Life in Sevilla

Wondering what life will be like while you're studying at the Sevilla Center? We encourage you to do as much research as possible about your host city and culture.  

Social Habits in Spain 

• Realize that breakfast and dinner will be smaller meals, but that at midday the meal will be large.  
• Typical business hours in Spain differ from those in the US. Small neighborhood stores typically open M-F in the morning from 10-2, close for lunch, and reopen from 5-8. Larger stores are open all day, until 9 p.m. Most Sundays all stores are closed. While some offices work during a 9-5 schedule, it is also very common for administrative offices such as banks to only be open to the public from 9-2. You can find more information about siesta here.    
• Spaniards are often late, and it is not considered rude. Times are usually more approximate than exact.  
•   When you go to a restaurant, do not expect quick service as the lifestyle is more "laid back". Waiters do not work for a tip as in the U.S. You will have to flag down the waiter whenever you want something.  
• Spain and Europe are more pedestrian than in the U.S. You will be doing a lot of walking.   
• Public transportation is a good way to get around the city, Sevilla has buses, metro, trams and even bike rentals.   
• Go to museums and other cultural events even if you do not do much of that right now. You will regret it if you do not.  
• Spaniards, like many other Europeans, wear clothes that fit closer to their bodies. They also have fewer, but nicer, outfits (because good quality clothes can be expensive).  
•  Spaniards socialize outside of the household; they go to bars and cafés to meet up with family and friends.  
• Be prepared for besos - in some situations, everyone is going to be kissing everyone (a kiss on each cheek) and you are going to have to get used to this. Even when you first meet people who are friends of a friend, they will give you besos. Just remember to offer the right cheek first.  
• Be aware that the distance between people who are just standing and talking is close and may make you feel uncomfortable at first. Do not feel invaded! This is just the Spanish idea of personal space. You will get used to it and not even notice it after a short time. Buses will often be crowded, and lack of personal space is a given.