Returning “Home” to Espana

After returning from a long break away from Oviedo, and reflections on my journey thus far.

Standing in front of my favorite place in Oviedo: Parque Invierno

After nearly two weeks of traveling, I have returned to my home in Oviedo, and I can say it is good to be home. I had not realized the extent to which I have gotten comfortable living in Spain over the last few months. However, while spending 12 days traveling around Europe, I now appreciate all I have here.

_{"Estas aqui" (you are here). My friend Kellie in Oviedo, Spain.}

But don’t get me wrong, traveling around Italy for 12 days was amazing! I recommend traveling to anyone who does study abroad; take advantage of visiting neighboring countries, because it’s a once in a lifetime chance.

_{View from the bridge in Sorrento, Italy}

Over Semana Santa, which is the equivalent to Spring Break in Spain, I traveled around Italy, visiting Florence, Sorrento, and Rome. In Florence, I took a break from all my Spanish friends and traveled around by myself for a few days. I went on a 13 mile bike ride through Tuscany, which was my favorite part of the entire two weeks. In Sorrento, I relaxed with two of my friends and explored the beautiful Amalfi Coast. Finally, I wrapped up my tour of Italy in Rome over Easter weekend. It was incredible, and even more so during the religious holiday because the city was filled with pilgrims and the Pope made special appearances throughout the city to give sermons.

_{Friends Allye, Kelllie, Jordan and me in front of the Colesseum in Rome, Italy.}

At times it was frustrating traveling in Italy because of language barriers. I don’t speak any Italian, although the majority of Italians speak English. The language issue which was the most unexpected was not speaking Spanish. I actually found myself missing Spanish. After 12 days of not hearing or speaking Spanish, I was surprisingly comforted to arrive at the airport in Spain, to be surrounded by Spanish speakers.

_{Campus de Milan at the University of Oviedo, where I have classes.}

I also appreciate my home stay situation even more since returning to Oviedo. It was such a drastic difference having to fend for myself for all my meals, laundry, etc. I was happy to arrive at my home stay and with a big hug and kiss from my host mom and a good night’s sleep in my bed. On the contrary, I was a little sad to come back to Spain. Normally when I return from vacation, I am greeted by my family, and hug my pets, and relax in my house. However, this time I didn’t really come “home”, more like my half-way home.

_{Me, Kellie, Lena, Jordan, and Allye back "home" in Oviedo, hanging by one of the many fountains around town.}

Nonetheless, I am glad to be settled in and back to Spanish life as usual. It’s unbelievable how much time has passed here in Spain, and that I only have about 5 weeks left! Spain has really grown on me and I have become accustomed to the lifestyle. As ready as I am to return to the States and see my family and friends, I know that it’s going to be difficult to tear myself away. So here’s to the next 2 months, living it up to the fullest. Viva Espana!