Moving to another country is sure to take some getting used to, as you settle into a different culture and way of life.
One man who lived in Spain shared what he found the most difficult during the first month.
Speaking on the YouTube channel SpanishTravel, the expat said he quickly grew to understand and appreciate the way of life in Spain.
But initially, he struggled to adapt – “from the very first day, I realised I had a lot to learn”.
Spain is popular with expats
GETTY
He said: “The rhythm of life here is completely different from what I was used to. Shops close in the middle of the day for a siesta and dinner happens way later than I expected.
“And trying to order a simple coffee? That turned into an unexpected challenge.”
He explained the language barrier became more obvious as he struggled with the speed at which locals talk and the slang they use.
The expat said: “I thought my basic Spanish would be enough, but between rapid-fire conversations and local slang, I quickly realised I was way out of my depth.”
What he found most difficult, however, was adapting to the culture. Mainly, meal timings and how to greet people.
The YouTube continued: “The real challenge? Adapting to the unwritten rules of Spanish social life.
“Here, meals last hours and people greet you with cheek kisses instead of handshakes. Also, spontaneity is a way of life. At first, it was overwhelming.”
While the cultural differences were challenging at first, the expat soon adapted and appreciated how things were done.
The expat said he found dining difficult to adapt to
GETTY
During his first month, he explained “little by little, I started to get it”. The YouTuber added: “The best way to truly understand a culture is to live it.
“So, instead of sticking to tourist spots, I threw myself into everyday life. And let me tell you, it was an eye-opening experience.”
This comes as a travel expert shares problems expats face when moving to Spain, telling expats that it is not all “picture perfect”.
Source link
Post comments (0)