Spain public affection habits explained by housing and culture
A BBC News report explains how Spanish housing markets and social norms drive frequent public displays of affection across the country.
Daily life shows affection openly
Kissing in public is an everyday sight throughout Spain. People often greet new acquaintances with a double-cheek kiss rather than a handshake. Romantic couples are frequently seen smooching on benches or busy high streets. Even accountants sign off emails with kisses to show familiarity.
Housing crisis shifts intimacy outside
Around 65 percent of Spain's population lives in flats which is the highest proportion in the EU. Soaring property prices make it difficult for young adults to move out of family homes. This lack of private space pushes intimate moments into public areas like bars and plazas. People gather shoulder-to-shoulder on terraces while sipping beers in the sunshine instead of at home.
Social comfort enables open displays
A University of Warwick study found Spain requires less personal space than Greece Italy or Portugal. Professor Amparo Lasén from Complutense University of Madrid says Spaniards are more physically demonstrative than northern Europeans. Isabel Nieto Tous moved back with parents three years ago and found dating without privacy awkward. She would claim to stay at a friend's place to avoid telling her parents about house guests.
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