At first glance, Barcelona might seem like any American city. Spain isn't a third world country after all, and its people more or less lead the same lives we do?they go to work or class, eat, sleep, relax on the weekends, and so forth. Although the goals and routines seem universal, there are differences; however, these differences lie not in what is done, but how it is done.
After living in Barcelona for nearly four months, the differences between Spain and America continue to surface. These discrepancies are not necessarily noted by the typical weekend traveler, but are certainly recognized by a transplant resident. It should be mentioned though that these differences are not negative or "abnormal," they are just what they are?differences. For a Bowdoin junior turned cosmopolitan estudiante, the activities of my daily life haven't changed, just my methods for accomplishing them and my interactions along the way. So, here is a look at some of the surprises I have found during my stay.
Clotheslines?Seeing my laundry area sans dryer was rather shocking. After accepting the cruel reality that this wasn't a mere mistake and that I was...gasp...dryer-less, I wondered, "Did people really still live in such primitive conditions? Had I been that na?ve and clueless?" The answers to these questions were apparently yes. Not only is a dryer a necessity for today's girl on the go?who needs her clothes clean and dry and needs them clean and dry now!?but dryers are also a crucial item for returning skin-tight clothing to their...well... skin-tightness. Furthermore, beyond reasons of speed and vanity, clotheslines have become extinct in America on account of clothes blowing away and getting rained on...sigh...a daily battle.
PDA?When Justin Timberlake and the Black-Eyed Peas were wondering where the love was, they needn't look further than Barcelona. The rampant public displays of affection are truly a voyeur's dream.
Stair Master?Stairs seem like a practical way of adding a little exercise to everyday life. Depending on energy levels, a trek of three or four flights seems like a doable task; however, in Spain there is a little catch. Before reaching the first floor, there is entresuelo, principal, and THEN the desired destination of primero suelo. So, it should be noted that however ambitious you are feeling, make sure you add two to your targeted floor before passing up the elevator?I mean, there is a monumental difference between three and five flights of stairs.
YOU keep the change?Today obsolete for fueling laundry machines, it seems like quarters may soon become the new penny. However, in Spain, this is certainly not the case and change is hotter than ever. With one and two Euro coins, the delight of being able to buy dinner with change?and more importantly, not look homeless?is unparalleled.
Now, if only the Sacagawea would catch on.
Six days of the week??Sunday is often recognized as a day of rest; however, the concept is taken very literally in Spain. EVERYTHING is closed. Grocery stores, closed. Shops, closed. Life, apparently closed.
Adios Shorts?Shorts just don't happen in Spain. Whether jogging in the park or running to the corner store to grab some milk, be prepared for looks as if you were a sinner, whom God's wrath will come down upon at any minute.
College and Wide-Rule RULE?Lined-paper is nowhere to be found, only graph. Not just large writers like myself, but everyone, is plagued by the problem graph paper creates?a normal row is too small, yet utilizing two rows looks simply ridiculous. I long to return to my lined-paper days; however, this dream might become a reality sooner than I think since?fingers crossed?I have a friend who knows a guy who might be able to hook me up with a few notebooks.
Wal-Marvioulous!?How spoiled I was. The Wal-Mart idea has yet to hit Spain, and being able to get everything from snacks to electronics to ANYTHING all in one place for great prices is a luxury I had taken for granted.
Everybody's Doing It?In the early nineties, the hairdo that swept America was the "Rachel." The Friends star had girls and women alike running to their hairdressers, whipping out Jennifer Aniston magazine clippings, eager to leave the salon as the epitome of glamour with the layered look. The hair frenzy in Barcelona today is just as widespread, but the style is a little different?the mullet. Business in the front and party in the back, this hairstyle is so popular that it crosses not only social classes but also gender. From business men to trendy teenage girls, everyone rocks the mullet, each adding his or her individual personality. Some jazz up the 'do with colors and radical length gradations, while more conservative fans simply stick to a shorter, more mellow look.
Siesta?In Spain, naptime is for big kids too. With business hours usually taking a break from around 2:00 p.m. until 5 p.m., you too get to relax and kick it.
Fashion-Flop?Flip-flops are a staple of every college students' wardrobe. Essential for communal showers, running a quick errand, or enjoying warm weather, these shoes are unquestionably the most versatile footwear. However, although temperatures may be upwards of 60 degrees (perfect flip-flop christening time), when stepping out in such sandals, you will encounter stares and whispers. So, don't be surprised if you are riding the Metro and become victim to raised eyebrows and whispers of chanclas, meaning flip-flops.
Cultural gaps are inevitable. Changing environments means adjustments; however, this is what the experience is all about. If you go in with an open mind, living in a different country will be a continuous adventure full of fun and surprises.