Week 5: Dreamy Mallorca & Finals

I went to Cala D’Or in Mallorca, Spain, this past weekend, and it felt like a dream. The ocean was a beautiful turquoise blue, and I spent the entire weekend swimming in its clear waters. My friend and I rented a paddle boat, which was more like a paddle buggy, and we took turns sliding off it into the ocean. We frequently enjoyed sweet treats, including crepes and gelato, which were such a nice snack after swimming.

 

Finding a spot on the cliffs instead of the shore was initially daunting, but it was worth it. From our spot, we had the best view, more space to swim freely, and we were surrounded by fish as we swam. The cliffs provided a perfect spot for relaxing between swims, soaking up the sun, and enjoying the scenery. I also tried paella in Mallorca. Although it wasn’t as authentic as Valencia’s, I’m glad I got to taste it.

This week was also finals week. I had a group paper, a quiz, and a final exam. After class each day, I typically ate lunch and then headed to a coffee shop to study for a few hours. The coffee shops in Barcelona have become my go-to spots for getting work done. Following our final on Thursday, our class had a farewell lunch with several plates of tapas, paella, and dessert. The lunch was a great way to celebrate the end of our studies and reflect on our time in Spain. I’m so lucky to have taken this particular class in Barcelona. Our professor is so approachable and kind and Barcelona was the perfect  place to study social cognition and the influence of culture on the mind, making this class one of my favorites.

It’s bittersweet to be leaving tomorrow. I am so grateful for this experience and the friends I’ve made. Returning to San Diego, I carry with me memories of Spain and the new community I have become a part of. This journey has been filled with learning, adventure, and personal growth. The experiences I’ve had, from the turquoise waters of Mallorca to the busy streets of Barcelona, will stay with me forever. I’ll miss the spontaneous weekend trips, the yummy food, and the warm, welcoming people I’ve met along the way. 

As I pack my bags and prepare to leave, I’m filled with a mix of emotions. I’m excited to return home and share my stories with family and friends, but I’m also sad to leave behind a place that has become so special to me. The friendships I’ve made and the lessons I’ve learned will stay with me long after I leave. Thank you Barcelona for everything <3

Giselle Zamudio