The vibrant atmosphere of Spain is the best destination to unwind and let go of your worries. Channel your energy through the flamenco fiesta. Feast your eyes on the masterpieces of Gaudi. Indulge your palate with pintxos and cider. You can also wander around the panoramic views of Alhambra. But before you start planning on those things, make sure you know about these things below:
1. Most Places Close on Siesta Time
Spanish people do not believe in overworking themselves, so they invest in a resting time called “siesta”. Linguistically, “siesta” means rest. It starts around six hours after sunrise, which means around 2 pm. People usually take 3-4 hours of siesta before starting to work again. Many shops, restaurants, and other businesses may close during this period. Take that into consideration when arranging your itinerary.
2. Locals Don’t Usually Order Sangria
Many tourists are excited about tasting sangria in its original place. Little did they know that locals don’t usually order sangria in bars. Sangria is commonly served in a large jug for groups instead of individuals. Ordering sangria in an individual glass will make people notice you are a tourist. Locals usually prefer beers or vermouths.
3. Meals Are Going to be Late
Eating out with locals may be challenging if you get hungry easily because mealtimes in Spain are later than the typical mealtimes in other countries. Lunch is usually around 2 to 4 pm, during the siesta time, while dinner is around 9 to 11 pm. Breakfast can be between 7 and 9 am, but most people only drink juices or coffees with a light pastry. Fortunately, there are mid-morning snacks (almuerzo) at 10 to 11.30 am and afternoon snacks (merienda) at 5 to 7 pm, which you can take advantage of to avoid starving yourself.
4. Research the Regions
Spain has 17 regions with different attractions. Do your research and plan accordingly instead of focusing on one area. Public transportation is reliable, so feel free to explore as far as possible. Here are some of the most popular regions for tourists:
- Catalonia: the center of Gaudi architecture and the medieval towns of Girona and Besalu.
- Andalusia: the region of flamenco, tapas, and the historical mosque-cathedral of Cordoba.
- Valencia: the home of tasty paella and sandy beaches of the Costa Blanca.
- Madrid: the lively city of vibrant nightlife and diverse culinary experience.
5. Know Where to Get Foods
Spanish cuisine is superb, but you must know how to get an authentic taste worth the money. If you fancy fine dining, Spain has several Michelin-starred restaurants, such as Mugaritz and Arzak in Basque Country and Aponiente in Andalusia. For an affordable street food experience, your options are La Boqueria in Barcelona, Mercado de San Miguel in Madrid, and Feria de Abril in Seville.
6. Plan Your Trip Around Festivals
Spain has 874 festivals per year, so there must be something worth attending around your planned visit. Here are some of the most popular festivals for you to consider:
- La Tomatina: A festival on the last Wednesday of August, where people throw ripe tomatoes at each other.
- San Fermin: A dangerous 400-year-old tradition in July where participants run ahead of a group of bulls in the street.
- Carnivals: The festivals of costume, dance, and music that mostly happen in February, a week before Ash Wednesday. Spain has many carnivals with various histories, styles, and locations. Some of the best ones are Carnival de Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Carnival of Cardiz, Carnival of Sitges, and Carnival of Verin.
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