Eva Longoria Reveals What She Misses Most About the U.S. While Living Abroad, What She’s Happy to Be Without (Exclusive)

**Eva Longoria Embraces Family Life in Spain and Mexico While Reflecting on Cultural Differences**

Actress and director Eva Longoria has recently opened up about her family’s lifestyle, highlighting the notable differences she has experienced while dividing her time between Spain and Mexico. In a candid conversation on April 18, 2024, Longoria revealed that she, her husband José Bastón, and their seven-year-old son Santiago have been residing abroad for several years.

Having spent a significant portion of her life in Texas and Los Angeles, Longoria is becoming accustomed to the cultural shifts that living abroad entails. She has been directing her upcoming film, *The Fifth Wheel*, and has spent more time in Los Angeles this year, but is contemplating a return to Spain, where the family has made many cherished memories.

One of the most prominent changes Longoria has noted during her time abroad is the pace of life. “The biggest difference has been ‘slowing down’,” she explained. In Spain, the family has discovered a more leisurely approach to dining, which contrasts sharply with the fast-paced mealtimes typical in American work culture. “They love a long meal. You’re never in a rush,” she stated, clearly appreciating the cultural emphasis on enjoying food and company.

Longoria expressed her appreciation for the absence of the often stressful working lunch mentality prevalent in her previous life. “I don’t miss the working lunch,” she remarked, noting how work commitments often overshadowed the simple pleasure of enjoying a meal. She believes that the Spanish lifestyle has allowed her to revel in the joy of eating without the lurking anxiety of deadlines.

Another pleasure of living in Spain is the relaxed attitude towards transportation. Longoria is pleased to note the simple convenience of walking everywhere, given the absence of the heavy traffic that characterises life in Los Angeles. Her new environment seems to be aligning well with her family’s values and lifestyle preferences.

However, the actress does have some feelings of nostalgia for her hometown and its culinary offerings. Longoria admitted, “I miss my family, my Texas family… and good Mexican food.” These two elements, she feels, are not as readily accessible in Europe, showcasing the bittersweet nature of her global experience.

Longoria has also shared how her son, Santiago, is adapting to his new life abroad. After being homeschooled previously, he recently began attending school for the first time while the family was in Los Angeles. “He’s loved it,” she said, praising how he has taken to having peers, classmates, and attending birthday parties. Despite being homeschooled, Santiago had always enjoyed a rich family environment; nonetheless, this transition into schooling has offered him new social interactions.

As the family contemplates where to base themselves in the future, Longoria mentioned that a return to Spain might be on the cards, especially given that Santiago seems happier there. “We have a big family, and so a lot of his cousins are in Spain,” she explained, highlighting the importance of family connections in their upbringing. For Longoria, ensuring her son is surrounded by relatives is a significant priority.

The family’s decision-making process emphasises a thoughtful approach to their lifestyle choices, as they take each year as it comes. Longoria’s reflections on family life and cultural adjustments resonate with many who have experienced similar journeys, blending international living with familial commitments.

In addition to these personal insights, Longoria has been sharing her travel experiences in her series *Eva Longoria: Searching for France*, which premiered on CNN on April 12. The show airs two episodes weekly and promises to delve deeper into both her explorations and the cultural nuances she’s embracing as part of her global lifestyle.

Through her journey, Longoria continues to navigate the complexities and joys of cultural differences, all while underscoring the importance of family and connection. As she balances her creative pursuits in Hollywood with a fulfilling life abroad, her experiences offer a unique perspective on the art of blending different worlds.