I have been studying abroad in Barcelona for one whole week now, and it is one of the prettiest places I have ever visited, but one of my favorite things about Barcelona is that the most unexpected things can end up being the best experience. I have met some fantastic people studying abroad this past week from all over the country. The memories that I have found to be the best are the spontaneous ones. Instead of riding the train, take a walk through your neighborhood, so you can really observe the culture.
Book that last-minute ticket to go to a place you have never heard of. Booking a flight to Mallorca three days before and having absolutely nothing planned except your flight turned into the prettiest place I have ever visited.
If you are thinking about asking that question, do it – because, for me, it led to one of the prettiest beaches I have ever seen or new friends. My most extensive advice for anyone coming to study abroad is to explore, leave your housing and just take in what your city offers. Whether that’s the big things like walking past La Sagrada Familia or just wandering. After a night out with friends choosing to go walk along the beach, you never know what moment will change the course of your experience here. It might lead you to the prettiest view of Barcelona with your new friends.
Take in all the little moments because you never know which small thing could turn into the best memory; the smiles with your new friends, the laughs, or for me, the tears of me wiping out on concrete on a bit of street in Mallorca.
Lastly, take those risks, go up and introduce yourself, jump off that rock, and try that food. The littlest ones are going to be the ones that make the most significant impact on your experience. You never know what you’re going to see next. It could be as pretty as this one.