Do as the Spaniards Do
I recently returned from a three-week trip around the country of Spain. The culture, food and lifestyles are very different from those of the United States.
As we walked through the streets of Spain, we noticed that Spaniards all had one thing in common: they were fit and lean. They were like this because their diet is very different from ours. Some of the common dishes were paella, pasta and jamon. Paella is made of rice with saffron, lima beans, green beans, red bell peppers, chicken and seafood. The taste at first is a little spicy then after a few bites it is quite good. The pasta was the same everywhere we ate and the only difference was the amount of sauce they put on it; some was less than others. The pasta was noodles and the taste of the tomato sauce was like ravioli sauce. The food was foreign to me at first, but after awhile I got used to it. The Spaniards have three meals a day but at dinner, they have a three-course meal. The first course usually consists of either paella, pasta or soup. The second course can be some kind of meat or fish served with french fries. The third course, dessert, was often a small dish of ice cream. Served on the side of every meal was water and a piece of very hard bread that can almost knock someone’s teeth out.
In America, we have a different way of life compared to Spain. Texas is considered one of the fattest states in the United States, and San Antonio is one of the nation’s fattest cities. Here in the States, everything is cooked with oil or lard. When you order a burger here in the States, the grease just drips from your hands as you take a bite. It’s just a heart attack waiting to happen. In Spain, when you order a burger you get bread with a thin pieces of meat that is not even beef, but rather veal and with lettuce and tomato. Diet is a primary factor of the cause of obesity and diabetes here in the United States.
One of the guys in the group met a girl from Japan named Mami, who was very thin. When she was introduced to us, her first reaction was “Whoa, you are all very voluptuous people.” Mami told us that she was considered a fat person in Japan. She was a size large there. We were all shocked at that because she was quite small. In America, she would be considered either a size small or an extra small.
Here in the States, mostly everyone has a car. People drive wherever they need to go. They never walk. In Spain, everyone walks everywhere. I talked to several people while in Spain. I asked Luciano, a guy I met on the subway, about getting a car and a driver’s license. He said, “I don’t have one; I never really needed to get one and besides it would be almost 1000 euros to get one.” Therefore, they usually just walk or use public transportation like the metro, costs one euro. In Spain, there are many stairs. If you are going to take the metro, be prepared to take a lot of stairs going down and up, which is much harder. The metro is not the only place that has stairs. Restaurants and malls have them, as do some of the parks.
Another one of the causes for obesity in the U.S is the TV and the lack of things to do. The sun sets here at about 6 or 7 in the evening. In Spain, the sun sets at about 10 or 10:30 in the evening. At around 2 p.m., there is a thing called siesta. At this time, all the little shops close down for lunch and take about a three-hour break. The people in Spain are very active. At all hours, they go to parks to walk or run and at night, to bars or clubs. While I was in Spain, we never ever touched the TV. If we were in the States, we would be sitting on the couch eating and watching TV. I asked several people about what kind of shows they watched. They did not know because there was really no need to turn the TV with all the things there are to do.
Spain has the healthiest lifestyle I have ever seen. It seems that it would be very good for us to do as the Spaniards do. If we would follow their lifestyles, the U.S. especially San Antonio would benefit. The rate of obese children and adults would decrease as well as the incidence of diabetes. Two very huge health concerns here.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
6/15/07 Bilbao and San Sebatian
Today we are in Bilboa and about to take off to San Sebastian.
We are going over chapters 6-8 in our Story of Spain book.
Madrid was founded by the Moors in the 9th century. Madrid did not become the capital of Spain til 1561 under Felipe II a member of the House of Hapsburg. The Hapsburgs were the most important royal dynasty in Europe. Felipe II was the key figure in the family. Felipe's reign began with a sigh of relief throughout Europe at the breakup of the awesome Hapsburg domains, and there was peace for several years. The last century had witnessed the decline of powerful city states such as Venice. The Bourbons later took control of Spain in 1713 through the war of the Spanish succession.
In Madrid we went to visit the famous museum The Prado. In this museum there were alot of 16th and 17th century painting by many famous artists like, Goya, Gaudi, Vasquez and many more. The main painting we focused on was the painting by Fransisco Goya the Second of May. His works inspired many of other artists. This painting shows a scene from the Spanish War. His work is very life like it has a sense of like you are looking at a picture. In the painting you can see suffering and anguish in the peoples faces. Goya shows much detail with the blood and the scared people in the back ground. even though this painting is very gory it is a great painting.
We are going over chapters 6-8 in our Story of Spain book.
Madrid was founded by the Moors in the 9th century. Madrid did not become the capital of Spain til 1561 under Felipe II a member of the House of Hapsburg. The Hapsburgs were the most important royal dynasty in Europe. Felipe II was the key figure in the family. Felipe's reign began with a sigh of relief throughout Europe at the breakup of the awesome Hapsburg domains, and there was peace for several years. The last century had witnessed the decline of powerful city states such as Venice. The Bourbons later took control of Spain in 1713 through the war of the Spanish succession.
In Madrid we went to visit the famous museum The Prado. In this museum there were alot of 16th and 17th century painting by many famous artists like, Goya, Gaudi, Vasquez and many more. The main painting we focused on was the painting by Fransisco Goya the Second of May. His works inspired many of other artists. This painting shows a scene from the Spanish War. His work is very life like it has a sense of like you are looking at a picture. In the painting you can see suffering and anguish in the peoples faces. Goya shows much detail with the blood and the scared people in the back ground. even though this painting is very gory it is a great painting.
Sunday, July 8, 2007
7/8/07 Back in San Antonio Tx
We have finally returned from our amazing trip to the country of Spain. I had just gotten used to the lifestyle in Spain, and now I have to adjust back to American living.
Today is exactly 6 days after we returned from the country of Spain. We arrived at 11:30 pm on July 2. We were separated into two groups a group of four left at 11:30 am from Madrid and the rest left at 1:15pm.
The class experience is very different from that of being in a room at PAC.
I thought that learning from experience is the best way to learn because you take in everything. It is very hard from me to learn history but with this experience, learning it first hand, in person was just so easy. The teaching went on while on the bus on our way to a new destination. It was somewhat hard to concentrate on the professors teaching because we were in a different country that was just breathtaking. The windows were to tempting to look out to see what was happening on the outside. Apart from the distraction of the beautiful countryside, the other thing that made it hard for me to concentrate was that I get carsick really easy. While on the road, we often had to read or recap by looking back at the book and well, I could not because the moving looking up and down on the book made me very nauseous.
Personally, I think that this experience has taught me a lot. While in Spain, we were allowed to be on our own when there was opportunity. We were given the opportunity to experience things on our own to explore and to learn. In Spain, I felt such freedom that I have never felt before I did not feel suffocated by problems or drama. I have learned to appreciate my life more. The way of life is very different in Spain it is healthier being there gave me the strength to try to be a healthier person now and to exercise more. I learned so much of myself that I did not know I feel like a more independent person, as if I can do anything and everything on my own.
My view of the world had changed a bit I really did not know much about the goings on no further than my hometown. This trip opened up a door to another world to me. Seeing and experiencing Spain was just like a very wonderful dream. I hope one day to return.
Today is exactly 6 days after we returned from the country of Spain. We arrived at 11:30 pm on July 2. We were separated into two groups a group of four left at 11:30 am from Madrid and the rest left at 1:15pm.
The class experience is very different from that of being in a room at PAC.
I thought that learning from experience is the best way to learn because you take in everything. It is very hard from me to learn history but with this experience, learning it first hand, in person was just so easy. The teaching went on while on the bus on our way to a new destination. It was somewhat hard to concentrate on the professors teaching because we were in a different country that was just breathtaking. The windows were to tempting to look out to see what was happening on the outside. Apart from the distraction of the beautiful countryside, the other thing that made it hard for me to concentrate was that I get carsick really easy. While on the road, we often had to read or recap by looking back at the book and well, I could not because the moving looking up and down on the book made me very nauseous.
Personally, I think that this experience has taught me a lot. While in Spain, we were allowed to be on our own when there was opportunity. We were given the opportunity to experience things on our own to explore and to learn. In Spain, I felt such freedom that I have never felt before I did not feel suffocated by problems or drama. I have learned to appreciate my life more. The way of life is very different in Spain it is healthier being there gave me the strength to try to be a healthier person now and to exercise more. I learned so much of myself that I did not know I feel like a more independent person, as if I can do anything and everything on my own.
My view of the world had changed a bit I really did not know much about the goings on no further than my hometown. This trip opened up a door to another world to me. Seeing and experiencing Spain was just like a very wonderful dream. I hope one day to return.
Monday, June 25, 2007
6/25/07 Back in Madrid!!
Buenos dias today is Monday, we just arrived from Seville at 6:30 pm. We put our luggage in our room and went down stairs to bid our last farewell to our bus driver Ricardo. This is the last week we are in Spain.
Last night we decided we wanted to go out in Seville since it was going to be our last. Gary told us about the love boat, he said it was a big boat that takes you up and down the river. So we all decided ok it will be fun. We left at 9:45 the boat left at 10 pm and when we got there we were so surprised at what we saw. The boat was like a big paddle boat with no roof and with windows on the first floor. We got on and there were bugs flying around everywhere, it was gross. We went down the first floor to get drinks, the boat started moving and the music started. Honestly, it felt as if I was at a middle school dance, everyone was jumping around to disco music like they were 12.
On our way back to Madrid we stopped in Cordova to visit the very beautiful architecture the mosques.The outer building is very run down and had no color but once you get inside it is just breathtaking. In the inside ther are so many arches that are red and white it remided me of the stripes on the American flag. They were built by the Christians destroyed by the moors and rebuilt by the moors. The Christians later retook it back and that is why it has a Muslim influence to it.
Well Hasta Mañana
Last night we decided we wanted to go out in Seville since it was going to be our last. Gary told us about the love boat, he said it was a big boat that takes you up and down the river. So we all decided ok it will be fun. We left at 9:45 the boat left at 10 pm and when we got there we were so surprised at what we saw. The boat was like a big paddle boat with no roof and with windows on the first floor. We got on and there were bugs flying around everywhere, it was gross. We went down the first floor to get drinks, the boat started moving and the music started. Honestly, it felt as if I was at a middle school dance, everyone was jumping around to disco music like they were 12.
On our way back to Madrid we stopped in Cordova to visit the very beautiful architecture the mosques.The outer building is very run down and had no color but once you get inside it is just breathtaking. In the inside ther are so many arches that are red and white it remided me of the stripes on the American flag. They were built by the Christians destroyed by the moors and rebuilt by the moors. The Christians later retook it back and that is why it has a Muslim influence to it.
Well Hasta Mañana
Thursday, June 21, 2007
6/21/07 Torremolinos, Spain
Last night, we stayed in Granada. When we arrived, we had to go searching for a place to wash our clothes, so we got directions from Gary. The guys thought they could read a map, and they took us in a whole circle so we got tired of waiting. We went back to Gary and me, Jackie and Paul found the "lavanderia"washateria in a few minutes.
The whole group went out to a salsa club it was so much fun. There were not alot of people there and it did not smell like smoke. We were all dancing, me, Jackie, Erica, and Sarah were dancing with "G"(Gerardo).
Today we are in Torremolinos Costa del Sol. We left Granada at 8am and arrived at around 5:30pm. We got to our hotel and it is worse than the last. It does not have air conditioner, and it's small. The guys have a room with two beds and a couch that turns in to a bunk bed. That is just too funny we are in such a crappy hotel ha ha because it's just so small and very hot.
The Moors had so much influence on Spain especially in the Andalucia region. Cordoba, Sevilla and Granada. The battle between the Chritians and Moors who invaded Spain was so long
Today we had a tour around La Alhambra in Granada. The structures there were so amazing. You can tell so much just by the way they built the buildings. They were so magestic.
The whole group went out to a salsa club it was so much fun. There were not alot of people there and it did not smell like smoke. We were all dancing, me, Jackie, Erica, and Sarah were dancing with "G"(Gerardo).
Today we are in Torremolinos Costa del Sol. We left Granada at 8am and arrived at around 5:30pm. We got to our hotel and it is worse than the last. It does not have air conditioner, and it's small. The guys have a room with two beds and a couch that turns in to a bunk bed. That is just too funny we are in such a crappy hotel ha ha because it's just so small and very hot.
The Moors had so much influence on Spain especially in the Andalucia region. Cordoba, Sevilla and Granada. The battle between the Chritians and Moors who invaded Spain was so long
Today we had a tour around La Alhambra in Granada. The structures there were so amazing. You can tell so much just by the way they built the buildings. They were so magestic.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
6/20/07 Granada, Spain
Today is June 20, and we are in Granada. We left Valencia at 8 am and we arrived here at 4 pm. When we first arrived, I was so exhausted from the 7 hour drive.
On the bus we reviewed chapter nine in our "The Story of Spain." We talked about a 20th century artist Antonio Gaudi. While we were in Barcelona, we went to see two structures designed by him. First we went to the Sagrada Familia. Iast is a gothic looking cathedral. This church has been in the process of being completed for over 200 years. The stucture of the church seemed playful like he was trying to make it fun and at the same time serious.
We then went my favorite place, Parque Guell. This is such a beautiful site, in my opinion. I think that this park is so much gorgeous than the River Walk or the mission ruins in San Antonio. They have so much greenery and it's just gorgeous.
When we were done we went into a nice hotel. As we walked in we could not believe that this would be our hotel. It was just too good to be true and of course it was. A few minutes later Gary came back with the keys to our real hotel the entrance was small but the rooms are ok they are like suites but not as good looking. The room has two rooms a kitchen, a small bathroom, it is so hot and stuffy in there and the toilet did not flush.
After we put our stuff away, we went on a search for a washateria. We asked people for directions and all we got was I don't know, and straight to the right. Everyone and everywhere we asked their respond was straight to the right. After so many tries we found it. We waited forever but it was worth it, we got our clothes washed. After, we went to eat at Pizza Hut, it was just awesome. It was like a party in my mouth, compared to the food we have been eating all week.
Hasta Mañana
On the bus we reviewed chapter nine in our "The Story of Spain." We talked about a 20th century artist Antonio Gaudi. While we were in Barcelona, we went to see two structures designed by him. First we went to the Sagrada Familia. Iast is a gothic looking cathedral. This church has been in the process of being completed for over 200 years. The stucture of the church seemed playful like he was trying to make it fun and at the same time serious.
We then went my favorite place, Parque Guell. This is such a beautiful site, in my opinion. I think that this park is so much gorgeous than the River Walk or the mission ruins in San Antonio. They have so much greenery and it's just gorgeous.
When we were done we went into a nice hotel. As we walked in we could not believe that this would be our hotel. It was just too good to be true and of course it was. A few minutes later Gary came back with the keys to our real hotel the entrance was small but the rooms are ok they are like suites but not as good looking. The room has two rooms a kitchen, a small bathroom, it is so hot and stuffy in there and the toilet did not flush.
After we put our stuff away, we went on a search for a washateria. We asked people for directions and all we got was I don't know, and straight to the right. Everyone and everywhere we asked their respond was straight to the right. After so many tries we found it. We waited forever but it was worth it, we got our clothes washed. After, we went to eat at Pizza Hut, it was just awesome. It was like a party in my mouth, compared to the food we have been eating all week.
Hasta Mañana
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
6/19/07 Valencia, Spain
Our surroundings around the town
Today is June 19 and we have just arrived in Valencia, Spain we left at 8:30am this morning and arrived here at 1pm. We have just been here for about an hour, and it is very hot here. Today we are going to visit the Holy Grail in a Cathedral in front of Plaza la Reina.
We have just gotten off the bus, and we had to stand out in the hot burning sun waiting for our tour guide, Gary, to come back. The sun was so hot that at the end of the day I had another sun burn, now I have two rings of red, hurtful, burn. While we were waiting I noticed that these two men were standing by a wall looking at us all. I got creeped out. We have been told many times to watch for pickpockets and gypsies because they will rob you blind. We all placed our backpacks and purses in front of us and just watched make sure they did not come near.
While we were walking down the street to come here to a cyber cafe called Ono centro de internet, I saw two ladies sitting at a cafe talking really loudly. I dont know if anybody else noticed but they were talking about us. They were mentioning about how weird we were, they were calling us dumb Americans. I just thought it was funny. I think they noticed that we were because of the map we were looking at to figure out were we were trying to go.
After a long day, it felt so good to lay on the hard but soft to us bed.
Each town we visit is more different than the next, the people the food and the sites. We see so many things in one day that we feel like we have been here for more than one week. Spain is just such a wonderful, place but some of the times it is makes you miss home and appreciate what you have.
Today is June 19 and we have just arrived in Valencia, Spain we left at 8:30am this morning and arrived here at 1pm. We have just been here for about an hour, and it is very hot here. Today we are going to visit the Holy Grail in a Cathedral in front of Plaza la Reina.
We have just gotten off the bus, and we had to stand out in the hot burning sun waiting for our tour guide, Gary, to come back. The sun was so hot that at the end of the day I had another sun burn, now I have two rings of red, hurtful, burn. While we were waiting I noticed that these two men were standing by a wall looking at us all. I got creeped out. We have been told many times to watch for pickpockets and gypsies because they will rob you blind. We all placed our backpacks and purses in front of us and just watched make sure they did not come near.
While we were walking down the street to come here to a cyber cafe called Ono centro de internet, I saw two ladies sitting at a cafe talking really loudly. I dont know if anybody else noticed but they were talking about us. They were mentioning about how weird we were, they were calling us dumb Americans. I just thought it was funny. I think they noticed that we were because of the map we were looking at to figure out were we were trying to go.
After a long day, it felt so good to lay on the hard but soft to us bed.
Each town we visit is more different than the next, the people the food and the sites. We see so many things in one day that we feel like we have been here for more than one week. Spain is just such a wonderful, place but some of the times it is makes you miss home and appreciate what you have.
Monday, June 18, 2007
6/18/07 Barcelona, España
One week down, two to go. The trip has turned out to be so much fun. We never know what is going to happen next or who we are going to meet.
After a very long drive, we are now in Barcelona, Spain we left at 10 am yesterday June 17 and arrived at 8pm. On our way here we made a stop in Pamplona to see where to running of the bulls takes place each year on July 6-10.
We have been running into many other groups from the EF tours company. At our hotel last night, we talked to a group from Chicago, and today we met some from Thumb, Ohio, Colorodo, and Columbus, Ohio.
We heard many interesting conversation as we walked throught the streets of Spain. While we were in San Sebastian the language was Basque. The language was very different from Catellan which is similar to Spanish.
On the way back to our temporay home, from town, we had a converstion with the taxi cab driver, he was very nice he taught us some words in Basque like: nilinche polita means pretty woman, and aguro means bye.
In the town San Sebastian we saw a couple fighting in the middle of the plaza. I could tell they were because some of the words were similar to the Spanish language.
Another conversation was at the dock where we purchase tickets to go to a little island in the middle of the ocean. The owners had three kids, and they set up lunch for them in the middle of the plaza in front of the ticket booth. The little boy was playing soccer with his dog and dad, and we could hear the boy tell the dog " anda fecha." Then the ball got away from the little boy. One of the pedestians walking by kicked to ball back causing the drink of one of the kids to get all over her and the whole family ran to help.
They are so liberal here in spain. At the island there were so many kids,their parents just let them run without underwear or diapers. We also passed by a nude beach.
Tonight we are going out to paint the town red, so we will see what new experiences await.
Aguro! Bye
After a very long drive, we are now in Barcelona, Spain we left at 10 am yesterday June 17 and arrived at 8pm. On our way here we made a stop in Pamplona to see where to running of the bulls takes place each year on July 6-10.
We have been running into many other groups from the EF tours company. At our hotel last night, we talked to a group from Chicago, and today we met some from Thumb, Ohio, Colorodo, and Columbus, Ohio.
We heard many interesting conversation as we walked throught the streets of Spain. While we were in San Sebastian the language was Basque. The language was very different from Catellan which is similar to Spanish.
On the way back to our temporay home, from town, we had a converstion with the taxi cab driver, he was very nice he taught us some words in Basque like: nilinche polita means pretty woman, and aguro means bye.
In the town San Sebastian we saw a couple fighting in the middle of the plaza. I could tell they were because some of the words were similar to the Spanish language.
Another conversation was at the dock where we purchase tickets to go to a little island in the middle of the ocean. The owners had three kids, and they set up lunch for them in the middle of the plaza in front of the ticket booth. The little boy was playing soccer with his dog and dad, and we could hear the boy tell the dog " anda fecha." Then the ball got away from the little boy. One of the pedestians walking by kicked to ball back causing the drink of one of the kids to get all over her and the whole family ran to help.
They are so liberal here in spain. At the island there were so many kids,their parents just let them run without underwear or diapers. We also passed by a nude beach.
Tonight we are going out to paint the town red, so we will see what new experiences await.
Aguro! Bye
Saturday, June 16, 2007
6/16/07 San Sebastian, España
On Friday June 15 we went to Bilbao and when we arrived there we had some free time so we went to the mall called Zubiarte next to the Guggenheim museum. Then we went to a little park a block a way from the mall it was so beautiful it was like a dream. We then had to meet so we can enter the museum but first we took pictures of the famous dog made of flowers.
The pieces in the museum were very exquisite they were wonderful I especially loved the piece by Anselm Kiefler. The piece was a series of dresses made of plaster, each sculpture represented something different. One of them represented one of the gods in the odyssey. Then we drove to the next city to stay.
Today we are in San Sebastian España we are about 25 kilometres from France. The weather here is very cold, the days as well as the nights. We took a tour around san Sebastian we visited some churches, the Mercado where they had fish which smelled really bad, we went to a plaza where they used to held bullfights and we took a hike to a really beautiful place where you can over look the ocean and the town.
We had about seven hours to burn so we decided that we were going to go eat then after we would take a boat ride out to this little island in the middle of the water. We ate at a really great hamburger place called Va Bene Disco Burger.
We boarded the boat it took about five minutes to reach the island is was breathtaking. We hiked up the mountain to the house at the very top so we would to able to take a better look at everything. We then had to return back and we headed to the warmest beach every, just kidding, the water was so freezing cold I think it might be colder than the pacific ocean, that’s bad. We burned so many calories today its not even funny.
Tomorrow we leave for Pamplona then the sleepless town Barcelona.
Hasta Luego
VALE!!
The pieces in the museum were very exquisite they were wonderful I especially loved the piece by Anselm Kiefler. The piece was a series of dresses made of plaster, each sculpture represented something different. One of them represented one of the gods in the odyssey. Then we drove to the next city to stay.
Today we are in San Sebastian España we are about 25 kilometres from France. The weather here is very cold, the days as well as the nights. We took a tour around san Sebastian we visited some churches, the Mercado where they had fish which smelled really bad, we went to a plaza where they used to held bullfights and we took a hike to a really beautiful place where you can over look the ocean and the town.
We had about seven hours to burn so we decided that we were going to go eat then after we would take a boat ride out to this little island in the middle of the water. We ate at a really great hamburger place called Va Bene Disco Burger.
We boarded the boat it took about five minutes to reach the island is was breathtaking. We hiked up the mountain to the house at the very top so we would to able to take a better look at everything. We then had to return back and we headed to the warmest beach every, just kidding, the water was so freezing cold I think it might be colder than the pacific ocean, that’s bad. We burned so many calories today its not even funny.
Tomorrow we leave for Pamplona then the sleepless town Barcelona.
Hasta Luego
VALE!!
Thursday, June 14, 2007
6/14/07- Burgos,Spain- A cold day in Spain
A cold day in Burgos!
Today we are in Burgos. The day is so cold and rainy. I was not expecting it to be like this.
When we arrived, the first thing we saw was a Gothic cathedral. It was so amazing around the plaza of the cathedral there were merry go rounds. They were very odd they were like from a fantasy story. We have a tour scheduled for 4pm at the Cathedral de Burgos. This church took 300 years to build. El Cid is buried in this cathedral he is considered a national hero. He took part in fighting Moors and was banished by the king.
The culture of Spain is very similar to that of the culture in San Antonio. The culture was brought over to the United States by the Spaniards. Most of the buildings were built in using the architectural structure from the Spaniards. The food is also a mix between the Spaniards and the Mexicans, since most of the Mexicans are descendents from Spaniards. Therefore the cultures intermixed. The Spanish traditional dance, flamenco, is just like the traditional Mexican dance, ballet folkloric. The similarities between the two cultures are immense.
The Spanish culture is a culture that you just have to learn about and experience. I have read many things about Spain, and it’s just not the same until you experience the many foods, the music, and the performances.
NOS VEMOS!
Today we are in Burgos. The day is so cold and rainy. I was not expecting it to be like this.
When we arrived, the first thing we saw was a Gothic cathedral. It was so amazing around the plaza of the cathedral there were merry go rounds. They were very odd they were like from a fantasy story. We have a tour scheduled for 4pm at the Cathedral de Burgos. This church took 300 years to build. El Cid is buried in this cathedral he is considered a national hero. He took part in fighting Moors and was banished by the king.
The culture of Spain is very similar to that of the culture in San Antonio. The culture was brought over to the United States by the Spaniards. Most of the buildings were built in using the architectural structure from the Spaniards. The food is also a mix between the Spaniards and the Mexicans, since most of the Mexicans are descendents from Spaniards. Therefore the cultures intermixed. The Spanish traditional dance, flamenco, is just like the traditional Mexican dance, ballet folkloric. The similarities between the two cultures are immense.
The Spanish culture is a culture that you just have to learn about and experience. I have read many things about Spain, and it’s just not the same until you experience the many foods, the music, and the performances.
NOS VEMOS!
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
6/12/2007 Madrid-Spain after arrival
We are here we are finally in Spain!!
We departed from San Antonio at 12:30 pm we arrived in Newark at 5:30 pm.
We had to wait a couple of hours at the airport until we were to depart for Spain. We boarded the plane at 8pm but we had to wait on the plane for about an hour until our turn came to depart we were number 60 out of all the planes.
We arrived in Madrid at 11am today the plane ride was a smooth one compared to the one from San Antonio to Newark. This was the first time I have ever been on a plane. I have terrible jet lag. I am so tired I just want to close my eyes and sleep forever.
When we arrived I did not know what to feel I was so excited to know that I was in Spain, but the thought of it did not feel like I was finally hear. When we arrived I did not know what to think the smell was somewhat cleaner than that of home, from the plane you could see that the areas are filled with trees and flowers. When I first looked out of the window I was speechless.
When we met up with our tour guide at the airport, we took a bus to our hotel to freshen up and get ready to go. We settled in to the hotel and I, Sarah Jackie and Victoria decided to take a nap, but we accidentally slept too much. We literally had to run down 7 flights of stairs. We were late and embarrassed. It will never happen again.
We took a tour around Madrid first then we were off to the Palacio Real. It was amazing. I had never seen such beauty in my life. The rooms all had different décor and colors.
We then took a tour around Madrid seeing some beautiful architecture. We then went to go eat at a wonderful restaurant Museo del vino we had the paella and the steak and fries and then some ice cream the tastes of the food were just exquisite.
I can´t wait to see what awaits tomorrow. Tonight, we are going to see the Spurs play and win, woo hoo!! The things here in Europe are so expensive a euro is worth like 1.40 in dollars. it does not matter where you go the clothes, the food are going to be twice as expensive as the U.S.
HASTA MAÑANA
We departed from San Antonio at 12:30 pm we arrived in Newark at 5:30 pm.
We had to wait a couple of hours at the airport until we were to depart for Spain. We boarded the plane at 8pm but we had to wait on the plane for about an hour until our turn came to depart we were number 60 out of all the planes.
We arrived in Madrid at 11am today the plane ride was a smooth one compared to the one from San Antonio to Newark. This was the first time I have ever been on a plane. I have terrible jet lag. I am so tired I just want to close my eyes and sleep forever.
When we arrived I did not know what to feel I was so excited to know that I was in Spain, but the thought of it did not feel like I was finally hear. When we arrived I did not know what to think the smell was somewhat cleaner than that of home, from the plane you could see that the areas are filled with trees and flowers. When I first looked out of the window I was speechless.
When we met up with our tour guide at the airport, we took a bus to our hotel to freshen up and get ready to go. We settled in to the hotel and I, Sarah Jackie and Victoria decided to take a nap, but we accidentally slept too much. We literally had to run down 7 flights of stairs. We were late and embarrassed. It will never happen again.
We took a tour around Madrid first then we were off to the Palacio Real. It was amazing. I had never seen such beauty in my life. The rooms all had different décor and colors.
We then took a tour around Madrid seeing some beautiful architecture. We then went to go eat at a wonderful restaurant Museo del vino we had the paella and the steak and fries and then some ice cream the tastes of the food were just exquisite.
I can´t wait to see what awaits tomorrow. Tonight, we are going to see the Spurs play and win, woo hoo!! The things here in Europe are so expensive a euro is worth like 1.40 in dollars. it does not matter where you go the clothes, the food are going to be twice as expensive as the U.S.
HASTA MAÑANA
Sunday, June 10, 2007
6/10/07 San Antonio Only hours to go!!
OH MY GOSH, its finally here there are only 20 hours left until we depart for Spain!
Several of us had trouble with our passports. A few days before we depart and they still were not in our hands. We had to go through so much just so that someone could give a clear answer.
A word of advice: if you are traveling out of the country, make sure you send in the applicationto get your passport at least three months before your departure date to insure that you will get it in on time. I sent my application in on March 13 and my passport did not arrive until June 7.
Nothing can be sure until you are on plane about to take off and even then you still worry, up until your feet are on the ground at your destination.
Spain here we come! See you all tomorrow at the airport.
Several of us had trouble with our passports. A few days before we depart and they still were not in our hands. We had to go through so much just so that someone could give a clear answer.
A word of advice: if you are traveling out of the country, make sure you send in the applicationto get your passport at least three months before your departure date to insure that you will get it in on time. I sent my application in on March 13 and my passport did not arrive until June 7.
Nothing can be sure until you are on plane about to take off and even then you still worry, up until your feet are on the ground at your destination.
Spain here we come! See you all tomorrow at the airport.
Thursday, June 7, 2007
6/7/07 San Antonio-Medieval Spain
Spain in the Medieval period
Spain continues to have a thrust of invaders such as the Goths/Visigoths. Many historians would consider that their legacy obscure they did have some notable accomplishment. What were they? How is Spain being different again?
The Visigoths ruled Spain longer than the other conquerors. They ruled for three centuries. Even though the Visigoths were in rule for so long, the only legacy they left behind was a rough-hewn country church, a few pieces of jewelry or a regal crown sitting in a museum, and an obscure law code. Even though the Visigoths had confusion and chaos, they still were able to keep the longest strongest kingdom in Europe. They were the first to attempt to unify the country. The accomplishments they had were the large-scale herding of animals, the horseshoe arch and a few dozen surviving words. Their greatest impact was choosing a capital in the meseta at Roman Toletum (Toledo).
For the first time the more advanced coastal regions looked to the interior as the source of political power. This change did not drastically alter the country. Ortega y Gasset, one of Spain’s foremost modern thinkers, blamed the nation’s problems on the Visigoths. He accused them of being weak barbarians who never achieved unity or stability in Europe. Spain was different for the first time.
Spain continues to have a thrust of invaders such as the Goths/Visigoths. Many historians would consider that their legacy obscure they did have some notable accomplishment. What were they? How is Spain being different again?
The Visigoths ruled Spain longer than the other conquerors. They ruled for three centuries. Even though the Visigoths were in rule for so long, the only legacy they left behind was a rough-hewn country church, a few pieces of jewelry or a regal crown sitting in a museum, and an obscure law code. Even though the Visigoths had confusion and chaos, they still were able to keep the longest strongest kingdom in Europe. They were the first to attempt to unify the country. The accomplishments they had were the large-scale herding of animals, the horseshoe arch and a few dozen surviving words. Their greatest impact was choosing a capital in the meseta at Roman Toletum (Toledo).
For the first time the more advanced coastal regions looked to the interior as the source of political power. This change did not drastically alter the country. Ortega y Gasset, one of Spain’s foremost modern thinkers, blamed the nation’s problems on the Visigoths. He accused them of being weak barbarians who never achieved unity or stability in Europe. Spain was different for the first time.
Wednesday, June 6, 2007
6/6/07 San Antonio-The Story of Spain
4 Days to go!!!
We were assigned to read a book by Mark Williams called "The Story of Spain." This book tells the history of Spain. Spain is called the Iberian Peninsula because of the first settlers that were the Iberians. The Iberians were a major part of Spain. They brought with them agriculture, using metal to make weapons, shields, and jewelry. They were based at the coasts in occupations as fishermen, farmers, and merchants.
Some of the other settlers who had an influence on Spain after the Iberians were the Greeks, Phoenicians, and the Romans. These groups all contributed in their own way to make Spain what it is today. The Greeks were recognized for forging the first coins developing the olive and wine culture.
The Greeks also influenced the art culture and started a commercial expansion that did not last long. Although the Greeks were not in control for long, these attributes are still in existent in Spain.
The Phoenicians were the next to arrive after the Greeks. With their arrival, the Iberians were introduced to the Mediterranean culture. They came with hopes to trade their manufactured goods for copper and silver. They eventually took over the Atlantic trading roots. The Phoenicians also shared their alphabet with the Iberians so that the language they spoke could have a written form.
The last group to arrive was the most important I think. They are the Romans. They brought law and order into the Iberian Peninsula, Latin language, Christianity and architecture. The Romans had wonderful structures built in Spain they introduced the arch. The arch was a very solid and beautiful structure that only the Romans could have brought.
According to the book, the history of Spain began with the Romans. Did they have an easy time taking conquest of the Iberian Peninsula?
In my opinion, I think that the Romans had neither a hard time nor an easy time taking Spain. The Celtics and the Iberians were intimidated by the accomplishments of the Romans civilization. They found Spain to be a place of power and wealth was easy to get. They did have to put up fight to gain victory. In the end the conquest lasted about two centuries.
I learned so much just by reading one paragraph. I did not know any of the information about the settlers and what influence they each had on Spain. It is interesting to see how it was back then and how it influences us today. All the information I have provided was completely new to me so I definitely learned a lot.
We were assigned to read a book by Mark Williams called "The Story of Spain." This book tells the history of Spain. Spain is called the Iberian Peninsula because of the first settlers that were the Iberians. The Iberians were a major part of Spain. They brought with them agriculture, using metal to make weapons, shields, and jewelry. They were based at the coasts in occupations as fishermen, farmers, and merchants.
Some of the other settlers who had an influence on Spain after the Iberians were the Greeks, Phoenicians, and the Romans. These groups all contributed in their own way to make Spain what it is today. The Greeks were recognized for forging the first coins developing the olive and wine culture.
The Greeks also influenced the art culture and started a commercial expansion that did not last long. Although the Greeks were not in control for long, these attributes are still in existent in Spain.
The Phoenicians were the next to arrive after the Greeks. With their arrival, the Iberians were introduced to the Mediterranean culture. They came with hopes to trade their manufactured goods for copper and silver. They eventually took over the Atlantic trading roots. The Phoenicians also shared their alphabet with the Iberians so that the language they spoke could have a written form.
The last group to arrive was the most important I think. They are the Romans. They brought law and order into the Iberian Peninsula, Latin language, Christianity and architecture. The Romans had wonderful structures built in Spain they introduced the arch. The arch was a very solid and beautiful structure that only the Romans could have brought.
According to the book, the history of Spain began with the Romans. Did they have an easy time taking conquest of the Iberian Peninsula?
In my opinion, I think that the Romans had neither a hard time nor an easy time taking Spain. The Celtics and the Iberians were intimidated by the accomplishments of the Romans civilization. They found Spain to be a place of power and wealth was easy to get. They did have to put up fight to gain victory. In the end the conquest lasted about two centuries.
I learned so much just by reading one paragraph. I did not know any of the information about the settlers and what influence they each had on Spain. It is interesting to see how it was back then and how it influences us today. All the information I have provided was completely new to me so I definitely learned a lot.
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
6/5/07 San Antonio TX
5 days to go!
Each day that passes I get more and more excited. Today was the 2nd day of class which was filled with more information.
I am not a communication major and I am not a good writer but I have always wanted to research and write about one thing: the culture and lifestyles of other countries. I am of Mexican decent, and I was born and raised in the United States.
I have always had conflict between both cultures about which one to go for. Since I was educated in school about the Americans point of view and also while I was in Mexico about their point of view in the war. So I hope to someday be able to research and go in depth with this story.
What are the happening of a small country town?
I live in a town called Stockdale. It is smack down in the middle of nothing. Many people refer to us as people living out in the "boonies." Nothing ever happens around here. The town is made up of at least 1,000 people. The townspeople are very conservative and when companies want to build here they reject the offer because they want to keep Stockdale as an suburban community. Our town is big on sports, so the peoples life revolves around sports. The biggest issue I feel is important is that the money that the school receives is mainly given to the athletic department. This leaves the school with problems of leaks and leaving the other departments without the materials they need for their classes. I think that this issue needs to be focused on more in the future.
The week continues and the clock is ticking until the day we load onto the plane and leave.
Each day that passes I get more and more excited. Today was the 2nd day of class which was filled with more information.
I am not a communication major and I am not a good writer but I have always wanted to research and write about one thing: the culture and lifestyles of other countries. I am of Mexican decent, and I was born and raised in the United States.
I have always had conflict between both cultures about which one to go for. Since I was educated in school about the Americans point of view and also while I was in Mexico about their point of view in the war. So I hope to someday be able to research and go in depth with this story.
What are the happening of a small country town?
I live in a town called Stockdale. It is smack down in the middle of nothing. Many people refer to us as people living out in the "boonies." Nothing ever happens around here. The town is made up of at least 1,000 people. The townspeople are very conservative and when companies want to build here they reject the offer because they want to keep Stockdale as an suburban community. Our town is big on sports, so the peoples life revolves around sports. The biggest issue I feel is important is that the money that the school receives is mainly given to the athletic department. This leaves the school with problems of leaks and leaving the other departments without the materials they need for their classes. I think that this issue needs to be focused on more in the future.
The week continues and the clock is ticking until the day we load onto the plane and leave.
Bueno Hasta luego!
Monday, June 4, 2007
6/4/07 San Antonio TX
6 days and counting!!
Our adventurous study abroad trip to Spain is just days away.Today is June 4, which was our first day of class at PAC. Our Professors Marianna Ornelas, Humanities professor and Denise Richter, Communications professor, have been giving us very valuable information about the classes and the trip to Spain this morning. They told us about all the different kind of food we would be able to try, the places to go, and much more.
I am so excited about our trip to Spain. I have been counting the days of when our departure will come. I am so excited about this trip. My hopes and dreams of this trip will be that I return to the United States with a better understanding of their culture as well as ours. I hope to soak in as much of the Spanish culture as I can so that when I return to the U.S. I can share my experiences with my family and friends.
I have never been out of the country, except to Mexico, so I just have all kinds of thought of what I imagine Spain to be like. I see a city that never sleeps, all the streets filled with people at all hours of the day and night, the countryside to be green and beautiful. I imagine life in Spain to be quick and fast-paced. I can almost see the people, the food, the music all the cities in Spain.
I admit I am a little nervous about the plane trip over the pond as people call it. It will be my very first time on a plane, so I'm very excited about that. I just can't wait until we leave on June 11, 2007.
Our adventurous study abroad trip to Spain is just days away.Today is June 4, which was our first day of class at PAC. Our Professors Marianna Ornelas, Humanities professor and Denise Richter, Communications professor, have been giving us very valuable information about the classes and the trip to Spain this morning. They told us about all the different kind of food we would be able to try, the places to go, and much more.
I am so excited about our trip to Spain. I have been counting the days of when our departure will come. I am so excited about this trip. My hopes and dreams of this trip will be that I return to the United States with a better understanding of their culture as well as ours. I hope to soak in as much of the Spanish culture as I can so that when I return to the U.S. I can share my experiences with my family and friends.
I have never been out of the country, except to Mexico, so I just have all kinds of thought of what I imagine Spain to be like. I see a city that never sleeps, all the streets filled with people at all hours of the day and night, the countryside to be green and beautiful. I imagine life in Spain to be quick and fast-paced. I can almost see the people, the food, the music all the cities in Spain.
I admit I am a little nervous about the plane trip over the pond as people call it. It will be my very first time on a plane, so I'm very excited about that. I just can't wait until we leave on June 11, 2007.
Hasta Manana!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
