7 Reasons Why Spain is Europe’s Most Passionate Country

Work is important to the Spanish, but they definitely know how to enjoy life beyond the office. Lengthy lunches, a morning coffee break, lots of vacation time, and of course, the infamous siesta all prove that the Spanish love to live their personal lives just as much as working.

While many other cultures are obsessed with the latest diet or workout craze, the Spanish truly know how to appreciate good food. They aren’t condescending, though, when it comes to comida—they’ll enjoy a home-cooked meal just as much as fancy cuisine.

You’ll rarely find an estranged family in Spain. The Spanish typically appreciate and love their family members, despite any differences they may have with one another. Children often live at home well into their 20s and 30s, even 40s, and it’s not uncommon for families to have a big lunch together every Sunday.

With beers costing just over one euro and wine slightly more, it’s easy to head out for enjoyment in Spain. How can you not be passionate and happy when you’ve had a delicious meal and drinks for just 15 or 20 euros?

In order to be passionate, you must have something to be passionate about, and the Spanish are basically obsessed with their soccer. With huge teams like Real Madrid and FC Barcelona, soccer is something Spaniards can’t help but be passionate about.

You’ll notice the Spanish in love pretty much anywhere: kissing on the metro, the park, or even in the street. Without being crude, the Spanish make it known when they’re in love, even if it’s platonic love. Whereas many countries greet each other with a bow, nod or handshake, the Spanish give two cheek kisses to everyone they meet.

With over 300 days of sunshine a year, Madrid is Spain’s sunniest capital. Costal Barcelona and Andalusian paradises like Seville have plenty of sun and year-round beautiful weather, and happy weather makes for happy people. You won’t see any Spaniards with seasonal affective disorder!

The Spanish eat late, go to bed late, and are often late to everything. They are happy and relaxed, and there’s just no rush to do anything. “La prisa mata,” they say, “Rushing kills.”