Over the weekend, we traveled to Morocco, Spain’s southern neighbor. It was surprising to see how different Northern Africa’s values, and morals are from those of Spain’s. We were able to learn a lot about the culture from only a weekend, and we also saw the most incredible views.
While driving to Morocco we saw open landscaped views of the incredible mountains, little built up areas, and also the rural ones.
After we were a good distance into Northern Africa, we stopped on the sandy coast beach, and we went on camel rides! This was a great experience for students, and faculty to laugh and spend some time relaxing before continuing the bus trip. The camel ride was quite an experience; these animals are much taller than I could have imagined, and it was nice to get a better view of the beach, while being carried around. Once the camel ride was finished, we made one more stop to the meeting point of the Mediterranean and the Atlantic Ocean before heading to the hotel.
We spent our two days in Morocco not only sightseeing, but also shopping for handmade fabric tapestries, headscarves, and rugs made by local women. We also shopped for authentic leather, and practiced not only our Spanish skills, but also our negotiating skills.
We had a fun time working the prices down on goods, and trying to score great deals. The best part of my Moroccan experience was definitely the shopping because I was able to get lots of good items to bring home before returning to Sevilla.
On Sunday, we headed back to our “homes” in Spain. Once we returned to Sevilla, it was time to finish learning last minute Spanish tips, and to begin to prepare for finals. I cannot believe how quickly this month has gone by; it is no exaggeration that this month feels more like a long week, not four! Tomorrow is our last day as ICS students, but lots of us are hopeful of coming back for school or to visit our new family.
Between my two classes this Summer month term, I feel that I have learned more than I have learned over the duration of an entire school year at home. There is just something about studying abroad that is like nothing else. I have matured into a young adult; I have learned how to be a smart traveller; I have learned my limitations, and I have learned what it means to be family. I am going to miss everyone dearly, and cannot thank my teachers enough for what they do for students. I am also very thankful to have had an incredible host family, and a mom who cooks from her imagination, and does an incredible job, too bad she refuses to write down recipes!
Hasta Siempre Sevilla, my roommate, all of my friends, and to all of ICS faculty and Staff! Gracias por todo!
