People Of Javea

The people of Javea / Xàbia are generally very friendly and a holiday in Javea Xabia is a great place to experience true Spanish hospitality at its best. The Spanish of this region are known as Valencians and they have their own language.  

 

They are sociable and extrovert, love fiestas and delight in sharing their joy with others. To experience the people of Valencia at their best it is well worth a visit to their most popular fiesta which is world famous Fallas held in March every year, a festive bonfire, burning of effigies, lots of fireworks and an explosion of colour. It is very noisy, lots of partying and a strong smell of gunpowder fills the air.

 

Jávea / Xàbia have a wide range of traditions which are deeply-rooted in the maritime and Mediterranean traditions of the Costa Blanca history: The Fiesta experiences that take place throughout the year are honouring both pagan and religious traditions.

 

Spain’s widespread territory and varied geography, coupled with a history of invasion, emigration and immigration have resulted in great diversity among its population and it’s impossible to list the characteristics of a ‘typical Spaniard’, let alone a typical Javiensa. A recent nationwide survey asked Spaniards to define themselves, and the majority claimed to be kind, ‘reasonably responsible’, hardworking (without being workaholics), honest and moderately progressive. According to the same survey, Spaniards consider themselves to have no salient good points, but no outstandingly bad ones either.

 

Even in appearance, fewer and fewer Spaniards match the popular image of short, swarthy and dark, and the indigenous population includes blondes, brunettes and redheads; and Spanish teenagers are now as tall as their counterparts throughout Europe.

 

It is often said that the Spanish are famous for the manana attitude but I am sure this started in the Valencian Region. Their love of family life, friendly leisure and entertainment activities in Valencia are second to none, their relaxed attitude to life can offer the ideal holiday in this region.  Everywhere, there are discos, nightclubs restaurants and pubs to enjoy a night out and lovely villas and apartment to relax in and soak up the sun.

 

Survey carried out in 1988 when democracy was young asked the following question: ‘Do you consider yourself qualified to be a good president of Spain?’ An amazing 13.4 per cent of Spaniards said yes.

 

This article was produced with excerpts taken from Culture Wise Spain – The essential Guide to Culture Customs and Business Etiquette by Joanna Styles.  Published by Survival Books.