Day One

Today was probably the longest day of my life. Starting at 6 AM on the 21st, I headed to the airport and had two uneventful but cramped flights from SFO to DFW to MAD. Unfortunately sleep evaded me for both flights and I only watched one movie even though I have at least 5 movies and a couple tv shows downloaded. After finally landing at 9 AM on the 22nd, I felt like a zombie. We were able to hop on a taxi and head right to our hotel where I proceeded to then sleep for 7 hours. I will admit that the jet lag has hit me like a rock and I no longer know whether it's time for lunch, dinner, or breakfast. At least I'll have a few days to settle in before my classes begin. 

Many people have told me of the phases that I would go through while studying abroad: the honeymoon phase, homesick phase, and the phase where you finally gain a sense of belonging. Now that I have finally begun my adventures abroad and I can confidently say my first impression of Madrid was very different from what I had originally pictured and I don't think I'll experience the honeymoon phase. I was basing my assumptions of the architecture off of what I had seen and loved in Eastern Europe where every building was in the Baroque, Renaissance, or Gothic style. However, what I saw today was a bit of a disappointment to say the least. I am hopeful that this is only true of the specific area that I am in, but thus far, Madrid lacks classic European charm and instead resembles a rundown and dirty American city. Needless to say, I am unimpressed. 

After my long nap, my aunt, uncle and I walked around our hotel and checked out a couple of supermarkets which were fairly similar to what I am used to albeit a lot cheaper. Then I finally got to reunite with Sophie after the long summer apart and we went to a restaurant called Las Cuevas with my aunt, uncle, and Sophie's dad. I'll admit that looking at the menu stressed me out as I had no idea what I would enjoy, but I went with the safe option of roasted red peppers which were absolutely delicious. 

 

We even got a little dinner show when a band showed up and started playing traditional Spanish tunes. I also learned that I never want to drive a car in Spain as the roads are some of the most confusing things I've ever seen. The roads take you up small cobblestone alleyways that you feel like you shouldn't be driving on because of how small they are and there are no clear turn lanes. The stoplights are also really small and on the side of the road, so it's even more difficult to know what you are doing. 

I am very excited for tomorrow as I will be going on a tour of the Palacio de Madrid which has been on my bucket list ever since I knew I was going to Spain. Hopefully, tomorrow brings more excitement and the European charm that I am expecting. Adios!