American Woman Moves To Spain And Shares 17 Ways She Experienced “Culture Shock”

Many Americans choose to move abroad for various reasons. For example, around 41,000 Americans have settled in Spain.

Beautiful beaches, culture, music, food, and wine – living in that country is a dream for many, not just those in the USA. However, no matter how well you've studied the culture of the country you are moving to, there will always be some cultural shocks.

Morgan, a content creator, was born in the USA but moved to Spain in 2021.

"I met my (now) spouse as an international student from Spain at university in the United States," she says. "He realized he wanted to be closer to his family a few years after college, and I was enthusiastic about the possibility and experience of living abroad, so we planned to move in June 2021."

However, crossing the Atlantic brings its own set of challenges; new locations, people, and habits require time to acclimatize. Fortunately, Morgan has adapted to life on the old continent.

Spain has a lot to offer. From tapas and wine to bullfighting and flamenco, there's much to experience even outside the Mediterranean beaches and stone castles.

"In general, Spain is a beautiful country overwhelmed by its rich history and culture," Morgan says. "The people, food, and traditions are unlike anything from any other country, and it's been such an incredible experience so far."

1. Public healthcare is good and free.

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2. Fair wages for service industry workers

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3. A whole month off

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4. Late dinners...

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5. Tax is always included in the price, but that's because everything is taxed.

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6. Until the sun comes up

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7. In Spain, women love to go topless on the beach.

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In 2017, before the pandemic transformed the tourism industry, Spain was the second-most visited country in the world, with 81.8 million international travelers, behind only France (86.9 million) but ahead of the US (75.9 million), China (60.7 million), and everyone else.

"The one 'culture shock' that has probably impacted me the most is the late dinner schedule," Morgan said. "It's insane!""In the US, it's normal to have dinner around 5-7 p.m. In Spain, they don't even think of eating until after 8 p.m. (and that's considered early). It definitely took some time, but I'd say I'm pretty much adapted now and don't have dinner until at least 9:30-10 p.m."

8. Caga Tio - Christmas in Catalan...

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9. Just want a single soda? No problem!

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10. Teachers can be addressed by their first name

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11. Let's eat some grapes

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12. Shops are closed for siesta

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13. Nativity scenes in Spain are... different.

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14. Be careful when you eat.

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15. The holidays continue...

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16. El Gordo - Christmas lottery

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See the video here:

Morgan is currently based in Madrid, Spain's capital and most populous city. It's home to more than 11,500 American ex-pats.

Morgan can't say if Spain is better than the USA because they are different. "There are lots of things I miss about the US," Morgan said.

"But there are also many things I don't miss." She enjoys every minute spent getting to know her new home.

We can't wait to see her next video.