After almost an entire week here in Spain I don´t know how I can begin to explain all the things I´ve seen, people I´ve met, and unforgettable experiences I´ve had. Cadiz is one of the most beautiful places I´ve ever been, with its narrow streets, multi-colored, centuries old apartment buildings and spacious plazas. As I wander the streets, soaking up the sights and sounds of the spanish language, I notice how much more social and relaxed the lifestyle is here. During the day, pedestrians by far outnumber cars on the cobblestone streets, and at night everyone, from the youngest children to the oldest grandparents gather in the plazas for food and conversation. It´s amazing how much more comfortable I´ve become speaking spanish not only with my homestay mom and my teachers but with people on the street as well. To find the internet cafe I´m in right now I had to ask directions from a friendly woman on the street, something that I would have been hesitant enough to do in America with an english-speaking person, much less someone who only speaks Spanish.
Everything I´ve seen here so far, from the beaches of Cadiz to the white village of Conil to the bountiful market in the center of the city inspires me to continue learning Spanish. My limited vocabulary allows me to accomplish so much here that I never would have that I was capable of doing. It´s empowering, having the capability to venture so far out of my comfort zone and feel so at home.
