Italy or Spain? Foreign exchange?

Spain and Italy both have very different appeals, especially depending on where you are in each country. I am half Italian and naturally biased towards Italy but I love both countries

.

Culture- Italy is mainly famous for it's history and architecture. Some of Italy's cities are absolutely incredible just to stroll or sit in a cafe and people watch. Spain also has some great cities and seems to be much more laid back and "typically mediterranean" than Italy.

Weather- Spain is definitely hotter than Italy in summer due to it being a bigger landmass and for the most part further south. Italy has more humid summer weather with more thunderstorms, especially in the north. Spain is overall dryer and sunnier. Winter can be colder in Italy with snow in the mountains and in the north but northern and central parts of Spain can also get pretty chilly. Southern Italy and Sicily are much sunnier and warmer.

Food- Spain has some brilliant seafood, cheese, ham and wine and some great Tapas but personally I favour Italian food much more. All down to personal preferences.

Regional differences- Southern Spain is a lot more traditional while northern Spain seems to be more like other parts of Europe. Siestas are much less common in the north, especially nowadays. Southerners seem to be friendlier and laid back. Galicia is very different to Catalunya and Andalucia.

Similar differences apply in Italy, the south is much more traditional and family oreintated with friendlier people and more laid back lifestyle. The north is wealthier and the more industrious, socially liberal but northerners are have more reserved demeanors and colder personalities. The stereotype of Italians applies far more to the south than the north.

Language- Obviously, having fluency in Spanish will give you the larger advantage in Spain than in Italy. Despite some similarities, there are still some quite stark differences between Spanish and Italian. I know plenty of Italians who don't understand Spanish and vice versa.

Lifestyle- Depends on what you prefer. Italy seems to be a lot more "European" while Spain is more typically mediterranean. Italian life seems to be a lot more city oreintated and can be quite stressful and overwhelming. Spain certainly has a better lifestyle IMO but it all boils down to what you prefer.

I suggest going with natural instincts and doing your homework not only researching the country but the region of the country you will be in!