Posts Tagged ‘ Enlightening experiences ’

The ten month writer’s block

While I know that blogging rule number one is to never apologize for not writing when life gets in the way, I’m just gonna go ahead and break that rule and explain myself. Here’s why I haven’t written a single word on this blog in more than ten months.

Eight lessons learned (mainly the hard way) during Semana Santa

I would in no way classify my Semana Santa trip as a raving success. By the time it was over, I was exhausted, pissed at the world and in need of complete isolation.  Of course, it wasn’t all bad. I saw some beautiful places and met some amazing people...

Semana Santa 2014: A Spanish road trip!

If you’ve been reading my blog for the past year or so, you know that I love a good old-fashioned road trip.  There’s nothing like the feeling of the steering wheel in my hands and my favorite song on the radio while cruising at 70. Unfortunately, I don’t feel...

How to know if you’re ready to be an Auxiliar

Alright ya’ll! In less than a week, the application period for the Auxiliares de Conversación will close on April 1, and if you’re anything like I was, you applied months ago. However, if you’re still on the fence, hop to it! The waiting period is freaking awful and I spent...

Travel goal update: The day I saw the Queen

You didn’t seriously think I was referring to the Queen of England, right?

What to do when tragedy strikes at home when you’re abroad

There are so many fears that arise when you decide to move abroad, and one very real fear that no one talks about is the fear that something tragic will happen at home while you are away.  Although all of my family and friends were in good health before...

A Literary Tour of Madrid

If you haven’t noticed already, I’m a complete nerd. I’m obsessed with history and reading, and I often fantasize about living in eras that I think are way more glamorous and artistic than our current one (um, hello 1920s!). Before I moved to Europe, all I could think about...

Reflections on visiting home for the first time after moving abroad

First, I must apologize for the lapse in posting. After arriving to Madrid from the US, I was hit with a heavy case of jet lag that left me disoriented and always looking for the next moment when I could sleep. Then I contracted some sort of stomach bug...

How to apply for the Auxiliares de Conversación program in Spain

Well guys, it’s about that time. The application period for the 2014-2015 Auxiliares de Conversación program will open next month on January 9, and I can practically feel your anxiety and anticipation from here! This program is basically a dream and I understand why any American would want to...

Where to see Europe’s most famous monuments without leaving Madrid

If you’re a bit strapped for cash but want to see the most famous monuments in Europe, I may have a solution for you. Parque Europa, located in Torrejon de Ardoz (a suburb of Madrid), is home to 17 replicas of European monuments, as well as an original piece...