Spain is an extraordinary country with such a variety of places to explore, people to meet, food to try, music to hear… and the list goes on. Whether you love being outdoors or exploring museums, going out on the town or sampling delicious tapas and wine, you will feel like you’re in paradise in Spain. It’s a country with many quirks, so it can be helpful to have a few tips to follow before you go!
Siestas
Keep in mind when you visit Spain that from about 2-5 pm each day, there is a siesta time where most businesses close and people go home to rest. Cafes and restaurants will still be open during this time, so if you want to be out, it’s best to plan for lunch around this time and dinner after 9! The culture in Spain eats dinner very late anyway, so you’ll fit right in.
Late night fever
As previously mentioned, the time for eating dinner in Spain is generally quite late. Most people won’t even think of going out for dinner until 9 pm! This is when you’ll see the restaurants begin seating people outside and the appetizers start coming out. Because people eat dinner so late here, the nightlife scene begins after midnight and goes easily until sunrise. So if you’re a night owl, you’ll feel right at home here.
Internet
Don’t expect super fast Wi-Fi in all of the cafes like you would at home. While you will find Wi-Fi available, it may not be up to your expectations everywhere. To counter this problem, bring along a device that can transmit Wi-Fi for you so you don’t have to miss an email. I connected Wi-Fi in Spain to all of my devices easily so work and personal catch-ups were not a problem.
Bathroom protocol
Don’t expect TP to be there for you in every restroom in Spain. If this is going to be an issue for you, it’s wise to carry a packet of tissues with you while you’re out and about town. Also, keep in mind that many light switches are actually on a timer, so you’ll have a minute or so and then you’ll have to flip the switch again!