Culture and Traditions of Costa Blanca
May 2, 2010 by Travel Guide Costa Blanca
Filed under Tourist Activities, Travel Guide
The culture and traditions of Costa Blanca are rather similar to many national pastimes and observances. Though many people may have a vision of lazy days and bullfighting, this is partially a misconception. When traveling to Spain on holiday, it is helpful to know and understand these traditional activities so as not to appear too much like an outsider.
The siesta, a traditional hour-long break from work in the mid-afternoon, is declining as the daily rhythm of Spain creeps closer to the European norm. Many shops do still separate their business hours into two periods, opening in the morning and having a two to three hour break in the middle of the day.
Regional identity exists in great measure in several regions of Spain. Historically, many different regions in Spain had a distinct regional style of dress. Today, however, most people in all parts of Spain dress comparably to most other modern Europeans.
Many of the festivals in Spain revolve around Catholic saints and Spanish historical events. These events happen during all times of the year and are very widely celebrated. The events provide national unity and a chance for visitors to partake in the festivities.
The traditional cuisine in Spain is comprised of quite a few different types of dishes because of the differences in culture, geography, and climate. It is influenced heavily by the wide variety of seafood that is available in the waters surrounding the country. A few prime examples of some traditional Spanish dishes include Chorizo, a paprika pork sausage, Gazpacho, a cold soup, Jamon, cured ham, Paella, a rice dish, and tortilla Espanola, a potato omelet.
The most popular Spanish sport is football. La Liga, the country’s professional league, draws large attendances. Traditionally, the most successful professional football squads are Real Madrid and FC Barcelona. Bullfighting is iconic to Spain and is still around, though it is threatened by PETA and other animal rights organizations.
These national traditions are all alive and well in the region of Costa Blanca. Many smaller localities are bound to have other unique celebratory events, and these can practically be guaranteed to be a good time. The Spanish are a proud people, and happy to share their traditions with all who interest in them.
