TELEVISION IN VALENCIA

A glance across the rooftops of Valencia reveals a veritable sea of antennas reaching boldly to the sky in an attempt to catch a signal. Large or small, on short posts or tall, many of them are anchored bravely against strong coastal winds.

Cable is available for use with digital boxes or digital TVs in many apartment buildings, yet with the continued progress of digitalisation, some channels may no longer be broadcast.

Digital terrestrial television and dvb routers are available, as are satellite dishes, while some subscribe  to a VPN to view channels from their home country. This may also be relevant when wishing to view an international option of streaming platforms.

Smart televisions and the well developed coverage of fast broadband have made streaming via the wifi widely accessible at least in urban areas.

Language and Culture

Television is understandably broadcast in Spanish in Valencia. As opposed to Scandinavian countries, if a foreign series, soap, or movie is shown, then it is dubbed. Fortunately though, many channels offer the option to choose the original language. Thus watching movies in original English is possible at home too, assuming the TV set is equipped with that option.

Along with other countries such as France and Germany, the business of translating and dubbing into Spanish is huge. Some say this is a disadvantage to young locals, again pointing Nordic nationalities and their language capabilities.

Even subtitles can have a similar positive effect. Research has more recently proven that switching on subtitles is beneficial, so perhaps a great option for improving Spanish skills.

Movies are screened regularly and marathons can normally be viewed over the weekends. In accordance with Spanish lifestyles, films start later in the evening at around 10 pm. Hardly surprising, since dinner is served seldom before 8 pm and often later.

No Licence Fee

Of the forty-four countries in Europe, under half charge their citizens a licence fee. Germany has even, for instance, long embraced the digital age and charges each and every household in the assumption that residents view publicly funded television channels online.

Fortunately, Spain belongs to that generous group of countries that allow their citizens, and expats, to view for free. The price is, however, rather high. Excruciatingly loud adverts regularly intersperse programmes for an unbearable number of minutes.

The amount of time the ad segment will last is regularly stated, which can often be lengthy enough to brew a pot of tea, pull an espresso or mix a serious cocktail!

By Vincent Green, Mar 14 2024