Driving in Spain

Emery's turn.

"Segovia All Directions"

Driving in Spain is like any other country. You have roads, signs, and other drivers. Where the difference comes is how these signs, roads, and drivers do their job.
We have come across a number of different approaches to signage. Very important signs not only will have a sign, but will also be painted onto the road surface. Lines are also very important - if the line is solid, you cannot turn.


Another new adventure that took a little getting used to were the traffic circles. In the span of 13 kms from our house to the school where we took Spanish four days a week, there are 13 traffic circles! With this experience, they have become a normal part of driving. Many of the traffic circles have interesting sculptures or fountains that decorate the centres (this one in the city of Avila).

With new signage comes new understandings. Here, a line through something, as you see in the picture, indicates that whatever prohibition was on (ie no passing) has now ended.


The other new thing that took getting used to is that, in general, left turns are not made. You turn right into a turning lane that then meets the road at a right angle to cross.

back space of sliver car

Parking is another new experience. The Spanish are experts at parallel parking. They can fit into a space slightly larger, and I mean slightly larger, than their car. And if not, then they'll just slide in perpendicular.  And no one seems to mind if you park facing either direction.

front space of silver car

One familiar sign that is now standardized is the stop sign, with an added reminder on the road!

The roads here are beautiful. With Winnipeg being the pothole capital of Canada it is nice to drive on roads that are smooth and well paved. It doesn't hurt that they don't have to deal with frost.