Seville

I've done a lot of exploring since I arrived in Spain. After I met my family at the train station, we packed up the car with all of my belongings and were on our way to Tomares. It is about a 10 minute ride from the city to the small town. The streets are very narrow and busy. It is a miracle that people are able to navigate them. We pulled up to a large gated community of white houses. I went inside and was immediately greeted with kisses from a fluffy white dog named Aslan. I was given a tour of the house, and at the end I was shown to my own private bedroom. I unpacked all of my belongings and settled into my new home.

My family decided that we would spend the evening in Seville, and I am so grateful that we did. The city is unbelievably beautiful and filled with endless history. La Catedral de Sevilla, la Plaza de España, la Giralda. Agustin and Celia rambled on about the significance of every single one. The streets are lined with cafes with people chatting and enjoying tapas. There are many shops selling Spanish memorabilia. It is all so lively and welcoming.

The transportation system is entirely different. Most everyone from Tomares uses either the metro or public bus system to go to the city. Both are within walking distance from my house so they are easily accessible. I enjoy not having to rely on a parent to drive me and being independent. I have to learn the schedules and be able to find the stops on my own. I know if I ever want to meet in the city with friends or family, I can make use of the public transportation systems.

Mi Nueva Casa

La Ciudad

Arrival

It's official. I am in in Seville, Spain with my host family. I survived the orientation in New York City and the 12 hour flight to Madrid. Once I arrived, I boarded a train to Seville with several other exchange students. The days had been long and exhausting as I traveled from one location to the next so it was a relief when we made our final stop. I exited the train with my luggage in tow, and I instantly felt a rush of emotions. After several weeks of communicating via email, I was finally about to meet the family that I would be living with for the next full year. I rode the escalator to the upper floor where I was greeted by a heard of four friendly new faces.

"Hola, Bailee!"

"Que tal?"

"Como fue el viaje?"

I had studied Spanish for three years previous to this day yet I was not able to understand a single word that was spoken. I wanted to share all of my thoughts and feelings, but I was at a loss. I did not realize the severity of the language barrier until now, and I can only hope that I will learn immensely in the future.

Swiss Airline in JFK

And So It Begins

Wow, the time has officially come, and tomorrow I will head to New York City to begin my year long exchange in Spain. I have waited my entire life for this experience. It will be a challenge to leave my home in the United States behind, but I could not be more ready.

Mi Equipaje