Something I loved about Cadiz was seeing all the different ways you can expand your mind in a new place. There is only so much you can see in your own country. You can go deep into your country’s history or literature or art but when you go to another country you get to see first hand that there is so much more to learn, see, feel, and experience. 

For example you get to see lord of the rings in spanish, which may not be one of the most exciting to most but still is very cool. While you stumble upon some Spanish Tolkien you also discover a book on origins of Spanish literature, you get to know more poets that you would only have heard about through an American perspective. 

Another way the whole group got to participate in experiential learning was when we all got to make paella. Eating food out is one thing but when you do it yourself there is an extra level of intention in how you learn. Instead of just getting paella in a restaurant we got to learn how to make paella in Spanish. Working together to create and learn about a meal from Spanish culture was such a unique and cool experience. 

Just like in the states there are interesting historical locations here and there that are worth making a day trip to. It could be easy to stay in the one location you visit, like Cadiz, but by one quick train or bus ride you have the opportunity to see even more new and exciting things like Sevilla with its beautiful castle and grand Cathedral! 

Another important thing I learned is that you have to make time to relax! Yes you are busy taking classes and they are very important but if you are not getting enough sleep or are not taking time to unwind it can make learning more difficult and less fun. Learning another language is such a cool thing and it should be exciting even when it is hard. This is why taking a break even just to go for a quick walk in the garden across the street and saying hi to some local people is so important! You will remember how exciting it is to be there and you will be making the time to take a walk in a beautiful city!

Blog post as via word link. Learn all about my journey throughout Cádiz these three special weeks in July!

https://studentuml-my.sharepoint.com/:w:/g/personal/monique_gonzaleztellez_student_uml_edu/IQB7tleUedyxRrmceXK59Dq_AQZ866w6gtnPt3GtYr96gi4?e=I7vNdh

The Everyday Moments

Before coming to Spain, I thought my favorite memories would be the famous landmarks, museums, or excursions. Those were all amazing, but by the end of my three weeks in Cádiz, I realized it was the little things that made Cádiz so special and memorable.

It wasn’t just one place or one experience, it was the lifestyle. Cádiz has a slower pace that encourages people to spend time outside, be with friends and family, and enjoy the moment instead of always rushing to the next thing. Those everyday moments are what I’ll remember most.

Life Happens Outside

One of the first things I noticed was how much time people spend outside in Cádiz, which enhances socialization. Whether it was the beach, a plaza, or a sidewalk café, there were always people outside. Families ate dinner together, children played until late, older couples sat on benches talking, and friends met after work just to spend time together.

In the United States, it often feels like everyone is rushing from one place to another. In Cádiz, people seem to enjoy where they are. No one looked like they were in a hurry, which made it a more relaxing environment.

Every Walk Was an Adventure

One of my favorite things to do in my free time was walk.

Most days I didn’t even have a destination. I’d leave the residence/dorm and end up discovering a new plaza, a small bakery, a gelato shop, a local market, or a street I hadn’t seen before. I found something new every day.

There Was Always Something To Do or See

One thing that surprised me was how many free events were happening around the city. We often came across live music, dancing, festivals, and performances while walking around.

Some of my favorite memories weren’t planned at all, they were the places and events we stumbled upon by accident.

Food is More Than Just Food

I also loved how food brought people together.

Whether it was stopping for coffee, buying fresh fruit at the market, sharing tapas with friends, or ending the night with gelato, meals never felt rushed, they were appreciated. People stayed at restaurants long after they finished eating, just talking and enjoying each other’s company.

Additionally, the quality of their food was always fresh, which made it even more delicious.

Learning Spanish Outside the Classroom

Of course, I learned Spanish every day in class, but I practiced Spanish even more outside of it.

Ordering at a cafe or bakery, shopping at markets, asking for directions, or talking with locals in Spanish is what increased my confidence little by little. I definitely made mistakes, but everyone was very patient. Instead of immediately switching to English, they slowed down their speaking, smiled, and helped me learn. Those everyday conversations helped me improve more than I expected.

A Celebration I’ll Never Forget

Nothing compares to watching Spain win the Semi Final & Final games of the World Cup in Cádiz.

The entire city came together. Thousands of people filled the plazas, streets, and beaches, waving Spanish flags, singing, cheering, hugging strangers, and celebrating for hours. I’ve watched big sporting events before, but I’ve never experienced anything with that much energy and national pride. It wasn’t just about soccer, it was about community, and I felt like I was part of it too. It was easily my favorite memory of the entire trip.

I’ll Miss the Lifestyle Most

When people ask me about studying abroad, they’ll probably expect me to talk about the main events and excursions. I’ll definitely remember those. But what I’ll miss most is something much harder to describe: walking everywhere, watching the sunset almost every evening, going to the beach any time of day, hearing Spanish all around me, discovering a new café or plaza, meeting friends just to spend time together, and feeling the energy of a city that truly enjoys everyday life. Those little moments are what turned Cádiz from a place I visited into a place I’ll always miss.

Thank you for this amazing experience 🙂

Follow a group of UMass Lowell students and faculty in Cadiz, Spain for a study abroad experience focused on Spanish Language and Culture.

Students earn 6 credits of level 3&4/advanced Spanish Language & Culture credits and immersive themselves in the local culture of Cadiz, Spain.

This program is coordinated by the department of World Languages and Cultures, the office of Study Abroad and International Experiences and the University of Cadiz Center for Modern Languages.

For more information please contact us and view the Intensive Spanish Language and Culture in Cádiz, Spain brochure.