Submitted by Megan Crowley on the 2016 summer session program in Salamanca, Spain sponsored by the Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures…
I have been in Salamanca for a little over a week, and I have noticed significant cultural and lifestyles differences between the United States and Spain. I have so much I could have written about, but I think the biggest difference for me was the food. It might sound cliche, but as a picky eater, I struggle to find foods in Spain that I enjoy. What I have noticed is that their lunch (the main meal of the day) consists of all five food groups. Imagine going out to an all you can eat buffet, but really healthy! My host mother gives my roommate and I about three different portions of food. As you finish one, she hands you another, and each consists of a different food group. For example, usually it starts out with grains and vegetables, ranging from a salad, soup, rice, legumes or a small pasta dish. The main course is some type of meat, usually just ham or chicken for me.
Afterwards, my host mother insists we have fruit or yogurt, even just an apple or a slice of watermelon. As a result of eating such a big lunch, people in Spain have very small breakfasts and dinners, basically just bread and coffee. I am still not used to only having coffee in the morning, and I miss my bagels, waffles and chocolate milk. However, I have had a lot less headaches and stomach aches, and I believe it is directly correlated to eating healthier each day and trying new things. Thank you Spain for showing me a healthier lifestyle!