My First Night in Spain
By Rebecca Perry
The day I arrived in Spain, I was not certain what to expect. It didn’t register
until I had left my dorm for the first time to explore the town of Santiago de Compostela with my
roommate Brianna.
We walked to the market and grabbed some necessities, and went on our way. While unpacking what we had bought, we discussed walking back to town for some food. By this time, it was 10:45PM and we were shocked that it was still bright and sunny outside. I had to facetime my friends because I knew they would not believe me if I had only texted them.
I was thinking about how tired my legs and feet were from walking up hilly sidewalks, and continuous staircases throughout the small yet beautiful town.. One turn was about to completely divert my attention from exhaustion to amazement.
We had stumbled upon the Cathedral. It was as if my eyes would never stop looking up toward the sky because of the massive height of this incredibly detailed and structured building. It was beautiful and the realization had finally set in, “Oh my God, I’m in Spain.” I took out my phone and took pictures so that I would be able to bottle up this moment and save it forever.
Behind us was another building with a group of people inside singing and clapping. We took some steps toward the group and noticed a small band in the middle, bringing life to everyone surrounding them. Emotion flooded my body as I paused and looked around me. People were gathering around these singing and dancing men, with everyone singing in unison with smiles on their faces. I already felt one with the community and I had not even spoken to any of the locals yet. I felt warm and comfortable in my soul.
That is exactly what this last five days has continued to make me feel. Every
step I take through my days here, I make sure to remind myself I am in Spain. I breathe in every moment and experience, and I pay attention to being present. I am so excited to see what the next 18 days has in store for me.
As this trip goes on, I realize how Spain is very similar to my country. What excited me so far is the way the towns are set up. The structure of the old town is set up in an ancient way, but still booms with traffic and is full of people.
My favorite part of the pedestrian traffic is seeing the different dog breeds everyone has. The old town reminds me of the setting of Aladdin from the little shops, to the different restaurants.
The food is different in every restaurant, even though they are in the same location. It’s very nice to see how expanded Spain’s culture in food is.
I also noticed how the people are very humble in the sense that they can work a simple job, and be content working that job everyday as though it’s just another day. Even though the job pays a low amount, it seems like enough to sustain a person since everything is so cheap, and incredibly nice.
Sometimes I think of moving here. Spain has many characteristics that make it beautiful in its own way, and I also think it has to do with their history of why things are unique. Nevertheless, I have a strong feeling that I will find more details of this beautiful country. Spain will always have a special place in my heart.
By Victoria La Manna
Attending a college in general can be a very scary and overwhelming task. Studying abroad in another country is a big step, but an amazing experience. Studying abroad has taught me to be independent, explore different things and embrace another culture that I’m not used to.
From the moment I arrived at the University of Santiago de Compostela, the views and architecture of the buildings was breathtaking. The University is filled with balconies, an amazing cafeteria and huge arches you walk under to get inside the building.
The roots of the University go back to 1495 when the Santiago de Compostela solicitor López Gómez de Marzoa founded it. The University has been in use and is occupied by students from all over the world.
The cafeteria has real Spaniard cuisine from rice, fish, pork, chicken, flan and so many other delicious dishes. In the cafe there are pictures hanging on the wall that represent the school, religiously and historically. Walking up to the first floor there are colorful stained glass windows that give an old European feel.
The students I have met here so far are very nice, helpful and patient when trying to communicate.
The library on the first floor is where I have been doing most of my homework and is filled with books and references.This campus is beautiful, and I can't wait to explore it for the remaining time.
By Angelina Bergano
My favorite part of the University of Santiago De Compostela has to be Residencia Fonseca, which is where I’m living during this study abroad trip. The dorms are my favorite part for a few different reasons. When I came to this university, it was my first time going away to school and having to stay in another room other than my own.
Being here, I immediately adjusted with the help of making so many friends so quick. The people on the study abroad trip have a huge influence on how this trip has been for me, because they’ve made it so much more easy to adjust to and experience new things with. I really enjoy having all of my friends on the same floor as me or being only a floor away. On my floor alone I have people like Skye, Shayna, Ariana, Victoria, Kearra, Danny, Manny, and Lucas.
Another main reason I love it here is because it is attached to the cafeteria. I love being so close to the cafeteria because I always get so hungry and then when I eat a ton, the walking distance to my room takes a solid minute. Also, the cafeteria has Gelato, and I love the Gelato here so much.
The kitchen also is a highlight because my friends and I go in late at night sometimes and so far we have played music down there, games, and we’ve even had Skye make breakfast before we went to school. Lastly, it’s a great feeling to feel like a family here.
By Jade-Molly
So far, Spain has been filled with many memories and exciting times. But, my favorite experience this far is definitely our excursion at A Coruna and Betanzos. From the beautiful beach to the amazing mountains, it was overall, a great day!
Although it is beautiful, I usually don’t like the beach. But I enjoyed the view we had at the location. The light sand and the beautiful clear water really made me fall in love with the location.
I also really enjoyed the architecture and history behind all the things in Betanzos. Seeing these beautiful towns where people live their everyday lives was really amazing.
Another part of the day was the visit to the Tower of Hercules. After all the walking I was pretty tired, but I still managed to walk up to the tower and take some beautiful pictures. I really enjoyed sitting up there and taking a breath of fresh air. Seeing something like that ancient Roman lighthouse is not something one does every day.
I’ve been so blown away by everything I’ve seen so far in our time in Spain, and I cannot wait for everything else that is to come.
By Kevin Penaranda-Centeno
There are so many differences that make countries unique from one another. From its most popular dishes to the daily habits of its people, it all contributes to how truly unique a country is in comparison to a neighboring country.
One country that is different from any other European country is Spain. We first take a look at Tapas. Tapas are appetizers of Spanish cuisine. They are usually in small portions. Some examples of Tapas are Pimientos de Padrón, Croquetas, and aceitunas with Croquetas being the most famous in Spain. It is a tradition that has been kept after many years since it was first introduced. The story behind it is very intriguing, but it was mainly used to cover drinks from flies.
Another distinguishable fact to add on is the Siesta Spain has. To sum it up, siestas are pretty much naps taken in the afternoon right around lunchtime. When a siesta is occurring most stores tend to close for a certain period of the day usually from 2-5pm. This gives people the time to take a nap.
In addition to this, the manner in which people clean up after a meal is very different here. The people of Spain have a waiter clear their table once they have left. It is much different than other countries where the customer cleans up after themselves, saving the restaurant from cleaning up their mess.
Finally, the last thing to touch on is the amount of bread the inhabitants of Spain eat. They eat so much bread and this is because most foods here are made with bread. Also tapas contribute to the amount of bread being eaten.
To conclude, not every country has the same traditions. Many have slightly different ways in doing things which is what makes them unique.
By Emily McGhee
The most intriguing site so far has been the lighthouse in A Coruña, also known as the Tower of Hercules. Not only is the lighthouse in A Coruña the oldest Roman lighthouse in the world but it is also still in use today.
The structure itself is incredibly impressive, considering it was built in the second century and is still standing seemingly as strong as ever. It was hard to believe I was looking at something so old knowing it had survived for so long with minimal care an maintenance. Not only is the structure itself intriguing but the surrounding areas are as well.
The lighthouse over looks the northern Atlantic ocean, which in itself is a beauty. Sitting on the bluffs of the park all that can be seen are clear yet dark blue ocean water and a few small islands. It was extremely calming to rest there and watch the waves beat the cliffs below me.
Directly in front of the lighthouse before the bluffs is a large mosaic star with several Celtic symbols included. It would be interesting to learn what the meaning of the star and symbols are. I would very much like to return to this site in the future and be able to explore the town and beaches surrounding the lighthouse.
By Skye Flores
If you enjoy a salty, flavorful, guilt free tapa - well known in Spain- pimientos de padrón are for you!
Pimientos de padrón are one of the most common and classic tapas eaten in Spain. The first time I discovered them was at Restaurante San Jaime. They are fried green bell peppers, but they are so much more than they sound. They are absolutely delicious, yet simple to make if you want to try to imitate the tapas in the comfort of your home. However, it is essential to get be sure the peppers originate from Spain because there are imitations.
The peppers are fried with olive oil and seasoned with salt. In my opinion it is better than a potato chip because you don't feel guilty eating a lot at a time and the padrón peppers are already bursting with flavor on their own. While they are mild peppers, you never know when you will be surprised with a spicy delight - one in ten of these peppers are spicy.
This vegetable originates from the town of Padrón in the Galacia region of Spain. It is so popular is has it's own festival that starts early in the morning from the village Herbón to Padrón!
If you aren't already convinced to try pimientos de padrón, it's important to note 100 grams of these tiny green treats are only 120 calories-so you can't go wrong!
References:
https://www.thespruceeats.com/what-is-padron-pepper-pimientos-3083500Spaniards are so unique because...
By Brianna Carolan
Food is always the first thing I think about when I think of traveling. I always think 'Am I going to like the food?' 'Is it going to be any good?' and 'What if I miss my country's food?' While traveling abroad that last question really hit hard.
My friends and I were walking around town trying to find a place to eat. While walking around we were trying to figure out what we were in the mood for. As we started talking, we slowly started to list the food we wanted realizing that it was only possible to get in our hometown.
My one friend wanted Taco Bell, the other Little Vincents and me. I just wanted a fresh, home-cooked meal. While going on and on almost without realizing it, we ran into a girl we had met the previous night. We all stood there trying to figure out what we wanted when out of nowhere someone mentioned a hot dog.
After that our minds were set and we were on a mission. We started to head over to a place that we had found in our GPS when all of a sudden we had walked passed a place named “American Hot dog”. As soon as we saw that it was set being that we thought it would be just like the ones from home. Little did we know they would be even better.
Never have I ever seen a hot dog like this before. Inside this hot dog was a piece of ham that was stuffed with bacon, cheese, mustard, and a sweet sauce that was all topped off with potato chips. The taste was next level. Once it hit my mouth I was taken back by the fact it was a flavor that I had never tasted before. The taste was unexpected but amazing and definitely memorable. To be honest the thing that made it worthwhile was probably the chips. Personally, I usually put chips on my sandwiches but never had I thought to put them on a hot dog.
Let's just say we thought it was so good that the next day we went and got the same hot dogs again. This was definitely one of the best food experiences I've ever had and would highly recommend it if you are ever in the Santiago area.
By Manny Jaquez
Food is always the first thing I think about when I think of traveling. I always think 'Am I going to like the food?' 'Is it going to be any good?' and 'What if I miss my country's food?' While traveling abroad that last question really hit hard.
My friends and I were walking around town trying to find a place to eat. While walking around we were trying to figure out what we were in the mood for. As we started talking, we slowly started to list the food we wanted realizing that it was only possible to get in our hometown.
My one friend wanted Taco Bell, the other Little Vincents and me. I just wanted a fresh, home-cooked meal. While going on and on almost without realizing it, we ran into a girl we had met the previous night. We all stood there trying to figure out what we wanted when out of nowhere someone mentioned a hot dog.
After that our minds were set and we were on a mission. We started to head over to a place that we had found in our GPS when all of a sudden we had walked passed a place named “American Hot dog”. As soon as we saw that it was set being that we thought it would be just like the ones from home. Little did we know they would be even better.
Never have I ever seen a hot dog like this before. Inside this hot dog was a piece of ham that was stuffed with bacon, cheese, mustard, and a sweet sauce that was all topped off with potato chips. The taste was next level. Once it hit my mouth I was taken back by the fact it was a flavor that I had never tasted before. The taste was unexpected but amazing and definitely memorable. To be honest the thing that made it worthwhile was probably the chips. Personally, I usually put chips on my sandwiches but never had I thought to put them on a hot dog.
Let's just say we thought it was so good that the next day we went and got the same hot dogs again. This was definitely one of the best food experiences I've ever had and would highly recommend it if you are ever in the Santiago area.
By Manny Jaquez
Food is fantastic, but when the food is made from products of the land, it tastes so much better.
A few days ago my friends and I went on a walk to find some good food. As we walked by the different variety of restaurants, one caught my attention. Just the smell of burning charcoal made me extremely curious where that smell was coming from. It didn't take long to find the restaurant. By following its scent; we only walked around for 10 minutes.
O Fogar de Galicia was the name of the restaurant, and when I walked in, the first thing I asked the server was what they specialized in? Luckily, the man said steak. At that moment, I felt like a child waiting to get a new toy. My expectation for this steak was very high; just the smell alone made me so hungry.
Inside the restaurant I found an old fashioned, but modernized theme. The tables were made out of wood. It looked like they just cut a piece of a tree in half. A first glance at the menu revealed expensive food a college student, as one of their best steaks cost 60 euros.
I knew that if I got something from here, I needed to try at least the best steak they had, so I got the mid-range steak, which was 30 euros. From our seat, we could see how they prepared and cooked the steak, with every second that passed my mouth kept watering. As we were waiting for our food I started to talk to our server, and I asked him where these cows came from, and he said they had a farm right outside the city where they raise the cattle. I was astonished because in the United States I've never heard of a restaurant with its own farm. He also said that 80 percent of everything in the restaurant was from the region of Galicia.
When the food finally arrived, it just looked amazing. When I took my first bite of the steak, it was so tender and juicy, and it was one of the best steaks I've had in Spain. The steak came with just fries, but it was honestly great. A few minutes later, our server brought out a hot plate to reheat the meat when it gets cold.
My overall experience at O Fogar de Galicia was great, and I will try to come back and try something else because I know they don't disappoint.
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