How to adjust to the local culture in Barcelona
When settling into your new life in Barcelona, you'll experience a lifestyle that is probably different from what you're used to. Leaving one country and setting up in another can be a daunting experience but the Catalan capital's friendly atmosphere, cosmopolitan vibe and lively nature make it easier to adjust. Before long, you will most likely feel right at home.
When adjusting to the local culture, you may find mealtimes one of the biggest challenges. Lunch is typically at 2:00 pm, and dinner is no earlier than 8:00 pm. In fact, most Barcelonians will have their evening meal between 9:00 pm and 10:00 pm.
As far as meals are concerned, an average weekday may look something like this:
8:00 am: Breakfast of a coffee and a croissant or tostada (toasted bread with a topping) on the way to work. Many bars and cafés provide breakfasts up until midday.
11:00 am: Mid-morning break which may include a coffee or juice, perhaps accompanied by a small snack such as a sandwich of ham, chorizo or cheese.
2:00 pm: Lunch is the biggest meal of the day. If you're dining out, you will find that even the fanciest restaurants offer menu del dias (menu of the day) at attractive prices.
Many shops and businesses will close for at least a couple of hours at lunchtime, allowing employees to enjoy their food without rushing, followed by a siesta or afternoon nap.
At any time: A caña (a glass of beer) or a glass of wine accompanied by a tapa (an appetiser or snack).
9:00 pm to 10:00 pm: The late evening meal will usually be something light if you eat at home.
10:00 pm onwards: As you might expect, there are lots of late-night places where you can let your hair down. Barcelona's nightlife is among the liveliest in the country, with cocktail bars, live music venues, discos and nightclubs
Shopping
While lots of small shops close for lunch and siesta, the big brands do not, so this can be an excellent time to go shopping when fewer people are out and about. Also, many shops stay open until late in the evening, around 9:00 pm or 10:00 pm, so you can get in a spot of retail therapy after work if you want.
Shops are closed on most Sundays and public holidays.
Good to know:
Barcelona may have a slower pace of life than what you're used to, especially if you come from a city where life is experienced at a dizzying rate of knots.
Living outdoors
With such a favourable climate, Barcelona's residents spend a lot of their time outdoors. From beach trips and late-night parties to festivals and al fresco long lunches, expect to spend a considerable amount of time in the open air.
Adjusting to a new city
The best way to adjust to the local culture is to do so at your own rhythm. Give yourself time to get used to the pace of life and your new environment. Enjoy the experience of living in a beautiful city with stunning architecture, easy access to beaches and thrilling nightlife.
