Millions of Britons head to Spain every year and many of them stand out as tourists, not quite fitting in with the local culture.
Fortunately, one Spanish pilot has revealed all the tips and tricks needed to blend in like a local.
From eating habits to clothing choices, Vueling First Officer Maite Pagès has plenty of advice to share.
Sangria is a popular beverage Brits enjoy in the sunshine, but Maite describes it as ‘tourist bait’.
‘We usually leave the sangria-sipping to tourists – that tempting ice-cold jug is pure tourist bait,’ she says.
Maite encourages holidaymakers to avoid ordering sangria and go for more authentic Spanish drinks.
‘To get a true taste of Spanish drinking instead, try a Tinto de Verano (red wine and lemon soda) or a refreshing Clara (beer with lemonade),’ the pilot adds.
‘If you’re in Valencia, you have to try the creamy, nutty Horchata that even locals queue for and pair with beloved fartons (pastries dusted with icing sugar).’
From eating habits to clothing choices, Vueling First Officer Maite Pagès (pictured) has plenty of advice to share
Maite encourages holidaymakers to avoid ordering sangria and go for more authentic Spanish drinks (stock)
Sangria isn’t the only drink Brits needs to rethink, according to the pilot, iced coffee is off the cards too.
‘Iced coffee might be your go-to in the UK, but in Spain, you’ll likely be handed a hot espresso and a glass of ice to DIY your drink,’ Maite explains.
‘Embrace our local coffee culture and save the vanilla iced lattes for back home! We prefer our coffee hot, short, and strong, so try a café con leche in the morning or a cortado for a boost in the afternoon.’
Meals differ too, and while a sandwich and a packet of crisps is a typical lunch in Britain, in Spain it’s more of a ‘big deal’.
‘To act like a real local, I would recommend taking at least an hour or two to enjoy your lunch sat in your apartment or a restaurant,’ Maite says.
Locals tend to eat later, too, and ‘with style’ according to the pilot.
‘If you want to blend in, I’d suggest grabbing an aperitivo and wandering into a local spot – and prepare for a whole evening of eating and drinking,’ she adds.
‘To be totally honest, forget booking altogether – the best meals are often found by drifting into tiny joints that don’t even have menus.’
Meals differ too, and while a sandwich and a packet of crisps is a typical lunch in Britain, in Spain it’s more of a ‘big deal’
Sleep schedules differ between Brits and the Spanish, especially because of the bustling nightlife.
Maite warns, ‘Bars don’t get busy until at midnight at the earliest, so don’t expect to be rolling into bed until at least 3 or 4am!’
But the late nights and hot weather are rewarded with a nap or rest in the afternoon, which isn’t typical in British culture.
The pilot says, ‘Everything slows down in the afternoon heat. Between 2pm and 5pm, shops close, streets empty, and we like to rest up. It’s a lifestyle!
‘Embrace our slower afternoons and you’ll have more energy to enjoy dinner the Spanish way; late, leisurely, and alfresco at 10pm.’
Spanish style is very different to British, too, and the holiday essentials many tourists wear doesn’t quite match the local vibe.
‘Leave the flip-flops and sarongs at the beach,’ Maite urges.
‘We take pride in dressing to impress, even if we’re just heading out to grab some fresh bread.
Sleep schedules differ between Brits and the Spanish, especially because of the bustling nightlife
‘A stylish yet comfortable outfit goes a long way towards blending in.’
Though it might be comfortable, Maite also warns against wearing socks and sandals for Brits wanting to fit in.
‘You might think you’re rocking Euro summer casual, but locals probably won’t agree,’ she says.
‘If it’s too chilly for sandals, wear shoes. If it’s warm enough for sandals, your ankles can definitely handle the breeze!’
