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Very informative but it can be too long and and hard to undserstand.

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Before the somber solemnity of Lent and Holy Week, most cities throughout Spain erupt into vibrant, happening celebrations not unlike Mardi Gras in New Orleans. No matter where you find yourself in the country, you'll be able to find a Carnivalcelebration nearby. While each city's celebration retains its own distinct vibe, in general, expect extravagant costumes, exciting parades, and plenty of music and alcohol.

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Not everyone can say they've taken part in the world's biggest food fight. Except for the thousands of people who take to the streets of the tiny town of Buñol, near Valencia, to do so every year. The food of choice at La Tomatina is, unsurprisingly, tomatoes. Messy? Yes. Unforgettably fun? Also yes.

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The bull runs are actually part of a larger local festival known as San Fermín, taking place in the northern city of Pamplona for a week in early July. Each morning throughout the duration of the festival, participants and bulls take to the streets in a nail-biting race to the bull ring, where a bullfight will take place later in the day.

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Meeting and Greeting

Shake hands with everyone present--men, women and children--at a business or social meeting. Shake hands again when leaving.

Men may embrace each other when meeting (friends and family only).

Women may kiss each other on the cheek and embrace.

The People

Personal pride and individualism are highly valued, as are character and breeding. Modesty is valued over assertiveness. Flaunting superiority, intelligence and ability is not appreciated. People strive to project affluence and social position. Personal appearance, image and human relationships are very important.
Body Language

Never touch, hug or back slap a Spaniard you do not know well, unless a friendly Spaniard touches you first.

Generally, Spaniards stand very close when talking.

Spaniards speak a lot with their hands. Never mimic them.

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The attitudes and values of a country have a significant impact on the way that business is conducted. The following section will outline major themes about the business etiquette in Spain. In particular, it will deal with areas of its culture that may influence the success of business negotiations.

Generally, the Spanish are a very open and communicative people ; they value highly their families, personal relationships and cultural traditions. They usually do not put too much emphasis upon work, as they like to focus on their leisure and live each day to the fullest. In general, family and social bonds are more important than a person’s working life in Spain. It is crucial to realise this fact when conducting business with Spaniards, as this may help you to understand the point of view of your Spanish counterparts in various situations.

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Basic Etiquette

Say hello and goodbye when entering any shop or establishment.

Greet people when they enter an elevator/lift.

If you need to give an object to someone, pass it to them. It is rude to toss it in their direction.

(Visiting)

Spaniards are renowned for being welcoming and generous people. It is a common saying in Spain that “mi casa es tu casa” (my house is your house). However, they tend to prefer to socialise at public places (e.g. bars and cafes) rather than in their homes. Therefore, try not to be offended if you are not invited to a Spaniard’s house for a long time.

It is not essential to bring things when visiting Spaniards. People are generally more interested in your company and conversation than what gifts you bring. However, it is common for female guests to bring a salad or dessert to a dinner while male guests usually bring alcohol. See Gift giving  for more information.

(Eating)

Spaniards may bring additional guests with them to lunch or dinner unless you explicitly tell them that a table has been reserved for a certain number of people.

It is common to take a leisurely stroll (paseo) outdoors before or after dinner. People also sit around the table talking for a long time after the meal concludes. This is called ‘la sobremesa’.

(Gift giving)

When visiting someone’s house, bring gifts that can be shared (for example, wine, chocolates or pastries). Be aware that flowers are not common gifts since they can’t be easily shared.

When giving flowers, the bouquet should count to an odd number. Be aware that red roses have romantic connotations while white lilies and chrysanthemums are given at funerals.

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Avoid criticising the Spanish culture, people or nation. Though some Spaniards may openly complain about how their country is being ‘ruined’ by current politicians, remember that they are still very proud of their homeland and its culture.

Do not bring up the topic of Catalan independence. You cannot determine what position your Spanish counterpart has on the topic, whether they are Catalonian or not. If the subject is raised, it is best to simply ask questions and allow them to inform you of their perspective as opposed to sharing your own.

Never say anything derogatory about a Spaniard’s family, especially their mother.

Do not imply that Spaniards are lazy, always late or bad at their job. This stereotype can be frustrating as the Spanish workforce is competitive and many people have to work very hard to keep their jobs.

Avoid mentioning Francisco Franco and his era of power. This can initiate long debates.

Do not joke about the Catholic Church or the Pope when in the company of older Spaniards. The younger generations are often quite relaxed about this kind of humour, but it can seriously offend the elderly.

Do not criticise someone’s favourite football team unless you want to start a debate. Similarly, don’t imply that football is a bad sport.

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Do’s

Take the time to engage in some small talk when meeting people. This can involve humour or enquiring into someone’s family’s well-being. It is rude to talk about your topic of interest without showing some thoughtfulness and consideration into people’s lives.

Try to stay for a few hours of talking after a meal (la sobremesa). This can help form close bonds. However, keep in mind that Spaniards tend to stay up late to socialise. If you do not think you have the energy for a late night, simply thank them and say goodnight. Spaniards are generally well aware that they keep late hours and most will understand if you are not used to it.

Deliver sensitive news or criticism tactfully. The Spanish often speak with a lot of pride and confidence, giving an impression that they are very self-confident. Do not let this lead you to think they are immune to offence. Spaniards can be sensitive to comments that appear to question their dignity (la dignidad).

Try to tolerate a higher volume of noise. Spaniards are generally used to a higher level of noise in social situations or coming from a friend

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Reino de España is a country in Southwestern Europe with some pockets of territory in the Mediterranean Sea, offshore in the Atlantic Ocean and across the Strait of Gibraltar.