SPAIN

Introduction & Surface level

Brief introduction
- Officially the Kingdom of Spain
- Member of the European Union
- Location in South-Western Europe
- Area: 504,403 sq.km
- Population: approximately 47 million
- Capital: Madrid

Language
- The official language in Spain is Spanish or Castilian Spanish,
which is spoken by all citizens. However, certain Autonomous
Communities have their own official language in addition to
Spanish

Population
- The people in Spain are refered to as Spaniards
- Approximately 87.8% of the people are natives and the rest are immigrants.
- Part of the spanish population is the Spanish Roma

Currency
- The currency in Spain is the euro. When you're buying currency
for Spain, look out for the currency code EUR. And once you're in
Spain, you'll see the symbol € used to show prices.

Surface level

Wine
Spain is the third largest wine producer in the world and it is absolutely no
surprise that Spain has always been known as a country that takes its drinks
seriously. Enjoying a beer a day and bar hopping is a pastime in Spain and
they thoroughly enjoy it.
Sangria, which is basically wine combined with some fruits, is very refreshing
for a hot summer day and their beer is also known around the world. Spanish
coffee is also very different from other places, so you definitely have to try it to
feel the difference.
Unique cuisine
Spanish cuisine is one of the most diverse in the world thanks to the diversity
of Spain's different regions. Every region has something unique to offer and
Paella is just one of the best.
Hailing from the Valencia region, this rice-based dish is considered the
national dish of Spain due to its immense popularity. Paella is basically a
rice-based dish with beans, saffron, olives, spices, herbs and vegetables or
meat or seafood. Paella was originally found in Valencia but most restaurants
across Spain offer paella to tourists.

Flamenco dance
Art is an inherent part of Spain in all its forms but especially in dance. The
world-famous Spanish dance Flamenco is nothing less than a wonder to
watch live.
Originating from Andalusia, Flamenco is a very difficult dance form. It consists
of 4 main consonants - cante (song), baile (dance), palmas (clap) and toque
(guitar playing). One must skillfully combine all of these components to create
a graceful Flamenco dance performance, and that is no easy task.
Dancing in heels in particular is very difficult and you will definitely have to
applaud the entire performing group for making the flamenco performance a
success. In 2010, UNESCO declared Flamenco a Masterpiece of the Oral and
Intangible Heritage of Humanity.
Bull's head
Last but not least is a sport that Spain is very famous for, or for some,
infamous for is Bullfighting. Bullfighting has been in Spanish culture since
ancient times. In a bullfight, three players fight a bull to the death. It has three
stages - tercio de vara (opening of membranes), tercio de banderillas
(performance) and tercio de muerte (death stage). If the matador skillfully kills
the bull, then he is allowed to take the bull's ear home as a trophy for this
victory. People continue to debate about bullfighting and whether it is legal or
justifiable. And that is still a never-ending debate.

Intermediate & Deep Level:

I. Intermediate level culture:
1. The national flag
● The red: represents strength and valor
● The yellow: symbolizes generosity
 ● The coat of arms: pays homage to the original kingdoms that
united to form Spain in the 15th century
2. Spain Guitar Music:
● Throughout Spain’s history, one of the most traditional forms of music
is the iconic Spanish Guitar music played at family and cultural
celebrations across the country.
● Become popular in the 14th century
3. Traditional instrument:
● Castanet is the most common traditional instrument
4. Football
● Football (soccer) is very popular among Spaniards, and they have
several high-performing teams such as Real Madrid FC, FC Barcelona,
Atletico Madrid, Seville,...
● Football is the most popular sport in Spain with the local football league
known as the La Liga.
● significant highlight: winning WC 2010

II. Deep-level culture: ( show the identity of people in Spain)

1. Family culture
● Spain is very family-oriented
● Sunday is considered as “ Family Day”: all of the malls and stores are
closed, so no one in the family has to work and everybody can spend
time with their loved ones.
● Spaniards eat lunch together almost every day.
● The grandparents usually live with the families
● Families usually live near each other.
2. Siesta:
● A short nap taken in the early afternoon, often after the midday
meal-has become a big part of Spanish culture.
● Such a period of sleep is a common tradition in Spain
● The real siesta takes place in bed in pyjamas, but a sofa is also fine if a
bed is not available
● Timing is important. A siesta should last between 15 to 30 minutes, not
more than that.

3. Cultural Festival

La Tomatina is a Spanish festival in Buñol, Spain where participants

throw tomatoes at each other. It is celebrated annually in August. It is
said to be the biggest food fight in the world.[1][2] From the festival's
origin as a food fight between friends in the 1940s, it has become a
 famous tourist attraction. Previous to 2013, the festival did not operate
with an upper cap on the number of attendees which would cause a
strain on Buñol's population of about 9,000 inhabitants. Since 2013,
however, the festival has a ticketed event with a capacity of 20,000
participants

4. Religious Festival
● Holy Week (Semana Santa) is the annual tribute of the Passion of
Jesus Christ celebrated by Catholic religious brotherhoods (Spanish:
hermandad) and fraternities that perform penance processions on the
streets of almost every Spanish city and town during the Holy Week
–the last week of Lent, immediately before Easter.
- Spain is known especially for its Holy Week traditions or Semana Santa. The
celebration of Holy Week regarding popular piety relies almost exclusively on
the processions of the brotherhoods or fraternities. These associations have
their origins in the Middle Ages, but a number of them were created during the
Baroque Period, inspired by the Counterreformation, and also during the 20th
and 21st centuries. The membership is usually open to any Catholic person
and family tradition is an important element to become a member or "brother"
(hermano).

● Three Kings Day ( Fiesta de los Reyes) : This famous religious festival
is celebrated on 6 January and is considered to be Christmas Day in
Spanish culture. In anticipation of the arrival of the Three Kings, towns
and cities across the country put on a spectacular parade on 5
January, which is known as the Cabalgata de los Reyes Magos.
Musicians, dancers, and entertainment fill the streets while the Three
Kings throw candy to children from their floats. The next day, families
exchange gifts and enjoy a big lunch together, as well as a traditional
ring-shaped cake called the Roscón de Reyes, which represents the
jewels of the crown and has a bean and a toy hidden inside.
 Culture values

1. Large power distance

In Spain, this dimension is notably high, with a score of 57. This indicates that Spain
has a hierarchical society where individuals embrace a hierarchical order in which
everybody has a position and no further justification is required. This hierarchical
mindset has deep historical roots. For centuries, Spain was ruled by powerful
monarchs.

● During the Middle Ages, the country was divided into feudal kingdoms like
Castile, Aragon, and Navarre. These kingdoms operated under a strict
hierarchy where local lords wielded significant power over their lands and
people but were ultimately accountable to the king. This reinforced a clear
social order.

Later, the Francoist dictatorship from 1939 to 1975 further entrenched

authoritarian and centralized power in Spain. General Francisco Franco
suppressed regional identities and political freedoms, using censorship,
propaganda, and a secret police force to enforce conformity. This fostered a
culture of obedience and acceptance of power inequalities. → These historical
legacies have deeply influenced Spain's societal structure.

Today, Spain maintains a constitutional monarchy, where the royal family still
plays a symbolic role, reflecting the nation's historical respect for hierarchical
order.
 ● Economic factors also play a crucial role in Spain's high power distance.
Wealth and resources create clear distinctions between different economic
classes. Despite efforts to reduce these disparities, economic inequality
remains significant. For instance, high unemployment rates, especially among
the youth, and economic challenges in various regions reinforce hierarchical
structures. Those in higher economic strata maintain substantial control over
local politics and social systems, further entrenching the acceptance of
unequal power distribution.
● Cultural norms and values in Spain emphasize respect for authority and social
harmony. Spanish society has a strong sense of loyalty and respect for elders
and those in positions of power. This cultural norm extends to various aspects
of life, including professional and social interactions. In the workplace, the
influence of hierarchy is still evident. Spanish businesses often have clear
chains of command, and employees generally expect to follow the directives
of their superiors without much questioning. This hierarchical culture can be
seen in public administration and corporate governance, where
decision-making is often top-down.

2. Individualism
Spain, with a score of 67 is an Individualist society.
● Spain’s history, particularly after the transition to democracy in the late 20th
century, has emphasized personal freedoms and individual rights. While the
legacy of Franco's regime contributed to a culture of obedience and high
power distance, the post-Franco era's emphasis on personal freedoms and
individual rights reflects a movement towards reducing power distance and
promoting individualism. The post-Franco era brought about significant social
changes, encouraging individual expression and the pursuit of personal goals.
Example: The Spanish Constitution of 1978, which established democratic
governance, emphasized civil liberties and individual rights. This legal
framework promotes individualism by protecting personal freedoms and
allowing people to pursue their own paths without excessive interference from
the state.
● Spain’s integration into the European Union and exposure to global cultures
have also reinforced individualist values. As part of the EU, Spain has
undertaken legal and political reforms that align with EU standards on human
rights and individual freedoms. These reforms support individual autonomy
and protection against discrimination, further embedding individualist values in
Spanish society. Besides, Globalization has increased Spain’s interaction with
countries outside Europe, particularly those with strong individualist cultures
like the United States. Media, technology, and international business practices
introduce and reinforce the value of individualism in daily life. Example: The
influence of American culture through movies, TV shows, and social media
promotes ideas of personal success, entrepreneurship, and individual rights.
 These cultural imports resonate with many Spaniards, especially the youth,
who adopt similar values and behaviors.
3. Strong Uncertainty Avoidance
If there is a dimension that defines Spain very clearly, it is Uncertainty Avoidance, as
reflected in a high score of 86. This score indicates a strong preference for avoiding
uncertainty and ambiguity in various aspects of life.

● Socialization and Education: From a young age, Spanish children are taught
to avoid difficulties and stressful situations to maintain a sense of comfort and
security. This early socialization instills a preference for stability and
predictability. For example, in schools, students are often provided with clear
guidelines and structured environments that minimize ambiguity and stress.
The emphasis on creating a safe and predictable environment continues
through adolescence, reinforcing these values as they enter adulthood.
● Workplace Preferences: In the workplace, Spanish employees often prefer to
remain in their jobs even if they are dissatisfied, viewing job changes as more
stressful than staying put. This preference for stability is highlighted by the
high percentage of young people seeking civil service positions, which offer
lifelong job security. A recent survey found that 75% of Spanish young people
wanted to work in civil service (i.e., a job for life with no concerns about the
future), compared to only 17% in the USA. This stark contrast underscores
the Spanish preference for secure and predictable employment.

Additionally, in Spanish workplaces, there is a strong reliance on detailed

rules and procedures. Employees feel more secure and less anxious when
their roles and responsibilities are clearly defined. This reliance on formal
processes helps reduce uncertainty and ensures a stable working
environment. For example, job roles and expectations are often clearly
outlined in contracts and workplace policies, minimizing ambiguity.

● Avoidance of Confrontation: Confrontations are typically avoided in Spain as

they cause stress and can escalate quickly to a personal level. This
avoidance of conflict contributes to smoother social interactions but can also
lead to suppressed disagreements and unspoken tensions. In both social and
professional settings, Spaniards tend to favor indirect communication and
diplomacy to maintain harmony. For instance, instead of directly confronting
someone about a disagreement, it is more common to address the issue
subtly or seek a mediator to resolve the conflict.

This cultural norm extends to various aspects of life, including family

dynamics and community interactions. By avoiding direct confrontations,
Spaniards strive to maintain social harmony and avoid the discomfort
associated with open conflict. However, this can sometimes result in
unresolved issues that linger beneath the surface.
 Masculinity (42)

According to the graph, 5 of the 6 countries have scores above 50, while Spain
scores 42 in this index. The US scored 62 which suggested having moderately high
masculinity, Spain is more feminine.
- In Spain, competition is viewed quite moderately. People typically don't appreciate
excessive competitiveness or complete compliance.
- Spanish schools are characterized by a lack of competition. Students are commonly
taught to seek harmony and avoid standing out too much or causing a disruption.
Teachers are considered experts in the subject and disagreeing with them is highly
discouraged.
- Similarly, in the workplace, managers may prefer to ask subordinates for their opinion
on an issue before enforcing any serious measures.
=> This concern for the needs and preferences of others is also evident in the
Spanish approach to caring for the poor and needy. The people of Spain typically
have a more natural sympathy for the disadvantaged and the inclusion of minority
groups is valued.

Do & Don't
DOS:
- Do shake hands with everyone, starting with the oldest first. Expect a kiss on each
cheek, a hug or a pat on the back from those you know.
- Do dress stylishly with nice accessories.
- Do leave your valuables in the hotel safe. Wear a money belt or something to keep
money really close to your body to avoid pickpocket attack.
- Do carry small changes for using the public toilets.
- Do be prepared for late lunch and dinner. Remember that dinner is around 9 PM and
some restaurants won’t get hopping until 11.
- Do tip a little if you want. Tipping is not customary in Spain though.
- Do rest your wrists at the edge of the table when eating..
- Do be patient. The Spanish have a very relaxed view of time.
- Business appointments should always be made well in advance.
- 2 hr. Post lunch sleeping is very popular, known as Siesta.
- If you receive a gift, it is kind of mandatory to give him/her a return gift.
 - Do make use of the public transport system.
- Do try the local coffee shops.

DON’TS:
- Don’t complain about smoking. Spaniards often say that people who complain about
such things are “afraid of life.” Smoking is widely accepted in Spain.
- Don’t rush or take punctuality too seriously.
- Don’t get involved in discussions about regionalship.
- Don’t expect to enter into business discussion at the start of a meeting.
- Don’t expect to get many options for vegetarians.
- Don’t display signs of over assertiveness or superiority.
- Don’t wear wrong things.

Verbal & Non-verbal

Verbal:
The official language in Spain is Spanish or Castilian Spanish. At least 90% of the population
speak Castilian Spanish as a first or second language. About 17% of the population speak
Catalan, 7% speak Galician and 2% speak Basque.

The letter ñ, a unique letter in “español”

The letter “ñ” is a letter that only exists in Spanish. The sound /ɲ/ did not exist in Classical
Latin but Vulgar Latin. This was the language spoken in the streets and from which the
Castillan Spanish originated.
As the sounds began to evolve, the /ɲ/ sound appeared, and different solutions were given
to write this new sound: “ni + vowel”, “gn” and “nn”.
Those three options coexisted until the medieval scribe monks, who copied texts by hand,
started to use a symbol called virgulilla (~) to indicate that it was double “nn” (anno > año).
From that moment on, the letter “ñ” replaced all other representations of the new sound.
Currently, the letter “Ñ” is used in more than 15,700 words in the Spanish language. Some of
the most common words are: Año, araña, baño, buñuelos, cariño, español, mañana,
montaña, muñeco, niño(a), piña, señor(a), sueños, tamaño.

A unique way to use exclamation and question marks

Spanish is the only language that uses inverted exclamation and question marks.
In Spanish, we use:
An inverted question mark (¿) at the beginning of a question, and a question mark (?) at the
end of the question.
Why?
In Spanish, the word order of a question does not change as it does in English and other
languages.
For example, we say:
Pablo compró un carro. – Pablo bought a car.
¿Pablo compró un carro? – Did Pablo buy a car?
So, in the written texts, it is necessary to use the inverted question mark to indicate to the
reader that a question is coming next.
Likewise, an inverted exclamation mark (¡) at the beginning of all exclamatory sentences and
clauses, and an exclamation mark (!) at the end of such sentences.
Inverted exclamation marks are used to identify the tones of the sentences within a text body
easily.For example, we say:
Por fin terminé mis actividades de la semana ¡me voy de vacaiones!
I finally finished my weekly activities. I’m going on holiday!

Hola (Hello)
Adios (Goodbye)
Gracias (Thank you)
Por favor (Please)
Si (Yes)
Claro (Of course)

Indirect Expression
High-context cultures communicate more indirectly and focus on harmony, while low-context
cultures are more direct and focused on tackling problems. Spain is a high-context culture.
Spaniard’s communication always takes place in a manner that tends to strengthen the
relationship, trying to avoid a loss of face. Critical points are therefore always “packaged” or
even just hinted at between many positive aspects.
Therefore, make sure you avoid critical remarks, and especially accusations, in front of
everyone. If you have to, try and express them within a diplomatic, friendly conversation, eye
to eye. Also, it is better to talk in terms of “we” and “us” if you want to make
recommendations or suggest improvements.
In the same way, Spaniards will often shy away from saying a direct ‘no’ because they do not
want to alienate the interlocutor. Instead, people may express themselves indirectly and with
caution: as a result, things, may sound a lot more positive than their actual meaning. The
absence of a reaction or an answer can also be meant as a rejection, which people prefer
not to put into words.
Spaniards speak fast and in a lively way. Depending on the topic, the discussions can also
get emotional and heated. There are hardly any breaks during conversations because
people talk over each other or even speak at the same time. This is by no means to be
interpreted as rudeness but as a sign of lively interest and activity. Long pauses in speech or
even silence, on the other hand, are perceived as unpleasant and quickly interpreted as
disinterest.

Non verbal:
Dar la mano: As a greeting, in Spain people shake hands, looking into each other’s eyes and
smile kindly.
Between men, you stop at the handshake, maybe reinforced with an additional shoulder pat
or hug. The usual welcome phrase is: “Hola, que tal?“, which can be translated as “Hello,
how’s things?”
Dos besos: If you have known each other for a little while, cheek kisses on the left and right
are common between women and between a man and a woman.
Between men, you stop at the handshake, maybe reinforced with an additional shoulder pat
or hug. The usual welcome phrase is: “Hola, que tal?“, which can be translated as “Hello,
how’s things?”
Eye Contact: Direct eye contact is expected during conversation in Spain.
Body Language: Spaniards may gesticulate more in general conversation. They tend to be
quite demonstrative with their expressions, using their hands to emphasise their points.
 Culture shock
1. Very Casual Friendliness
Casual friendliness in Spain is deeply ingrained in the culture, known as "la calidez"
or warmth.

Spaniards are typically open and welcoming, readily engaging in conversation with
strangers. Whether it's a chat at a café, a stroll through the street, or waiting in line,
you'll often find people striking up friendly conversations whether you know them or
not. This warmth extends to gestures like greeting with hearty handshakes or hugs.

Don’t surprise if they call you by these words:

+ cariño, cariña: honey, darling

+ bonita or guapisimo: beauty, handsome
+ amor or corazón : my love or heart

These words in some cultures, especially in the Asians ones, are used for our
partners, our family or best friends. But in Spain, they will call you by these terms
whether you are their friend or not. Some people, especially women will
misunderstand that they are flirting or being rude, but they are just expressing their
casual friendliness.

2. Spaniards are Informal

Informal Spaniards embody a vibrant culture that celebrates their openness
and interpersonal connections, especially in everyday conversations.
In Spain, people will often address you like you're their friend.
In addition to the second person pronoun, they will call you by a number of other
words.They may often address you by using these word:
+ tio: dude.
+ chabal: bro, kid
For example, they may greet you by saying “¡Qué pasa, tío!" which means “What’s
up, dude!” or “¡Qué pasa, chabal!", “What’s up, bro.”
Even in the restaurant, instead of saying “May I help you”, they’ll say Qué Quieres
(What do you want) or Dime (Tell me). That’s not a rude thing, they are just being
Spaniards!

3. Meal Times and Meal Sizes are Different

There are differences in meal times and meal sizes between Spaniards and some
Asian cultures, especially Vietnamese. In Spain, mealtimes are typically later.
For example, lunch in Spain is usually eaten between 1:30 and 3:00 PM. This meal
time is affected by the Spanish siesta culture, where people have a long break in the
middle. Therefore, lunch is also the biggest meal, often including more than one
plate, and sometimes involving a dessert (and it’s usually eaten at around 3pm).

While breakfast in Spain is very small, eaten in a hurry, it’s usually made up of coffee
or juice, with a small piece of toast or a cake or cookie.

For dinner, it is often served around 8:00 to 10:00 PM, or even after 10:PM when
Spain is a nightlife country, and is often a pretty heavy meal.

4. English is not a common language in Spain

English is not as widely spoken in Spain. Lots of younger people speak English in
bigger cities. But most 40+ people don’t. As many younger Spaniards do learn
English as a second language, especially in schools and for professional purposes.
In tourist areas and major cities, you're more likely to encounter people who speak
English, particularly in hotels, restaurants, and other service industries. However, in
rural areas or smaller towns, English proficiency may be less common. It's always a
good idea to learn some basic Spanish phrases if you plan to visit Spain, as it can
enhance your travel experience and help with communication.

Role-play script:
Role-play
Characters:
- A - *Quỳnh*: An Asian who values personal space. She is enjoying her first day traveling in
Spain.
- B - *Thư*: A’s friend who has lived in Spain for many years.
- Lola: A Spanish girl, very friendly and expressive.

Setting:
On a shopping street.
—
Scene opens with Quỳnh and Thư walking on the street.

Narrator: Quỳnh is an Asian who values personal space. She is enjoying her first day
traveling in Spain with Thư - her friend who has lived in Spain for many years. They are
strolling down a shopping street.
Thư: Hi Quỳnh, How was your first morning in Spain?
Quỳnh: Amazing! The food, landscapes, architecture, everything was so stunning!
Thư: I think that you should also chat and make friends with people here, they are very
friendly and warm, and one of the most important factors of this wonderful country! By the
way, I want to introduce you to my Spanish friend - Lola. She’s on the way here!

Lola runs over excitedly.

Lola: (cheerfully) Hola! (rushes up and gives Thư a big hug and kisses on her cheeks.)

Thư: Hola Lola! (hugs and kisses back)

Quỳnh (confused): "Hey, why are you guys kissing each other in such a public place? That's
not quite appropriate!”

Thư: Don’t worry! This is how we greet each other to express openness!

Lola: (turns to Quỳnh, enthusiastically) And you are Quỳnh, right?! So nice to meet you,
(extends her arms for a hug)

Quỳnh (smiles nervously): Hi… (steps back). Sorry! I’m not used to hugs from strangers…

Lola (confused): Um… I’m sorry…

Thư: Hey! Don’t say that, she is just expressing her friendliness, this is how we do every
basic day!

Quỳnh: But…

Suddenly, a Spanish man passing by and says:

Man: “Hi cariño. How are you today, amor?”

Quỳnh: Hey Thư, What does he mean by saying cariño and amor?

Thư: He said “Hey honey! How are you today my love!”

Quỳnh: What?! Why could he flirt with women in such a public place! How rude!

Lola: Um… It’s just a greeting! To show that we are welcoming you!

MCQ ( Quiz)

1. Which statement best describes the implication of Spain's high Power Distance
score?
 a. Power is distributed equally among all members of society.
b. Power is concentrated at the top, and this is widely accepted.
c. Everyone has equal opportunities for advancement.
d. Hierarchical structures are rejected.

2. Spain has a score of 51 in Individualism. This means that Spaniards generally:

a. Prefer to work and make decisions as a group.

b. Focus more on individual achievements and personal goals.
c. Prioritize community and collective well-being.
d. Avoid taking personal responsibility for tasks.

3. A low score in the Masculinity dimension suggests that Spain:

a. Emphasizes competition and success.

b. Values cooperation and quality of life.
c. Encourages aggressive business practices.
d. Has strict traditional gender roles.

4. What does Spain’s high Uncertainty Avoidance score indicate about its culture?

a. Spaniards are comfortable with ambiguity and risk.

b. Spaniards prefer predictable and structured environments.
c. Spaniards frequently change jobs and embrace new challenges.
d. Spaniards show little concern for rules and regulations.

5. Which of the following best describes a high Power Distance culture?

a. Employees feel free to question their bosses.

b. Subordinates accept that their bosses have more power.
c. Decisions are made by everyone equally.
d. Hierarchical structures are avoided.

6. How might Spain's high Power Distance manifest in family structures?

 a. Families encourage equal say from all members, including children.
b. Elders and parents have significant authority and respect in family decisions.
c. Children are encouraged to question their parents' decisions.
d. Family decisions are made collectively with no one member holding more
power.

7. How does high Uncertainty Avoidance influence communication in Spain?

a. Preference for direct and confrontational communication.

b. Tendency to avoid direct confrontation and prefer indirect communication.
c. Casual and informal communication in all settings.
d. Lack of emphasis on clarity in communication.

1. Which of the following is true about the view of competition in Spain?

A. Competition is seen as very important.

B. Competition is viewed quite moderately.

C. Competition is considered unimportant.

D. Competition is viewed as excessive.

2. What are Spanish students typically taught in school?

A. To stand out and impress.

B. To compete with each other.

C. To seek harmony and avoid standing out.

 D. To never question their teachers.

3. Which of the following reflects the Spanish concern for the poor and minority
groups?

A. Spaniards typically do not care about the poor.

B. Spaniards prefer to argue with the poor.

C. Spaniards have a natural sympathy for the disadvantaged and value the
inclusion of minority groups.

D. Spaniards usually lack empathy for minority groups.

4. Which of the following should you not take too seriously in Spain?

A. Dressing properly

B. Business discussions

C. Punctuality

D. Siesta

5. What should you avoid discussing in Spain?

A. Late lunch and dinner

 B. Regional issues

C. Return gifts

D. Smoking

6. What is the expectation regarding vegetarian options in Spain?

A. You will find many vegetarian options.

B. You should not expect many vegetarian options.

C. Vegetarian options are mandatory.

D. Vegetarian options are limited but acceptable.

7. What is a common practice after lunch in Spain?

A. Discussing business

B. Dressing casually

C. Taking a 2-hour nap (Siesta)

D. Complaining about smoking

8. What does the red color in the Spanish flag represent?

 A. symbolizes generosity
B. strength and valor
C. pay homage to the original kingdoms that united to form Spain in the
15th century
D. the blood

9. What is the name of the local football league in Spain?

A. Ligue 1
B. Premiere League
C. La Liga
D. Bundesliga

10. Which day is considered as “Family Day” in Spain?

A. Monday
B. Thursday
C. Saturday
D. Sunday

11. How do Spaniards call the Holy Week Festival in Spanish?

A. Semana Santa
B. Fiesta de los Reyes
C. Christmas
D. Pascua de Resurrección

12. What is the day the Spaniards celebrate the Three King Day Festival?

A. March, 19th
B. August, 15th
C. January, 6th
D. December, 24th

13. In which century did the guitar appear popular in Spain?

 A. VIII
B. XIV
C. X
D. XII

14. In what month does the Tomato Festival take place?

A. May
B. July
C. September
D. August

15. What's Spain's official language?

A. French

B. English

C. Spanish

D. Portuguese

16. What's the capital of Spain?

A. Madrid

B. Barcelona

C. Pamplona

D. Granada

17. In what Spanish city does the Running of the Bulls take place?

A. Córdoba

B. Madrid

C. Pamplona

D. Paris
18. What do bullfighters dress in before stepping into the ring for a bullfight?

A. A tuxedo
2. A suit of lights
3. A Sevillana dress
4. Riding attire

19. The correct order of social classes in Spanish colonies:

A. Peninsulares, Creoles, Mestizos/Mulatos, Africans/Natives.

B. Mestizos/Mulatos, Peninsulares, Creoles, Africans/Natives.

C. African/Natives, Mestizos/Mulatos, Creoles, Peninsulares.

D. Creoles, Peninsulares, Mestizos & Mulatos, African & Natives.

20. Argentinian Military leader. Played a key role in gaining independence

from Spain for South America.

A. Simon Bolivar.

B. Jose de San Martin.

C. Miguel Hidalgo.

D. Agustin de Iturbide

21. More than 20 countries were colonized by Spain. What Spanish aspects
remain in these countries?

A. Arquitecture, buildings, houses

B. Language, Spanish

C. Culture, guitar, catholic religion

D. All of the above.

1. Which statement best describes the implication of Spain's high Power Distance
score?
 e. Power is distributed equally among all members of society.
f. Power is concentrated at the top, and this is widely accepted.
g. Everyone has equal opportunities for advancement.
h. Hierarchical structures are rejected.

22. Spain has a score of 51 in Individualism. This means that Spaniards generally:

e. Prefer to work and make decisions as a group.

f. Focus more on individual achievements and personal goals.
g. Prioritize community and collective well-being.
h. Avoid taking personal responsibility for tasks.

23. A low score in the Masculinity dimension suggests that Spain:

e. Emphasizes competition and success.

f. Values cooperation and quality of life.
g. Encourages aggressive business practices.
h. Has strict traditional gender roles.

24. What does Spain’s high Uncertainty Avoidance score indicate about its culture?

e. Spaniards are comfortable with ambiguity and risk.

f. Spaniards prefer predictable and structured environments.
g. Spaniards frequently change jobs and embrace new challenges.
h. Spaniards show little concern for rules and regulations.

25. Which of the following best describes a high Power Distance culture?

e. Employees feel free to question their bosses.

f. Subordinates accept that their bosses have more power.
g. Decisions are made by everyone equally.
h. Hierarchical structures are avoided.

26. How might Spain's high Power Distance manifest in family structures?
 e. Families encourage equal say from all members, including children.
f. Elders and parents have significant authority and respect in family decisions.
g. Children are encouraged to question their parents' decisions.
h. Family decisions are made collectively with no one member holding more
power.

27. How does high Uncertainty Avoidance influence communication in Spain?

e. Preference for direct and confrontational communication.

f. Tendency to avoid direct confrontation and prefer indirect communication.
g. Casual and informal communication in all settings.
h. Lack of emphasis on clarity in communication.