Jour des Lettres Galiciennes

📣 Conseils aux voyageurs

Spain is known for its welcoming atmosphere, vibrant culture, diverse cuisine, and rich history. It boasts a significant number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is celebrated for its lively traditions and festive lifestyle.

• New Year's Eve (Nochevieja) tradition involves eating 12 grapes at midnight.
• One grape is eaten for each of the 12 chimes heard from Puerta del Sol.
• The 'los cuartos' bells signal the final minutes before the New Year begins.
• Live broadcasts of the chimes are available on national TV channels.
• A fireworks display typically follows the midnight chimes.
• Public celebrations for New Year's Eve are common in major cities.
• Spaniards are generally friendly and expressive; however, it is important to remain tactful as they can be sensitive to direct confrontation. In social settings, interruptions and passionate debate are common. Respect family values and avoid criticizing others' relatives. While Spain is a predominantly Catholic country with many religious traditions, it is also a modern, secular society where diversity is respected. Be mindful of regional sensitivities regarding independence movements (Catalonia, Basque Country, Galicia) and the monarchy; these topics are best avoided or approached neutrally. In social interactions, double-cheek kisses are common for friends, while handshakes are standard for professional acquaintances. When dining, it is customary to wait until everyone is served before eating and to split the bill equally. Note that punctuality varies by region, with more relaxed timing often found in the south.