A Spanish charity that works on behalf of people with hearing impairments has asked Spanish diners—and visitors—to keep it down a bit while out to eat.
The group, Oir es Clave, says that “Spain is the second noisiest country after Japan,” and points out that the problem is not just restaurants but also streets, schools, offices…everywhere. A spokesman said that the “dine quietly” campaign would help not only those with hearing issues but “the whole of society.” Spokesperson Svante Borjesson says that “It is difficult to make people aware of the dangers of noise pollution, but people are becoming more and more conscious of it.”
The organization’s website offers tips for restaurants and for diners, and includes a list of restaurants that already guarantee a quieter meal. For more information on the campaign from TheLocal.es, click HERE
This is a big problem in the Caribbean too.
You book a table in a fine restaurant.
Candles on each table. Napkins and best silver cutlery.
And the gentle tones of a Spanish Guitar soloist provide the entertainment.
Then 2 families sitting at tables 15 feet apart discover they both come from Michigan.
They have to shout to each other to be heard above the music.
The soloist takes a break.
The conversation continues and the noise level stays the same.