- The best of both worlds: As far as Rotary country selection goes, I know myself and a lot of other kids were stymied between the cultural splendor and geographical beauty of Europe, while the warmth and openness of South American people was tempting as an exchange student. Spain has the best of both! Geographically, it's part of Europe but historically has kept very secluded. The culture of lights and love that people encounter in South America came from the Spanish settlers, so I get the best of both continents here in España.
- The night: It's a weird answer to give, but it's usually the first one that comes to mind when someone asks me my favorite thing about Sevilla. Yes, it's pretty amazing to be able to stay out until after midnight going to restaurants or hanging out with friends, but I mean "noche" in more general terms. I love the way the city lights up at night but in some places you can still see the stars; the way I can go for a walk just after the sun sets; the way the heat fades right away to the perfect temperature; I love the breeze that comes off the Guadalquivir that's almost like a night at Pine Point.
- People aren't as PC: Political correctness can get a little out of hand in the US, and in Spain they just have too much history to care about potentially offending someone. This extends to television as well, where swearing and nudity are not regulated HALF as much as in America (caution: this can also lead to awkward host family moments).
- The food: It doesn't need saying. Although I do miss spicy food (when I'm warned that something will be picante, it means that there will be some black pepper in it, and doesn't even register on the American spicy-scale), Spanish food has every other flavor and most of it is homemade. I've had amazing (and stereotypical) tortilla española, paella, and gazpacho, but also some surprises like moussaka, meatballs today, macaroni, and various other "normal" food. All with a Spanish twist, off course. It should also be noted that I miss fresh bread SO MUCH, because my host family freezes any bread they buy and eat it toasted, and do crackers with meals.
- Public transportation: Also an obvious answer, but taking the city bus to school is pretty nice, and Sevilla also boasts the best bike paths in Spain throughout the city. I bike every day to the Nautical Club, about a 25 minute ride, that does become painful after a workout. Also, drivers are weirdly polite in this city and stop for any pedestrians. This means I will probably get hit by a car the next time I'm in Boston.
Friday, October 11, 2013
Top 5 things about Spain (after one month)
As mandated by my sister's going away present (a daily calendar with wisdom, pictures, suggestions, and orders like this one), I'm making a list of my favorite things about Spain.