5 Things I Hate About Spain – The Unexpected Truth

“Oh mine, is this Spain or Sahara Africa?” I joked with my husband as we stepped outside in August. The heat was like nothing I had ever felt before. Coming from a country where the temperature ranged between 28 and 33 degrees, I thought I could handle heat. But Spain had other plans. The thermometer hit 45 degrees, and I quickly realised I was not prepared for this kind of summer.

Moving to Spain was exciting but full of surprises. While I’ve grown to love so much about this country, there were things I initially ‘hated’—things that made me question if I could ever feel at home. Over time, though, those “hates” became quirks I appreciate. Let me share them with you.

1. The Good Weather

“It’s too hot!” I’d complain, fanning myself with whatever I could find. Spaniards seemed to handle the summer heat effortlessly, but I was melting. My husband would just laugh and say, “You’ll get used to it.”

The summers in Spain are no joke, especially in August when temperatures hit 45 degrees. But while the heat can be overwhelming, I’ve come to appreciate the sunny days. Winters are mild, and the sunshine feels like a gift when other parts of Europe are covered in grey skies. Now, I see the endless sunshine as one of Spain’s best features.

2. The Siesta Culture

“Wait, everything’s closed?” I asked the first time I went out in the afternoon to find the streets deserted and shops locked. Spaniards don’t joke with their siestas, and it caught me off guard.

Before I had kids, my husband never missed coming home for lunch and a quick siesta before heading back to work. I used to find it strange—why not just power through the day? But now, I get it. That midday break isn’t just about resting. It’s about slowing down, recharging, and enjoying life. I’ve learned to love the quiet afternoons and the slower pace of life.

3. The Food

“Is this all there is?” I asked the first time I was served a plate of tortilla de patatas. It looked so simple that I couldn’t imagine it being exciting. But after one bite, I realised I had underestimated Spanish food.

The beauty of Spanish cuisine lies in its simplicity. Fresh ingredients, bold flavours, and dishes that celebrate tradition. From paella to jamón ibérico, the variety is endless. I used to think it was too simple, but now I appreciate how Spanish food doesn’t need to be complicated to be delicious.

4. The Transport System

“Which bus do I take?” I asked myself, staring at the confusing map during my first week in Spain. The transport system here is extensive, and at first, it felt like too much to figure out.

But as I got used to it, I realised how lucky I was. Spain’s public transport is affordable, reliable, and makes exploring the country so easy. Whether I’m taking a train to another city or hopping on a metro to get around town, I’ve grown to love how accessible everything is.

5. The Wine

“Spanish wine is dangerous,” I joked after trying my first glass. It’s so good—and so affordable—that it’s almost impossible to resist.

One of my favourites is EL GRIFO, a volcanic wine that tastes like sunshine in a bottle. The variety of wines in Spain is incredible, from La Rioja to the Canary Islands. While it’s tempting to enjoy wine a little too often, it’s become a simple pleasure that I now associate with Spain’s rich culture.

Spain surprised me in so many ways. The heat, the siesta culture, the food, the transport system, and the wine were all things I initially struggled to adapt to. But over time, I’ve learned to embrace them.

Living here has taught me to slow down, appreciate life’s small moments, and see beauty in the unexpected. Spain isn’t perfect, but that’s what makes it so special. It’s a country that challenges you, changes you, and eventually becomes a part of you. And for that, I’ll always be grateful.

Check out my other blog posts for more tips.

• 5 Beautiful Spanish Destinations for a Relaxing Momcation

• What You Need to Know About Spain’s Nightlife

• 6 Reasons to Add Spain to Your Travel Bucket List