My Parents giving a Catalan toast at Catalan restaurant | 2010
Around the globe, friends and strangers often raise their glasses to share a toast. Whether it be a simple "cheers" or a more involved quote, toasts are often used to celebrate the good and swear away the bad. But I bet it is rare that a toast urges you to "poop strongly".
Unless of course, you are in Catalunya. The Catalans apparently do not have any hang-ups about poop (have you read my posts on El Caganer or Caga Tió yet?)
As you raise your glasses in Barcelona or the Costa Brava, don't be surprised when you hear, "menja bé, caga fort i no tinguis por a la mort!" Translated into English as, "eat well, poop strongly and do not be afraid of death." But perhaps, somethings just don't translate!
If you are feeling a bit timid, your Catalan friends will still appreciate hearing "salut," (English = "to health") as you toast together.
This post is part of the Lonely Planet Blog Carnival on global toasting customs that I hosted. The previous carnival was about volunteering while traveling, hosted by See Simi Travel. The next carnival will be hosted by Vagobond.
