Why did you choose this program?
I chose this program because it gave me the opportunity to experience Spain in a much more authentic way. I visit Spain a couple of times each year, but I wanted something beyond the usual tourist experience.
Staying with local host teachers allowed me to connect more deeply with Spanish culture, food, and everyday life. It was a great way to explore different regions while focusing on the things I enjoy most: meeting people, discovering local cuisine, and experiencing the unique character of each place.
What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?
The program provider took care of almost everything, including accommodation with host teachers, local activities, and experiences that matched my interests. Everything was very well organised, and moving between destinations was smooth and straightforward.
The only things I needed to arrange were my flights and some travel between locations, although I was guided through that as well. Once I arrived, everything was ready, and I could simply enjoy the experience.
The only things I needed to arrange were my flights and some travel between locations, although I was guided through that as well. Once I arrived, everything was ready, and I could simply enjoy the experience.
What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?
My advice would be to enjoy each destination for what it is and not compare them too much. Spain is incredibly diverse, and every place has something different to offer.
Whether you’re in Madrid, San Sebastián, or Cádiz, each location has its own atmosphere and charm. Also, make sure to enjoy the food and wine; it’s a big part of the experience.
What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?
My days varied depending on where I was, but they were always centered around the local culture. Mornings usually started with breakfast, followed by visits to local markets where I could explore regional products and have conversations about Spanish life, art, architecture, food, and wine.
In the afternoons, I spent time walking around the city, taking photographs, visiting museums, or simply enjoying the surroundings. In many places, I also took part in food and wine experiences, which were always memorable. Moving between destinations kept things interesting and gave me a new perspective each time.
In the afternoons, I spent time walking around the city, taking photographs, visiting museums, or simply enjoying the surroundings. In many places, I also took part in food and wine experiences, which were always memorable. Moving between destinations kept things interesting and gave me a new perspective each time.
Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?
I didn’t have any particular concerns before joining the program, as I travel frequently and am used to meeting new people.
Each year, I visit a different destination through the program, usually spending a week in each place. From the moment I arrive at a new home, my host teachers always make me feel welcome, so it’s easy to settle in quickly.
Over time, I have come to really appreciate moving between different locations. Instead of feeling like a change, it becomes something I look forward to. Each destination offers something new, and I continue to enjoy the variety even more. I’m already planning to return again, with Menorca Island next on my list.
How did visiting multiple destinations impact your overall experience?
Visiting multiple destinations made the experience far more rewarding than I expected. Each place had its own character: Barcelona with its energy and architecture, Toledo with its history, Bilbao with its modern cultural scene, and Cádiz with its coastal atmosphere.
One of the highlights for me was spending time in Valencia, where I had the chance to enjoy authentic Paella. Experiencing it there and learning more about its traditions made it particularly memorable.
Overall, traveling between different places gave me a much better understanding of how diverse Spain is. Each destination felt like a new experience, and it kept the whole journey fresh and interesting.