Blog 1: ¡España, Aquí Vengo! (Spain, here I come!)

Sevilla, España

For me 2013 is all about adventure, travel, and self-exploration. And for those of you that don’t know, this is because I’m doing a semester abroad in Sevilla, Spain!  For about five months I’ll be living in Spain and after I’m going to travel in Italy. Hopefully I’ll get visit other countries too. No I have not dropped out of college haha. I knew I wanted to do a study abroad ever since I started college and it’s finally happening! So basically this blog is like an online diary for me but also a way for my friends back at home to see what I’m up to and maybe learn a little bit about Spain. Also I hope this blog can help anyone thinking about doing a study abroad. So there’s a little something for everyone I think.

            It’s pretty daunting but also exciting to think that I’m going to be living half way around the world from home. I just learned that Spain is nearly 8000 miles away from Hawai’i! Well that explains why my flight is 40 HOURS long. ¡Dios mio! And I’m flying alone… with no cell phone. I’ll admit I’m a little nervous about it. I’m worried that I won’t be able to navigate Madrid’s massive airport on my own. This is coming from someone who usually flies out of Kahului Airport which is well….my Maui friends will know what I mean haha. Gotta love Maui for its simplicity. But once I finally place my feet on Spanish ground, it will be well worth it I think.

            Now packing is either a girl favorite or least favorite part of travelling. I’m usually ok with it, but this time it was a challenge. My dad told me I should take a carry on luggage so I don’t have to go baggage claim in Madrid and don’t lose my stuff. I don’t think my dad understands that I am a girl and girls have a lot of stuff! Six months worth of things and no check in? But I attacked and conquered so I’m going to have to do a little shopping when I get to Spain (I usually hate shopping, I know I’m weird, but this I can’t really complain about =D) The key to packing light is to take essentials only. Want to bring a flat iron or blow dryer? Better just buy it there. And pack clothes that can mix and match. For me, I’m doing a lot of layering because I want to be able to transition from winter to spring to summer.  Also looking a European fashion blogs helped me understand their style a little better. European fashion appears to be less laid-back than what I’m used to so I bought some classic pieces and a coat for winter. Try on your outfit before hand so there are no surprises when you get there. I suggest packing at least a week in advance so you have time to remember things you have forgotten.

            That’s about it for now! I won’t update that often, but when I do I’ll try to upload pictures as well.  These pics are just of some outfits I'm taking with me. Can’t wait to share my experience living abroad! To all my friends, I will miss you and you all better keep in touch. ¡Hasta luego!