5 Weeks, Many Lessons

It's hard to believe how fast the time has gone and that I've actually been in Spain for over a month! 5 weeks done and 5 more to go, but at this point I am not at all ready to come home (sorry Mom and Dad!) I have really grown accustomed to the relaxed summer schedule of going to school in the morning, coming home for lunch and a brief siesta, and then having all evening to spend outdoors walking the town with my friends. It's a wonderful break from the hectic college schedule.

In 5 weeks I've learned a lot about Spain and about Spanish culture so here are a few lessons that I've learned to help me fit in.

1. Spend Time Outdoors
Spaniards are outdoors a lot! Walking is the main mode of transportation in Salamanca, so for almost 24 hours of the day (seriously) people will be out walking the sidewalks to go to work, school, or play. It is so cute how after about 6 pm all of the older couples can be found making their rounds in the parks or streets. On weekends there are even dance nights for older couples at a park! Families and friends are often at the parks playing soccer, basketball, or tennis, while everyone else gets out to shop or just people-watch. Concerts and shows are also held outdoors, often times in the main Plaza Mayor. I absolutely love being outside and am taking advantage of this part of Spanish culture.

2. Be Catholic
Let me assure you that if you're Catholic, you'll have no trouble finding a cathedral to attend mass at. There are some beautiful, old cathedrals in Spain. It seems like whenever we've had weekend excursions we've always gone to one or more cathedrals to look at the historic architecture and paintings. Catholicism is most definitely the dominant religion, so good luck to anyone searching for a protestant church.

3. Love Sports
As you probably know, Spaniards love futbol. Their national team is ranked #1 in the FIFA standings and has some very talented players. When you go to a park there are people of all ages kicking a ball around, imitating what they've seen from their favorite stars. Just this past week the United States played Spain in a futbol match and in every bar, cafe, and house that had a tv you can be assured that the game was being watched (The U.S. surprised everyone and beat Spain 2-0!) What I was surprised by, though, is how much Spaniards also love basketball, tennis, and basically any sport. It was big news here when Spaniard Pau Gasol and the L.A. Lakers won the NBA championship, as well as when Rafael Nadal lost in the French Open and then pulled out of Wimbledon. Yes, Spaniards love their sports, making me feel right at home.

It's been a great 5 weeks of learning and experiencing, getting more confident and fluent in my speaking abilities. Surely many more lessons will be learned before it's time to return home. Next week I will venture from Spain and spend 5 days in Florence, Italy enjoying the renowned pasta, gelato, and art. All I can say is, What a way to spend the summer!