Flirting in Spain
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.
Learn about other Spanish customs at one of our Spanish Language Courses.
