Spanish
Customs One may find that interaction between
men and women in Spain differs slightly from other countries.
Here, physical contact is more common than, say, in the U.S.
To Spaniards, greetings and farewells are a big deal.
In a business context, shaking hands is
the norm, both between men and women. For other occasions,
men will either shake hands with each other or if among
friends and relatives, may embrace.
Women will greet each other with a kiss on each cheek, and
this is the way men greet women in informal meetings. Such
contact is normal and does not imply or mean anything further
than a greeting or farewell.
Spaniards generally stand at a much closer
physical distance when conversing than foreigners may be
accustomed to. It would be considered rude to step back.
Spaniards also tend to speak a lot with
their hands, gesturing for emphasis. It would also be considered
rude to mimic them.
Generally both men and women enjoy each other’s company
and may openly acknowledge this with a dazzling smile, and
be warm and flirtatious. This may not necessarily mean anything
though and can be considered as being part of Spanish nature.
It will of course, depend on each particular situation,
but don’t jump to hasty conclusions.
Machismo in Spain
Traditionally, Spanish
men have been known for their macho and chauvinistic behavior
towards women. This however, has changed drastically over
the last years and much less of this sort of attitude is seen
nowadays.
Even so, standards are not what you
may expect to find in the U.K. or in the U.S. and women,
especially if traveling alone, can expect flirtatious comments
to be called her way.
This is referred to as “piropeo”
and is quite common not only in Spain, but also in Latin
American countries. Although this may seem rude or annoying,
generally no harm is meant and is simply a natural way for
men to express their admiration for women.
These flirtatious comments are called
"piropos", and some of the most common
include the traditional “mi amor!”
or “guapa!”
While it is acceptable for a visiting
businesswoman to invite a businessman to dinner in a business
context, it is still extremely difficult for a Spaniard
to let a woman pay for his meal. He will expect to pay.
Dating
in Spain
Dating and courtship rules have gradually been changing throughout
the world as time has gone by. This is evident in some countries
more than others. Even though Spain is considered a modern
country, one will still find that many of the Spanish are
still more traditional in this aspect.
Caballerosidad, Spanish for chivalry or gentlemanly
courtesy is still common throughout Spain and women can expect
to have doors held open for them, to be helped out of their
coats, to be allowed first on elevators etc.
Even so, especially among teens, it is becoming more and more
common for both girls and boys to ask each other out and split
the cost of the evening’s outing and entertainment.
Flirting
Flirting, as anywhere else in the world, is basically communication.
It involves getting the right message across. Remember:
Spaniards
value personal pride, character and breeding, as well as
individualism.
Modest
behavior is appreciated and flaunting superiority, intelligence
and ability is generally regarded a turn-off.
Personal
appearance, image and human relationships are very important
so be sure to put some thought into your outfit and attire
as well as your greetings and farewells if you’re
interested in making a good impression.
Apart
from your behavior, looks and body-language, words form
an important part of flirting. That’s where knowing
the language comes in handy. This is just another of the
many possibilities that speaking a language can bring you
closer to.
