This week has been one adventure after another. Speaking as a geographically and directionally challenged individual, I probably held the record for the number of times getting lost in Sevilla. The transportation system (THOSE RED TUSSAM BUSES) have tested my ability to navigate throughout the city, and I think I finally have it down-packed after a few days of complete chaos!
The first few days were a bit rough, I must admit. From adjusting to the time zone to not being able to have a full conversation with my host family, and to constantly being late for the bus, I felt defeated. It was one thing after another. However, I never caved and skyped with my loved ones at home. I promised myself that I would take this week to adjust and not give into my homesickness! I do not necessarily miss being home, but I miss being able to have a meaningful conversation with people. It's difficult to do so with my host family because of the language barrier, and I crave conversation! I want to learn more about their lives, values, and my host mom's decision to house international students. I want to be able to tell her how I am adjusting and my struggles with those darn Tussam buses. Luckily, I have other students from the U.S., Germany, Brazil, and other regions of the world to share my experience with. For now, that will do, but I plan on continuing with my Spanish language studies so I can communicate more meaningfully.
Aside from these rough patches, I have been exploring the city of Sevilla after my intensive Spanish courses. I toured downtown Sevilla at least three times, and I even became an unofficial tour guide for my friends in my program when I passed by buildings that German told me about. I visited Las Setas, the new mushroom building built in the Plaza de Emanación in April 2011. The building is absolutely beautiful in its design and the roof has an undulating staircase that allows you to see all of Sevilla! I passed by La Torre del Oro (the Gold Tower), visited Plaza de España twice, went into a small niche of the Cathedral, and explored my own neighborhood on Avenida de la Paz (The Street of Peace). The architecture is absolutely gorgeous with the immense detail, hints of color, and the unique structure. I am in awe with every building that I pass, and I cannot help but become trigger happy with my camera. More pictures will come this weekend as I take my travel to the province of Cádiz where I will relax on the beach and take in the beauty of the area.
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