I have a theory as to why the Spanish streets, parks, and public transportation system are filled with public displays of affection -- children live with their parents until they are REALLY old. And making out with Mom and Dad around is just awkward. Clearly it's better to do it in front of random strangers.
In Spain, most people just live at home while they go to college, because it's rare to attend somewhere outside of your home city. Universities do have on-campus residence halls, but they are few and far between. After college, it's completely normal to keep living with your padres until you get married. I have friends who have siblings in their homestays that are around 30 years old. The living situation reinforces the family-oriented nature of the Spanish culture.
Though I think the set up originated out of economic difficulties... it's rare for a young person to make enough to support him/herself I believe.. it doesn't sound like that bad of a set up. Mom's around to cook all the meals and do laundry, and given the amount of youngsters out on the streets at all hours of the night, I don't think Spanish parents are too strict about enforcing curfews either.
No comments:
Post a Comment