Investment Immigration before understanding Spain: For Spaniards, the word HOLA (hello) is something they say dozens of times a day. Whenever they come into contact with someone, regardless of whether they know them or not, the first thing they say is HOLA, often adding good morning, good afternoon, or good evening. Neighbors who may not usually interact will still greet each other with a hello. Many Chinese people visiting Spain for the first time learn the word HOLA as their first phrase, while foreigners learning Chinese often learn the translation of HOLA first, as it is undoubtedly the most basic and important greeting in human interaction.
Unlike the reserved nature of Chinese people, Spaniards are a passionate and expressive people, and this is reflected in their body language. Friends or relatives who haven’t seen each other for a long time must share a tight, long hug, often accompanied by tears of joy. When being introduced for the first time, it is customary for men and women, or women with women, to hug and exchange kisses on both cheeks, while men greet each other with a handshake, introducing themselves and expressing pleasure in meeting one another. If a large group of friends meets, it can take a long time as everyone hugs and greets each other. I once attended a birthday party for a classmate, and one parent arrived late. We were all gathered around a long table drinking and snacking, and as she entered, she started greeting everyone one by one, hugging and kissing around the table until she finished. By the time she was done, a bearded dad next to me had already consumed two hamburgers and half a cup of cola...
BESO in Spanish means kiss, which is a sensitive term for us Chinese. It seems to be used only between lovers and family, but here it is quite common. While driving, I often hear on the radio that hosts, after talking to listeners, will often say BESO to them, sometimes adding FUERTE (strong) or MUY FUERTE (very strong), even when they have never met before. When I call or text Spanish friends, I always receive many BESO messages, and over time, I have gotten used to it, as it is simply their way of expressing greetings.