And then I ate a bunny's shoulder...

The passion I first felt for Spanish cuisine was abruptly silenced today when my host mother served rabbit for lunch. I am no animal rights activist; I do not flinch when my grandmother wears fur or when my mother marinates steak before family dinners. I’m a carnivore, a meat eater, a burger lover! It was thus not the taste of rabbit which offended my taste buds and twisted my stomach. Rather, it was my host mother’s portrayal of the small, helpless hopping rabbit that churned my insides and sickened my conscience. After Pepita (my host mother) referenced its white cotton tail and floppy ears through charade like gestures Shelby shouted “BUNNY!” I immediately slapped my hand to my lips while Pepita giggled hilariously and asked “te gusta?” (Do you like it). As I chugged every drop of water left in my glass my host mother compared it to chicken and pointed to the half eaten bone of white meat on my plate.

WHEN IN SPAIN.   

CAN CAN I can do the CAN CAN

I must start by stating some of my greatest experiences in college have been marked by the incredible friends I’ve met in Baltimore at the many keg parties and the college bars which dominate Loyola’s social scene. Unforgettable places that are littered by plastic cups and empty beer kegs, undoubtedly once filled by Keystone Light, have so far been the highlight of my nights out as a college student. While I cherish such evenings in Baltimore I came to Europe bursting with excitement for a fresh social scene. So far, that is most definitely what I’ve received. The bars and discotechas in Alcala, like Media Pinta and Club Can Can, are similar to those I frequent in the United States. The major difference is that as a guest in these bars I am not only a stranger but a foreigner to the Spaniards and other international students studying in Alcala. Last night alone, I spoke Spanish with the locals, deciphered thick Irish accents and befriended Americans from the University of Arizona. It’s exciting to know that by making new friends in Alcala I am indirectly exploring new cultures.  Happy hours in Tapas bars have also been incredible. In such places groups are able to order beverages with which they receive free appetizers. Alone a free appetizer excited my table. When we eventually understood that we could all choose our own dish, then share, our delight doubled.

I love Spain because it is new and foreign and wild. So far everything has been pleasant and everyday has been unpredictable, attributable to both my language barrier and the fabulously funny Loyolians who have become more than just my classmates!

Mis primeros días en España...

     Spain so far has been a whirl wind. It is my third day in Alcala and I feel like I have already done so much! Beginning at Madrid’s airport, following a six hour plane ride from Newark to Spain, I’ve experienced constant feelings of exhaustion and excitement. My excitement conquered the jet lag one inevitably experiences after flying internationally. Thus, I was able to be mentally present at each pre-semester meeting and orientation session we have had so far. Like most members of my group I am physically tired. I have had no problem participating in siestas each day, which are customary mid day naps for Spanish people. In only three days I have met many international students, professors and citizens within the city of Alcala. I have also covered what I consider to be a significant portion of the city by foot. During these exploratory walks I have perused countless bars, restaurants and shops. While I have both eaten out and at home, with my host family, every meal, snack and beverage has been a surprise! This may be one of the most interesting elements of my trip so far. Because I speak minimal Spanish I cannot translate most of the cuisine and beverages listed on the menus here. Attempting to slow down my group and the waitress as little as possible I choose whichever dish/drink initially attracts me the most. My orders so far have included hot milk, churro-like funnel cake for breakfast and more potato salad then anyone could possibly consume.

Needless to say Spain thus far has been incredibly confusing, draining and surreal. I LOVE it here.