If you were to sum up your Barcelona experience in one to two words, what would you say? My Barcelona Experience is…
...confidence-inspiring.
Explain why you chose those words.
I chose “confidence-inspiring” because after my experience, and all the challenges I faced, I found that I felt like I could do anything. I grew so much from the experience and became more of a well-rounded, confident person.
What was your favorite place to eat in Barcelona? Favorite food?
Honestly, my homestay. My homestay dad was an incredible cook and made a crazy-good paella de mariscos. It was always such a pleasure to practice my Spanish, make jokes, and learn more about Barcelona and Spain from my homestay family.
What was your favorite tour, day trip, or cultural activity? Why?
My favorite day trip was probably the trip to Girona. It was such a calm and quiet getaway from the big city life, and it was so cool to see all the beautiful medieval brick buildings and streets – it was always such a joy to go on day trips because even though the different towns were only an hour or so away from Barcelona, they felt like their own little countries with their own unique charm and history.
What was your housing experience like? Did you live in an apartment with other students? A homestay with a local family? A residence hall on your Barcelona campus?
I was in a homestay in Sant Gervasi, and it was absolutely fantastic. If I were to go back, I wouldn’t have done it any other way. My family was so kind, welcoming, and understanding. They felt like real family, but my roommate and I still had the freedom to come and go as we pleased. I would absolutely recommend a homestay as the more economic, enriching, and exciting option for housing.
Is there a site in Barcelona that you would recommend to future students that may be a little more “off the beaten path”?
Definitely go to Tarragona if you have a chance. My roommate and I went and absolutely loved exploring, staying in a cute hostel in the heart of the old city (“On The Road Tarragona Rooms”), and seeing all the incredible Roman ruins.
