Spending four months in an entirely new atmosphere was an unforgettable experience. From the endless cobblestone streets full of people during the day to the lively tapas bars and energetic atmosphere at night, Sevilla, Spain is an incredible place to be your home away from home.
Before Your Adventure:
For me, the hardest and most dreadful part of preparing to go abroad was the packing. Packing for Sevilla requires some planning so that you’re prepared for exploring the city. Since this study abroad experience took place from January to May, the weather was cooler at first, gradually warming up into the spring months. By the end of the program, it was practically 100 degrees!
Pack light layers, including sweaters and jackets for the beginning, and breathable clothing for the warmer months. There will be no regrets when packing a warm coat! You will find out quickly that layers will become your best friend in this climate. Comfortable walking shoes are a must since the city is best explored on foot. A rain jacket is useful. Although uncommon, during my time in Sevilla we experienced quite a bit of rain. Don’t forget an umbrella like I did! Since Spaniards tend to dress stylishly, having a few nicer outfits for evenings out or special events is a good idea. Day to day, I tended to dress a bit nicer than my usual leggings and a sweatshirt look here in Minnesota. For visiting any religious sites, which will be likely, packing a scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders is recommended.
Bringing an adapter for European outlets is essential for charging your devices. A travel backpack will be a life saver if you are someone that wants to go and explore outside of Sevilla. To avoid any potential pick-pocketing, a crossbody bag is recommended in crowded areas and easy for day-to-day life. I highly recommend bringing a camera if you have one. I will keep the photos I have from abroad forever! One of my favorite packing essentials is a journal. I was able to write out my experiences from my program, and now looking back at all the exciting things I did is so fun!
Day in the Life as a Student in Sevilla:
Living with a host family in Sevilla offers a truly immersive experience. Mornings started early, with a light breakfast always paired with a warm cup of café con leche with my roommate and host mom. After breakfast, my roommate and I would walk to classes (about a 30-minute walk), which ran from about 9 AM to 3 PM. Between classes, I often grabbed another café con leche with friends or relaxed in a nearby park.
Lunch, the biggest meal of the day, was around 3:30 PM, ready for us when we arrived back from school. My host mom would prepare traditional dishes like paella, lentil stew, or tortilla Española. Meals were a great time to practice Spanish because the whole family was involved in conversation, and we were able to learn so much. Afternoons were spent either taking a siesta, exploring the city, or studying at one of the numerous local cafés.
Evenings were lively, with trips for tapas with friends or our weekly gelato get togethers with the whole CSB and SJU clan. Dinner was a lighter meal, usually around 9 or 10 PM, where we would sometimes watch Spanish dating shows or the news on the TV while enjoying our meal.
Exploring the City:
Sevilla is a city full of history, culture, and breathtaking sights. The Real Alcázar is a stunning palace with unique architecture and amazing gardens. At the top of La Giralda (which is a part of the Cathedral of Sevilla), you will find incredible views of the city. This is one of the largest cathedrals in the world and you will not regret taking a tour of the inside. The Plaza de España is a large plaza-palace filled with amazing artwork and tiles which also includes a canal that is perfect for a leisurely walk or even paddling a boat. This is a great place to sit and admire the beauty of Sevilla and take in the culture around you.
For the full authenticity of Sevilla, visit the Triana neighborhood (where I had the pleasure of living), famous for its Flamenco culture and ceramic workshops. There are many theaters to see a Flamenco show and a handful of shops to buy ceramic artwork. The Guadalquivir River was a favorite spot for many of us. Almost every night before dinner it was a priority to watch the beautiful sunsets while sitting alongside the river.
Studying abroad in Sevilla, Spain was one of the best experiences of my life. The city’s warm atmosphere, rich history, and incredible food make it the perfect place to immerse yourself in Spanish culture. If you’re heading to Sevilla, embrace the culture, try new things, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. You won’t regret it!
