Will I be okay as a West-Indian studying abroad in Spain?

Question

I have a friend in Barcelona who wants me to visit her and I've always wanted to go to Spain. But, I watch a lot of football (soccer) and I know the incidents that have occured there with black players...

I really want to go, but I'm a little iffy. Umm...People say I look more Dominican than I look "black"...lol! Dunno if that helps any...how are Dominicans treated in Spain? :)

Someone told me I'd be okay in Barcelona, but not to go to Madrid because Neo-Nazi's parade in the street. I know that happens in the U.S. too, but I'm never around them when it happens. I'd rather not bearound them in Spain either.

Answer 1

Well I am Dominican and I know may people of different races who live there. I have been to Spain 6 times and I found people to be very friendly and helpful every where I went. Actually Madrid is one of my favorite places in the world. Now be careful which neighborhoods you go to but that would be the same suggestion I would make to someone going to any city in the world.

Isolated race incidents can happen anywhere including many places here in the USA.

Answer 2

I think you will be fine, but you ask a good question because Spaniards aren't the most tolerant people in the world. That has to do with the fact that in the last 4 years, 4 million immigrants have come in, many Africans and Latin Americans. The Spanish culture, as a result, is being threatened.

As far as neo-Nazis, they're the minority, so don't think that all Spaniards think that way. Dominicans are treated fine, especially since they speak Spanish. But if you want to go to Madrid, you should go there if you want to; you won't have problems.

Answer 3

Barcelona is a very cosmopolitan city I do not think there will be a problem. There are tours of the football stadium that are very interesting for more on Barcelona see http://www.spain4uk.co.uk/places/barcelona.htm