At 40, I moved my family of 4 to Spain. We spent that first year abroad learning from our mistakes.
After moving my family from the US to Spain, we've spent the past year learning new lessons and making mistakes around local culture and food.
Approximately a year and a half ago, Brian Hodge's family of four made the decision to relocate from the United States to Spain. The transition has brought about a series of culture shocks and mistakes, but also adaptability and a slower pace of life. The locals in Spain have distinct meal times and store hours, with restaurants generally opening later than in the US, especially during the summer months.
This has led to challenges such as finding dinner before 8 p.m. when children are hungry. Additionally, supermarkets are closed on Sundays, and local stores often shut down for a midday siesta, lasting from two to three hours.
Despite these initial difficulties, the family has grown to appreciate the local café culture, which is thriving in Spain. Sidewalks are often bustling with people, creating a lively atmosphere. Dining out has become a more leisurely experience, with meals often lasting longer as people enjoy their food and conversation. The family also discovered that ordering the "menú del día" (menu of the day) led to a delicious three-course meal for a reasonable price and a memorable dining experience.
The family has learned to embrace the slower pace of life in Spain, planning ahead for meals and errands. They have come to appreciate the adventure and growth that has come from this move, even acknowledging that some of their early mistakes have ultimately contributed to their success in adapting to their new environment.
Written by urgent.news from Business Insider's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
