What are some things you love about Spain?

I love the lifestyle and simplicity.  People here prioritize enjoying life and spending time with each other over climbing any kind of ladders. There are not a million rules to follow or costs to pay.  Everything is pretty economic and straightforward making everything just feel simpler.  You definitely make less money than you would in the States but you also enjoy so much more free time to enjoy such a beautiful country.

What roles do travel and culture play in your experience abroad?

All of it pretty much. I opened a travel company to help people integrate and learn about other cultures, so I would say those two things have been at the center of my experience. I was a language and anthropology major, so travel and culture have been two of my main interests in life.  Moving abroad was a dream for me because I got to learn and experience so many new and fascinating things.

What are some must-see destinations for students studying abroad in Spain?

Wow, that is a hard one.  Spain has so many incredible places to visit so it depends on what part of Spain you are in. There are beautiful beaches, hiking routes, cities…it has everything, so it depends what you are interested in.  I would recommend seeing a little of the North and South just to realize how different they are even though it is a relatively small country. For example, visit Pais Vasco and/or Asturias, and also Andalucia just to experience the difference in people, architecture, landscape, etc.

If planning on leaving Spain, and really want to experience a completely different culture you have to see Morocco.  It is incredible how close it is and how absolutely different it is from Europe.  And of course, Portugal has so many beautiful spots to see as well and is right there.

Are there any requirements for traveling between Spain and neighboring countries? Paperwork, phone setup, etc.?

For Portugal, no.  It is the EU, so if you are taking a bus you will not even go through border control.  If you are flying, of course, you will need your passport. Also, if you have a Spanish SIM card, it is valid for all of the EU, so you will still have data, etc.

For Morocco you have to have your passport (and possibly a visa depending on your nationality if you are not from the US or Europe). If you are using a Spanish SIM, roaming in Morocco is VERY expensive, so either turn off your data and only use WIFI or get a plan that includes Morocco.

What are some of the benefits of traveling to near-by countries like Portugal or Morocco?

Traveling to Portugal and Morocco is a mind-opening experience. It is just really incredible how close they are to Spain and yet how different their cultures are.  Portugal is right there but different language, food, prices, people, landscape.  It is a gorgeous country with beautiful, very old feeling towns and relaxed energy.  Morocco is a completely different world.  If you have not traveled much before this, it is probably the most eye opening experience you will have.  You realize that not everyone lives like you have your whole life, and you begin to appreciate everything that you have been blessed with.

Any advice on how to navigate language barriers in different countries? In my experience, kindness and smiles get you pretty far when language fails you.  For the most part, people want to welcome you to their country.  If you are respectful and nice, patient and smiley, people will have the patience to understand what you are trying to say and give you their time.

What tips do you have for students to travel safely and responsibly?

Of course, you can travel with a company for extra safety, but as for general tips try to remember you are not in Disneyland.  Sometimes when we are abroad it can feel like it isn’t real and everything is fun and new and you let your guard down.  Unfortunately there are jerks everywhere.  Be as aware of your things and person just as you would be at home, and understand that you stick out a little as a target just by being a tourist.  Be respectful of other cultures and mindful of where your phone/wallet is.  Ask yourself if you feel safe, are you with friends, have you drank too much, etc. It sounds like common sense but it is very easy to forget when you have so much new input coming in through the eyes.  So just make an extra effort to be mindful of your surroundings.

What should students pack for a weekend trip? Any must-haves or hacks to make travel simple and rewarding?

Don’t bring too much.  You don’t need a huge suitcase for a weekend trip. Bring a few simple items that don’t wrinkle too much and can be combined style wise.  You want comfortable shoes and culture/weather appropriate clothing.  I always recommend having a power bank because it is good to have your phone charged especially if you are taking a lot of pictures, etc.

Do you have a bucket list starter of must-dos for those who want to travel in Spain and the surrounding countries but aren’t sure where to start?

I would simply recommend starting local.  Get to know your city and neighboring areas and then expand from there.  A lot of people make the mistake of traveling all over Europe every weekend and never get to know Spain.  If you want to see all of Europe, do a big summer trip all together or at Christmas when you can spend more time, as opposed to getting on a plane every weekend to go to France, Italy, Germany etc. Take advantage and travel through Spain, Portugal and Morocco first.  Also, don’t be afraid to talk to locals.  Your best experiences will come from spending time with the people from the country you are in, so try to not be too shy about your language abilities.  Like I said, if you are nice and show interest in integrating into their culture, people generally enjoy letting you in.  Try an intercambio event, for example, to meet locals who also want to learn English.

Is there a meal or unique food you believe everyone should try at least once?

Give gazpacho a chance.  I hated it when I first moved to Spain and somehow it slowly crept into my heart and now it is one of my favorite foods…and so healthy.

Are there any popular cultural activities, events, or festivals that folks shouldn’t miss?

I live in Sevilla and feria is an absolute MUST.  You should also see Semana Santa a couple of days, especially “La Madrugá”.  There are so many festivals all over Spain that are worth seeing, so definitely check in the areas you live or nearby.

What would you say to students hesitant about traveling outside Spain during their study abroad experience?

If you are feeling uncomfortable, you can use companies like We Love Spain who plan everything for you, you know you are safe and well taken care of, and you get to meet a lot of people on the trips.  Also, like I mentioned above, I absolutely recommend traveling, but don’t try to go too far every weekend.  Do your big Euro trip at the end of the semester.  During the semester take advantage of Spain, Portugal and Morocco since they are right there and faster and easier to get too. Maybe an occasional weekend trip a little farther but maintain a balance.