So it’s already been 2+ weeks in Barca, kinda crazy if you ask me! This week I would like to put a focus on some things that I’ve found quite interesting in terms of the locals here…. Do realize I have only been here for 2 weeks so please don’t base my experiences on your opinions of Spanish people.
But here’s what I’ve noticed, and also please feel free to comment back what your experiences have been while in Europe, as mine may be different.
1. The smoking culture, In the US in my opinion smoking cigarettes is not something a majority of people pursue especially after all of the law suits, and health warning in the past 20+ years. There is definitely your percentage of people that may smoke only when out drinking etc, and some that smoke because it is quite difficult to quit, and many former smokers that have overcome the addiction of nicotine. But I would say its safe to say most Americans are non smokers.
· In Spain and from what I have been told of most of Europe, everyone and their mother smokes cigarettes and it is common pastime. It doesn’t really add up to me, the exact reason why…. Within the past few months the Spanish Gov’t has outlawed smoking in public places i.e. restaurants, bars, subways, taxis, basically you can only on the streets and in the privacy of your own home( Sounds like America know right?) When I get off the metro and out to the street I almost always witness adults and yes even kids I swear they are like 10 all light up a cig, my question is why is it so popular?
Well today I went and had lunch and beers at a small local bar/café in my neighborhood, it was all locales, after chatting my best in Spanish with a couple about Spain and telling them I was an American studying here, I finally asked why do Spaniards smoke as much as they do(Keep in mind I witnessed this lady smoke a pack in an hour), The female told me “ It’s the culture we have and have always had, just like American’s like to drink a lot.” I told her” I guess I agree, but Europeans do drink anytime of the day on a daily basis, but Americans drink more in one sitting is true BUT after 5pm.” My only ? is what started this culture, and why is it so much different elsewhere in the world.
2. Second thing I have noticed is style is very different here from young to old there are some definite things I find much different then the US. Firstly, yes I will admit for the majority of locals they dress quite well a button down, with a nice coat and scarf is common, as well as nice slacks or expensive designer jeans, ooo and lets not forget the extremely common leather dress shoes. Women as well wear similar clothing. So yes Americans apparently dress far more casually then Europeans, if your buddy or for the ladies one of your girlfriends dressed that way often you would probably say “Damn looking classy today, whom are you trying to impress?”
· Piercings….. I have nothing against piercings at all, I think they can actually look quite decent at times on both women and men. BUT in Spain I swear many people young and old has something on their body pierced. In America, I would say it’s more than acceptable for women to have a small nose piercing, belly button, and for guys to have their ears pierced, that’s just the type of society we have grown into. In Spain though it seems like many people regardless of age have not only their ears pierced, but it is common to see more than one piercing on their eyebrows, lips, nose(or at least a ring in their nose) and who know’s what else they may be concealing! I am thinking of joining the trend and going all out this one.. JK. But really I find it very unique that body piercings are so popular.
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My Next favorite thing is the rocker look… I don’t have pictures yet but I will soon hopefully. But if any one has been wondering where all the Kiss, Van Halen, and other classic rock band members have went, Spain is a safe bet for a spot to look! Crazy permed long hair, tight jeans, black leather jackets and all!
Well that is enough about my observations for know, I hope to hear your experiences of such in Spain or other Europeans countries, AND I hope I didn’t offend anyone, we are all unique which is what makes the world go round and round.
That is it for me for this week people! Tomorrow- Fri sometime I will be traveling to Valencia, Spain with my study abroad program, doing a tour of Europe’s largest winery, a paella meal(FINALLY), and various other tours, as well as seeing the culture and nightlife in more of Spain.
I will update you all next week, take care, be safe, and enjoy life!
OOO almost forget here is a link to a hit song in Barcelona especially in Bars/Clubs it’s catchy I will try to give you all a new one weekly!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BXXzuQw5OIs&feature=related
Regards,
Eric
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