In just one call your life can change! The day our call came two years ago is still very clear to me, my husband was offered a new job in Germany, and since then, everything has changed. The opportunity was excellent and perfect timing as the economic situation in Spain and future perspectives were not good. We didn’t need to think too much to take up this offer and start a new adventure in Frankfurt. We felt like one of those couples we used to watch on the Spanish TV show “Españoles por el mundo”, living a new and exciting life abroad. Yes, living a new life is extremely exciting, but you never stop missing your home comforts. As a Spanish expat living in Germany, here are some of our missed favorite things that we look forward to when visiting our home country … Weather In one day you can see every season: cold in the morning, hot at noon, and at the end of the day be surprised by a beautiful storm. I’m used to always keeping an umbrella in my bag every day. But what I miss most about Spanish weather is the light of the sky on a sunny day. Food With so many Spanish specialties, it’s hard to name all, but my favorites are the ham, chorizo, queso manchego and pipas. Each time you eat a bite, you’ll feel like you are tasting your homeland. Beer with appetizer Yes, I am living in the country famous for its beer, but for me it’s going into a bar to order a pint of beer and not receiving any olives, chips or peanuts that I miss. However, if you are a beer fan, a huge variety of “bier“ brewed is available in Germany that might just help you forget about those extras you’re used to. Administration Be prepared for a different culture when moving to a new country. Assuming that every country deals with these matters in the same way is an easy mistake to make, so it’s better to be aware of any differences before you leave. Waste disposal Recycling is an extremely high priority in Frankfurt and there is various process’ to follow when disposing of your waste. It feels nice to know that you are contributing to a greener environment. Eating times As the working hours in Frankfurt are different to Spain’s, the eating time were tricky for me to get used to. Also, the Spanish culture of eating dinner with friends or family, but not know when the night will end doesn’t exist in Frankfurt. It’s the little things that contribute to getting used to your new life. Commuting From noise to no noise. People are very busy in Frankfurt and most begin their days on their commute into work: checking emails, using their laptops or just catching up on the current affairs. It is rare to see people converse on their commute, people are not being rude, it is just the nature of their busy daily life’s. Make appointments, usually in Spain we show up in a place without any appointment but you should be aware that in Germany you will need to arrange appointments for important issues like opening a bank account. Commodities Certain supplies you’re used to being able to purchase at home will not be available in your new location. For me, finding the well-known Spanish invention “Fregona” (mop) was very difficult. Using credit cards Once again, different countries mean different processes. The first time I used my credit card in a supermarket, I provided my identification only to be informed that it was not necessary. A strange concept for me, but one that I have got used to. Although I do miss the little things from home, I am very fortunate enough to be living in a beautiful city, learning a new language, enjoying our new adventure and I now appreciate the traditions from each country that help make it feel like home.