I signed up for the Barcelona Business Study Abroad after upperclassmen in my organization highly recommended it. They talked about all of the amazing sightseeing, the fun nightlife, and the fantastic food. My sister also did a study abroad in Spain and highly encouraged me to go. Based on their recommendations, I had cool spots and things that I wanted to do and was very excited to finally get here. The travel to Barcelona was easier than I expected. My eagerness to experience the Spanish lifestyle kept me going through the 17 hours of plane rides and layovers. Lucky for me, Spain has exceeded any and all expectations.
The apartments here are a lot smaller than I expected, but they add a sense of immersion to the trip and make me feel like I am truly living the Barcelona lifestyle. I expected the lack of air conditioning to be the biggest challenge while living here, but for the first few days it was nice to sleep with the cool Mediterranean breeze billowing through the apartment before my roommates and I figured out that our apartment actually does have AC. Everyone here talks about how the city has been experiencing a heatwave but coming from texas the 70-85 degree weather has been a very nice change. I anticipated Barcelona being smaller than it is and planned on walking to most places, and did for the first few hours. Walking around the city and to the beach was an enjoyable change of pace from the driving and ubering that we are so accustomed to in the US. However, after figuring out how the metro works I have grown accustomed to taking to around the city and being able to explore the different neighborhoods on foot. We even hiked the mile up to the Bunkers del Carmel and were able to enjoy watching the sunset over the expansive city.
Exploring the areas we live in while eating tappas and soaking up the local culture has been spectacular, but touring the Sagrada Familia was one of the most unforgettable things I have ever experienced. Antoni Gaudi began designing this incredible basilica in 1882 and it remains unfinished today. We met our tour guide outside the nearest metro station and began explaining the history and significance of the church before leading us on a tour of the breathing taking architecture both inside and outside. I think that if you visit this magnificent building it is essential that you take a guided tour, as learning about the significance and detail of every sculpture or tower was key to understanding the beautiful artwork.
Although we have only been to class a few times now, learning about the European Union and the economics behind the scenes has been very interesting. I knew very little about the financial structure or reasons behind this union, but even now I am beginning to see why the countries of Europe have no issue answering to a supranational governing body. I find it fascinating that many countries would not have survived without it.
I have enjoyed the first few days in Spain, and can’t wait to see what else this beautiful country has to offer!