it’s been hard to post anything without having a camera, because words just can’t capture the experience as well as a photo. but i’ll try to write a brief summary of my first month so as to have something to go back to.
the first thing i really noticed about spain is how warm and friendly people are. no matter if they are meeting you for the first time, or if they are your best friend, you feel like you are important to them. people are genuinely nice, willing to help, and actually interested in talking to you- without a phone in their hands, without texting in the middle of the conversation- when you are in a conversation, you are fully present.
mealtime is long, deadlines are flexible, and siesta time is law. i’ve definitely been frustrated with this type of lifestyle because i’m so used to constantly being busy and if i’m not, i feel lazy. i’ve had to adjust my walking speed many, many times…but i feel much more in control of my life, more present in the moment- i am not constantly worried about being late to a meeting. time is constant and “no pasa nada.”
also, spain is beautiful. madrid is definitely a metropolitan city, and i’m very happy to be close enough to it but at the same time, living far enough from it. alcalá de henares, on the other hand, is this old city with light brick buildings, church bells ringing every hour, and where tapas mean tapas. so far, we have also visited segovia, toledo, and san lorenzo del escorial. segovia and toledo are even smaller than alcalá, very hilly with cobblestones and narrow streets. so, so pretty. it’s amazing to be reading a 18th century play that takes place in toledo, and then be able to visit and actually see the setting.
i think one of the only big difficulties i’ve had has been the food, but i knew beforehand what i was getting myself into. when we eat outside of the house, being able to order a dish of vegetables has been a moment of celebration each and every time. most times, bread or potatoes are the only vegan options on the menu. but within a month, i’ve been able to find a few vegan-friendly options around town.
my lifestyle has changed for the better. people live their lives outside, which has been another adjustment for me. although it’s a novel idea, it has forced to do more. i’m excited for what’s to come in october: the weeklong festival in alcalá, andalucia, barcelona, and everything in between.
