In today's interconnected and culturally diverse world, social etiquette plays a pivotal role in defining the character of a city. Understanding whether a city's inhabitants are generally polite or discourteous can influence tourism, business, and interpersonal relationships. A recent study conducted by Preply, a language learning platform, sheds light on the rudest and most courteous cities across Spain. This comprehensive analysis, published in April 2024, delves into the social behaviours that shape these perceptions across 19 significant Spanish cities. Whether you're a traveller, a foreign resident, or a local, understanding these dynamics can enhance your experience within Spain.
The Rudest Cities in Spain as Revealed by Preply
The findings of Preply's study identify several cities in Spain where residents may come off as ill-mannered to outsiders. Of these, Santa Cruz de Tenerife emerges as the city topping the list, with a score of 6.06 out of 10 for rudeness. This perception, as explained by the report, is driven by several behavioural tendencies, including an excessive amount of time spent on mobile phones and a lack of consideration in traffic situations, such as not yielding to other vehicles.
Granada follows with a score of 5.95, described by the study as a place where locals may occasionally exhibit a bad temper. Another city highlighted for its brash reputation is the coastal conurbation of Alicante-Elche, scoring 5.81, which surpassed the national average rudeness score of 5.53.
Further cities featuring in this less-than-flattering section of the report include San Sebastián (5.77), Bilbao (5.73), and Palma (5.69), with Barcelona and Málaga following closely with 5.64 and 5.61, respectively.
Here is a summary of some of the rudest cities as per the study:
- Santa Cruz de Tenerife - 6.06
- Granada - 5.95
- Alicante-Elche - 5.81
- San Sebastián - 5.77
- Bilbao - 5.73
The Most Courteous Cities in Spain
While some cities rank high on the rudeness scale, the study also celebrates the most polite and courteous locales. Topping this list is Vigo, scoring 5.17, marking it as Spain's politest city according to the survey.
Following Vigo, the A Coruña-Oleiros-Arteixo conurbation takes second place, showing that Galicia, as a region, boasts areas noted for their resident's considerate behaviour. Valencia and the Murcia-Orihuela area shoulder past participants, securing third and fourth place for politeness.
Evaluating Behaviour: What Makes a City Rude?
When assessing the rudeness of a city, the study took into account various day-to-day behaviours, which reflect residents' levels of courtesy and education. Among the widespread behaviours scrutinised, habitual mobile phone usage in public spaces emerged as a chief complaint, with San Sebastián reportedly leading in this respect.
Additionally, failing to acknowledge or greet strangers and viewing videos loudly in communal areas also contribute to the perception of impolite conduct.
Beyond public behaviour, the study includes driving etiquette, noting behaviours such as failing to concede way in traffic or not slowing down in pedestrian zones. Disrespect towards personal space further complicates these negative perceptions.
Such behaviours, though they may appear trivial on the surface, cumulatively feed into broader societal impressions that ultimately define the amiability of a city.
The Tipping Culture in Spanish Cities
Tipping etiquette traditionally varies across cultures, and within Spain, the study highlights disparities in how freely tips are given across different cities. Santa Cruz de Tenerife, already positioned as the rudest city, reportedly has the lowest tipping percentage at 6.10%.
Other cities exhibiting less generous tipping habits include San Sebastián and the Murcia-Orihuela area, with percentages of 6.16% and 6.49%, respectively.
On the contrary, residents of Valladolid appear to be the most generous tippers, with an average tipping rate of 10.18%. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and the A Coruña-Oleiros-Arteixo area follow in generosity.
The results of this study provide insightful data for both locals and travellers. For local government and city planners, understanding these perceptions can inform strategies to improve local etiquette through civic education and training. For businesses, especially those in the hospitality industry, this data offers an opportunity to tailor customer service practices to mitigate perceived rudeness and enhance visitor experience.
On a personal level, these insights encourage both locals and visitors to reflect on their own social behaviours and the impact these may have on community harmony. By fostering a culture of politeness and consideration, cities can enhance their reputation, attracting more tourists and creating a welcoming environment for new residents.
The study by Preply serves as a reminder of the importance of courteous behaviour in shaping the perception and experience of a city. Whether in the bustling streets of Madrid or the tranquil corners of Galicia, being considerate, respectful, and genuine can make a significant difference.
As the global community grows more interconnected, promoting understanding and polite interaction within different cultural contexts becomes increasingly essential. Regardless of the rankings, every city in Spain offers its unique charm and appeal, and Spain continues to be a welcoming destination—where respect and kindness cultivate a positive atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.