As my roommates and I were discussing a way to describe the oddness of Spain from our American gaze, the best word we found to describe it was ?foreign.? I?ve traveled a small amount before but have never been anywhere that challenges my perspective as much as Barcelona does. In the United States, it?s frowned upon to stay up late and drink alcohol on weekdays, but both are standard procedures here. Spaniards seem to have a more ?go with the flow? attitude and act with less urgency. As I?ve become acclimated to the culture I?ve found that living like this is less stressful in general. For me personally, the culture shock aspect has almost been working in reverse. Barcelona is hectic and busy just like any other major city, but the people seem to be more carefree. I realize that I could be wrong about this because maybe I?m romanticizing being in a new and interesting place, so I?m hoping I find out with time. I do feel a need to keep my head on a swivel while walking around the city, however, and I try to move quickly to avoid being caught in dangerous situations. Almost every day here I?ve witnessed something happen, like purse snatchings or fights. Someone tried to reach into my pocket already but he saw me looking at him. I think as long as I pay attention to my surroundings I?ll be safe, and I can enjoy that city and what it has to offer.?
