Being in Spain for the past two months has allowed me to settle comfortably among a new culture, and I've picked up on some things I think the United States needs to incorporate into the all-American lifestyle.
So, in my humble opinion, America, here's what's up:
1. Siesta
A break from work and school, a warm, freshly prepared meal, a time to relax...more explanation needed?
2. Thinking green
Europe in general seems to be on the upper curve of environmental responsibility. When it's the only option, people are forced to live sustainably, buying locally grown fruits and vegetables, installing water-conserving toilets in homes, using energy-efficient kitchen supplies, opting for motion-censored lights...the green lifestyle is refreshing as well as an investment in the future.
3. Teterías
Though their presence here in southern Spain can mainly be credited to Granada’s loud Moroccan influence, no place should lack boldly-themed tea houses where one can enjoy Arabic pastries, inconceivable varieties of tea flavors, culturally rich decor and even Wi-Fi.
4. Smaller portions, less “to-go” options
Europeans are generally thinner (and healthier) than Americans for a reason. I say the U.S. begins its reclamation of manageable weight by revolutionizing the restaurant industry, taking a nod from our svelte friends across the pond.
5. Tapas
Free tapas, to be more specific. Braving the crowds for a glass of 2-euro wine is made all the sweeter when its accompanied by a complimentary plate of croquetas or empanadillas. Tapas offer a tasty alternative to dinner and provide a sociable option for any night of the week.
Enjoying some tapas at the well-known D'Cuadros bar in Granada.
6. Olive oil
Though the Spanish diet does include a heavy variety of fried foods, the monosaturated-fat-filled olive oil is the liquid of choice for cooking up a crispy meal. It heart-healthy, always available in mass quantities, and leaves no trace of flavor when used for frying. Olive oil also makes a delicious addition to an immeasurable variety of foods, from plain bread to soups to vegetables to meats!
7. Currency options
One could never know how useful whole dollar coins could be. While paper money warrants no legitimate complaints, being able to easily carry several dollars in coins (without the annoyance of nickels, dimes and quarters) is appreciated.
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