Spain - Valencia, Madrid, & Sevilla
A foundation, rediscovery, & sun.
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Returning to transformative destinations offers more than just nostalgia; it provides clarity.
I first traveled to Spain for a university study abroad program in Salamanca during my last year of college. After I returned home, I remained fascinated by the country’s vibrant culture and way of living. Fortuitously, my last semester in college I met a professor from Valencia, and under his guidance, I found my way back. Discovering opportunities to teach English, I was able to make a life abroad, creating community and immersing myself in Spanish language daily. Living overseas that year changed my understanding of the world and drove me to explore more of it.
Now when I return to Valencia, I measure my growth from who I was during that pivotal period to who I've become today. It’s a wonderful feeling knowing that setting out beyond home's comfort that year was a journey definitely worth taking.
I feel a deep bond with Spanish culture, and returning is like coming back to a familiar place that greets me with open arms.
On a recent trip, I was invited to spend time with an old friend in El Saler, just on the outskirts of Valencia. My admiration for the simple yet deeply meaningful Spanish ways of living - like the strong sense of community and sharing delight in the little moments - returned instantly. I felt grateful that I could invite other friends to these familiar places, introducing them to a world that I truly know and love.
Back in Madrid, while wandering the streets and mingling with the locals, I was constantly reminded that mastering Spanish was life-changing. Revisiting the subtle nuances of the language reignited my enthusiasm for speaking, motivating me to continuously study and practice to improve.
Each time I visit Spain, I remember my excitement for starting to form friendships with people from different countries and cultures. This return trip was another chance for that rediscovery.
As my journey through the country approached its end, I made my way to Sevilla for a birthday celebration. Surrounded by a diverse group of international guests, the Southern Spanish gathering buzzed with energy, as we exchanged cultural perspectives and world views over multilingual exchanges.
Coming together mirrored my previous experiences in Spain that sparked my post college wanderlust. As the weekend came to an end, I felt thankful for rediscovering the sentiment that comes from making cross-cultural connections, promoting personal growth and collective learning.
