When I first arrived in San Sebastián, I was filled with nervous excitement. It was my first time traveling without my family, and the unfamiliarity of it all was a bit overwhelming. However, I soon discovered that adjusting to life in San Sebastián was much easier than I had anticipated. The city’s beauty struck me immediately; its architecture and landscapes were truly breathtaking, especially when compared to what I was used to in the U.S.

One of the standout experiences of my trip was the walking tour we took on our second day. Exploring the city and learning about its rich history was both exhilarating and enlightening. San Sebastián’s walkability and bike-friendliness also impressed me. Most days, we cycled to class along the extensive bike paths, enjoying scenic views of the ocean that felt almost surreal—something you wouldn’t typically experience in the U.S.

Navigating the city was initially a challenge, but I quickly adapted. Another hurdle was the language barrier. Communicating in Spanish proved difficult at first, but the Spanish classes we took significantly improved my skills. By the end of the trip, I was comfortably ordering food and asking for the bill in Spanish.

Another highlight of this trip was visiting a local winery. Learning about the production of Txakoli and the history behind it was fascinating. The stunning scenery also made for great photos. I also enjoyed the day trip to Biarritz, France, which was also great for photos. I really enjoyed dressing up, exploring the city, and admiring the stunning views. 

Encouraged to explore nearby destinations for the long weekend, I chose to visit Barcelona. The contrast between the bustling, tourist-heavy city and the more laid-back atmosphere of San Sebastián was striking. I found that I had to have my guard up at all times in Barcelona. Whereas in San Sebastian, there was never a moment where I really felt unsafe. Highlights of this weekend trip included Park Güell and La Sagrada Familia, both of which were incredibly beautiful.

San Sebastián is renowned for its pintxos—small snacks often served at bars. Initially hesitant, I only tried one pintxo in the first week. However, after the pintxos tasting tour, I discovered a newfound appreciation for them. Antonio Bar became a favorite spot, with its shrimp ravioli and a dessert similar to French toast standing out. I also ventured into more adventurous territory with dishes like boar head and anchovies, which I didn’t particularly enjoy, but I was glad to have tried.

Despite all the incredible things I did and saw during my three weeks in San Sebastián, the most cherished part of my study abroad experience was the people I met. I didn’t expect to form such close connections with others in my program, but we quickly bonded, making unforgettable memories together. Leaving San Sebastián was tough, not just because of the city’s beauty but also because of the strong connections I had made. We also interacted with locals, tourists, and other students at Lacunza, and it was hard to say goodbye to them as well.

This study abroad experience has profoundly impacted me. Venturing out of my comfort zone to explore a foreign country was a transformative journey, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity. San Sebastián’s beautiful scenery, delicious food, vibrant culture, and welcoming people have left a lasting impression on me. I’m certain I’ll return to this charming city in the future.

Morning Ritual: Walking Along La Concha Bay

Every day in San Sebastián starts the same for me with a peaceful walk along the breathtaking Bay of La Concha. This daily ritual not only energizes me but also sets the tone for the day. The fresh air, the feel of sand between my toes, and the sounds of waves crashing along the shore make each walk a pleasant adventure. I often encounter street performers showcasing their talents, competitive games of “footvolley,” and intricate sandcastles being constructed. On average, I walk about 20,200 steps or roughly 9.2 miles, exploring the stunning scenery. However, today was particularly special. Not only did we not have classes due to a local holiday, but we also finally had the opportunity to visit Santa Clara Island. Since my arrival, I’ve passed by the island daily, and my desire to explore it has only grown. Now, the day has finally come!!

A Leisurely Morning by the Beach

With the luxury of extra free time, I headed to the beach to relax, read, and soak in the atmosphere. It was a bit cloudy, but that didn’t deter me from enjoying it and looking forward to the afternoon ahead.

The Anticipated Journey: Trip to Santa Clara Island

At 2:30 PM, our group gathered for a short ferry ride to Santa Clara Island. This small island has been a focal point in my photographs since I arrived on July 14th, and now I get to explore it up close. Centered between Mount Urgull and Mount Igueldo, it stands 48 meters tall and 400 meters wide. Accessible by ferry every 30 minutes or via paddle boards, kayaks, personal boats, or even swimming for the adventurous ones.

Exploring the Island: A Hidden Gem

From a distance, it seemed there wasn’t much happening on Santa Clara Island due to its imposing nature. However, upon arrival, it revealed its unique charm. Known for its “ghost beach,” which appears and disappears with the tides, the island is full of surprises. It was even more than I imagined it to be. There were tons of people, areas for jumping and swimming, a lighthouse, and even a restaurant and bar. The views from the island are truly spectacular, offering a new perspective on the city and its surrounding landscape.

We took a short (but steep) walk up to a scenic spot where we sat together, reflecting on our time in San Sebastián. We shared what we will miss most when we return home in just a few days :(. For me, and likely for many others, it’s the stunning scenery, friendly and safe environment, delicious food, unique culture, and the ease of exploring the city. The Basque region has been an amazing place to experience new norms and lifestyles.

After our group reflection, some of us stayed to swim. Although it took me a while to jump in, the cool water was invigorating, providing a perfect end to our visit before returning to the mainland. 

An Evening Picnic and Final Thoughts

The evening continued with a lovely picnic dinner on the beach, followed by a swim. It was a peaceful and fitting end to a day filled with exploration and reflection. The simple pleasures of good food, good company, and the calm ambiance of the beach made it an unforgettable experience. As I biked back to the hotel, I couldn’t help but feel a mix of joy and sadness. Joy for the beautiful experiences we’ve had and sadness for knowing our time here is coming to an end. Nonetheless, I am filled with gratitude. This journey has been a wonderful opportunity to immerse myself in a new culture, learn about the Basque history and language, and form lasting memories and friendships. The experiences and lessons from this trip will stay with me long after I leave, reminding me of this place that has felt like a second home. I hope to visit again one day.