Once the excitement and novelty of your first few months abroad begin to wear off, we find ourselves in the midst of a long, chilly winter. As it is with any job, winters feel long, routines feel monotonous, and daily life can get a little repetitive and boring.
As the winter months drag on, the weather is not always ideal for travelling. I began to feel this way this winter. Long forgotten were the sunny days of September and October when I first began this program, and here to stay were the rainy days and long chilly nights of winter.
That is, until now. This past weekend was the first warm weekend I have experienced for months. I had almost forgotten about how nice it was to lie out in the sun, go for a walk, grab coffee, sit outside, and catch up with friends. The warm weather had snuck up on me before I knew it.
If you’re also experiencing a resurgence of warm weather in your area, here are some activities I highly recommend.
Spending Time Outside
It doesn’t have to be anything extravagant. Sometimes, just spreading out a blanket on the grass and taking the time to relax and unwind after a long day at school can do wonders for your mental health. And whether you are spending time alone or with friends, there is always something to do, like reading, going for a walk, or a run, or opting to sit outside the next time you eat at a cafe or restaurant. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the natural beauty in Spain.
Going to the Beach
If you are lucky enough to have been placed in a city with or near a beach, now is the time to take advantage of it. Even if you live relatively far from one, Spain has a plethora of gorgeous beaches that are only a day trip away. So make sure you grab your friends and spend a day on the water, it might be just what you need as the weather gets warmer.
Go for a Hike
Going for a hike is a great way to get in some exercise while enjoying the views around you. It is a great activity to do with friends and overall a great way to spend the day. If hiking’s not your thing, check out some local walking paths or bike trails.
Sightseeing
This is something I often forget to actually do while I am here in Spain. Sometimes I get so used to being here that I forget there is a world of things I have not gone out to experience yet. There are plenty of sights to see in major cities like Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, and Seville. And with over 50 UNESCO World Heritage sites, there is plenty to see all around the country.
So, if you find yourself waiting out the winter months here in Spain, just know that there are plenty of ways to enjoy the sun right around the corner.
Author: Victoria T.