Spain, I love you.

Going to Spain was one of the top things I wanted to do when I decided to come study abroad in London. I wanted to experience the culture, the people and enjoy the sunshine. And while I wasnt able to go to all the cities which I would have liked (Madrid, Barcelona, Granada, Valencia), I was able to go to Mallorca and Barcelona and it was AMAZING.

I truly understand why so many Brits and Germans make Mallorca their yearly summer getaway. The island is absolutely stunning and despite its reliance of tourism, it's been able to maintain its own personal and lovable character. We stayed on the far east of the island, leaving us far from the largest city of Palma but we loved it still. We had what seemed like a private beach due to the small number of hotels in Porto Colom just a 2 minute walk away and the people in the area were lovely. We were able to get out of Porto Colom and visit a number of other parts of the island and we even rented a car for a day long road trip around the island. By far one of the most beautiful scenic views I have ever seen and a definitely adventure.


And then there's Barcelona. Oh how I have fallen in love with Barcelona. The people, the city, the combination of beach and city and of old and new. Barcelona is everything that I look in my future home. Surprisingly, Barcelona reminded me a lot of Massachusetts. So rich in history yet a center of activity. Beautiful and yet modern. Loved it. Not to mention the camp out protests (Huffington Post Article on the Protests) that took place in the city just further made me fall in love. Las Ramblas, Parc Guell, the beach. We did it all and it was great. Wouldn't mind moving to Barcelona, but then I thought about the 40% unemployment rate that is found in youth throughout the country of Spain and it just wouldn't feel right. Maybe in the future.


Being abroad really has been a blessing. I've been able to experience the dynamic and fun city that is London but I've also been able to visit so many countries that I've only dreamed of visiting. Getting back from Mallorca and Barcelona, Spain has really showed me how fortunate I have been to experience this semester abroad. Not only did I get a different academic experience, I got to spend some of the best days of my life travelling around Europe and making unforgettable memories even getting a chance to experience it with a few special people from home.

More than photos and memories, this semester abroad has taught me a lot about myself. And while it may sound cliche, I know that when I go back to my families, friends and Denison I'll be a different person. I've learned the European way. A way where people stop and just enjoy the day, whether over a cup of coffee or just a walk around the park. European really do know how to enjoy life and thats something I am thankful that I have learned. While I know I will still have endless to-do lists and I may be stressed as I embark on my last year at Denison and before I enter the "real world", I really will take the time to stop and appreciate it all, cause life is too short and their is way to much to see. I already have a list of tons of places I'd like to return and many more where I would like to go.