If you’ve ever travelled through southern Europe you would’ve noticed how eerily empty the streets are mid-afternoon, with shops closed and locals nowhere to be found. It can actually be incredibly frustrating, especially for novice travellers who didn’t plan their day accordingly.
With the aim to increase productivity, however, Spain is planning to end its long-standing tradition of siesta, which is essentially a right of passage for workers across the country.
Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy wants to scrap the daily breaks to lead the nation into the 21st century and improve work-life balance, and he has proposed a legislation that would end siesta once and for all.
Currently, an average working day begins 10 a.m., with a break around 2 p.m. for a daily nap (which can last up to threw hours), ending the workday around 8 p.m. The concept was imposed so workers could escape the midday heat.
We predict Madrid could quickly become the next international nap bar destination in light of this news.
So what exactly does this mean for travellers?
If Rajoy’s legislation is approved, all shops and restaurants will remain open throughout the day, which will allow travellers to remain on schedule and explore as local shops as they’re accustomed to almost everywhere else in the world. This is great for those who are only in town for a few days and want to maximize their time. Not to mention, business owners could make a lot more money during the day, so it’s a win-win for everyone.
And if locals are really struggling without their midday snooze, they could always set up a nap hammock at work. Even though they aren’t allowed an official siesta, a few George Costanza shenanigans never hurt anyone.
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