key factor for many expatriates and immigrants deciding to move to the country.
On the Euro Weekly News Facebook page, responses like Sunshine all summer and The weather were extremely popular when people were asked what they would bring from Spanish culture if they had to move back to their country of origin.
Complementing the love for summer weather is Spain’s daily rhythm, characterized by the famous siesta. This practice allows for a balance of work and free time that is desired worldwide.
The siesta, which consists of a nap taken in the afternoon usually after lunch, dates back to the agricultural communities of Spain, where taking a break during the hottest part of the day was necessary.
Today, this tradition is embraced by many. As one reader noted, For my part, siesta is a necessity sunshine too. Another added, The relaxed culture with a glass of wine after work.
Culinary and Community
The tradition of tapas, which has its historical roots in the 13th century when King Alfonso X ordered taverns to serve food with wine to prevent drunkenness, continues to be a social activity in Spanish culture.
The country’s cultural emphasis on community and healthcare also stands out. Their flexibility and solidarity was mentioned by some readers, reflecting the community and supportive nature of Spanish society.
No return ticket
Interestingly, a significant number of readers expressed a strong commitment to Spain, indicating they had no plans to return to their countries of origin. Statements like Not going back to the UK for any reason, my life, my home is in Spain, and Not planning on returning to the UK! Loving living in Spain! reveal a deep sense of belonging and contentment with their lives in the country.
For some, the idea of leaving Spain was unimagined without the possibility of return. A return ticket back to Spain was mentioned, showing not just passion for the culture but a heartfelt connection to their adopted country.
The responses from foreigners who have settled in Spain illustrate what makes the country so special to them. For many, Spain is now not just a place they have moved to, it s a place they have truly come to call home.
Sign up for personalised news
Subscribe to our Euro Weekly News alerts to get the latest stories into your inbox!
By signing up, you will create a Euro Weekly News account if you don’t already have one. Review our
Privacy Policy for more information about our privacy practices.
Known as the PEOPLE’S PAPER, Euro Weekly News is the leading English language newspaper in Spain. And it’s FREE!
Covering the Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, Almeria, Axarquia, Mallorca and beyond, EWN supports and inspires the individuals, neighbourhoods, and communities we serve, by delivering news with a social conscience. Whether it’s local news in Spain, UK news or international stories, we are proud to be the voice for the expat communities who now call Spain home.
With around half a million print readers a week and over 1.5 million web views per month, EWN has the biggest readership of any English language newspaper in Spain. The paper prints over 150 news stories a week with many hundreds more on the web – no one else even comes close.
Our publication has won numerous awards over the last 25 years including Best Free Newspaper of the Year (Premios AEEPP), Company of the Year (Costa del Sol Business Awards) and Collaboration with Foreigners honours (Mijas Town Hall). All of this comes at ZERO cost to our readers. All our print and online content always has been and always will be FREE OF CHARGE.
Sign up for personalised news
Subscribe to our Euro Weekly News alerts to get the latest stories into your inbox!
By signing up, you will create a Euro Weekly News account if you don’t already have one. Review our Privacy Policy for more information about our privacy practices.
Close
