Adjusting to a different culture can be very difficult and looks different for everyone. Part of the challenge is being placed in a new environment that takes you out of your comfort zone. This proved to be true from my transition from The United States to a new big beautiful city like Madrid. While many students use the opportunity to travel to different countries during their stay abroad it is also important to get familiar with the city and neighborhoods that surround you. In this post I will be recommending some locations with the city of Madrid that will help in getting to know the city.

Visit the La Rastas on Sundays- Biggest flea market in Madrid that is held every sunday with over two hundred different stands (You’re gonna wanna bring cash & wouldn’t recommend bring all of it, wear a fanny pack, try to blend in with the resident to try to avoid up charge by locals)

Temple of Debod- Located in the center of el Parque del Oeste, the Temple of Debod is an ancient Egytian temple that was gifted to Spain in the 20th century. The park itself is beautiful during sunset, because it overlooks the entire city. This is a great place to have a late afternoon picnic. *ProTip- To visit the inside of the temple, first check out the times it is open for the public.

The Botanica Garden-  This is another beautiful park that as mentioned in the name is filled with gardens all throughout. This is a good place to come if you are looking to go for a run, take a nice walk, or lay in the grass and read a good book. They have bikes available to rent at the gates of the park and also offer boat rides in the lake. ProTip- bring snacks, water, and maybe a blanket. 

Opera– Located near the end of the redline, this stop is a great place to go shopping as well as to find some great restaurants. There is an indoor food market located 5 minutes from the train stop. I recommend wearing comfortable shoes and some change for local vendors.

Plaza del Sol– Plaza del sol is arguably the heart of the city. This is a short walk from the royal palace as well as Opera, but is located in the center of the yellow line. There are all sorts of local vendors, shops, and restaurants all around. Many tourists come here to take pictures with the famous bear statue.

Santo Domingo- I would compare this strip to Newbury street in Boston. There are so many stores, restaurants, and shows that are located in this area. This was a great place to get supplies that I was missing. They have Primark, H&M, and Zaras. As well as a lot of cool european clothing stores. 

Although studying abroad is definitely a time to go out and get yourself out of your comfort zone. It can also be incredibly overwhelming, exhausting, and stressful. While some of your counterparts are able to go out 6 days out of the week. Not everyone is able to go at the same pace or has the same capacity.The most important step in taking care of your physical and mental health is through beginning to identify your personal capacity as well as the needs you have to be met. Oftentimes this looks like knowing when to turn up vs when to turn in. Here are some helpful tips in grounding yourself while studying abroad.

 1.Get Organized-  Often the physical spaces in which we live in are a clear reflection of our minds. So usually when we`re surrounded by a lot of clutter we tend to feel far more stressed out and overwhelmed. Getting organized is a great way to begin clearing your mind. This can look like unpacking your suitcase and folding all of your clothes. It can be making your bed, doing laundry, and or finding a place for all of your belongings. If the weather permits it I recommend opening the windows to let fresh air and light in.

2.Mindful meditation – I know this might sound boring to many. However there are many benefits to mindful meditation, especially for those who struggle with mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.. This is a great way to calm your mind. Youtube offers many free guided meditations.

3.Take Walks- Going outside to take a walk around your neighborhood is a great way to get away from your roommates and get some great fresh air. Constantly being around people we know or are getting to know can be exhausting so taking short walks alone during the day can be refreshing and a great way to get to know your neighborhood.

4. Netflix & Chill-  Although I do not recommend spending the duration of your stay abroad watching netflix in your room. I do believe that sometimes you just need to decompress and watch a movie or a tv show with some snacks. You can do this alone or invite a friend or two over and have a movie night. 

5. Hot Showers & Face mask- Taking a nice long hot shower and putting on a face mask is definitely a good way to unwind. For those who do not facemask, any form of self care and self grooming will help boost your spirit, because when you look good you feel good.

6.Siestas- Siesta time is no joke. If you find yourself overwhelmed and on edge especially at the beginning of your travels while you’re jet lagged. You might benefit from just taking a nap.

7.Groupon local facial & massages-  During my time abroad I found massages and facials for as little as 13 euros. This might be a great investment if you are feeling stressed out and need some TLC.

8. Call loved ones- It’s easy to feel homesick while you’re away in a forgeign country. Which is why I recommend scheduling video or phone calls with your friends and family. Finding a time that works for both of you might be difficult at first, but planning ahead is very helpful. Sometimes you just need to check and talk to those who know you best.

9. Ask your Program for Resource- If you are struggling with your mental health abroad, please be sure to contact your program and home institution to talk about different options and resources that can be made available to you while abroad. 

Meet some of our spring 2020 semester study abroad students!

Through text, photo & video they share their experiences about their international travel, classroom life abroad and thoughts on their program, as well as tips for fellow students considering an international experience.