By agoudsward
The last three days I was finally able to take part in the time-honored study abroad tradition of traveling around Europe. I went with a few friends to spend the weekend in Barcelona. It is probably the most picturesque city I've ever visited.
Situated on the shores on the shores of the Mediterranean and at the foot of the Montserrat Mountain range, from virtually every vantage point the city is stunning. It has something to offer for just about everyone.
Beach people can soak up the sun on Barcelona's long stretch of beaches, for history buffs there's the winding streets of the medieval Gothic Quarter, for art lovers there's the Picasso museum and the whimsical architecture of Antoni Gudi, a huge point of pride in the city, there's hiking for those who love the outdoors, night clubs for party people and sports fans can go see F.C. Barcelona, probably the greatest soccer team on Earth. We were fortunate enough to take in a match on Saturday and see Lionel Messi, arguably the best soccer player who ever lived, score a goal.
I think one of the most amazing things about studying abroad in Europe is you have access to so many dynamic, influential cultures all located in close proximity to each other.
London has been fantastic, but it can be a bit cold and rainy (you probably won't be surprised to read) and places close early in the night. A two-hour plane ride later and you're surrounded by palm trees and warmth in Barcelona, eating tapas and paella, where staying out to 2 or 3 a.m. is the norm.
Having access to these different cultures and seeing what makes each one of them unique and renowned around the world is one of the thrills of the study abroad experience.