Etiquette for Spain?

[Angel B.]

Hello!

I accepted a job as a nanny/ESL Teacher for a family in Spain and I leave next week! I'm pretty etiquette conscious, especially about thank you notes and invitations. I am bringing gifts for the family: Chopsticks and stationary sets for the girls(8 and 10), mugs from the university that is in my hometown for the parents, and a picture book that tells a story about my hometown for the family.

Any etiquette advice/customs that I should know? I do know(and practice) the kissing on cheeks, but I'm not sure if that is Spanish.

[Gail]

Yes, the usual greeting between two women or between a woman and a man is a light peck in each cheek, but it's not compulsory. If you prefer to shake hands, say so.

About thank you notes, I've never written one in my whole life. Say thanks in person if you can, and if you don't, say thanks over the phone. No one will expect anything beyond that