In formal social settings, Spaniards typically wear conservative suits with white shirts and ties. They favor the color black, so they generally wear black leather shoes. It is customary for Spanish women to wear earrings when going out; otherwise, they may be teased as if they were not fully dressed. Additionally, in some parts of Spain, women enjoy wrapping captured fireflies in thin gauze.
Gestural Etiquette: Local women have a "language of the fan." For example, if a woman opens her fan and covers the lower part of her face, it means: "I love you, do you like me?" If she opens and closes it repeatedly, it means: "I miss you very much." Therefore, women new to Spain should avoid using a fan if they do not understand this language.
Greeting Etiquette: In formal social settings, Spaniards typically greet guests with a handshake or a kiss. When meeting acquaintances, male friends often embrace tightly. Spanish names usually consist of three or four parts: the first one or two parts are the personal name, the second-to-last is the father's surname, and the last is the mother's surname. Usually, people are addressed by their father's surname.
Dining Etiquette: The staple food for Spaniards is primarily wheat-based, though they also eat rice. They enjoy sour and spicy foods and generally avoid dishes that are overly greasy or salty. It is customary to have yogurt and fruit for breakfast, while lunch and dinner are usually accompanied by beer, wine, or brandy, followed by coffee and fruit after the meal.
Ceremonial Etiquette: The weddings of the Basque people in Spain follow a set of traditional customs. It is traditionally believed that Tuesday is a "lucky day," so weddings are generally held on this day. The ceremony must be conducted in a church according to the rites prescribed by the Catholic Church, followed by a banquet and a dance. Spain has numerous festivals, such as Carnival, the Gastronomy Festival, and Easter. To commemorate the famous Spanish writer Cervantes, he is honored every year on April 23rd.
Business Etiquette: Spaniards place great importance on credibility and always strive to fulfill signed contracts. Even if they later discover unfavorable terms, they are reluctant to openly admit their mistakes. If the other party can kindly assist them in such situations, they will earn the respect and friendship of the Spaniards. Spaniards are only strictly punctual when attending bullfighting events, but guests should remain punctual and should not blame the other party even if they arrive late.
Travel Etiquette: Spaniards are cheerful and enthusiastic but easily excitable; sometimes arguments are normal, and they are accustomed to this. When Spaniards are eating, they will politely invite those around them to share, but this is merely a gesture of etiquette; do not accept it rashly, or they will consider it a lack of upbringing.
Main Taboos: In Spain, do not criticize bullfighting activities. If you are not familiar with the situation, it is best not to express any opinions on bullfighting. When visiting a Spanish home, you may bring fresh flowers; they are particularly fond of pomegranate flowers.
