Summation of my first week in Sevilla. I guess I’ll give this blogging thing a go. Don’t be surprised if there are technically difficulties, as this isn’t really my thing! haha
After an 8hr flight I landed in Madrid, I began the 2.5hr train ride to Seville. The beautiful sights and excitement of leaving the US for the first time was worth virtually no sleep the first several days. So far, the entire experience has been amazing. The other students in the program make everything better too! We have seen Flamenco, visited numerous sites, and pretty much walked every street in the city (whether it was because we were going to our destination or just lost, it doesn’t matter). All of the monuments are breath-taking, and we can’t wait to depart on weekend trips. After the first couple of days, we have all grown accustomed to walking at least 10miles everyday! I think it is safe to say that most of us have our sense of direction now.
It took a while getting used to some of the customs, but it is the norm now. For example, lunch is usually between 2-3pm, and dinner isn’t until 9pm. All of the food is delicious! My host mom ensures that the three of us she is hosting do not go hungry. This entails serving multiple entrees, fruits, vegetables, fresh bread, and desert during every lunch and dinner. However, Spaniards are more nocturnal, so the late dinner and late start to the day is more convenient. During the weekends, it is typical to not return from bars, clubs, or other events until 5-7 the following morning. Drinking is not tabooed here, like it is in the U.S. The drinking age here is 16. It is the norm to have a beer or wine with a meal, or while eating tapas with friends. The culture isn’t about drinking to get drunk, and everyone is responsible with their alcohol intake. It’s about enjoying the time with your friends. I think this goes to show that there isn’t a target age that drinking becomes okay, but rather the importance of the culture and upbringing around alcohol.
We started classes this past Monday, and I already know I am going to enjoy them. I have 4 classes in Spanish, and then an Artistic Monuments in English. In just the week I have been here, it is safe to say that immersion is the best way to pick up a language. I have already greatly improved from when I first arrived. Although there is still plenty of room for improvement of my speaking abilities, I understand most of what is said, and can read and write very well. I find it interesting that numerous locals think I am from Spain.
I look forward to seeing what else this trip has in store!
Until next time,
Mitchel
