By stlake
So I’ve been majorly slacking on the blog posts as of late, so I’m going try to catch everyone up in a organized fashion. For those of you who know me well, you know I am the queen of post-it notes and to-do lists. Now I know laundry lists aren't the most interesting things to read but I promise to try to keep some humor. The extreme wit will return this week, I promise. So List #1: Things I’ve neglected to write about/probably should have gotten their own post but didn’t.
- My trip eg of my fall break. I got to see one of my high school best friends KC and we spent plenty of time catching up, eating AMAZING food and sight-seeing. I would define our tourism however as lazy, which can be defined as people watching and going to more local spots than museums. But it was still a beautiful city nonetheless.
- My 21st Birthday- It was really cool that I got to spend my 21st abroad. So, while I might not have had the typical “American” experience, I was on the beach on October 14th, hanging out with some the coolest people I have ever met.
- The Education Strike here in Spain- About two weeks ago now, the Spanish government made huge budget and scholarship cuts to the education system, which caused the students and families at the University to go on strike and protest in the streets. The entire thing fascinated me, and being the political nerd I am, I looked more into the political systems here. I’m feeling quite inspired about this topic, so stay tuned for a individual post!
- Halloween Spanish style- While a few years ago, Halloween might have not been popular, with the growing number of abroad students here in Alicante as well as the increasing popularity of American pop culture, Halloween has definitely found it’s niche. I pulled a typical American girl move and dressed up as a black cat, while the Spanish people went for more a scary, scratch that, TERRIFYING approach to Halloween. I had an absolute blast with the all my friends. I'm definitely starting to think about how fast time is going by and cherishing every moment with my new friends.
This weekend, the entire CIEE crew went to Sevilla, Spain for a weekend trip. I had such a great time, which leads me to List #2: The best things about Sevilla
1. It’s the perfect place for artsy photos. Here are a few examples, kudos of Chloe-the candid photo master. Everything was just so beautiful, I just had to show you guys.
2. The architecture was just perfect. It is extremely influenced by the Muslims, who ruled the city for a very long time. The Cathedral, which is the largest Gothic cathedral and 3rd largest church in the world was beautiful. But my favorite building by far was the Plaza de España. Fun fact, Star Wars Attack of Clones was filmed there!
3. Flamenco Dance- I have seen Flamenco Dance before, about 5 years ago but it definitely stuck with me more this time around. I am extremely fascinated by this dance. The guitar is extremely complex and beautiful. The dancers are so strong and powerful, yet it is extremely beautiful and tells such a sweet love story. The guttural singing kind of caught me by surprise but it adds to the passion of the whole art form.
I promise to continue to write weekly (maybe even bi-weekly if I get inspired) for my last 5 weeks here in Alicante. Thank you for all the continued support and love you all have given me throughout my Alicante Adventure. I hope to finish strong!
Paz, Amor y Beyoncé.