What is cultural richness? Cultural richness is a result of precious ressources part of a culture. From warm to cold, from mountains to sea, it is fair to say that within Spain, the culture and traditions are extremely rich and customs differ from region to region. This article will cover the most acknowledged differences you must know before booking your trip to Spain, this way, you will know exactly where to go and which geographic area suits you better. 

Table of Contents:

1. North and South distinction
2. The Centre of Spain
3. The Spanish Lifestyle

North and South distinction

The whole of Spain is a mixture of blood and cultures, but in Andalusia, this mixture is the most dense. It is a mix between Arabian beauty and gipsy blood. Andalusia comprises most of the stereotypes and general ideas the rest of the world has of Spain such as the siesta or the flamenco, however, it is much more than that. There are three main classifications to be considered when trying to understand the Andalusian culture: the art, the traditions and folklore. The pilmgrimages, carnival, the Holy week and the Feria are what make their culture so special and rich. Andalusia is knwon to be warm, festive and always sunny, this is the motto that best defines this region. People are friendly and welcoming, the quality of life is high and its beauty will completely absord you.

If you get the chance to visit the South of Spain, you will discover the folklore of Andalusia, the splendours of the past, the beaches of Murcia and the taste of the Valencia paella. In that area, Murcia is known to have beautiful beaches, so, do not miss out on the opportunity to discover them and participate in our next raffle.

There is a constant debate between locals about which is better between the North and the South of Spain. It is indeed a difficult one to solve as they are both extremely unique and fascinating.

The north of Spain is known for its beautiful coastline. Although the people there might seem cold at first, as is their weather, they are also very welcoming and open minded. In the Basque Coast you will find breathtaking landscapes along with haute cuisine. In San Sebastian, and in the north in general, food is served in portions called pintxos which are very popular and honour the deliciousness of the city. The north of Spain is green and lush and has a rich historical heritage. When speaking of the geographical area, we include Calicia, Cantabria, Asturias, Navarra, La Rioja, Basque Country and some areans of northern Castilla León and Aragón. Regions such as Galicia and the Basque Country have their own language which encourages that feeling of pride in their origin. Northern Spain is also home to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostella where the famous pilgrimage of the Camino de Santiago ends and the incredible Cies Islands. 

Other regions of northern Spain have a strong French influence such as the Basque Country, this influence is also noticeable in their refined and world renowned cuisine. The Basque Country has an official language called Euskera which is completely different to the Spanish language and any other languages.

Likewise, Navarra, whose capital is Pamplona, use to be as culturally independent as the Basque country. The famous running of bulls takes place in Pamplona during the San Fermín festival which occurs every month of July. On top of this, gastronomy is a big part of their culture as Navarra is the garden of the Basque  Country and its gastronomy is influenced by the latter, with their wine, their cheese, their red meat and their pintxos.

Cantabria and Asturias are not as culturally different from the rest of Spain as is the Basque Country. In those autonomous communities you will find that they are inspired by a strong Celtic influence, as well, you will discover the heart of Spain's nature.

The Centre of Spain

Much more than a capital, Madrid is the royal city of Spain. It is a dynamic European city with museums and surroundings that are well worth a visit. Spanish people, and more significantly the people of Madrid, have trouble staying inside and prefer being outside with their friends, colleagues of family enjoying a beer and some delicious tapas even in the coldest day of winter.

In short, Madrid is a city that never sleeps, there, you will be submerged in the fast moving lifestyle characterised by a hunger of enjoying yourself, good food, arts and culture. Madrid is surrounded by green and mountains, in that area you will find amazing cities that will make you travel in time. Not far from the capital, you will find Toledo, a city that is against a hill and overlooks the Tagus River. A walk through its narrow streets will take you to the emblematic places of themedieval city. 

Spain has often being called one of the most beautiful countries in the world, it is home of 43 cultural sites and a lifestyle that will make you never want to leave the country.

The Spanish Lifestyle

Before considering moving to Spain or travelling there, there are some enticing customs to be noted, and this includes the whole peninsula and its islands. Spanish people live differently than other European countries regardless them being on the same time zone. They have another rythm, if you are a night owl you will love living there. In Spain everything is a step behind, lunch starts from 2 Pm and dinner around 10 Pm, the closing of the shops goes after 8 Pm, and some go as far as 12 Pm in the capital of Madrid. This is also due to their adapted schedule which includes an almuerzo at 11 Am, which is a salty snack, the mainstream siesta and the closing of shops between 2 Pm and 5 Pm. However, once settled in Spain, these will come naturally to you as you will most likely be completely submerged in the culture.

Notably, once you get acquainted with Spanish people, you will most likely only be home for sleep. Spaniards live outside, Spain is the country  with the highest number of bars per capita in the European Union. Additionally, you will find how comfortable people are around each other, when addressing someone they will always refer to "you" in the second person singular. This habit is a good thing as it directly breaks down the barriers and social distance that are too often created according to which "you" you may you use. Last but not least, and this is a noteworthy point, Spaniards are loud, whether in a restaurant, public transportation or the street, people are unfiltered, remember, the further you go down the south, the louder it gets.

All of these noteworthy points create the Spanish image of welcoming, warm and easy going lifestyle.

So whether you are more of a North person, a South person or a mediterranean coast person, we guarantee you will find a home wherever you decide to go. This being, do not miss out on the opportunity of finding a home in Spain and participate in our next raffle.