I was lucky enough to spend the first part of this past week in Madrid, which I previously wrote about. However, I did not mention the Flamenco show that my friends I? were able to see on Sunday night. It was one of my favorite experiences so far. We walked into a dimly lit basement restaurant with a stage set up in the center of one wall; all of the chairs at the tables faced this stage. Once the show started, I realized why Flamenco dancing is such a big event in Spain. The power and ferocity of the dancers as they slammed their feet and whirled their bodies to the music was astounding. They were able to convey emotions so powerfully with the purposeful facial expressions and body movements that even without understanding the words being sung, I felt encapsulated by the story the performers were telling. After the show was over we were for somewhere to eat that would match the intensity of what we had just experienced and found that the oldest restaurant in the world was only a few blocks away. In addition to the incredible Spanish food we were served, we learned that this had been one of Earnest Hemmingway’s favorite restaurants and that he dined there frequently. The classic Spanish food and welcoming atmosphere made the meal one I will never forget.
We were also able to visit the towns of Girona and Tossa Del Mar this week. In Girona, we were able to visit beautiful sites such as the Cathedral, which was entirely demolished and rebuilt after it was reconquered from the Moors in the tenth century. We also ate lunch in the historic Pla?a de la Independ?ncia, named after Spain’s War of Independence against Napoleon. In Tossa Del Mar, we took a tour of the seaside town and the Vila Vella enceinte, the last remaining Medival town on the Costa Brava. The old watchtowers and hidden coves were spectacular to see and explore.
The group was able to participate in a cooking workshop on Thursday of this week as well. We learned about the classical Spanish techniques of cooking Paella, Croquettes, and choricitos. We also talked to the instructor and learned a lot about doing business both in Spain and Internationally. The instructor had worked in both the US and then Spain for most of his life. He taught us about Spanish Laws and customs around working, such as being closed on Sundays and taking long lunches in the afternoons. It was very cool to have business combined with the more creative aspects of cooking. Spanish cooking is very ingredient-focused, not using too many or too heavy spices, rather letting the main ingredients speak for themselves. Even though we were heavily involved in the cooking process, the dishes came out as some of the best food I have eaten, possibly because of the hard work we put into it.
While some people traveled, I took the last weekend to relax in Barcelona. Sitting on the beach reading a book all day Friday and Saturday was very peaceful and a great time for self-reflection. I miss home, but I think that I have become accustomed to the food and traditions that Spain has come up with. There is a definite sense of sadness in this being our last week here, but I am grateful for everything that Spain has taught me, and intend to make the most of the last week.