In 2023, Spain exceeded 85 million international tourists, registering an increase of 18.7% compared to 2022 and 1.9% more than in 2019, reaching 85,056,528 visitors. Tourist spending also broke records, with 108,662 million euros, 24.7% more than the previous year and 18.2% more than pre-pandemic levels. It average expenditure per touristwas 1,278 euros, while daily spending reached 175 euros, reflecting a growth in quality tourism. In addition, the average length of stay increased to 7.3 days.
United Kingdom was the main source market, with 17.3 million tourists, followed by France and Germany. However, the United States stands out as the fastest growing market, with a 38.7% increase in arrivals and a 50% increase in spending. Catalonia has positioned itself as a preferred destination, welcoming more than 18 million tourists, followed by the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands. In terms of spending, Catalonia and the Canary Islands come out on top, exceeding 20 billion euros. In December 2023, Spain also broke records by receiving 5.2 million touristsan increase of 26.2% over one year.
Spanish customs that tourists hate
In the 1960s, Spain transformed its tourist image with the slogan “Spain is different!”, a campaign that used the negative perception of the country as an attraction for tourists looking for liberation from conventions. This strategy has helped transform Spain’s image from an underdeveloped country to an attractive tourist destination, known for its wide range of leisure activities, its landscapes and its fascinating culture. However, some old stereotypes persist in the perception that foreigners have of our country.
Among the Spanish customs that are incomprehensible to visitors, there is the instantwhich some consider a waste of time, although recent studies suggest that a short nap may be beneficial.
Another tradition is desktop computeran extension of meals for socializing, which clashes with the culture of foreigners accustomed to fast food. The lack of punctuality and meal and party times in Spain also surprises those who come from cultures where punctuality and efficiency are priorities. These aspects of Spanish culture remain difficult to understand for many tourists.
Meal times
Mealtime is a key moment of the day, with times that vary considerably depending on the country. In some places, such as Norway, Sweden and FinlandLunch is eaten early, between 11:00 and 11:30, a custom very different from the Spanish one. In Spain, it is eaten between 13:30 and 15:00, being one of the countries with the latest meal times. Russia and Poland also follow similar schedules, while Greece is the country where lunch is eaten later, around 15:30.
On the other hand, in countries like France, Germany, Portugal, United KingdomIn Belgium and the Netherlands, the meal takes place between 12:00 and 12:30, which is a happy medium compared to Spain. The differences in meal times reflect the different cultural and professional customs of each country.
Instant
The origin of the siesta dates back to ancient Rome, where “the sixth hour”that is, noon, was the time of rest during the hottest day. In Spain, this practice became popular after the Civil War, when workers, holding several jobs, took advantage of the midday break to rest and regain energy.
Biologically, napping responds to the natural need for rest after eatingwhen blood concentrates in the digestive system. Its benefits are numerous: it reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases by reducing stress and blood pressure, and improves concentration and learning.
Studies from the University of Berkeley and the Harvard Medical School reveal that napping can boost memory, creativity and problem-solving abilities by facilitating the storage of information and connection of ideas during REM sleep.
International customs that surprise travelers
Visiting a country is not just about seeing its monuments; it also means know and respect their customs. In southern China, for example, it is common to leave half of a fish intact to avoid bad luck.
In ThailandThe head is considered the most sacred part of the body, while the feet are considered unclean; therefore, touching someone’s head is a serious mistake and you should apologize immediately if it happens. In Austria, tips are only given for exceptional service.
Greetings also vary: in Saudi Arabia and in the United Arab Emirates, men greet each other by rubbing noses instead of shaking hands. In South Korea, it is crucial to wait for the oldest person at the table to start eating, and in Afghanistan, picking up and kissing a piece of bread that has fallen to the ground is a sign of respect for food.
Understand and respect these local customs enriches the travel experience.
