Spray Cans and Sunlight: Barcelona’s Visual Underground

By: Christ J. Desruisseaux

During the two full days we spent exploring the streets of Barcelona, one thing stood out to me above all else: the street art. Having visited this city once before, I expected the usual blend of historic architecture, lively public plazas, and the unmistakable scent of sizzling tapas throughout the air. But on this return visit, with more time to wander and reflect, I found myself captivated by the sheer vibrancy and creativity of the city’s street art.

As someone who frequently travels to Paris, France, to visit family, I’ve always held Montmartre’s artistic scene in high regard. The murals and tags there are breathtaking, emotive, stylish, and timeless. Yet Barcelona's street art holds its own in a way that caught me off guard. It’s loud, raw, and unfiltered, less polished than Paris but equally profound. 

Walking through Las Ramblas felt like strolling through a living gallery. Enormous, expressive murals adorned alleyways, walls, and doorways, each one telling its own story. Some works carried powerful political messages woven into these surreal images, while others were playful bursts of color that reminded me of the city’s free spirit and vibrant energy. There’s a certain grit to it, an unapologetic energy that mirrors the Catalan identity, resilient, proud, and fiercely independent. Unlike back home, where street art often feels like rebellion for rebellion’s sake, here it’s part of the city’s heartbeat. In both Paris and Barcelona, the art breathes life into the urban landscape, but in Barcelona, it roars. And that roar is what makes it unforgettable.
  

Dinner on Spanish Timing

By: Enely Hiciano

During my time in Spain, I observed and experienced many differences in their culture and customs compared to America. The custom that stood out the most to me was the time that they usually eat dinner. Americans usually eat dinner around 6:00 pm and by 10:00 pm they’re winding down or in bed. Spaniards typically have dinner around 9:00 pm and most of them would party or socialize until 5:00 am. Due to jet lag and the time change, I physically could not stay up past 2:00 am while being in Spain. Thankfully our dinner reservations were pretty early, (in Spaniard time) around 7:00 pm. If our dinner reservations were to be at regular Spaniard hours we would be eating around 9:00 pm.

A social norm for Spaniards is, enjoying a heavy lunch and a light dinner. Tapas are usually for snacking or dinner while meals like paella that are fulfilling are preserved for lunch time. I realized this is because Spaniards prioritize longer breaks at work and they never seem to be overworking themselves so they prefer to enjoy a nice meal for lunch. In America, dinner is usually our heaviest meal of the day. This is because the majority of us work long hours with thirty minute lunch breaks and it’s not enough time to make something heavy unless it was made the night before. While embarking in Spain, I came to the realization that most Spaniards prioritize their mental and physical health daily. They value the time they spend outside of work compared to Americans and I admire that. They value a nutritious meal in the middle of the day versus late at night before bed, prioritizing their physical health and mental health because they don't have to stress about cooking a big meal while trying to rest for the next day.

The Hike of a Lifetime

By: Enely Hiciano

I could cry thinking about my time spent in Alicante, none of the readings about landscape and climate we completed beforehand could have prepared me for the adventure that I would embark on while being in Alicante. Prior to being in Spain, I frequently lifted weights and went for walks but nothing compared to the hike I would embark on while being in Alicante. Going into the trip I was aware that I would be walking excessively every day and I prepared myself for it or so I thought. On this one specific day, I wore a baggy shirt, tight leggings, and platform sambas and if you’re unfamiliar with sambas, they are probably one of the most painful shoes you can wear while hiking let alone with a platform bottom. I would say I’m not usually the type of person to push myself out of my comfort zone, but being surrounded by my encouraging classmates and admirable professor, I was empowered to do something that I will never forget. While in Alicante, I climbed the Castillo de Santa Barbara. The castle includes ninety one stairs, and depending on your fitness level can take about an hour to complete, the path is a mixture of paved cement, steep slopes, and stairs. Despite the physical pain I felt, the views along the way made it all worth it. The castle faces the Mediterranean Sea and the breeze from the sea would be felt along the way up and it was the perfect way to cool off. My headspace throughout the entire climb was a battle between I can do it and I don’t think I can. The climb at first was nothing like what I expected. Initially I started climbing the stairs and attempting the hike because I wanted to prove a point to my classmates, we all wanted to see who would stick it through the whole way but shortly after agreeing to this “deal,” I wanted to prove it to myself too. Only to find out that this entire experience would change me as a person. There were moments throughout the hike that were so rough not only because my shoes were extremely uncomfortable, but I completed this with no breakfast, a lack of sleep, and no water up until more than halfway through the hike. At any point I could have turned around and gone back down to meet my classmates that had opted out of our group climb, but I was so determined to see what was at the top of the castle. When I finally reached the top, all I could think about was how proud I was of myself and my peers for sticking through it despite the struggles and encounters we faced on the way up. This hike was not only a testimony to how strong my mind is, but also to how much I truly need to push myself and complete things even if I struggle in the moment. The hike to Castillo de Santa Barbara was the most fascinating moment of my visit in Alicante because I physically pushed myself and I learned a lesson within myself that my mind is much stronger than I think.

After the hike we walked around the city and it felt like a new world. There were palm trees and the Mediterranean Sea was directly next to me. The first couple days of being in Spain were cold and gloomy, so when we got to Alicante it was warm, and the sun was beaming on me. I experienced Alicante as a place full of life. While visiting Alicante my classmates and I dined at Barri Vell. My interaction with the cashier was bubbly and positive, we laughed about my Dominican accent when I spoke Spanish and she kindly helped me decide on what to eat from a menu full of options. Since this experience, now that I am home I implement the mindset that I had while climbing the castle while I’m in the gym doing cardio. I enjoy running but I would slow down or give up once my legs started cramping. However, after my experience in Alicante, I push myself because I’ve already proved to myself that I can do physically hard things such as running or hiking. I remind myself that if I can complete that hike that felt physically impossible at the moment, I can lift heavier weights or go up in reps.

Paella, Passion, and Precision: A Culinary Journey Through Spain’s Kitchen

 By: Christ J. Desruisseaux

The Valencian paella is, without a doubt, one of the greatest rice dishes I’ve ever tasted in my life. Every bite was packed with rich, savory flavors that unfolded in layers. What stood out the most was the unique contribution of the lima beans; their smooth, buttery profile elevated the entire dish. The balance of textures in each spoonful created a deeply satisfying eating experience: the tender chicken, creamy saffron-infused rice, and slightly firm beans worked in perfect harmony.

What fascinated me even more than the flavor was the dish’s origin story. Despite being one of Spain’s most iconic culinary staples today, paella started from humble beginnings. It was originally a rural comfort food, a "whatever-you-have" dish thrown together by impoverished families and communities who had limited resources. Sunday dinners often consisted of foraged or leftover ingredients like rabbit, snails, chicken, or other locally available meats, honestly just whatever people could find or afford. 

One thing that surprised me during our culinary exploration was how protective Valencians are of their version of paella. Traditionally, seafood and meat were never mixed in authentic paella recipes. In fact, the fusion of chicken and seafood, commonly seen in many modern restaurants, is actually considered a culinary offense in Valencia. According to the farmers who hosted us, this “mixed paella” is widely believed to have originated in Madrid, far removed from the dish’s coastal roots. In Valencia, where paella was born, such combinations are frowned upon and seen as inauthentic. And even with that being said in Valencia whats acceptable in paella is hot debated, for example the young farmer told us his father strictly prohibits people from sprinkling lemon juice over his paella and takes genuine offense from this because he believes that to sprinkle the lemons on it is to say the quality of the ingredients are not good or that his paella is lacking in flavor. Meanwhile, he said his next-door neighbor is obsessed with sprinkling the lemon juice because he believes it adds an extra layer of flavor.

Learning the history behind the dish added a profound appreciation for its simplicity, tradition, and cultural significance.

Sick Days, Sacred Walls: Falling for Granada

By: Christ J. Desruisseaux

Granada was, without a doubt, my favorite city in Spain, even though most of us got sick while we were there. Beyond the fact that I chose to focus my project on Granada, what truly drew me to the city was its breathtaking architecture and vibrant nightlife. There’s a unique energy in Granada that’s hard to put into words, and it left a lasting impression on me.

The architecture in Granada is second to none. I firmly believe this is due to the city’s rich and diverse history. For centuries, Muslims, Jews, and Catholics lived alongside one another, and this cultural intermingling gave rise to architectural masterpieces like the Alhambra. This grand structure, a combination mosque, fortress, and palace, contains elements of all three faiths: a Catholic church built into its interior, Jewish iconography etched into its walls, and Islamic art and design throughout. Walking through it felt like stepping into a living, breathing piece of history.

Granada also holds significant weight in Western history. It was here that the Spanish monarchs hosted Christopher Columbus before his infamous voyage, marking the beginning of Spain’s colonial expansion and giving the Spanish Empire an early lead in global conquest.

One of the highlights of our visit was attending a world-renowned Granada flamenco show an event that has hosted international figures like President Obama and members of the British royal family.

With its rich culture and diverse population, Granada is Spain’s largest study abroad destination. If I had the chance to return for a long-term program, Granada would be my first choice.

Where the Soul Finds Rest: My Time in Valencia

By: Christ J. Desruisseaux

Photo by Stephanie Santos

Valencia felt like taking a drive back to the countryside to visit family, warm, nostalgic, and deeply comforting. There was a tenderness to the city, something soulful that reminded me of going to my grandmother’s house or spending time with an elder who always made you feel safe and welcome. It wasn’t just the buildings or the crisp country air or Mediterranean charm; it was the feeling in the air, the way people spoke, and the rhythm of daily life that made it feel like home. Having the opportunity to visit and experience Valencia in a slower, more intentional way was a genuine blessing.

I still can’t fully explain why Valencia felt so familiar, but I felt it in my bones. It wasn’t loud or overwhelming. It was grounding. And the dinner we had that night was the perfect embodiment of that feeling. The evening was filled with laughter, shared stories, and that easy kind of joy that only comes around good people and good food. It was one of those nights you don’t forget.

One of the most meaningful parts of our visit was learning to cook authentic paella, right in the home of a local family. The mother and father didn’t just guide us through the recipe—they opened up their personal kitchen, treating us like guests, not tourists. That simple act of hospitality, of sharing something so intimate and cultural, meant more than words can express. 

It didn't feel like Valencia just welcomed us, it felt as though it embraced us. Maybe its just the countryside charms or the memories of helping my grandmother out on our family farm every summer in Haiti but I felt at ease while out there interacting with the chickens and plucking carrots from the ground. Valencia will always hold a spot in my heart because of the feelings it made me feel, even though I lost my AirPods there.

Alicante Vibes: Where Conversations Flow Like the Sea

By: Christ J. Desruisseaux

Alicante has easily been one of my favorite regions in Spain, from the stunning Santa Barbara Castle to the beautiful beaches that stretch along the coast. Knowing that the province is located right on the Mediterranean, it makes perfect sense that the region has adopted a more relaxed, easy-going lifestyle. Interestingly, that laid-back personality extends beyond just how people live; it also shows up in how they communicate.

The people of Alicante speak with a natural warmth and openness that reminded me a lot of Miami. Their speech patterns feel looser, more casual, and a lot more forgiving. As someone still learning Spanish, this made a huge difference in my comfort level. Locals were patient, encouraging, and most importantly, unbothered by small mistakes. I never felt judged or corrected in a way that made me self-conscious; instead, I was welcomed into the conversation, even if my grammar wasn’t perfect.

This stood in contrast to my experience in Barcelona, where, although people were equally welcoming, there was more of an emphasis on precision. Locals there seemed to take pride in helping me refine my Spanish, which I appreciated, but it felt a bit more formal and instructional. In Alicante, however, communication felt more fluid and less about rules, more about connection than correction.

Overall, the communication style in Alicante made me feel at ease, like the city itself was smiling as it spoke. It helped me gain more confidence in using Spanish day-to-day, and made practicing the language feel like a shared experience, not a test.

The Motherland

  By:Stephanie Santos  

Approximately 4 hours to Valencia, the longest ride of my life and yet the destination felt like a journey home to the motherland. From the land, trees and farming area almost felt like I was in Dominican Republic traveling to the capital to see family. The air in Valencia is a sensory tapestry, where the robust scent of burning wood intertwines with the refreshing aroma of the surrounding nature. The city wasn’t just a country vibe but also the city was a place of arts and science. Like the designs of their aquarium, science museum and opera house, they contrast shapes with the historic charm found in the old town. Though a city, it has a small town feel at times. Through my journey on L’alqueria de Boro with a family that worked alongside each other to run a farm, and business has taught me the most important thing was family and embracing the history of the old town. From the history of the farm to the family recipe of “Paella”, each ingredients incorporating together like the vegetables, rice, tomatoes sauce and chicken to make such a delicious meal that is eaten in their own family gatherings with a dessert of horchata drink alongside with a sweet bread. Later, as I walked through the city of Valencia, I was able to be a part of “Las Fallas” which at first scared me because I wasn’t used to hearing fireworks during the daytime. This tradition is held to celebrate the arrival of spring which I thought was very beautiful to see everyone in town with joy and excitement.

The people in Valencia were incredibly friendly and willing to share their traditions, creating a stark contrast to the more reserved atmosphere I experienced in Barcelona. Their openness and warmth made the city feel exceptionally welcoming. The markets in Valencia mostly contained meats and fruits for the locals in one enclosed area. The most unique way to buy fresh fruits and meats without having to run to the supermarket. On my last night in Valencia, the nightlights created such a memorable journey to end the night in the city and embraced the culture of the arts.

The Majestic Alhambra in Granada

By Aury Villalona    

The Alhambra, one of the most famous places in Spain. Even though it rained the whole time, the beauty of the palace was still amazing. The Alhambra has beautiful buildings, lovely gardens, and great views. I was really impressed by the beauty inside. The doors had very detailed carvings, with lots of beautiful patterns. The floors were made of colorful tiles that looked like a piece of art. The walls were covered with carvings too, with some parts having the word "Allah," which means God in Arabic. The ceiling also had detailed carvings that were very beautiful.    

The Alhambra is an example of Moorish architecture with its stunning Islamic design. The walls, floors, and ceilings are decorated with intricate geometric patterns, floral designs, and beautiful Arabic calligraphy a common feature in Islamic buildings. The ceilings have delicate carvings that look almost like lacework. One of the most beautiful aspects of the Alhambra is how it combines art, nature, and architecture. The gardens are full of flowers, and the floors in the gardens have flower patterns made of tiles. There are also fountains with water flowing around famous lion statues. Every part of the Alhambra, from the walls to the floors and fountains, was carefully designed to show beauty and respect for nature and spirituality. 

We learned about the history of the Alhambra. It was built in the 13th century by the Nasrid dynasty, the last Muslim rulers in Spain. The Alhambra was built by the first sultan, and it was both a palace and a fortress. The rulers of the Nasrid dynasty lived here for many years. The Alhambra was not just a place to live, but also a place for protection and defense. 

One of the most interesting parts of the Alhambra is the Royal Palace. It has many rooms and courtyards that were once the home of the Muslim rulers. The walls have beautiful Arabic calligraphy, which was important to the culture at that time. The Court of the Lions is another special place in the Alhambra. Water flows through the whole area, and in the middle, there is a fountain with twelve lion statues. This fountain shows how the Alhambra used water and nature in its design. 

In conclusion, the Alhambra stands as a timeless masterpiece, embodying the brilliant fusion of art, architecture, and nature. Despite the rain, its beauty radiates through every intricately designed tile, every carefully carved wall, and every peaceful garden. The Alhambra not only reflects the grandeur of the Nasrid dynasty but also offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Spain. Its design, deeply rooted in Islamic tradition, honors both the natural world and the divine, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and reverence. Visiting the Alhambra is not just an exploration of a historical site but a journey through the soul of a civilization that revered beauty, spirituality, and the connection between human creation and nature.