Tancat

“Tancat” was probably the first Catalan word that I learned.  I discovered its meaning during my first August in Spain after attempting to buy bread at no fewer than three bakeries.  All were tancat or “closed.”  Closed for vacation. 

Coming from a culture of 24/7 shopping and services and on-demand, one-day shipping, it  seemed strange when the butcher or my local bakery closed for a few weeks so that they could take vacation.  Even the BWN takes a vacation in August.  But after six and a half years living in Spain, it still seems strange. 

This year, with the realities of the economic crisis ever present, many business owners are opting to "Hacer el agosto," a Spanish saying which means to make good business by working in August (while everyone else is on vacation).  

What's closing in your neighborhood?  Keep your eyes out for a sign at the entrance!

--Christine K.