The Plan
Monday started like any other day. We got up, commuted to the Lacunza school of Spanish by public transportation we had become familiar with, and began our classes. While not the highlight of everyone’s trip, our lessons in Lacunza helped us gain familiarity and pick up Spanish phrases that would end up helping up in day to day activities. Whether it be ordering food at a Pintxo bar or helping a confused pedestrian, these skills proved important during our time in San Sebastian. After classes, we checked out much of what San Sebastian had to offer, typical of one of our afternoons. Just roaming the streets looking for something that would catch our eyes would become a pass time, with fashion stores and food bars alike being keen establishments we’d check out and immerse ourselves in the local culture.
The Journey
Next came our hike to the top of one of the coastal hills of San Sebastian. The one we hiked is notable for history dating back to medieval times and a large statue of Jesus Christ atop. We took the short and steep route to the top, which started in a place we had become familiar with, the Parte Vieja or Old Town, which also traces its history back centuries. While many of us were not enthusiastic about the idea of a steep hike, the payoff was definitely worth it for everyone. Although steep, our hike was relatively short, ending with a nice view from a spot just below the base of the Jesus statue.
History in Context
We saw old and ancient architecture, much of which lined our path up and down. At one point we entered through a tunnel staircase to decent, and we had to use phone flashlights! The main event was a conversation as opposed to the typical planned lecture a professor typically tells. Instead, we had a meaningful conversation for several hours at a secluded spot near the top of the hill, where everyone had made themselves comfortable. The topic today was Basque history and political history of the region. This interests me especially since I’ve taken engaging history classes in the past and been intrigued by politics in general.
Cultural Connection
While discussing how the Basque people, a people who with strong independent spirit yet an open social culture fit into the greater calculus. In comparing Basque culture and history to our own, it became an eye opening experience for all of us to see outside our bubbles. We learned about other ways of societal structuring and policy other than those we were used to. Even though some of us had begun to come down with a slight cold, we didn’t let that quell our desire to learn more about the world and it’s people. This part of the experience especially showed me the humanity and complexity of even a small places past and present. After our discussion, we made our ways to a small place with drinks and food, where we relaxed before the end of the day. All in all, the hike and exploration of the Basque cultural and political dynamic enlightened us to an alternative and different way of life than any of us were used to, expand our worldviews drastically. For me, it was quite fun to be able to have such a personal yet relatable conversation!
