Week 2: Bull Runs and Beaches

Early Sunday morning, I traveled from San Sebastian to Pamplona for the running of the bulls. This thrilling event, known as "Encierro," happens every July during the San Fermín festival. Each morning for a week, bulls are released into the city streets at 8 AM, with people dressed in white and red running ahead of them. Adrenaline rushes through as people navigate the narrow streets, trying to stay ahead of the bulls. Immediately after, the boarded-up shops open, the streets are cleaned, and people begin flooding restaurants to eat breakfast and wait in line for churros. The festive atmosphere and the communal spirit were special to experience. 

On Tuesday, I visited the Picasso Museum, located in the Gothic Quarter. The collection includes over 4,000 works, covering Picasso's formative years and his deep connection to Barcelona. Walking through the museum, I was fascinated by the evolution of his style and the depth of his creativity. 

Thursday was a trip to Casa Batlló, another one of Antoni Gaudi’s masterpieces and one of Barcelona’s UNESCO Heritage Sites. This modernist building is embellished with intricate mosaics, resembling a shimmering sea. Gaudi's attention to detail is evident in every corner, from the wavy walls to the shapes of the windows and doors. 

On Friday, I visited Platja de Montgat, a beach located an hour's metro ride north of Barcelona. The beach was not overly crowded which allowed me to enjoy the natural beauty of the Mediterranean coastline. Swimming in the clear, cool waters was refreshing, and soaking up the sun on the golden sand was the perfect way to recharge after an exciting week of exploration.

The sense of community within the program has been truly remarkable. I've felt immensely supported by our professor, our CEA CAPA team, and my fellow students. Building friendships through shared experiences has created a supportive network that feels like a second family in Barcelona. Together, we've overcome challenges such as mastering the metro system and adjusting to the fast pace of city life. These connections have made my study abroad experience all the more fulfilling and memorable.

Turning 21 this past week in Barcelona has been a privilege, filled with excitement, learning, and personal growth. On to week 3!

Giselle Zamudio