Alyson Mulato
UMBC Faculty-Led: Child Development and Applied Internship in Granada, Spain
Major: Computer Science
Pre-Departure Post 5/21/25
¡Hola! I’m Alyson Mulato, a Computer Science student at UMBC, and I’ll be spending a month in Granada, Spain. My flight is in 4 days (including today!) and I’m beyond excited (and a little nervous!) to take this next step and share parts of the journey as I go.
Granada is a beautiful city in the Andalusia region of southern Spain, known for its rich history, flamenco culture, and stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountains. This trip is a faculty-led study abroad program that includes an applied internship. In the weeks leading up to our departure, we’ve had several pre-departure meetings to get to know each other, prepare for travel, and learn more about Spanish history, culture, and daily life. We’ve also been discussing our course, which focuses on Child Development in a Global Context, and what we’ll be doing once we arrive. While in Granada, we’ll be attending class, visiting a local school for our internship, and engaging in hands-on cultural learning. I’m really looking forward to sharing those experiences as they happen!
Now, you might be wondering why a computer science major is attending a child development study abroad program. Before I fully committed to computer science, I was originally a pre-nursing student planning to go into pediatrics. I made the switch during COVID, when coding and tech were booming. I love my major (despite all its difficulties), but I’ve always felt drawn to pediatrics. After a lot of thinking and prayer, I decided to apply for this program, and I got in! I feel really blessed to have been accepted, and I hope this will be the first step in returning to the pre-med path.
What I’m most excited about is getting to interact with locals and experience Spanish culture firsthand—not just from a textbook or lecture, but by really being there, talking to people, and learning through everyday life. I believe that’s where the most meaningful learning happens. Our internship will take place at a local school in Granada, so we’ll be spending a lot of time with children. Thankfully, many of them speak both English and Spanish, but since I’ve never formally learned Spanish, this will be a fun challenge. I’ve been trying to pick up as much as I can, and being Filipino actually helps—Tagalog has a lot of Spanish loanwords! This will be my first time in Spain, and while I’ve traveled before, visiting a new country is always exciting. I’m curious to see how this immersive, community-based learning experience compares to my past travels and how it will shape the way I see the world—and myself.
Packing has always been my weak spot, and I’m trying my best to pack smart (which is easier said than done!) by limiting myself to one suitcase and a carry-on. Granada’s weather is HOT this time of year, so I’m planning for light clothes and comfy walking shoes—I’ve heard the cobblestone streets can be brutal on your feet! I’ve also decided to get a head start on our coursework. I usually don’t get too affected by jet lag since I’ve traveled back and forth between the Philippines (my hometown) and the U.S. many times while growing up, but it’s always better to be prepared!
As for travel, I’m hoping to explore as much of southern Spain as possible. I’d love to visit Seville, Nerja, and other cities in the Andalusia region. A few classmates and I have already tossed around ideas for weekend beach trips and city hopping, but honestly, I just want to soak up everything Spain has to offer—especially the Alhambra, tapas culture, and any local festivals we come across!
I’ve gotten some great advice from people who’ve been to Spain—like how meal times are much later than I’m used to, how important it is to greet people with a cheerful “¡Buenos días!”, and how I should never say no to churros con chocolate. I’m also mentally preparing myself for the cultural adjustment and the occasional homesickness. But I know stepping outside of my comfort zone will help me grow in ways I can’t even anticipate yet. To help prepare myself emotionally and spiritually, I’ve been sharing about my worries and excitement with my friends at our church’s young adults group. I’ve received so much encouragement and support. We’ve been praying together for safe travels, meaningful connections, and for me to really make the most of this opportunity. It’s been a grounding part of this season, and I feel a deep sense of peace knowing I’m being covered in prayer as I head into this new adventure.
I’ll be sharing updates throughout the month of June, and I’m looking forward to capturing the highs, the challenges, and everything in between. Here’s to a semester of growth, discovery, and (hopefully) becoming more fluent in Spanish—even if it’s just to order coffee.
¡Nos vemos pronto, Granada!
In-Country Post 5/28/2025
First Days in Granada 🌞
Hello from beautiful Granada!
After weeks of planning and anticipation, I’ve finally made it to southern Spain for my study abroad program—and what a whirlwind it’s been already. From the chaotic final moments of packing to the first glimpses of Granada’s charming streets, it’s been a journey filled with little victories, heartwarming community, and the kind of experiences that remind me why I chose to say yes to this opportunity in the first place.
Let’s start from the beginning: Packing!
Packing was easily one of the most stressful parts of getting ready. I kept going back and forth trying to decide what to bring, what I could live without, and how to make it all fit into one suitcase and a carry-on. The weather forecast showed hot days, and I wanted to be comfortable but also prepared for our internship and walking tours. After what felt like a million wardrobe decisions and some last-minute panic (shoutout to my family for being patient with me!), I finally zipped everything up. Victory!
On the day of my departure, I had church service (Sunday morning).
It felt so grounding to be there, surrounded by community and prayer before taking such a big step. The message that day was exactly what I needed—it reminded me that even when stepping into the unknown, I’m not alone. God goes before me, walks with me, and carries me when I feel tired or unsure. That sense of peace stayed with me all throughout the airport chaos and those long hours in the air.
Saying goodbye to my family was harder than I expected.
Even though I’ve traveled by myself before, this time felt different. As I said goodbye to my family at the airport, it hit me—I’d be away for a full month. A whole month of not seeing the people I talk to every day, eat meals with, and laugh with. We’re really close, and as excited as I was, I also felt the first wave of homesickness. That’s not something people always talk about when studying abroad. How you can be incredibly grateful and excited and still miss home deeply.
Thankfully, I’m not doing this alone.
I’m traveling with a group of students from my university, and I truly could not have asked for a better crew. Everyone’s kind, thoughtful, and eager to help. We’ve been getting to know each other little by little—studying together while waiting for flights, sharing snacks, helping each other find gates—it’s been such a blessing to feel like we’re already forming a little community.
Before leaving, I made myself a promise.
I told myself that I’d step outside of my comfort zone and talk to someone about local sights to see in Spain. I tend to be a little shy when I’m in unfamiliar places, especially if I don’t know the language, but I’m proud to say I did it! I had a great conversation with someone who gave me a few recommendations and insights on what to explore around Spain. Small wins like that feel huge when you’re adjusting to a new place.
And now—Granada!!
It’s just as stunning as I imagined, if not more. Granada is HOT—but it reminds me a lot of the Philippines, so I’ve felt right at home with the sunshine and dry heat. After unpacking and settling in, a few of us who arrived early had dinner together and took a short walk around the city. We realized we can walk to get groceries, to class, to just explore. It’s such a change of pace from the U.S, where cars are the default. Here, walking feels like the norm, and it’s honestly refreshing. It makes the city feel more personal and alive.
The next day, we got to explore more, thanks to the team from CEA CAPA.
They’re the organization helping run our program, and they’ve already been so welcoming. They gave us a walking tour around our neighborhood and shared fascinating stories and facts about the city. One of the highlights was visiting the Albayzín, a historic Moorish quarter that’s full of narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and breathtaking views. The Albayzín is one of the oldest parts of Granada, with roots going back to the time of the Islamic rule in Spain. It’s been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with the famous Alhambra, and you can really feel the weight of history as you walk through it.
We also got a glimpse of the Alhambra from the outside—it’s perched on a hill, overlooking the city like something out of a storybook. We’ll be touring the inside next week, and I honestly can’t wait. Just seeing it from a distance was enough to make my jaw drop. Its presence is powerful and so deeply tied to Granada’s identity.
Even though it’s only been a few days, so much has happened already.
From unpacking and settling in, to late-night conversations with new friends, to exploring neighborhoods that have stood for centuries—every day has felt rich and full. I’m already learning so much, not just from what we’re being taught, but from simply being here, seeing how life flows differently in a new culture.
I feel incredibly blessed to be part of this group.
The students in this program are passionate, open-minded, and incredibly supportive. Even though we’ve only just begun, we’ve already shared laughs, meals, directions, and memories. There’s something really beautiful about experiencing a new place together—it bonds people quickly. I can’t wait to keep growing alongside them as we dive deeper into our coursework, our internships, and the rhythms of life here in Granada.
Here’s to learning, walking, bonding, and eating way too many churros con chocolate.
¡Nos vemos pronto!
In-Country Post 6/4/2025
Singing, Studying, and Soaking It All In 🎶📚🍦
Hola from Granada!
It’s hard to believe we’ve already packed so many moments into just a short time here, but each day feels like a collection of memories I’ll be carrying with me long after the trip ends. The past week has been a beautiful mix of cultural immersion, academic growth, late-night bonding, and surprisingly plenty of gelato!
We’ve had the chance to see a flamenco show in the Sacromonte caves!
I had read about flamenco before coming here, but seeing it live in such a unique and historic setting was another experience entirely. The Sacromonte caves, carved into the hillside, have long been home to the Romani community in Granada, and the cave we visited was intimate, dimly lit, and buzzing with energy. As soon as the music started—those hauntingly beautiful voices, the passionate guitar playing, and the powerful stomp of the dancers—I had chills! There was so much emotion in every performance, you didn’t have to understand the words to feel it in your chest. If I get the chance, I would absolutely go again.
Another big moment this week was learning more about the Romani people in Granada during a tour of the Sacromonte caves.
We had already seen the performance side of Sacromonte, but this time we learned about the history, culture, and resilience of the Romani community that has lived in these caves for centuries. It was eye-opening to hear about how they built their homes right into the rock, adapted to a changing city, and preserved their traditions despite centuries of marginalization. The museum we visited was built into a series of these original caves, and each one was filled with artifacts and stories that made the history feel incredibly personal. As someone who loves to work with their hands, I was incredibly amazed to see a huge handloom weaving machine! It was massive and so incredible to be able to see the ways of how self-sufficient the Romani people were. It made me reflect on how culture isn’t just something preserved in museums—it’s lived every day, in the way people cook, dance, decorate, and celebrate.
Another thing that’s been amazing to see is the street art.
All around the city, colorful murals and creative graffiti are tucked between the ancient buildings and historic architecture, and the mix is absolutely stunning. It’s this unexpected blend of old and new—centuries-old stone walls alongside bright, expressive artwork—that makes just walking around feel like a visual adventure. Some pieces are huge and detailed, others are small and tucked away, but each one adds something unique to the streetscape. It’s like the whole city is a canvas, and we’ve loved spotting new pieces wherever we go.
Our psychology and child development course has been ramping up too.
As a computer science major, this has definitely been a stretch for me. Most of the others in the group have some kind of background in psychology or education, so I started off feeling a little behind. But instead of being intimidating, everyone has been so kind, patient, and encouraging. We’ve covered topics like classical vs. operant conditioning, reinforcement vs. punishment, and how these play into child development. One of my favorite moments was reviewing concepts together on the rooftop—we were all quizzing each other, laughing and sleepy, and it reminded me of late-night study sessions with my compsci friends back home. It’s been challenging, but also exciting to learn something totally new and realize how relevant it is to understanding people and how we grow. 
We also celebrated someone’s birthday this week, and what better way to do that than karaoke?
We found a spot nearby, and of course, as a Filipino (just adding a bit of fuel to the stereotype!), there was no way I was going to skip out. What made it even more special was that it was open karaoke so there were already locals singing! It became this fun, spontaneous exchange where we sang songs together, laughing through the language barrier. It reminded me just how universal music is. You don’t always need to understand every word to feel joy, connection, and community. Singing with new friends and strangers alike in a whole different country? That’s a memory I’ll keep close.
Another unexpected highlight? The food—especially the sweet stuff.
Yes, I know gelato is technically Italian, but there are gelaterias everywhere in Granada, and we’ve basically become regulars. I’ve been loving trying new flavors—some of my favorites so far have been Alhambra Dream (a rich chocolate ganache and hazelnut combo), Picasso (pistachio, white chocolate, and rose), and Amor de Granada (white chocolate, yogurt, and lemon). Every time we head out, someone in the group ends up saying, “We deserve a little treat,” and honestly, they’re not wrong. We also finally tried churros con chocolate, and they absolutely lived up to the hype—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and dipped in thick, velvety hot chocolate that felt like a warm hug. Outside of the sweets, we’ve even had fun exploring the fast food scene, which might sound random, but for many in the group who haven’t traveled internationally, it’s been full of surprises. Familiar chains have totally different menu options, and every visit turns into a food-sharing adventure. It’s a great reminder that even the ordinary can feel exciting when you’re somewhere new.
Overall, it’s been a week full of connection, discovery, and joy.
This week has been full of connection, discovery, and joy, but what’s stood out most is the people I’m sharing it with. From late-night study sessions to spontaneous karaoke, we’ve grown close fast. There’s something about navigating a new place together that builds a sense of family. Despite our different backgrounds, we’ve bonded over curiosity, laughter, and a shared love of adventure. With more cultural excursions and internships ahead, I already feel this trip is changing me—reminding me of the beauty in stepping out of your comfort zone and the meaning found in shared moments with others.
Until next time—
¡Hasta luego! 🌟
In-Country Post 6/13/2025
Internships, Intrigue, and Indulgence! 🎒🏖️🍫
Hola again from beautiful Granada!
I still can’t believe it’s the end of the third week! From observing classrooms and exploring centuries-old palaces to sun-soaked beach days and tasting olive oil and chocolate, the past few days have been PACKED with experiences.
Starting off with our Internship! 👩🏫✏️
Our internship started last week with 4 days of observation at a nearby school. We’ve had the opportunity to observe primary school children in grades 1 through 4, sitting in their classrooms and quietly taking in how they learn, interact, and engage with their teachers and peers. We’ve also interacted with the children during recess, joining in games of soccer and basketball.
It was such an experience to be able to compare the education styles as I’ve studied abroad in the Philippines and Australia. So in some ways, the routines are familiar—there’s still the excitement of students when they’re with friends, the buzz of group activities, the gentle hush as a lesson begins. But there are also noticeable differences compared to America. For instance, students here seem to have a lot of independence and the classroom environment feels more relaxed in terms of structure, but still incredibly respectful. It’s similar to schools I’ve seen in the Philippines and Australia, but the level of independence and freedom children have here really stands out—especially if your only point of reference is the American system. It’s made me reflect on how culture shapes not just what is taught, but how it’s taught—and how children grow through those systems.
What’s made it even more impactful is discussing our observations with classmates. Everyone brings a different lens—some with psychology backgrounds, some with education, and others like me from different fields entirely—so hearing their interpretations adds depth to what we’re seeing.
We also got to see the Alhambra up close 🏰🌿
—and it was every bit as magical as I had imagined. Walking through those intricate halls, with every inch covered in carved patterns, Arabic script, and geometric beauty, truly felt like stepping into another world. There’s something humbling about being surrounded by so much history and craftsmanship.
The courtyards, with their fountains and cypress trees, felt peaceful—almost otherworldly. I could’ve spent hours just walking the palaces, looking up at the arches, and imagining the people who once walked those same paths centuries ago. As someone who is intrigued by history, being in a place so rich in culture and legacy was a dream come true. It’s one thing to learn about the Nasrid dynasty online—but it’s another entirely to stand where they once ruled.
During the weekend, we’ve also been able to go to Córdoba 🕌🌺
Our first stop was the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, a fortress with stunning gardens that felt like something out of a fairytale. Every turn led to fountains, rows of orange trees, and beautifully preserved stone pathways. We wandered through the rooms where monarchs once held court, and it felt surreal knowing how many historical decisions were made in those very halls.
But what truly left a mark on me was the Mezquita-Catedral. I’d seen photos, but nothing prepared me for the real thing. The endless red-and-white striped arches were mesmerizing, and the mix of Islamic and Christian architecture created this layered, almost poetic space. The transition from Islamic to Christian was something I could not prepare myself for. It was a living reminder of how Spain’s history is filled with the convergence of cultures—sometimes in harmony, sometimes in conflict, but always leaving behind something unforgettable.
On Sunday we decided to go to Salobreña Beach for some time to unwind 🌊☀️
After all that walking and history, we took a day to unwind at Salobreña Beach, and it was exactly what we needed. The view of the coastline was breathtaking—crystal clear waters, dramatic cliffs in the distance, and people jet skiing on the waves. We spread out our towels, kicked off our shoes, and let the sun do its thing.
I love the beach, but this one—opening onto the Mediterranean—was unlike any I’ve been to. It was more calm, not as many playful waves crashing into the sand so it laid out a calming backdrop for relaxation. No schedule, no rush—just being in the moment, surrounded by friends and nature’s beauty. It reminded me that sometimes rest is just as important as discovery.
We were also able to have a new experience with an Olive Oil and Chocolate Tasting at Al Sur de Granada 🍫🫒
One of the more unexpected highlights of the week was a tasting event at Al Sur de Granada, a charming little shop that focuses on local artisanal products. We got to try a variety of olive oils and chocolates—and it was honestly such a treat!
Alba, our lovely host, taught us about how the region’s climate and soil make for some of the best olive oils in the world, and we sampled everything from fruity, mild oils to more robust, peppery ones. It was interesting to see how the presence of bread could change the taste and make that one olive oil stand out. The chocolate tasting was just as diverse—there were dark chocolates from the Philippines (which Alba mentioned are some of her favorites), milk chocolate made with sheep’s milk, and white chocolate with lemon and salt. We all had such a great time and the experience was so insightful and unique, I’d recommend it to anyone visiting Granada.
Finding Meaning in the Moments 🌅❤️
As I look back on this week, I’m struck by how much life we’ve lived in just a few days. There’s been so much to take in—children learning and growing in classrooms, ancient stone buildings whispering stories from the past, and simple joys like chocolate, sunshine, and laughter shared by the sea.
Every day here reminds me that growth isn’t just about knowledge—it’s about connection, reflection, and the courage to step into something unfamiliar with an open heart.
Until next time—
¡Hasta luego! 🌟
In-Country Post 6/18/2025
City-Hopping, Cathedrals, and Cafecitos ☕⛪
It’s hard to believe I’m already nearing the end of our program here! It feels like we just arrived, and yet my camera roll and heart are already full. This past week has been one of adventure, reflection, and food (lots of it), as I ventured beyond Granada and savored the final days of class.
We started our weekend off in Madrid—and I even got to see my cousin! 🏙️👨👩👧
A few friends and I headed to Madrid and spent a sunny day exploring the city center. We wandered through lively streets filled with music, street performers, and cultural parades that made the capital feel more welcoming than we expected. One of my favorite parts of the day was visiting the illusion museum—it was quirky and so fun! Later, my cousin and I walked through Gran Día Park and visited the Royal Palace. The park was expansive, full of greenery and quiet corners, while the palace offered a stunning lookout point. Watching the sunset from there felt surreal, and in a way, it was my first real “sunset moment” in Spain. Staying at my cousin’s home that night made the trip extra special. After so many new places and faces, it felt grounding to reconnect with family—even for just a night.
From there, I hopped over to Barcelona to see the breathtaking Sagrada Familia. ⛪🌈
I’ve seen photos of the Sagrada Familia, but nothing could have prepared me for how massive and majestic it is in person. Every carving on the outside told a story from the Bible making it truly live up to its nickname: “The Bible in Stone.” Inside, it was just as spectacular. Light poured in through stained glass windows, casting rainbow colors on the walls and floors. The combination of light, color, and natural elements built into the design made it feel like a sacred forest more than a cathedral. I couldn’t take my eyes off the details. It was amazing seeing how much intention and artistry went into every inch. I could go on and on about this cathedral and the fact that it’s not even finished yet is what makes me excited for what is to come.
Back in Granada, we finally had our paella night—and it was everything I hoped for. 🥘🍷
After all the travel, I was back with friends and we finally sat down for a paella dinner. It was extra fun seeing everyone try different ingredients—some even had octopus for the first time! As someone who lives for a good rice dish, this was a 10/10 moment. The flavor, the texture, the crispy bits on the bottom… it was chef’s kiss. Sharing food and moments with friends made it even better.
We went café-hopping and found the cutest spots for sweet treats and caffeine boosts. ☕🍰
Anyone who knows me knows I love cafés, so exploring local spots was a highlight. Each one had its own vibe—some vibrant and artsy, others calm and cozy—but all had amazing coffee and pastries. I even tried a coffee with citrus notes, which I’d never had before, and I was pleasantly surprised. Highly recommend!!
It’s wild to think that classes are over! 🎓💐
To mark the occasion, we had a farewell lunch with Carmen, our warm and ever-supportive CEA CAPA coordinator. From day one, she’s been a comforting presence, always ready with a smile, a thoughtful check-in, or a helpful tip. Sitting down together for our final lunch felt like more than just a goodbye, it was a moment to reflect on how far we’ve come.Between the laughs, stories, and shared memories, I realized just how much people like Carmen shaped this experience.
We joined in the pre-Corpus Christi festivities, and the city truly came alive. 💃🎶
Later that day, we stumbled upon flamenco dancing, live music, and a festive crowd celebrating in the streets. The energy was contagious. My friends and I ended the night on the cathedral steps, chatting and laughing under the night sky. That moment, surrounded by history, music, and good company, is one I’ll always carry with me. That’s what I’ll miss most about Granada: the way the city invites you to slow down, take it all in, and just be.
The next morning started with something sweet—literally! 🧁⛪
A friend and I picked up Magdalena chocolate muffins from the Monastery of Our Lady of the Assumption, and they were incredible! Soft, rich, and just the right amount of sweetness! There’s something really special about enjoying handmade treats steeped in tradition, especially from a place so serene and meaningful. It made the perfect breakfast before heading to one of Granada’s biggest celebrations.
The Tarasca parade was a burst of color, music, and pure joy. 🎉🐉
From the moment it started, the streets were buzzing with energy with vibrant costumes, lively music, and crowds full of excitement.It was an unforgettable experience—loud, beautiful, and full of life, capturing the spirit of Granada in the best way. With a few days still left here, it felt like the perfect way to celebrate how far we’ve come and soak in the energy of the city one more time.
Looking back, this week was filled with beauty, connection, and celebration. 🌟📸
Whether walking through Gothic cathedrals, chatting under cathedral steps, or trying new food for the first time, each moment felt like it was part of something bigger. I’m constantly reminded that the beauty of study abroad isn’t just in the monuments or meals. It’s in the people, the small moments, and the wonder that follows you long after you leave.
Until next time—
¡Hasta luego! 🌟
In-Country Post 6/26/2025
Fairs, Final Moments, and Fond Farewells 🎡💧🌄
I can’t believe I’m writing my last blog post from this Granada adventure. It feels like just yesterday I was stepping off the plane and into the sun-drenched streets of Andalusia. Now, sitting at home, I’m looking back on a whirlwind of memories that somehow fit into just one month. Time felt like it flew by, yet each day was so full—of food, laughter, exploration, and connection.
We kicked off our last few days with the biggest celebration Granada has to offer—Feria de Granada! 🎠🎟️
This annual fair, part of the week-long Feria del Corpus Christi, is one of Granada’s most anticipated events. The fairgrounds buzzed with excitement. Imagine endless rows of colorful tents (casetas), traditional flamenco outfits, glowing carnival lights, and music echoing through the fairgrounds. For locals and visitors alike, it’s a mix of tradition and modern fun and we dove right in.
My friends and I had so much fun hopping on ride after ride and taking in all the vibrant energy around us. I even won a stuffed animal from one of the carnival games that I named Carmen after our CEA CAPA friend who we got to see at the carnival! The little bear is now sitting next to me as I’m writing this up reminding me of all the fun I had that night.
One of the most unforgettable moments was getting on the Viking ship ride. Except… this wasn’t your average theme park boat. You could choose to stand in these little caged sections at the ends, and of course, my friend and I said “Why not?” As the boat swung higher and higher, we jumped and laughed like kids, totally caught up in the adrenaline and chaos. It was ridiculous. It was amazing. I’ll never forget it.
The next day brought something completely different—Corpus Christi Day itself. 🕊️👑
After the fair’s thrill and excitement, it was time to experience one of Granada’s most deeply rooted religious and cultural celebrations. Streets were decorated with flowers and religious banners and the air smelled of incense. People lined the sidewalks to watch the ornate Corpus Christi procession, an elegant tradition that has taken place here for centuries.
One of the most interesting things we learned is that this celebration blends both Catholic tradition and older, folkloric elements—like La Tarasca, a dragon-riding mannequin escorted by giant puppet figures (gigantes y cabezudos). It’s surreal and whimsical, and it all reminded me how unique Granada’s traditions are—constantly straddling the line between sacred and festive.
Tasting Something New with Tapas 🌍🍽️
Later that evening, a friend and I decided to go out for tapas and try something a bit different. We ended up at a Moroccan tapas place tucked away in one of Granada’s charming side streets. I’m so glad we went! The food was packed with flavor and such a refreshing change from the usual. We shared different dishes like spiced falafel (which was my favorite) and vegetable couscous, and everything was incredible. It was one of those small spontaneous plans that ended up becoming a core memory from the trip.
Before leaving Granada, we squeezed in one last adventure: hiking La Cahorros de Monachil. 🥾🌉
Let me tell you, this place is straight out of a postcard. Just a short drive from the city, this trail winds through cliffs and rivers, offering jaw-dropping views at every turn. It was a challenge to hike when we had to keep looking up for the views and down for our footing! We crossed Spain’s longest hanging bridge (which wobbled just enough to feel like a challenge), ducked under giant boulders, and cooled off beneath hidden waterfalls. The entire experience was the perfect blend of peaceful and exhilarating.
It felt so good to be in nature after so many city days. There was something grounding about feeling small next to these towering rocks and ancient paths, knowing they’ve been here long before us and will remain long after. I’d recommend this hike to anyone visiting Granada who loves the outdoors or just wants to see a different side of Andalusia.
Our last full day was filled with reflection—and a little bit of heartache. 📝❤️
We gathered for our final class meeting, sharing our favorite moments, biggest challenges, and personal highlights from the trip. It was a space to laugh, tear up, and realize just how much we’d grown. Some people talked about personal growth and others about the joy of discovering new cultures. For me, it was both. This month taught me to be open—to people, to places, and to experiences I didn’t expect.
Later that evening, I made one last walk up to the Mirador de San Nicolás to see the Alhambra in the soft glow of sunset. If you’ve been there, you know the view I’m talking about. The Alhambra sits like a glowing crown against the Sierra Nevada mountains, its silhouette framed by pink and orange skies. I stood there quietly, taking it all in—the beauty, the weight of goodbye, the gratitude. That final glimpse felt like a love letter from Granada. A reminder that this place will always be part of me now.
The journey home was long, a little chaotic, and very sleepy—but we made it. ✈️👨👩👧
Our group hugged tightly at the airport, promising to meet up again when we could. Some of us are from different parts of the country, but we all agreed that this month changed us, and that bond isn’t something that just fades.
Coming home felt warm and familiar. I was so excited to see my family again, to share stories and photos and hugs. But it’s bittersweet too because no matter how good it feels to be back, part of me is still walking those cobbled streets, sitting on the steps of the cathedral with friends, watching the sunset on the Alhambra.
Writing this feels like closing a chapter. And wow—what a beautiful one it was.
Granada gave me joy, challenge, friendship, adventure, and a deeper appreciation for slowing down and soaking things in. Whether I was studying into the late-night with friends, hiking the Albaycin, or listening to the music on the streets, each moment felt meaningful.
It’s hard to say goodbye, but I know this isn’t the end.
Just a see you later.
¡Hasta luego, Granada and thank YOU for reading along! 💛