In Catalonia, I have noticed that people often take around two hours to eat and socialize. This is completely different when comparing it to what I am used to in America as everything feels so rushed and productivity is extremely valued. However, here I was introduced to the ideas of conviviality and sobremesa, which are two ideas I definitely want to bring back with me upon my return to the United States. Conviviality directly means being friendly and lively. To take it a step further, people in Spain apply this specifically to their mealtimes by taking advantage of their breaks not by being productive, but rather by spending quality time with the people they love and care about. Sobremesa is addressing the time specifically after the meal. People in Spain do not finish eating by getting up right away, but rather by spending more time sitting and talking at the table. In a way, this is their, “after-dinner” which is why there are such long breaks given here for food as it is a part of their culture. One thing I have specifically noticed is that in Spain, you often have to ask someone for the check. If you do not, you will never get it. However, in America, they bring you the check right away as they want to get you in and out as soon as possible to increase their profits.Â
