One cultural practice in Spain that I initially found unfamiliar was the concept of “siesta”. In Spain, it is common for business to close during the afternoon hours for a midday break, allowing people to rest and recharge before resuming their workday. I remember feeling surprised and even a little frustrated when I first encountered this practice, as I was used to a different work schedule in my country. However, as time went on, I came to appreciate the benefits of this midday break. It allowed me to rest and recharge during the hottest hours of the day, which helped me to be more productive and focused during the rest of my day. Additionally, it gave me the opportunity to spend time with my friends and explore the city during a quieter time of the day. Through this experience, I learned to appreciate the importance of taking breaks and prioritizing rest and self-care.
Another cultural practice that was initially unfamiliar to me was the concept of late dinners. In Madrid, it is common for people to eat dinner around 9 or 10 pm, much later than I was used to in Germany. At first, I found it difficult to adjust to this schedule, as I was used to dinner much earlier. However, over time, I came to appreciate the relaxed and leisurely pace of dinner in Spain. Rather than rushing through a meal, as I often did at home, dinner in Spain was a time to connect with friends and family, enjoying good food and conversation over a longer period. This experience helped me to slow down and appreciate the importance of taking time to enjoy life´s simple pleasures.
In reflecting upon these experiences, I realize that my initial perceptions of the unfamiliar were shaped by my own cultural background and assumptions. However, as I spent more time in Madrid and immersed myself in Spanish culture, I was able to expand my understanding and appreciate the value of different practices and perspectives. This experience helped me to become more open-minded and adaptable, which I believe will serve me well in future intercultural experiences.
In conclusion, my time in Madrid was a transformative experience that allowed me to expand my intercultural learning and change my self-perception. Through my experiences with cultural practices such as siesta and late dinners, I learned to appreciate the value of different perspectives and to embrace the unfamiliar. I am grateful for the opportunity to have lived and studied in Madrid!