12 Things That Make Southern Europe Feel Like Another Planet To Brits

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12 Things That Make Southern Europe Feel Like Another Planet To Brits

Ever wondered why a trip to Southern Europe feels like stepping onto a different planet for someone from Britain? The everyday life and customs in countries like Spain, Italy, and Greece offer a delightful contrast to the UK’s routine. From dinner times that align with typical bedtime hours in Britain to the absence of a rush at pedestrian crossings, these differences are not just intriguing but also deeply embedded in the vibrant culture of Southern Europe. Here are 12 customs that stand out and make the region uniquely captivating to Brits.

1. Dinner that starts at 10pm and no one questions it

In the UK, dinner around 6 or 7 pm is standard, but head over to Southern Europe, and the dining scene shifts dramatically. Meals often start at 10 pm or even later, especially in Spain or Italy. This isn’t just a habit but a part of the lifestyle where evenings are a time to unwind slowly and savor. Restaurants buzz with life well into the night, filled with families, friends, and couples, all enjoying their meal under the stars or in warmly lit eateries. This relaxed approach to meal times reflects the southern European priority on enjoying life and social connections over a strict schedule.

2. Shouting as a normal form of affection

Initially, a Brit might find the volume of conversations in Southern Europe a bit overwhelming. Here, a louder tone doesn’t necessarily mean anger or confrontation; it’s often just a spirited way to communicate passion and affection. In the lively streets of places like Naples or Athens, you’ll hear people speaking (or shouting) with animated gestures, laughing loudly, and expressing themselves fully. This open and expressive way of communication is a stark contrast to the more reserved British approach and is all about sharing the zest for life.

3. Laundry drying in full view of strangers

Walking through the narrow lanes of Southern Europe, you’ll often see laundry hanging from balconies and windows, in full view of anyone passing by. In Britain, where privacy is highly valued, this might seem unusual. However, in southern European countries, space is often at a premium, and the warm climate makes outdoor drying a practical choice. More than just a necessity, this practice adds to the charming and quaint atmosphere of neighborhoods, where personal life openly blends into the public sphere.

4. Shops closing mid-afternoon because… why not?

In Southern Europe, don’t be surprised to find shops closed in the mid-afternoon. This break, often aligned with the hottest part of the day, allows shop owners and employees to rest and enjoy a leisurely lunch break. Known as siesta in Spain, this tradition is both a practical response to the climate and a reflection of the local approach to work-life balance, prioritizing well-being over continuous availability. This slower pace of life can be a refreshing change for Brits used to non-stop business hours.

5. The importance of coffee rituals over everything

Coffee in Southern Europe is never just a quick caffeine fix; it’s a ritual, an art, and a way to pause and enjoy the moment. Whether it’s a leisurely Italian espresso at a street cafe or a Greek frappe enjoyed by the beach, coffee time is treated with reverence. This approach not only highlights the region’s love for good coffee but also its underlying belief in taking moments throughout the day to just be. For Brits, this can be a lovely shift from the fast-paced grab-and-go coffee culture.

6. Random fireworks on a Tuesday night

Imagine settling down for the evening and suddenly hearing the crackle and burst of fireworks. In Southern Europe, fireworks aren’t reserved just for special occasions; they’re a frequent delight. Whether celebrating a local patron saint, a small town festa, or just life in general, these displays light up the sky unexpectedly, adding spontaneity and celebration to ordinary days. For a Brit, this random festivity is a joyful reminder to always find something to celebrate.

7. No rush at pedestrian crossings—ever

Stepping onto a pedestrian crossing in Southern Europe, one might notice something missing: the rush. Here, crossing the street is often a casual affair, with pedestrians taking their time, and drivers typically more accommodating. This laid-back approach can be quite different from the UK, where the pace of life makes every crossing a quick dash. In Southern Europe, the slower pace at crossings is just another part of the region’s overall relaxed tempo.

8. The concept of an evening walk just to walk

In Southern Europe, the evening walk, or ‘passeggiata’ in Italy, is a cherished ritual. After dinner, people of all ages take to the streets just to stroll, chat, and see friends. These walks are leisurely and social, with no destination in mind other than to enjoy the cool evening and the company of others. This contrasts with the UK, where walks often have a more practical purpose, like exercising the dog or a brisk jog. In Southern Europe, the evening walk is about community and connection.

9. Beachwear basically being formalwear in summer

When summer hits Southern Europe, beachwear becomes the unofficial uniform. In coastal towns, it’s completely normal to see people donning swimwear not just on the beach but everywhere—from cafes to shops. This relaxed approach extends even to dining out in the evening, where beach chic can often pass as perfectly acceptable attire. This more laid-back attitude towards dress contrasts sharply with the more formal summer wear often seen in the UK, making Southern Europe’s summers uniquely carefree and stylish.

10. Church bells as your morning alarm clock

In many Southern European towns, the morning starts with the melodic ringing of church bells. This age-old tradition serves not only as a timekeeper but also as a cultural reminder of the region’s deep historical and spiritual roots. For Brits, who may be more accustomed to the blare of an electronic alarm or the morning rush-hour traffic, waking up to church bells can feel like a step back in time, offering a peaceful and almost poetic start to the day.

11. Elderly people out-socialising everyone

In Southern Europe, don’t be surprised to see the elderly out and about, socializing well into the evening. Far from being confined to their homes, older adults are an integral part of the social fabric, actively participating in community life and often outlasting even the younger generations in terms of stamina at social gatherings. This respect for and inclusion of the elderly contrasts with the UK, where older adults might not be as visibly engaged in public social life.

12. The national sport being people-watching

Lastly, if you think sports in Southern Europe are all about football, think again. People-watching is considered a national pastime, where sitting at a cafe and watching the world go by is an activity in its own right. This leisurely enjoyment of everyday life’s simple pleasures is embraced wholeheartedly, offering a relaxing way to connect with the local atmosphere and culture. For Brits accustomed to a more hurried pace, this practice is a delightful reminder to slow down and savor the moment.