The Road to Happiness is Paved with Cheap Wine

I came to Spain in search of cheap wine and discovered strange things; not many people are aware of this, yet “those things” lead to happiness

If you’re looking to be happy, then you should head out to the store and buy some cheap wine. That’s right, according to a recent study, the key to happiness is all about spending your money on cheap wine.

And that is one of the many things I lived in Spain for the $2 bottles of cheap wine, but trust it is still good even if it is so cheap. I live here for 4 years and drank a lot of cheap wine while I discovered not only affordability but other weird things about Spanish culture. And I will explain this later. Don’t worry, I won’t bore you with cheap wine studies.

In finding happiness, the Spanish know a thing or two about how to do it on a budget. From the Mediterranean coast to the lively streets of Barcelona, Spaniards know how to enjoy life to the fullest — and they don’t let money stand in their way.

Affordability

I follow the affordability where your hard-earned money can go a long way. The place where competition and keeping up with Joneses isn’t a thing here.

Sure, Spain can be expensive — but that’s mostly in the big cities. Head to a smaller town or rural area, and you’ll find that the cost of living is much more reasonable. You could easily live comfortably on $1,200 a month in Spain.

For example, a typical meal out might include a few tapas (appetizers), a glass of wine, and a dessert for as little as 3.50 euros ($4.00) — around $35 less than you’d pay in New York City!

The secret?

Tapas in Granada a free and they come with the drink you order. This means with every new order, you get a new tapa.

A night out on the town would probably run you an average of about 25–30 euros (25–35 dollars), which includes drinks and entrance to a nightclub or concert.

And for housing, you can easily find a comfortable place to live for as little as 400 euros ($480) per month.

Time moves slowly

Of course, Spain isn’t all sunshine and sangria–there are some things that you should know before visiting or moving.

For one, the Spanish work schedule differs from what you might be used to. Spaniards take their time and enjoy life to the fullest, so don’t expect them to hurry and finish their conversation while they are working.

Socialist Country, but in a good way

Also, keep in mind that Spain is a socialist country, so healthcare is universal and free for everyone. You won’t have to worry about fundraising for your medical bills–an enormous relief for Americans! You don’t have to worry about GoFundMe.

Family Comes First

Family Comes First, including in the bars where children are welcome until the closing time. Every bar or restaurant has a playground close by. Parents can enjoy the sangria while kids are playing in the sandbox.

And don’t expect the Spanish servers to be as attentive as they are in the United States. They aren’t rude, but they will not do things you are expecting them to do. If they greet you with “Dime!” (What’s up or tell me) it is normal. It is cultural and weird. They scream at you and you scream back if you need a service.

You can enjoy your lunch or dinner even for 6 hours. Nobody will bring you a check and tell you “take your time,” which in translation means to pay and get out…

Childhood lasts until twelve

Children are children until they reach the age of twelve in Spain. They may only play and primary school is rather laid back, with little homework required. They have no duties or commitments. When they reach age 12, everything changes, and responsibilities and chores mount upon them. Compared to primary school, high school is more competitive with a ton of homework. They care for their siblings, can be left alone at home or go shopping.

Only nude beaches

Free nude beaches are everywhere. It is hard to find not a nude beach. The first time when I moved here and we went to the beach it was really hard to find a beach that wasn’t nude or at least topless. Once, I found a normal beach where it was written:

“You must wear clothes at all times, otherwise you are subject to a penalty of 3000 Euros.”

To me, it seemed odd to penalize someone for not wanting to get dressed. I’m used to the opposite habit… I suppose Spaniards are exhibitionists.

Stores open later in the mornings and are closed on Sundays

The downside to Spain’s relaxed lifestyle is that many stores open at 10 am close at 2 pm for siesta, then reopen at 5 pm and are closed on Sundays. However, most supermarkets are open until 10 pm, so you can still do your grocery shopping without having to wake up early. But Sundays are not for shopping.

First Country to roll out the UBI

I don’t know this is an exceptional or weird project but it sounds interesting.

Spain is planning to implement a universal basic income (UBI) “as soon as possible” to cushion the blow from the coronavirus. The initiative assisted families during the epidemic.

In Spain, a deputy prime minister said the government’s aim was for UBI to

“become something that stays forever, that becomes a structural instrument, a permanent instrument.”

Spain would become the first country in Europe to implement the UBI on a long-term basis if the payments are successfully implemented. Let’s see how this rolls out, and if it becomes reality someday.

In 2017, Finland attempted a similar scheme, but it failed since the individuals receiving the UBI were happier but stopped looking for work; the financial support they were getting was enough to live on without the job.

My discoveries and observations in my first four years in Spain appear to be weird at first glance, but they lead to happiness in the end.

For me, Spain offers a relaxed, affordable lifestyle, with its stunning scenery, delicious food, and friendly people, which is the fastest way to happiness in no time!

Thank you for reading and happy travels!

If you would like to read more about Spain, I recommend Janet Christian stories