“In Scotland, our culture is fond of criticism. It’s often the case that what someone says or does can be seen as embarrassing,” Sara reflects. “But in Spain, people seem to care a lot less about what others think — and I think that’s something very good.”
Sara has noticed this grounded confidence, in every city she has visited in Spain. Whether it’s someone dancing spontaneously in a bar, or a man in Alicante strumming on his guitar and singing flamenco in the street — no one blinks. “That just wouldn’t happen in Scotland,” she says, both amused and inspired.
This confidence isn’t egoistic or arrogant — it’s based in a culture where people are comfortable being themselves and don’t feel the need to impress or judge others. Spaniards wear what they like at the beach, no matter their age or body type. Many will talk passionately and loud in cafés, not out of anger, but because open expression is natural and accepted. Elderly people are socially active, and visible, often at the same meeting places as their children or grandchildren.
Even solitude is seen as normal. Sitting alone at a café or wandering through a park isn’t viewed as awkward — it’s just normal life. “There’s a freedom here,” Sara explains. “People live without constantly worrying about being watched or judged.”
This attitude has rubbed off on her. Sara now finds herself less concerned about how she looks or what people might say. For Sara, Spanish society offers a healthier social model — one where more natural self-confidence is perfectly fine, and joy isn’t something to filter or be earned with money. “It happens over and over again,” she says. “And every time, it still amazes me.”
In a world where social pressure often weighs heavy, Sara has found something lighter — and more natural — in Spain.
What do you think? Do you believe Spain has a healthier social society than most other countries in Europe? Do you live in Spain, and if so, how easy was it for you to adapt to local culture?
