“Wherever you are, reproduce what you see.” This Spanish proverb encourages travelers to embrace local customs and traditions. But when it comes to food, how far should this principle go? In the 19th century, British elites, influenced by a blend of scientific curiosity and culinary experimentation, were open to consuming exotic meats. This was a time when naturalists, like Charles Darwin, were not only studying the natural world but also tasting its creatures. During his famous voyage aboard the HMS Beagle from 1831 to 1836, Darwin sampled a variety of animals, including armadillos and giant tortoises. He even described a “large chocolate-colored rodent,” likely an agouti, as having the most delicious meat he had ever eaten. This historical openness to unusual foods highlights how cultural and scientific interests can influence what people choose to eat.
This brings us to a more modern culinary dilemma. A few years ago, during a trip to Iceland, I found myself facing a difficult choice. Iceland is one of only three countries—along with Japan and Norway—that still practice whaling. The decision to consume whale meat is not just a matter of taste but also involves ethical, cultural, and environmental considerations. The question of whether to follow local customs in such cases reflects the broader tension between cultural immersion and personal values.
Meanwhile, in Spain, the newspaper El País has played a significant role in shaping public discourse. Founded in 1976, just months after the death of dictator Francisco Franco, El País has grown to become Spain’s most widely read general newspaper. As a left-center publication, it is part of the Prisa media group, which is currently led by French businessman Joseph Oughourlian. Since 2021, Oughourlian has presided over both Prisa and El País, guiding its editorial direction.
Over the years, El País has expanded its reach beyond Spain. In 2013, the website launched two specialized editions for Latin American audiences: El País Brasil, which offered content in Portuguese for Brazilian readers, and El País América, which provided tailored content for readers across the Americas. While El País Brasil was eventually discontinued due to financial challenges, El País América and El País México continue to operate with their own editorial teams and websites, reflecting the newspaper’s commitment to regional engagement and diverse perspectives.
El País Expands Editorial Presence in Latin America
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