Spain
A year ago, I went on a study abroad trip in Spain. It was my first time in Europe and the most beautiful country I have been to. The culture, food (best churros ever), views, and people made the country so special. I was able to travel to 5 different cities in the span of 22 days.
City #1: Barcelona
I loved Barcelona (a lot more than Madrid)! This city gave me a glimpse into Spanish culture, since I was able to see many of the non-touristy areas. My favorite part was taking a day trip to Montserrat, which is a mountain range right outside of the city. We took a cable car up to the peak and were able to see some of the most breathtaking views. I highly recommend spending a whole day here and taking in every moment.
As we were leaving Barcelona, we stopped in Girona which was another highlight of the trip. It was a small town with history everywhere we walked. We explored the streets, ate gelato, and hiked up the numerous stairs to get to the top of the Cathedral of Girona.
City #2: Valencia
This city was in Spain's southeastern coast - known for beaches, art, and science. Our first stop was to visit a rooftop business, started by a young man while he was in college (which is a very normal thing for college students to do in Spain). My study abroad trip was through my college's business school, so this program was focused around Spain's business culture and how it compares to the United States. Valencia is also known for the L'Oceanogràfic which is the largest aquarium in Europe. I also had the BEST paella ever (it had rabbit in it...and I surprisingly liked it) .
We visited for just a day and the area was quaint and cute. This ancient city is set on a hill, and the hotel we stayed at used to be an actual royal palace (I can't find the name) - so it was pretty cool being able to sleep in a castle.
City #5: Madrid
Our final stop! The majority of the time we visited and toured businesses here since a lot of companies are headquartered here in the capital. To be honest, the city itself felt like I was in any major city with the typical vibe - flashy lights, crowded streets, and a lot of food. It definitely had a "boujie" atmosphere. My favorite part was to be able to see the Royal Palace with a guided tour inside. Also, you can't go to Madrid without seeing a Flamenco show, which is what we did our final night of the trip.
This was an unforgettable experience and I can't wait to explore another country in Europe.
Always,
Ainy
City #1: Barcelona
I loved Barcelona (a lot more than Madrid)! This city gave me a glimpse into Spanish culture, since I was able to see many of the non-touristy areas. My favorite part was taking a day trip to Montserrat, which is a mountain range right outside of the city. We took a cable car up to the peak and were able to see some of the most breathtaking views. I highly recommend spending a whole day here and taking in every moment.
As we were leaving Barcelona, we stopped in Girona which was another highlight of the trip. It was a small town with history everywhere we walked. We explored the streets, ate gelato, and hiked up the numerous stairs to get to the top of the Cathedral of Girona.
City #2: Valencia
This city was in Spain's southeastern coast - known for beaches, art, and science. Our first stop was to visit a rooftop business, started by a young man while he was in college (which is a very normal thing for college students to do in Spain). My study abroad trip was through my college's business school, so this program was focused around Spain's business culture and how it compares to the United States. Valencia is also known for the L'Oceanogràfic which is the largest aquarium in Europe. I also had the BEST paella ever (it had rabbit in it...and I surprisingly liked it) .
City #3: Granada
This may sound dramatic, but this was the most mesmerizing place that I have ever been to. I cannot stop raving about how much I loved this city. We took a guided tour through the Alhambra and learned about the history behind the Islamic royal palaces and medieval architecture. This place was more beautiful than I had imagined, and no picture I took will do it justice. This was hands down my favorite part of Spain.
City #4: Toledo
We visited for just a day and the area was quaint and cute. This ancient city is set on a hill, and the hotel we stayed at used to be an actual royal palace (I can't find the name) - so it was pretty cool being able to sleep in a castle.
City #5: Madrid
Our final stop! The majority of the time we visited and toured businesses here since a lot of companies are headquartered here in the capital. To be honest, the city itself felt like I was in any major city with the typical vibe - flashy lights, crowded streets, and a lot of food. It definitely had a "boujie" atmosphere. My favorite part was to be able to see the Royal Palace with a guided tour inside. Also, you can't go to Madrid without seeing a Flamenco show, which is what we did our final night of the trip.
This was an unforgettable experience and I can't wait to explore another country in Europe.
Always,
Ainy
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