The mistake you 'keep' making on holiday in Spain - why you 'have to be assertive' like the locals

Expat in Spain shares the worst thing about moving to the European destination

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Anna Barry

By Anna Barry


Published: 16/02/2025

- 12:17

Getting in "sync" with the Spaniards could mean a "much more memorable and less stressful" holiday

Spain is a beloved tourist destination and, according to data by Statista, has been UK residents' top holiday country since 2019.

But despite its popularity, one expat in Spain claimed that visitors are still making the same mistakes over and over again.


James Blick, who relocated from New Zealand to Spain, took to YouTube to share the "unspoken rules tourists keep breaking".

He said: "People always tell me that they don't want to look like a tourist when they're in Spain.

James Blick

James advised tourists to 'get in sync with the locals and local rhythms'

YouTube / Spain Revealed

"There's nothing wrong with being a tourist but I always say to people that they're going to have a much more memorable, less stressful and probably cheaper experience if you can get in sync with the locals and local rhythms."

According to James, one mistake tourists make in Spain is not being "assertive" enough at restaurants or tapas bars.

He explained that in some cultures, people are used to the waiting staff being very "attentive". However, this cannot be said for Spain.

You may be used to hands-on staff who are constantly asking you if you would like more food or drinks, or rushing you out of the restaurant once you have paid your bill.

However, according to James, Spanish eateries place a little more onus on you. He said: "Here in Spain, it's much more hands-off. You have to be assertive about your needs."

Indeed, if you would like a menu, more food, another drink or the bill, "you really have to ask for it".

He added that visitors "may have to chase their waiter down". To get their attention, catch their eye and say '¡Disculpe!' or '¡Perdona!' - both a form of 'Excuse me'.

"And they might not come straight away," James added, "because often waiters in Spain have a lot more tables to take care of than you might be used to back home".

If the waiter forgets you have called them, the expat advised tourists to just ask them again. He stated: "Be polite but be assertive."

As for getting the bill, this won't be brought over automatically. Rather, it will come only if and when you have requested it.

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Beach in Costa Brava, Spain

Spain is an incredibly popular destination among holidaymakers

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James explained: "Here, they are not as focused on turning tables, so it's not like the minute you finish eating they're going to put down the bill and kick you out."

For those planning their next trip to Spain, GB News recently spoke to an expat about his top tips for enjoying a holiday there.

Alastair Johnson named his must-visit holiday destination, complete with "stunning" sights and plenty of "adventure".