Submitted by Emma Straw on the 2020 spring semester study abroad program in Madrid, Spain…
Oh, how I love Madrid. And oh, how Madrid loves love! Love was everywhere this Valentine’s Day weekend as couples, both young and old, strolled around the city streets holding hands and gazing into each other’s eyes.
For our Valentine’s Day, my friends and I had a picnic and watched the sunset in Retiro Park. We made a charcuterie board and spent the afternoon lounging on a blanket in the grass, watching couples walk around the park as vendors tried to sell them bouquets of roses. As the sun began to set, we watched the sky change from orange to pink to purple, ending in a deep black speckled with stars.
The next morning, we ventured over to El Rastro, the most popular open air flea market in Madrid. Held every Sunday, El Rastro draws enormous crowds each week. As we walked along the streets and stopped at different stalls, I was in awe at all of the items for sale. Tons of antiques, jewelry and clothing were displayed at every turn. After spending hours walking around the market, we stopped at a café and enjoyed the evening sun, a perfect end to a perfect weekend.
As Monday rolled around and the school week began, it was time to prepare for midterms. Study guides were made, study groups commenced, and stress levels began to rise.
However, this upcoming weekend is winter break and my roommates and I will be spending it in Vienna and Salzburg, Austria. So, stay tuned for next week’s post to hear about the midterm results and my winter break adventures!
