Buenas tardes! Today marks the last day of our trip to Cadiz, Spain, and there’s so much that I’d like to say! However, I’ll condense it into a few paragraphs. Cadiz is a beautiful, small town with a variety of activities, stores, views, and venues that are accessible by foot or by bus. Most of the time, we were walking because of how close everything is in this town!

Just in front of the university we stayed at is Parque de Genovés, an oasis with a park with a waterfall, a hidden grotto, and a boardwalk with an amazing view of the North Atlantic Ocean. On the same street lies Playa de Galleta, an intimate beach where families relax and teenagers chill. However, a good walk away, lies Playa de Santa Maria, an even bigger beach where everyone hangs out. Nearby are a few clubs, if you’re into that life!

Cadiz has a plethora of restaurants and bars with culturally diverse food and refreshing drinks. In one of my solo excursions, I ate a restaurant called “Pizzera.” The Italian restaurant had one of the best pizzas that I’ve ever eaten in my life. I ordered a Pepperoni pizza which contained the normal cheese, tomato sauce, and pepperoni. In addition, there was basil, a mix of different herbs, and olive oil included. As I cut my pizza with my knife, which I have never done before, I enjoyed every second. Conveninently enough, Pizzera was a two minute walk away from the university.

I’d like to take some time to reflect on my experience in Cadiz. For weeks straight, I was nervous about the trip. I had no idea what to expect considering this was going to be my first time on a plane. Initially, I went on this trip without any friends, acquaintances, or any knowledge of Spanish culture. All I brought was my carry-on bag, my backpack, and my Dominican heritage to back me up. However, on this trip, I made friends who will be in my life for quite some time! Simultaneously, my relationship with myself improved as I was given the opportunity to get to know myself in a foreign country. My favorite experience was watching the sunset while on a double decker boat.

Having Spain be my first trip outside of the United States was an honor and such an adventure. I learned about Spanish culture, improved my Spanish-speaking abilities, and met amazing people. Best believe, I will be telling friends and family everything that happened on this trip. This program was a moment of my life I will never forget, te lo juro! Adios!