teach in spain - UW Study Abroad

culture, history and traditions 115
Nevertheless, some Spaniards still maintain macho attitudes, and as a result, GLBTQ students
may feel somewhat ostracized, particularly in smaller cities and rural areas. Generally speaking, it
is important to be conscious of culture differences and work with these differences in a way that
makes you feel comfortable.
Please note that the word maricón is commonly used as an expletive in Spain. A person who
uses this word may not be homophobic; he/she may just not think that this word offends. If you
would like to learn more about GLBTQ issues in Seville, we strongly suggest that you contact the
following organization:
COLEGA – Sevilla
Cuna 16 primera planta
41001 Sevilla
Tel: 954 501377
www.colegaweb.org
For additional information, check out www.globalgayz.com/g-spain.html. This website offers
general information about the GLBTQ in Spain.
In addition, please pick up a copy of the CIEE Knowledge brochure, Identity.
Other Issues of Diversity. Students may find their height and weight to be a subject of
great interest to Spaniards. Spaniards are generally much thinner and shorter than Americans,
and these differences may elicit stares and comments.
Female students may frequently find themselves being referred to as gordita. While this may
seem rude, if not insulting, students should recognize that this term is often used as an expression
of tenderness and/or affection with no negative messages concerning body weight attached.
SOCIAL HABITS IN SPAIN
Time
Spaniards are well known for their less structured notion of time and generally slower pace of
life. In informal situations, time seems to be of little importance in Spain. Showing up 20 to 30
minutes late to meet a friend is not at all unusual. Also, Spaniards can spend hours in a café just
chatting with a classmate (what Americans might consider wasting time).
In more formal situations, however, time has about the same value as in the United States.
You are expected to show up to appointments on time. This includes doctor’s appointments,
interviews, volunteer jobs, certain dinner invitations, etc. It is considered somewhat rude to keep
someone waiting, other than a good friend or family member, for more than just a couple of
minutes.
culture, history, and
traditions
Smoking
In January 2006, Spain instituted new anti-smoking regulations which restrict smoking in the
workplace, as well as in some bars and restaurants. Smoking is also prohibited in public places
such as hospitals, government buildings, and department stores. You’ll quickly learn, however,
that Spain continues to be a smoker’s paradise and, despite these new laws, people are still able
to light up just about anywhere.
Rarely do people ask if you mind if they smoke. Rather, smokers will usually offer you a cigarette
(proper smokers’ etiquette) and then light up. Some people might be offended if you ask them to
not smoke in your presence. Use common sense. It may take some getting used to, but smoking
is a habit that you’ll need to tolerate while in Spain.
As much as smoke in closed areas may bother you, try not to make it your personal crusade to
turn Spain into a smoke-free environment. Unfortunately, this is a battle that you simply can’t win,
at least not during your relatively short time in Spain.