How to make friends when moving to Spain

Moving to a new country can be both exciting and daunting, especially when it comes to building a new social life. As an expat in Spain, you'll be immersed in a vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and a rich history. However, it's not uncommon to feel isolated and unsure about how to make friends in your new home.

This guide will provide you with valuable tips and strategies on how to make friends in Spain, ensuring a smoother transition and a more fulfilling expat experience.

1. Learn the language - Spanish Classes

One of the most important steps toward integrating into Spanish society and making friends is learning the language. Making an effort to learn Spanish not only shows respect for the culture but also opens doors to deeper and more meaningful connections.

Here are a few ways to improve your Spanish skills:

• Take Spanish Classes: Enroll in a local language school or use online platforms offering professional Spanish courses. Regular classes will provide a structured approach to learning.
• Practise with Locals: Engage in everyday conversations with locals. They often appreciate the effort and can offer helpful feedback.
• Language Exchange Apps: Platforms like Tandem or HelloTalk connect you with native Spanish speakers interested in learning your language, providing mutual benefits.

2. Attend local events and festivals in Spain

Immerse yourself in the Spanish culture by attending local events and festivals. Spain is known for its lively, colourful festivals such as La Tomatina, Pamplona: Running of the Bulls, Fallas and Feria de Abril. Participating in these events gives you a chance to experience local culture and meet new people. Often, there are local community groups that organise activities around these big cultural events. Consider joining one and you will automatically be invited into a a new world of social events. For example, if you live in Valencia consider joining a 'Falla' to participate in the Fallas festival, or if you are a Christian, consider joining a 'Cofradía' for the Easter celebrations. These groups entertain a social calendar that runs for the entire year.

Here are some other ways to get involved in the community:

• Local Markets and Fairs: Regularly visit local markets, craft fairs, and street festivals. These are perfect opportunities to start conversations and get to know your neighbours.
• Cultural Activities: Explore museums, art galleries, and historical sites. These places often host events and workshops where you can meet people with shared interests.

3. Join social groups and clubs in Spain

Joining social groups and clubs is an excellent way to meet people who share your interests. Whether you're into hiking, reading, cooking, cycling or language exchange. You will find that there are groups and clubs catering to numerous hobbies and interests. These settings create a natural environment for making friends as well as finding English-speaking friends. Hiking groups in Spain are very popular as they give you focused time to meet and talk with like-minded people.

4. Connect with expat communities in Spain

While integrating into the local community is important, connecting with fellow expats can offer unique benefits. Expat communities provide a sense of camaraderie and understanding, as you'll be surrounded by people who share similar experiences and challenges.

Here are three popular expat groups in Spain:

• Expatica Spain: This platform offers an extensive array of resources and information tailored to expats living in Spain. From housing tips to social events, Expatica provides everything you need to feel at home.
• Internations: Known for organising frequent meetups and events, Internations is an invaluable resource for networking and socialising with other expats.
• Meetup: This global platform hosts numerous events and activities specifically for expats. Whether it's a casual coffee gathering or a specialised hobby group, there's something for everyone on Meetup.

5. Volunteer in Spain

Volunteering for local charities or community projects is a fulfilling way to meet like-minded individuals and contribute to your new community.

Here are some ways to get involved in volunteering:

• Local Charities: Offer your time and skills to local charities or community projects.
• Animal Shelters and Homeless Shelters: Offer your time and skills to help these organisations, creating a bond with both the locals and other volunteers.

6. Network through work or study in Spain

Your professional or academic circle can also be a valuable resource for making friends.

Here are some ways to network through work or study:

• Attend Networking Events: Participate in professional networking events related to your industry. These gatherings are not only great for your career but also for making friends.
• Join Student Organisations: If you're studying, join university clubs or organisations that interest you. These groups often organise social events.

7. Use social media and apps to find friends in Spain

Social media and apps can be powerful tools for connecting with people and expanding your social circle.

Here are some platforms to consider:

• Facebook Groups: Look for Facebook groups dedicated to expats in Spain or your specific city. These groups often organise meetups and provide useful information.
• Friendship and Language Exchange Apps: Apps like Bumble For Friends, InterNations, and Tandem help connect you with people looking for friendship or language practice.

8. Be open and approachable when socialising in Spain

Your attitude plays a crucial role in forming new relationships. Being open to new experiences and approachable in social settings is imperative.

Here are some tips for being open and approachable:

• Smile: It may seem simple, but a friendly smile can break the ice and make you seem more approachable. It goes a long way and can help to get a conversation started.
• Initiate Conversations: Don't be afraid to start a conversation with people you meet at events, cafés, or even on public transport.
• Step Out of Your Comfort Zone: Try activities or visit places you wouldn't normally consider. Stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to unexpected and rewarding experiences.

9. Take the initiative when making friends in Spain

A proactive approach can significantly enhance your chances of forming friendships. When discussing plans for coffee or a social outing, follow through with specific details. Suggest a date, time, and place, and send reminders to reaffirm your interest. This demonstrates your genuine desire to connect, encouraging the other person to reciprocate.

Persistence is crucial. Even if initial attempts do not pan out, keep the lines of communication open. Spaniards, like people everywhere, appreciate sincerity and effort. By showing that you are serious about forming a friendship, you increase the likelihood of building a meaningful bond.

10. Extend invitations to your Spanish neighbours

Waiting to be invited to social gatherings can be a passive and often fruitless strategy. Instead, take the initiative by organising events and inviting potential friends. Whether it is a tapas night, a casual coffee meet-up, or a group picnic, actively involving others can foster a sense of camaraderie.

Remember that different friendships have different dynamics. Not being invited to certain activities does not necessarily mean you are not valued. Some friendships are built around specific activities or interests, while others are more comprehensive. Embrace these differences and seek to build on them.

11. Be patient and persistent when building friendships in Spain

Forming meaningful friendships takes time, and it's essential to be patient and persistent. Don't get discouraged by initial setbacks, and keep participating in social events and group activities. Regular interaction helps in building stronger bonds.

Most importantly, stay true to yourself. Authenticity is key to forming genuine connections. Be yourself, and you'll attract friends who appreciate you for who you are.

Making friends as an expat in Spain is a journey filled with excitement, challenges, and numerous opportunities. By immersing yourself in the language, participating in local activities, and maintaining an open and friendly attitude, you can build meaningful relationships that enrich your stay in this wonderful country.

Remember, the journey to forming friendships is an adventure in itself, and each connection you make will enhance your experience living in Spain. So venture out, engage with the vibrant cultural scene of Spain, and keep a positive outlook. With patience, persistence, and a spirit of adventure, you'll soon find yourself surrounded by a circle of friends ready to share in your Spanish escapades. If you are looking for more tips on living in Spain, why not read our article on how to integrate into Spanish society?