The Do's and Taboo's

Meals:
In Spain, lunch is the biggest meal of the day and can last two or three hours. Work nevertheless is expected to continue afterward. Because Spanish are used to this regimen-and wisely eat a very light breakfast and late-late supper-it does not mean the rest of us can take on a seven-course lunch, con vino, and survive a 4:30 meeting. If food is served family style from communal dishes, take just a little of everything. When ordering from the menu, ask for appetizer portions instead of entree size, especially of the heavier pasta dishes.

Timing: 
In Spain, the only time you must take punctuality seriously is when attending a bullfight. Most offices and shops close for siesta all the way from 1:30 to 4:30 P.M., and restaurants do not usually reopen until after 9 or get into full swing until 11.

Gestures:
The cheek stroke: In, Greece, Italy, and Spain, means "attractive."

Beckon: To use finger(s) to call someone is insulting to most Middle and Far Easterners. It is proper in most of these countries, and in Portugal, Spain and Latin America, to beckon someone with palm down, fingers or whole hand waving.

Fingers cross: In Europe, crossed fingers have several meanings, most commonly "protection" or "good luck."

A Little More:

Names/Greetings: 
Men who are close friends often give each other an abrazo (hug). Women friends greet and part with a slight embrace and a kiss on each cheek.

Appointments/Punctuality:
A break-the siesta-in the middle of the day allows families to be together for the main meal of the day. Most offices and stores are closed between 1:30 and 4:30 P.M.

The only time punctuality is taken seriously is when attending a bullfight.

Hospitality/Gift Giving: 
An oddity in Spain is the lateness at which people eat dinner. Restaurants do not generally open until after nine and do not get into full swing until about eleven.

You many take flowers when you are invited to dinner (avoid dahlias and chrysanthemums, as they are associated with death). Other gifts could include pastries, cakes and chocolates.

Guests are sometimes presented with a gift, which should be opened immediately.

Conversation: 
Good topics of conversations include politics (but it is best to avoid political comparisons between Spain and U.S.), sports, and travel.

Avoid discussions of religion, family, and job. Do not make negative remarks about bullfighting, which is considered more art than a sport.