I can't believe that it has been 11 days since my last post. The days are passing so quickly, and my schedule has filled up. More and more everyday I have more assignments, appointments, and activities. This week was hectic but fun. Still, I am so happy to begin my FOUR day weekend, friday to monday. Yes, that's right, no classes on HALLOWEEN. Although it isn't an official holiday here, Halloween is very much celebrated in Palma. Now, admittedly, I am not a fan of dressing up for Halloween; however, I'm feeling the spirit and preparing to participate. Actually, I'm excited about this costume, but I hope that I can pull it off. I will surprise you with pictures of my costume soon.
Also, this week, the time changed, and we gained/ lost an hour. I'm so disoriented that I can't tell which one actually happened. It gets really dark much earlier, which makes me feel like the day is shorter and tomorrow comes faster. It sounds confusing, I know. When I arrived, I was 6 hours ahead of Detroit/D.C. and 9 hours ahead of the west coast. Now, I really can't say. I'm constantly checking the time just to stay on schedule.
And what a schedule it is! Classes, excursions, and play dates. Yes, play dates! Twice a week, I have the opportunity to visit two young girls, ages 3 and 5, at their home to play with them and speak english. So far, I have been to play 3 times, and I really enjoy my time with them. The girls are very bright and the family is so genuine. It's nice to have an outlet or another place to go, aside from campus and home. In honor of the holiday weekend, we had a Halloween party, and I was actually able to find and buy a pumpkin for them. They were thrilled.
Lastly, I just want to share this YouTube video of Tenia Tanto que Darte, a song by Nena Daconte. By chance, I saw this video in the gym one day, and the song was stuck in my head for about a week. Finally, today, I was able to find the song and more info about the singer. Check it out, but be careful. You won't be able to get it out of your head!
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Sunday, October 19, 2008
A great day for a 10k!
20 euros to register
31 euros to get a race chip
56 minutes to experience it all
Being an international "marathon" runner for the day, PRICELESS!
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Momento del Día
I found this little guy on the stairs in our building, coming home today. We startled each other. However, he was so cute that I just had to take a picture and share his close-up as the moment of the day!
Monday, October 13, 2008
"¡Uno de cada, por favor!"
Last night we went out for tapas and enjoyed the final night of the TaPalma tapas festival. Its simiular to Restaurant Week in DC with a specific menu at a special price, except the menu actually is reasonable, no more than 2 euros per item, drinks as well. The festival is hosted by 45 different restaurants over 5 days. There are so many restaurants that they are separated on a map into four different routes, Ruta Centre, Ruta Santa Catalína, Ruta La Llonja, and Ruta Plaça Espanya. We stayed on Ruta Santa Catalína for the evening and went to three different restaurants for samples of their best tapas. I had a very flavorful piece of white fish with tomato, a delicious portion of grilled calamari on a baguette, and a rich eggplant parmesan. I love everything about the festival. You choose. You chat. You eat. You go, on to the next restaurant to do it all again. My kind of night!
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Más acerca de Mi Casa
I'm in the midst of a four day weekend, being very productive of course! Below are photos of my Señora's apartment. I love the décor, so quaint.
Yes, stairs leading up to the "throne!"
It is customary for the washing machine to be located in the kitchen here, just like the dish washer there, an efficient use of space.
I proudly made myself dinner.
Outside on the balcony.
The street below. By the way, between the yellow line and the wall is the "sidewalk." I walk out of the front door, and I'm in the middle of the street!
On the roof.
Lounge area, but its not really the season.
Notice all the satellite dishes and antennas.
El jardín de mi Señora.
I did a little laundry, four loads of clothes, and hung them on the clothes line to dry.
Yes, stairs leading up to the "throne!"
It is customary for the washing machine to be located in the kitchen here, just like the dish washer there, an efficient use of space.
I proudly made myself dinner.
Outside on the balcony.
The street below. By the way, between the yellow line and the wall is the "sidewalk." I walk out of the front door, and I'm in the middle of the street!
On the roof.
Lounge area, but its not really the season.
Notice all the satellite dishes and antennas.
El jardín de mi Señora.
I did a little laundry, four loads of clothes, and hung them on the clothes line to dry.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Viaje a la Capital
WoW! This week ended just as quickly as it began. Sorry for the delay, but after my amazing weekend of travel, I had to hit the ground running on Monday. Yes, I had the great opportunity to visit Madrid, the capital of Spain. Our trip was great because we really did see a little bit of EVERYTHING in Madrid. From beautiful parks to a palace, congress to churros, and art museums to artists on the streets, we saw it ALL. Furthermore, I want to revisit it all so get comfy. This will be a long, interesting read!
Friday morning, I packed my bags and left to meet the group to go to the airport. It was the eight of us and Antonia. We caught the very crowded bus to the airport, checked-in, and made it to the gate in plenty of time. It was all so smooth. "Great start," I thought to myself. The flight was quick too, maybe 60 minutes. When we arrived, no one needed to go to baggage claim because we all brought carry-ons. What an efficient way to travel. I had never done this before, guess its because I never pack light enough. And, I did pretty well though. I had everything I needed for our very busy weekend. Sometimes I surprise myself.
From the airport to the metro we went. The station was in the same building! I wish I could have seen this place from the outside because it must be massive. The airport has several terminals, and the metro systems has 12 different lines. We had to take 3 lines just to get to our hotel. Some of the stations have escalators, and other do not. Trekking around with all our luggage, up one set of stairs, down another set, hopping on and off different trains, it was a production. But, once we finally saw the light of day, coming up out of the metro station in central Madrid, I realized that I had made it! "We're in Madrid!" I yelled. I was so relived to finally see it, cars zooming by, real sidewalks, and grand architecture all around.
We went straight to the hotel. I was eager to see our room and really happy to be able to lighten my load. The room was a little disappointing for my taste, but we weren't there for long. When we exited the metro station, I saw a little piece of home right across the street, Starbucks! Before I could go on with the rest of the day, I NEEDED a café Americano. The first sip was amazing. I downed that grandé in record time. After that jolt of espresso, I was ready for anything. Even better, it was time for lunch! We walked and walked all around and had a picnic lunch in Los Jardines Sabatini. It was gorgeous. This is the garden of the kings. It had all these cool statues of former kings of Spain. It is located next to El Palacio Real or the Royal Palace. Next, we took a tour of the palace. More walking, but it was fascinating to see. I just love how extravagant kings and queens lived. I could get used to that. We only saw about 25 rooms, but there are over 2,800 very different rooms in the entire palace! I couldn't take photos, but check out the link to see pictures and read all about this lavish national treasure. When the tour concluded, the guide suggested that we visit the armory as well, and we did. It was so amazing to see the actual attire that real Spanish knights once wore.
After walking through all that royal history, we had "tiempo libre," free time to recharge and get ready for the evening. Antonia arranged for us to meet and have dinner with a student from Madrid, who she knew very well. It was really nice to have like a tour guide for night life in Madrid. He and his friends took us to some very popular cafés and clubs, and we all had a great time together, conversing in 'Spanglish' and enjoying the same music. It wasn't a long night though. We all knew that Saturday was going to be a very long day with even more walking. We said goodnight, and returned to our rooms for some much needed rest.
Saturday morning quickly came, and it was crucial that we did not oversleep because it was Antonia's birthday! We got her a big card and some chocolate. She was so surprised and happy to spend her birthday with us. On to breakfast, and of course I was starving. Don't get me wrong, I really do like that food here, but there just isn't enough variety. When you hear, "This is a Spanish breakfast," that applies to EVERY part of the country. Nevertheless, its great because when I order, I know what to expect. I had a Spanish tortilla, which is more like a frittata with egg and potatoes, and un bocadillo atún, a tuna sandwich on really crusty bread. At this particular café, both dishes were really good. I was satisfied and ready for the day.
First, we took a guided tour of El Congreso del Los Diputados. This tour made me feel at home, touring the capital building and all. Usually, I take these kind of opportunities for granted. However, when we entered el Salón de Sesiones, I realized the importance of this space. This is where hundreds of the country's leaders convene and vote on policies for the advancement of Spain. Moreover, the history in the room was overwhelming. All along the ceiling, there are beautiful paintings and statues honoring the past of the royal government. The tour was quick and straight to the point. We were off to our next appointment, but not before a pit stop at Starbucks! With my Americano, I was all set and ready to see some art.
We met up with a professor of Spanish art history, and he was our tour guide for the day. The first museum we went to was the Museo Nacional del Prado. Simply amazing. It's funny how I'm not the type to visit an art museum on my own, but when I do visit any art museum or exhibit, I want to stay and learn about every piece of work in the building. Luckily, I was in good hands. The professor gave us every bit of information that he knew about the most famous paintings in the building. We viewed the works of several famous artists including, El Bosco, El Greco, Velázquez, and Goya. My favorite paintings were created by Velázquez. I appreciated his work so much because if you look closely, you can see the lines where he decided to erase and repaint, simply because he changed his mind. Something didn't look right in one spot, and it looked better two inches to the right. I loved this audacity. He didn't see mistakes. He just took a moment to rethink his work, and kept going, creating thought-provoking art. We also observed the first and last works of El Greco in Spain. The stark contrasts are so interesting. His first work, La Trinidad, is filled with bright light and color, while La Adoración de los Pastores, his last creation in Spain, is extremely dark and gloomy. Everyone speculates about the reasons for the different perspectives, but there isn't a clear answer. Another aspect I found interesting about all the famous painters was how they would randomly include a self-portrait in the their paintings. I thought this was odd at first, but now that I think about it, I would do the same. The Prado was a great experience, and the gift shop was cool too. Yes, I got a couple of souvenirs for some very special people.
After the Prado, one can probably guess what came next, lunch! We went to a café and restaurant called El Brillante. Particularly, this place is known for serving the best bocadillos de calamares, a customary lunch in Madrid. I ordered one with the group. I like calamari, but not really in a sandwich. But of course, I was glad that I tried it. For dessert, I tried this flan dish, and one bite was enough. Along with tasting new dishes, I was happy to sit and enjoy the environment. We lunched for about ninety minutes. That's Spain!
Once everyone was finished and ready, we were on the move again to our second museum. We toured the contemporary art museum of Spain, Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía. The building includes four floors of art by hundreds of different artists. Yet, I have to admit that I'm just not a fan of contemporary art. Most of the art just didn't grab my attention like the classics. There was one piece that I was glad to see in person, Guernica by Pablo Picasso. It is the most famous painting created about La Guerra Civil in 1937. Last week, in my Politics and Society course, we discussed this painting and all of its many symbols and intricate detail. There's nothing like seeing this historic treasure in person.
After observing most of Spain's famous art, we had tiempo libre. A few us visited the Madrid train station. It was interesting to see because inside the station, there is vegetation growing tall everywhere and includes a turtle pond. Next, we took the metro back to the hotel. We relaxed a little and prepared for the night. After all that walking, all of us just wanted a good, filling dinner. Collectively, the ladies were determined to find some authentic paella. As recommended by our "night life tour guide," we dined at a restaurant called La Barraca, which has been serving delicious menus since 1935. We enjoyed a mouth-watering seafood paella. It was made to order and slow cooked just for us. It was so relaxing to be in good company with great food. I was absolutely content. Afterwards, we returned to the hotel. Some of us planned to nap, get a café, and spend another night out. Me on the other hand, I wanted a little gelato, but even more, I wanted that bed. Needless to say, it was a DEEP night's sleep.
Sunday morning startled me because I slept so hard. Yet, I felt energized and ready for our last day in Madrid. For breakfast this morning, we went to San Ginés, the best café in Madrid for Chocolate con Churros. As you may know, I'm that odd kid with a food allergy to chocolate. I tried my churro con un café, but sadly, it is NOT the same. Imagine eating a warm buttery pancake without syrup and just a plain, hot cup of coffee. Its not even worth the carbs and calories. Interestingly though, mis compadres only seemed to enjoy one or two. it was that rich with the chocolate. Antonia was surprised by this response too. Though they don't eat churros daily, most Spaniards and tourists drink the chocolate after they finish all the churros. Yikes!
Being that we had a plane to catch, we had to keep to the schedule. Next we went to one of the most anticipated events on the whole itinerary, El Rastro, the most famous open air market in Spain. It was nice to walk around and see all the vendors. I took it all in and bought a few more gifts. The best thing I saw here were the artists on the streets. This is a very poplar custom all around Europe and especially in Madrid, street performances. Check out this video of a quartet of violinist. I love how it is absolutely ok for people to stop and enjoy the music, for hours if they want.
Leaving el Rastro, we grabbed lunch en FresCo, a restaurant buffet. Its specialty is salads. Antonia said that she chose this place in my honor. We had OPTIONS among all kinds of vegetables and toppings! I was so happy. We enjoyed another long, relaxing lunch, then it was time for more walking. We headed to a second major park in Madrid, el Parque del Retiro. We walked around and enjoyed the atmosphere. Among the tranquility, I saw some of the biggest ducks ever. They are really well fed. There is a pond where one could rent a romantic row boat. I loved seeing the ROW boats. Also, we took in some more entertainment. Check this out.
Our trip was coming to an end, and it was time to go back to the hotel, get out bags, and find our way back to the airport. But first, I had to make one more trip to Starbucks. I just got a tall soy Chai. I wanted to rest on the airplane. We managed to get ourselves and all our stuff on the plane and back to Palma. I was happy to return 'home' for a hot shower, but what a trip. I had such a great time in Madrid. However, now I get it. Once you see one, you MUST see the other, Barcelona. That's the ongoing debate/rivalry in Spain. Which city is better Madrid or Barcelona? Guess I will just have to investigate for myself. Thanks for reading and recollecting with me!
Friday morning, I packed my bags and left to meet the group to go to the airport. It was the eight of us and Antonia. We caught the very crowded bus to the airport, checked-in, and made it to the gate in plenty of time. It was all so smooth. "Great start," I thought to myself. The flight was quick too, maybe 60 minutes. When we arrived, no one needed to go to baggage claim because we all brought carry-ons. What an efficient way to travel. I had never done this before, guess its because I never pack light enough. And, I did pretty well though. I had everything I needed for our very busy weekend. Sometimes I surprise myself.
From the airport to the metro we went. The station was in the same building! I wish I could have seen this place from the outside because it must be massive. The airport has several terminals, and the metro systems has 12 different lines. We had to take 3 lines just to get to our hotel. Some of the stations have escalators, and other do not. Trekking around with all our luggage, up one set of stairs, down another set, hopping on and off different trains, it was a production. But, once we finally saw the light of day, coming up out of the metro station in central Madrid, I realized that I had made it! "We're in Madrid!" I yelled. I was so relived to finally see it, cars zooming by, real sidewalks, and grand architecture all around.
We went straight to the hotel. I was eager to see our room and really happy to be able to lighten my load. The room was a little disappointing for my taste, but we weren't there for long. When we exited the metro station, I saw a little piece of home right across the street, Starbucks! Before I could go on with the rest of the day, I NEEDED a café Americano. The first sip was amazing. I downed that grandé in record time. After that jolt of espresso, I was ready for anything. Even better, it was time for lunch! We walked and walked all around and had a picnic lunch in Los Jardines Sabatini. It was gorgeous. This is the garden of the kings. It had all these cool statues of former kings of Spain. It is located next to El Palacio Real or the Royal Palace. Next, we took a tour of the palace. More walking, but it was fascinating to see. I just love how extravagant kings and queens lived. I could get used to that. We only saw about 25 rooms, but there are over 2,800 very different rooms in the entire palace! I couldn't take photos, but check out the link to see pictures and read all about this lavish national treasure. When the tour concluded, the guide suggested that we visit the armory as well, and we did. It was so amazing to see the actual attire that real Spanish knights once wore.
After walking through all that royal history, we had "tiempo libre," free time to recharge and get ready for the evening. Antonia arranged for us to meet and have dinner with a student from Madrid, who she knew very well. It was really nice to have like a tour guide for night life in Madrid. He and his friends took us to some very popular cafés and clubs, and we all had a great time together, conversing in 'Spanglish' and enjoying the same music. It wasn't a long night though. We all knew that Saturday was going to be a very long day with even more walking. We said goodnight, and returned to our rooms for some much needed rest.
Saturday morning quickly came, and it was crucial that we did not oversleep because it was Antonia's birthday! We got her a big card and some chocolate. She was so surprised and happy to spend her birthday with us. On to breakfast, and of course I was starving. Don't get me wrong, I really do like that food here, but there just isn't enough variety. When you hear, "This is a Spanish breakfast," that applies to EVERY part of the country. Nevertheless, its great because when I order, I know what to expect. I had a Spanish tortilla, which is more like a frittata with egg and potatoes, and un bocadillo atún, a tuna sandwich on really crusty bread. At this particular café, both dishes were really good. I was satisfied and ready for the day.
First, we took a guided tour of El Congreso del Los Diputados. This tour made me feel at home, touring the capital building and all. Usually, I take these kind of opportunities for granted. However, when we entered el Salón de Sesiones, I realized the importance of this space. This is where hundreds of the country's leaders convene and vote on policies for the advancement of Spain. Moreover, the history in the room was overwhelming. All along the ceiling, there are beautiful paintings and statues honoring the past of the royal government. The tour was quick and straight to the point. We were off to our next appointment, but not before a pit stop at Starbucks! With my Americano, I was all set and ready to see some art.
We met up with a professor of Spanish art history, and he was our tour guide for the day. The first museum we went to was the Museo Nacional del Prado. Simply amazing. It's funny how I'm not the type to visit an art museum on my own, but when I do visit any art museum or exhibit, I want to stay and learn about every piece of work in the building. Luckily, I was in good hands. The professor gave us every bit of information that he knew about the most famous paintings in the building. We viewed the works of several famous artists including, El Bosco, El Greco, Velázquez, and Goya. My favorite paintings were created by Velázquez. I appreciated his work so much because if you look closely, you can see the lines where he decided to erase and repaint, simply because he changed his mind. Something didn't look right in one spot, and it looked better two inches to the right. I loved this audacity. He didn't see mistakes. He just took a moment to rethink his work, and kept going, creating thought-provoking art. We also observed the first and last works of El Greco in Spain. The stark contrasts are so interesting. His first work, La Trinidad, is filled with bright light and color, while La Adoración de los Pastores, his last creation in Spain, is extremely dark and gloomy. Everyone speculates about the reasons for the different perspectives, but there isn't a clear answer. Another aspect I found interesting about all the famous painters was how they would randomly include a self-portrait in the their paintings. I thought this was odd at first, but now that I think about it, I would do the same. The Prado was a great experience, and the gift shop was cool too. Yes, I got a couple of souvenirs for some very special people.
After the Prado, one can probably guess what came next, lunch! We went to a café and restaurant called El Brillante. Particularly, this place is known for serving the best bocadillos de calamares, a customary lunch in Madrid. I ordered one with the group. I like calamari, but not really in a sandwich. But of course, I was glad that I tried it. For dessert, I tried this flan dish, and one bite was enough. Along with tasting new dishes, I was happy to sit and enjoy the environment. We lunched for about ninety minutes. That's Spain!
Once everyone was finished and ready, we were on the move again to our second museum. We toured the contemporary art museum of Spain, Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía. The building includes four floors of art by hundreds of different artists. Yet, I have to admit that I'm just not a fan of contemporary art. Most of the art just didn't grab my attention like the classics. There was one piece that I was glad to see in person, Guernica by Pablo Picasso. It is the most famous painting created about La Guerra Civil in 1937. Last week, in my Politics and Society course, we discussed this painting and all of its many symbols and intricate detail. There's nothing like seeing this historic treasure in person.
After observing most of Spain's famous art, we had tiempo libre. A few us visited the Madrid train station. It was interesting to see because inside the station, there is vegetation growing tall everywhere and includes a turtle pond. Next, we took the metro back to the hotel. We relaxed a little and prepared for the night. After all that walking, all of us just wanted a good, filling dinner. Collectively, the ladies were determined to find some authentic paella. As recommended by our "night life tour guide," we dined at a restaurant called La Barraca, which has been serving delicious menus since 1935. We enjoyed a mouth-watering seafood paella. It was made to order and slow cooked just for us. It was so relaxing to be in good company with great food. I was absolutely content. Afterwards, we returned to the hotel. Some of us planned to nap, get a café, and spend another night out. Me on the other hand, I wanted a little gelato, but even more, I wanted that bed. Needless to say, it was a DEEP night's sleep.
Sunday morning startled me because I slept so hard. Yet, I felt energized and ready for our last day in Madrid. For breakfast this morning, we went to San Ginés, the best café in Madrid for Chocolate con Churros. As you may know, I'm that odd kid with a food allergy to chocolate. I tried my churro con un café, but sadly, it is NOT the same. Imagine eating a warm buttery pancake without syrup and just a plain, hot cup of coffee. Its not even worth the carbs and calories. Interestingly though, mis compadres only seemed to enjoy one or two. it was that rich with the chocolate. Antonia was surprised by this response too. Though they don't eat churros daily, most Spaniards and tourists drink the chocolate after they finish all the churros. Yikes!
Being that we had a plane to catch, we had to keep to the schedule. Next we went to one of the most anticipated events on the whole itinerary, El Rastro, the most famous open air market in Spain. It was nice to walk around and see all the vendors. I took it all in and bought a few more gifts. The best thing I saw here were the artists on the streets. This is a very poplar custom all around Europe and especially in Madrid, street performances. Check out this video of a quartet of violinist. I love how it is absolutely ok for people to stop and enjoy the music, for hours if they want.
Leaving el Rastro, we grabbed lunch en FresCo, a restaurant buffet. Its specialty is salads. Antonia said that she chose this place in my honor. We had OPTIONS among all kinds of vegetables and toppings! I was so happy. We enjoyed another long, relaxing lunch, then it was time for more walking. We headed to a second major park in Madrid, el Parque del Retiro. We walked around and enjoyed the atmosphere. Among the tranquility, I saw some of the biggest ducks ever. They are really well fed. There is a pond where one could rent a romantic row boat. I loved seeing the ROW boats. Also, we took in some more entertainment. Check this out.
Our trip was coming to an end, and it was time to go back to the hotel, get out bags, and find our way back to the airport. But first, I had to make one more trip to Starbucks. I just got a tall soy Chai. I wanted to rest on the airplane. We managed to get ourselves and all our stuff on the plane and back to Palma. I was happy to return 'home' for a hot shower, but what a trip. I had such a great time in Madrid. However, now I get it. Once you see one, you MUST see the other, Barcelona. That's the ongoing debate/rivalry in Spain. Which city is better Madrid or Barcelona? Guess I will just have to investigate for myself. Thanks for reading and recollecting with me!
Thursday, October 2, 2008
The Cherry on Top
Having most of my syllabi and meeting all of my professors for the semester, I am pleased with my curriculum. It will be an interesting semester, jammed packed with all sorts of assignments, activities, and a few surprises. I know I can manage it all, just need to get organized. This brings me to the highlight of my week!
HOT and HANDY study abroad TIP: Don't be shy, bring ALL of your favorite school supplies from home.
I didn't bring any notebooks, folders, or any of my leftover supplies from the spring. I can't tell you how many note cards and pens I have in storage in D.C. Yet, I have been hanging on to the same Lufthansa Airlines pen and Hotel Jaime III notepad, just so I could survive my classes this week. By Wednesday, I was at the end of my wits and spoke to Antonia and Susan about places to purchase supplies for a reasonable price. Of course, everything on campus and in central Palma is expensive. I had to find a better alternative.
They directed me to a SUPER center called Carrefour. Antonia could see by the expression on my face that I was a little apprehensive to find this place on my own. However my mood changed quickly when she said, "Its like Wal-Mart." I carefully took their directions and made plans to see this place for myself.
Carrefour is on the bus route from UIB to home. I decided that today I must get all my supplies in order to be ready for next week. No excuses. Because I had a backpack and gym bag with me, I incurred some problems with security upon walking in the door. I just had to put my stuff in a locker until I finished my shopping. After all that, I was a little frazzled; however, I had a mission to complete. I crossed the security wall, took one look around, and realized that I had arrived! Admittedly, it is not as big of a building as an average Wal-Mart but more similar to a Targét. Either way, I was beaming with delight. I know its wrong for me to want to shop at the store that reminds me of a domestic store, but I love it! It has all that I need at affordable prices, and even better, its easily accessible. What more can I ask for?!
Any who, getting to my point, I found the "back to school" section near the front of the store, "SCORE!" I thought to myself. Looking at the spirals, just as I was warned, I realized that ALL the notebooks, in Mallorca and Spain actually, contain what we call "graph paper" only. Lined paper simply does not exists. Wide ruled, college ruled, loose leaf, I used to take it for granted, such a simple luxury. Still, I had to get what they had. I bought some notebooks, Post-it notes, pens, and substitute folders. I don't think pocket folders exist either, so we'll see how these fair.
So after I surveyed the school supplies, I wanted to see the rest of the store, especially the grocery section. The most mind blowing moment occurred when I saw the seafood section. No, not prepackaged items, but fresh, straight out the net from the boat cruising the Mediterranean, sea food of ALL types, from snapping lobsters to octopus legs to 5 different types of shrimp to porterhouse size tuna steaks. I was in awe. I just couldn't believe that it was all right there, waiting to be purchased, cooked, and enjoyed.
After I closed my mouth, I walked around some more, surveying the brands. I nearly teared when I saw Colgate and Dove in the hygiene section. Last week, I went to the local pharmacy to purchase some body wash. I found some, but it was pricey. Moreover, I am pretty sure that I bought a body wash with a hint of men's cologne. I plan to use it all, but now I know where to go as soon as I run out!
I paid for my items, had a nice conversation with the cashier, and got my bags from the locker. I witnessed another amazing moment in the store when I saw this the young boy be reprimanded by his father. Actually, the whole front of the store stopped to watch him yell at the boy. I was scared for him and didn't move a muscle until the father was done yelling. I love seeing these natural expressions of emotion in the Mallorquin culture. I've seen this same situation at home before, but this was that much more intense in español!
It was fun to get out and find Carrefour by myself after such an intense first week of classes. Furthermore, I need to get focused and organized tonight. I have a big weekend ahead of me. More to come soon!
HOT and HANDY study abroad TIP: Don't be shy, bring ALL of your favorite school supplies from home.
I didn't bring any notebooks, folders, or any of my leftover supplies from the spring. I can't tell you how many note cards and pens I have in storage in D.C. Yet, I have been hanging on to the same Lufthansa Airlines pen and Hotel Jaime III notepad, just so I could survive my classes this week. By Wednesday, I was at the end of my wits and spoke to Antonia and Susan about places to purchase supplies for a reasonable price. Of course, everything on campus and in central Palma is expensive. I had to find a better alternative.
They directed me to a SUPER center called Carrefour. Antonia could see by the expression on my face that I was a little apprehensive to find this place on my own. However my mood changed quickly when she said, "Its like Wal-Mart." I carefully took their directions and made plans to see this place for myself.
Carrefour is on the bus route from UIB to home. I decided that today I must get all my supplies in order to be ready for next week. No excuses. Because I had a backpack and gym bag with me, I incurred some problems with security upon walking in the door. I just had to put my stuff in a locker until I finished my shopping. After all that, I was a little frazzled; however, I had a mission to complete. I crossed the security wall, took one look around, and realized that I had arrived! Admittedly, it is not as big of a building as an average Wal-Mart but more similar to a Targét. Either way, I was beaming with delight. I know its wrong for me to want to shop at the store that reminds me of a domestic store, but I love it! It has all that I need at affordable prices, and even better, its easily accessible. What more can I ask for?!
Any who, getting to my point, I found the "back to school" section near the front of the store, "SCORE!" I thought to myself. Looking at the spirals, just as I was warned, I realized that ALL the notebooks, in Mallorca and Spain actually, contain what we call "graph paper" only. Lined paper simply does not exists. Wide ruled, college ruled, loose leaf, I used to take it for granted, such a simple luxury. Still, I had to get what they had. I bought some notebooks, Post-it notes, pens, and substitute folders. I don't think pocket folders exist either, so we'll see how these fair.
So after I surveyed the school supplies, I wanted to see the rest of the store, especially the grocery section. The most mind blowing moment occurred when I saw the seafood section. No, not prepackaged items, but fresh, straight out the net from the boat cruising the Mediterranean, sea food of ALL types, from snapping lobsters to octopus legs to 5 different types of shrimp to porterhouse size tuna steaks. I was in awe. I just couldn't believe that it was all right there, waiting to be purchased, cooked, and enjoyed.
After I closed my mouth, I walked around some more, surveying the brands. I nearly teared when I saw Colgate and Dove in the hygiene section. Last week, I went to the local pharmacy to purchase some body wash. I found some, but it was pricey. Moreover, I am pretty sure that I bought a body wash with a hint of men's cologne. I plan to use it all, but now I know where to go as soon as I run out!
I paid for my items, had a nice conversation with the cashier, and got my bags from the locker. I witnessed another amazing moment in the store when I saw this the young boy be reprimanded by his father. Actually, the whole front of the store stopped to watch him yell at the boy. I was scared for him and didn't move a muscle until the father was done yelling. I love seeing these natural expressions of emotion in the Mallorquin culture. I've seen this same situation at home before, but this was that much more intense in español!
It was fun to get out and find Carrefour by myself after such an intense first week of classes. Furthermore, I need to get focused and organized tonight. I have a big weekend ahead of me. More to come soon!
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