Defining Culture and Expectations
Culture is essentially the way of life for a group of people. It involves many aspects like music, art, history, social constructs, food, values, beliefs, politics, and behaviors that define a region. Prior to preparing for this trip, I knew very little about Spain and Spanish culture. Upon doing some research and reading up on the handbook we were given by our director, I have developed a basic knowledge of what I can expect in Spain. I learned that Spaniards are much more personal and intimate with one another; they don't require a lot of personal space, they greet each other with kisses, and they make a lot of physical contact with those they are speaking to. I also learned that going out for tapas is a very popular activity in Spain and that bars are more family-friendly than in the United States. I know that the political system in Spain is a parliamentary monarchy, but I don't fully understand the logistics of this type of political system, so I look forward to learning m...