Well howdy everybody and welcome to the latest. Sorry it only took me way too long to get it out, but this was a long complicated one right in the middle of trying to figure out how to live in this fine country.

In the video I promised to discuss bars, neighborhoods, and young children. I know that sounds a little weird, but here goes …

OK, here’s a quiz for ya. How many of you Americans would consider bringing your children, or grandchildren if you’re a geezer like me, into a local bar? Raise your hands! (pause)

Just as I expected.

Americans see neighborhood bars a little bit differently. As in … they’re seedy drinking parlours. And in the states they are, thank god for em!

But here in Spain they serve quite a different purpose, I’ve discovered. In the local neighborhoods there is usually one bar per block. And they don’t look like much. Cigarette and slot machines. Surly guy at the counter. Folks drinking beer and wine in the mornings.

Only … looks are deceiving.

Because there are also families here. This is where neighborhoods come to talk, socialize, gossip, and catch up. Morning and night. Because drinking isn’t the point. People are the point.

And yea, folks drink beer/wine in the mornings, along with coffee. Not to excess, but because they want one. It’s not seen as a vice. It’s not alcoholism. It’s a single drink.

Americans have so many hangups over so many things. But here it’s just … no pasa nada. Doesn’t matter. Just live life.

Now the good news for those here in Spain is that these bars also sometimes serve as mini restaurants, but just because they’re open doesn’t mean they’re going to serve you a full dinner at 6pm. Nope, dinner rules still apply. You can get tapas … small plates, appetizers … but that’s usually it. Timing is different here. Casual living is the norm. And “bars” are just social hubs with snacks.

So there you go. I told you I’d explain it.

Today we leave this fine city, but just for a couple of days. Which is what the next video is going to be about. We came here to spain without any plans for where to live, and that turned into the fiasco that you probably think it did. So instead of one home, we have six. And yes, that’s as annoying as you think it is. So tomorrow we head out to live for a few days in the country. In a tent.

Seriously.

Whelp, I have to go back now, so thanks for watching and doing all that you do.

~ Rick