25 Facts About CL Editor Sasha Graffagna

   Name: Sasha Graffagna 

   Position: Editor

   University: New York University

Major: Journalism + Comparative Literature

Organizational Involvement: Theta Phi Beta Sorority, NYU Women’s Choir, NYU Ballroom Dance Team

Pets: My black lab Danny!

Nickname: Sushi + Snoopy

Dream Job: Travel Writer

Favorite color: Teal and Hot Pink.

Favorite candy: Butterfinger.

Favorite movie: These are impossible…but I loved The Shawshank Redemption, which I just saw.

Favorite cuisine: Japanese!

Favorite season: Summer. Nothing beats the beach.

 

Coffee vs Tea: Do I have to choose?

PC vs Mac: PC

Coke vs Pepsi: Neither. I can’t stand soda.

Stripes vs Polka Dots: Polka dots. So preppy-chic!

 

3 words to describe me: talkative, well-traveled, optimist.

3 words to describe my style: casual, diverse, city-girl

 

You will find on my desk: a giant mess.

You will find on my DVR/Tivo: New Girl, How I Met Your Mother, 2 Broke Girls, Hart of Dixie, Once Upon A Time

You will find on my Ipod: J-Pop, regular pop, and Latin music.

You will find in my refrigerator: a lot of Japanese food.

I have a slight obsession with: coffee, chocolate, and Glee.

I dislike: closed-mindedness.

My friends would say I am: hyper and talkative.

I am most happy when: I am traveling.

Most people are surprised to know I: speak 3 languages! English, Spanish, and Japanese.

A classy co-ed is: a sophisticated woman who knows that college isn’t everything, but is out to enjoy every last minute of it.

Sasha Graffagna is a rising senior at New York University. She is studying Journalism and Comparative Literature, and super-excited for her last summer as a college student!

What To Pack For A 3-Day Weekend

Off for a weekend trip this Memorial Day? Check out our handy guide on what to pack!

 

 

1. Bottoms: Jeans, Shorts, Skirt.

Assuming you’re gone for 3 days, 3 bottoms are all you need. Jeans go with everything and can be worn more than once, which is perfect for a vacation, especially if there’s a chance you’ll stay there longer than expected. Shorts are a summer staple, and a mid-length skirt can be dressed up or down to suit the occasion.

2. Tops: Cardigan, Tank, 2 T-Shirts.

On a weekend trip away, layering can be your best friend. Especially in the summer, when the days are super-hot and the nights can get surprisingly cold. So bring 2 regular tops, but add a tank and a cardigan for layering purposes. Also, bring both tops and bottoms in neutral colors so it’s easier to match.

3. Shoes: Gladiator Sandals, Heels.

In the summer, gladiator sandals will take you pretty much anywhere. On the off chance they won’t, bring a pair of simple heels. Just make sure to keep your toes prettily pedicured.

4. Bags: Clutch, Tote.

A clutch and an everyday bag are all you need on vacation. If you’re headed to the beach, try a straw tote. If you’re lucky, you’ll have a tote large enough to carry all your items to your destination.

5. Makeup + Accessories: Bright and Few.

Just because your tops and bottoms are neutral doesn’t mean your entire outfit has to be boring. Try brightening up your look with your makeup and accessories. Just don’t go overboard – think a couple of statement pieces, not your entire closet.

6. Miscellaneous: Sunglasses, Extra Underwear, Swimsuit, Chargers.

Sunglasses and a swimsuit are summer staples that everybody always forgets. Bring the swimsuit even if a pool or beach are not in your plans – you never know when you might need it. As for the extra underwear? If you end up staying an extra day, it’s the one thing you’re really going to want.  The chargers go without saying, if you’re bringing any kind of electronics (iPod, cell phone, laptop).

What do you normally bring on a 3-day weekend? Let us know in the comments!

Sasha Graffagna is a junior at New York University studying Journalism and Comparative Literature. She is currently on exchange at La Universidad del Sagrado Corazón in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Style by the City: Las Vegas

When the weather starts to get just a bit too hot, Las Vegas is the perfect place to look for a little style inspiration. Their partying attitude may not be the best way to get through finals, but their style is sure to put a little spring in your step.

 

Casual Outfit: Las Vegas Sign 

Las Vegas is so fabulous that it needs a sign to tell you just how fabulous it is. You can look just as great in a pair of bright denim shorts and a yellow logo tee with a message that fits perfectly with Las Vegas’ anything-goes attitude. Add a pair of red sandals that will allow you to sight-see comfortably before a night on the town, and a little pink neon bag to hold all your essentials. Finish off your look with a glam glittery red nail polish because hey, you’re in Vegas!

Evening Outfit: Bellagio Fountain

Las Vegas is synonymous with dancing the night away, so get the party started in this daring cut-out purple dress. Since we’re at a fountain, add a pair of strappy watery blue sandals and a matching glitzy clutch. Complete the outfit with a pair of statement silver earrings.

Internship Outfit: Hoover Dam

About 30 miles from Las Vegas is the Hoover Dam, the greatest engineering feat of the 1930s. Channel this determination into your work by choosing the perfect business-like internship outfit. A pair of linen pants and a white tank top keep you cool in the heat, while a structured blue blazer prevents the outfit from becoming too casual. Add a pair of blue pumps and a silver-and-white tote that reflects the Hoover Dam.

Sasha Graffagna is a junior at New York University studying Journalism and Comparative Literature. She is currently on exchange at La Universidad del Sagrado Corazón in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

College Lifestyles Interviews La Carmina: Fashion Blogger, TV Host, World Traveler

Want to travel the world? Be on TV? Write a book? La Carmina has done all that and more.  After being accepted to Yale Law School at just 20 years old, La Carmina needed a creative outlet and began a style blog in September 2007. Since then, La Carmina has acquired an impressive resume a mere 7 years after her graduation from Columbia University. College Lifestyles had the chance to pick this multimedia guru’s brain, and find out how you can do all the cool things she does – for a living.

 

College Lifestyles (CL): Could you explain for our readers what exactly it is you do?
La Carmina (LC): I’m a travel and fashion TV host, journalist, and blogger at http://www.lacarmina/com/blog. My focus is on alternative and Gothic youth subcultures, in Japan and all over the world. I was born in Vancouver, Canada and studied at Columbia University and Yale Law, but I started a blog and it led me down a life-changing road. I’m now the author of 3 books — including Cute Yummy Time (Penguin) and Crazy, Wacky Theme Restaurants: Tokyo (Random House) — and a journalist for CNN, Huffington Post, AOL. My ”First Mate” and I started a TV fixing, hosting and coolhunting (CL Note: ie trendspotting) firm, called “La Carmina & The Pirates.” I also host my own web series for AOL / Huffington Post, and constantly travel for appearances and press trips (this year, I participated in a panel and sat front row at New York Fashion Week). Right now, my focus is on television presenting; my credits include The Today Show, Travel Channel, NHK Japan, Fuel/Discovery/National Geographic, Food Network, Pepsi, Sony, Norway TV, CNN. All my TV clips are here.

CL: How did you start each of these ventures?
LC: From the start, my blog focused on my passion: Japanese, alternative and subculture style. As fashion blogging blew up, I was fortunate to have opportunities to host TV shows, travel (New York, Italy, Hong Kong, Mexico, Japan), and write for major publishers and media organizations. My site organically led to these opportunities; Andrew Zimmern’s production company found me because I wrote a book about theme restaurants and blogged about bizarre Japanese cafes. They invited to be the guide on Bizarre Foods in Tokyo. After, I kept receiving television hosting and arranging offers, so I started a company with my First Mate Naomi, called La Carmina & The Pirates. We also do coolhunting, consulting, Tokyo tour guiding and other missions.

CL: What is a typical day like for you?
LC: Each day is different, depending on whether I’m on a TV shoot, traveling, or working on my site and Pirate jobs. If I’m on a travel TV shoot, it’s go-go-go from morning to night. There’s tons of advance planning, from getting filming permits to sorting out each step of the itinerary. On low-key days, I spend time with my Scottish Fold cat, Basil Farrow, and catch up on the deluge of emails that never seems to end.

CL: By the looks of it, you’re an extremely busy person – how do you manage your time?
LC: I believe in “working smart.” A lot of people work themselves to the ground for no reason or gain. I think it’s important to manage your time well, say no to the unessential tasks, and delegate. Fortunately, since my work is strongly personality-based, work and play are usually linked.

CL: How did you become interested in Japanese culture?
LC: Since my family is from Asia, we often traveled to Japan when I was young. In my early teens, I visited Harajuku and adored the vibrant street fashion and culture – Jrock, Gothic Lolita, Punk, Kawaii. This was the initial spark that led to where I am today. I continue to be fascinated by Japanese pop culture, such as the weird theme restaurants and cute bento boxes.

CL: How did last year’s 3/11 earthquake affect your work?
LC: Many of my friends were affected by the disaster, and I wanted to do something to help. I fundraised in LA, and released two design collaborations to benefit Japan: a HOPE benefit t-shirt with Like Atmosphere, and a panda bear necklace with Soho Hearts. Both are for sale here, with proceeds going to the earthquake and tsunami victims. These charity collections are meaningful to me because they’re an artistic response to the disaster; a way to raise awareness and rebuild. On the anniversary of the earthquake and tsunami (March 11), I also teamed up with two amazing Industrial dancers, tank9 and Mary Nine. We filmed a dance video in Seattle, for Ridley Scott’s “Japan in a Day” project — you can watch it here. Our footage captures the immense positivity and energy of youths teaming up for an important cause.

CL: Why do you think you’ve become so successful as an online presence, and how can CL readers do the same?
LC: Part of it is luck and good timing; I started La Carmina blog in 2007, when blogging was a relatively new phenomenon. I posted frequently, participated in social networks and built everything up gradually. I also feel that when an opportunity presents itself, you should try to take it as far as it can go — the sky’s the limit. I never dreamed I could have these amazing gigs in travel and TV, but now it’s my life.

CL: How did your undergraduate experience shape your career?
LC: I studied at Columbia University in New York City. I like to say I majored in “nightcrawling,” since I probably learned more from the city’s alt nightlife than the classroom! However, I loved my school’s Core Curriculum, and humanities courses in Japanese culture and philosophy. Going to Columbia and Yale Law let me explore my interests and figure out what I wanted to do.

CL: What advice do you have for aspiring writers/fashion designers/TV hosts?
LC: Prove that you’ve got the track-record (schooling, portfolio of successful projects). Show numbers and the results that you can
deliver. And only work with people who “get it.” You have something special to offer, a window into the world you inhabit — so make sure your clients appreciate and respect that. I think a college education always helps to broaden your mind, and get you where you want to be.

CL: What’s your favorite place you’ve been and why?
LC: I love Tokyo’s spooky scene. You’ll always find me and my friends at Goth Industrial and Fetish parties. I also spend too much time in the Japanese Lolita Jrock Punk second hand store, Closet Child.

CL: What’s your favorite part of the job? What’s the most difficult?
LC: Nothing makes me happier than hearing from readers, who say my blog brightened up their day, or inspired/ helped them in some way. Sometimes it’s challenging to work for yourself — you have to always juggle and chase new projects — but I love the freedom and flexibility it gives me.

CL: How do you manage your personal relationships when you travel so much?
LC: Skype and email makes it easy to keep in touch. And my Scottish Fold cat, Basil Farrow is endlessly forgiving.

CL: Goth-Loli style is beautiful but very dramatic. What is a good ’starter outfit’ for someone who wants to incorporate a little bit of this style in their wardrobe?
LC: There’s no rulebook that states you must own certain items or wear expensive Japanese brands to enter this lovely world. Instead, you can make Lolita a part of your life in many small ways. And the further you explore this wonderland, the more your confidence will grow. Start with tiny “tips of the hat” to Lolita fashion in your daily wear. For example, you might wear a big bow in your hair, or doll eyelashes, or a cute tutu skirt. My friends and I like to mix Loli influences into our clothes; we don’t believe you have to look like an Angelic Pretty model in order to genuinely enjoy the fashion.

CL: What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
LC: “Don’t be a tuna head!” From the Maniac Mansion computer game.

CL: Is there anything important that you’d like to share with CL that I haven’t asked?
LC:  It’s impossible to predict the path you’ll end up on, but a college education will always help you to get there. I’ve found that my writing and reporting has benefited from my studies, and that companies have been more keen to work with me because of my degrees. I didn’t end up in law, but found a path that I love, and that’s 100% me. And you can do the same! I hope you’ll stay tuned to my La Carmina blog, to see where my adventures take me next.

Want to know more about La Carmina? Check out her blog, find her on Facebook, or follow her on Twitter!

Sasha Graffagna is a New York University junior studying Journalism and Comparative Literature. She is currently on exchange at La Universidad del Sagrado Corazón in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Bathing suits for every shape

Tankini, Bikini, one piece… black, striped, colorful… boy shorts, halter, string. There are dozens of options for beach-loving ladies and CL is here to help you narrow down our favorites to flatter every body shape.

 

Small-chested

For small chested girls, triangle shaped tops are forever flattering.  Go for extra up top with ruffles, beads, and pleating to add volume and visual interest. Padded bathing suits can also help add a little more emphasis to the top!

 

 

 

 

                                          

 

Curvy

For our curvy ladies, a bathing suit with thicker straps help support a bigger chest and high-cut bottoms give the illusion of more leg. Tankini’s are also a great choice. Find one with ruching to add definition to your middle.

 

                  

 

 

 

 

 

Large-chested

For girls who are bigger up top, go for a top with underwire and thicker straps. Also tops with wider-bands versus string will help with extra support.

 

        

 

 

 

 

 

Petite

Ladies with a small frame will look stylish in strapless and string bikinis. For a flirty look try a bold color or animal print.

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

Athletic

Athletic shaped bodies will look best in boy shorts paired with a bandeau style top or a chic halter.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pear shaped

Ladies who are bigger on the bottom, will look fab in a cute halter bikini with a classic high cut brief bottom. The high cut brief will add the illusion of a longer leg. If you want to accentuate the hips, try a stylish one piece with the side cut out.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Minyvonne Burke is a fashion and lifestyle writer for College Lifestyles ™. She graduated from Point Park University and is currently pursuing her master’s degree at Hofstra University. She loves online shopping, cute bags and NYC.

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Style by the City: Valparaíso, Chile

It’s officially spring, which means college women around the country are finally looking to put some fresh color back into their wardrobes. So this week’s Style by the City heads to Valparaíso, Chile. This city  may not be a bona fide Santiago. But, it’s unique landscape makes it the perfect place for outfit inspiration.

 

 

Evening Outfit: El Mercurio del Valparaiso

El Mercurio del Valparaíso is the oldest Spanish-language newspaper in the world, so the evening outfit inspired by it is all about classic neutrals. A pair of graphic newsprint pants are bold and yet subdued in color, while a sleeveless white sweater is perfect for unpredictable spring weather. Black sequin pumps and a silver clutch keep the neutral theme, but add a pop of metallic trendiness. Complete the outfit with a pair of silver arrow earrings, in tribute to the statue on the newspaper building, pictured top left.

Casual Outfit: Piano Stairs

Valparaiso has some of the most beautiful graffiti in the world, like the piano stairs pictured in this photo. Start your outfit with a piano bag and a pair of simple flats for all that walking. Since the entire site is bursting with color, use this season’s huge color blocking trend to your advantage. Here, we chose a red tank top and a yellow skirt. The skirt is tiered, which pays added homage to the stairs. Finally, add a trendy pastel jacket, like this sea green one inspired by the handrail.

Internship Outfit: Funicular

Valparaiso’s funiculars, essentially cable cars, bring hundreds of tourists and residents around the city every day. Since the funiculars are so brightly colored, the star of the outfit is a bright but work-appropriate yellow dress. Since the dress commands attention, keep the accessories neutral with a simple blue bag and pumps. Make sure to check the dress code at your office before you try this outfit, though. If neutrals rule the day where you intern, you may want to add a simple blazer or steer clear of this altogether.

Sasha Graffagna is a junior at New York University studying Journalism and Comparative Literature. She is currently on exchange at La Universidad del Sagrado Corazón in San Juan, Puerto Rico. 

Spring Break Must-Haves: Sand, Staycation, Snow

Everything about spring break is great – except the packing part. College Lifestyles help you out with these must-haves for any spring break, whether you’re headed to the beach, to the mountains, or just staying home. (Hey, planning a staycation is hard work!)

 

Beach Must-Haves:

Retro-inspired swimsuits are so in right now, so start your spring break right with this classy red-polka-dot bikini (1). A spray-on sunscreen (2)keeps your skin protected and is quick to put on, so you can make the most of your time at the beach. For those moments when the beach is just a bit too chilly, bring along a cute mesh cover-up (3). And if the sun’s too bright? This year’s subtle cat-eye sunglasses (4) flatter most face shapes. Don’t forget a pair of gladiator sandals (5)! Flip-flops are great, but gladiators will take you from the beach to lunch to a hot, tropical night on the town.

Staycation Must-Haves:

Taking a staycation this spring break? Pull up Netflix Instant and stock up on some un-buttered microwave popcorn (1), and spice it up with a spoonful of Nutella, some paprika, or these other fun toppings. If you’d rather catch up on your reading, the much buzzed-about Hunger Games (2) opens on March 23^rd, so now’s the perfect time to catch up. You’ve probably got a blanket and some pillows already to lounge in, but don’t neglect your feet! We like a pair of fuzzy slippers (4), which are the ultimate luxury even when it’s warm outside. Of course, spring break is also a great time to catch up on summer internship hunting, so get a head start by buying a set of stylish yet professional thank-you notes to send after all those interviews. But you’re on vacation, so you don’t have to start dressing professionally just yet. Take a beauty risk with some daring nail decals (5), and impress all your friends at school by telling them you did it yourself. Just kidding.

Snow Bunny Must-Haves:

Are you enjoying your last few weeks of winter this spring break? Your first must-have is a loop scarf (1), which keeps you hot on the runway and in real life. Since you are on vacation, add a little luxury to your life by splurging on some indulgent hot chocolate (2) – this one from Ghirardelli is flavored “Double Chocolate.” Make sure to keep your drink hot in this adorable eco-friendly penguin thermos (3). Since we know you’ll be a texting diva even on the slopes, invest in a pair of high-tech gloves (4), which let you play on your touchscreen phone without ever taking them off. Finally, all that cold winter air will dry out your skin, so help keep your face smooth with an intensely hydrating moisturizing cream (5).

Sasha Graffagna is a junior at New York University studying Journalism and Comparative Literature. She is currently on exchange at La Universidad del Sagrado Corazón in San Juan, Puerto Rico. 

Style by the City: Dublin

We all know the only real holiday in March (besides Spring Break) is St. Patrick’s Day. Celebrate all month long with these looks inspired by Dublin, Ireland.

 

 

Evening Out: Guinness Brewery

What better way to celebrate a night out than in an outfit inspired by the beer you’re drinking? The Guinness Brewery is just one of many reasons to imbibe in Ireland, since they give you beer for free. Start with a subtle beer drinker tank top, and add a high-waisted golden skirt. The golden slingbacks match your skirt and are comfortable enough to stand in all night. A faux fur cropped jacket matches the walls of the factory and keeps you warm and stylish. Finish off the look with a black metallic clutch just big enough for your bare essentials, and some accessories: a beer charm (try putting it on a charm bracelet) and a piano necklace for the harp that is Guinness’ logo. Just make sure photos of your night don’t end up on the internet. So not classy.

Internship Outfit: Ha’Penny Bridge

This week’s internship outfit is inspired by the Ha’Penny Bridge, known as such for the price of the toll it used to charge. The bridge is white, so start your outfit with a plain white  button-down, paired with a pencil skirt the cover of the river below. The pumps and the tote are work-appropriate and in tune with two major spring trends: pointy shoes and color-blocking. Don’t forget the accessories! We chose a striped scarf for the bridge’s pattern, sun earrings for its decorative lamps, and a coin necklace for the name.

Casual Outfit: Dublin Castle

Jeans, Bag, Earrings, Jacket, Shoes, Top, Photo Credit

Dublin Castle has seen its fair share of fires, so start your outfit with a pair of trendy crimson jeans. A grey tank top matches the castle’s outer facade and is tame enough to balance the metallic tweed blazer, which pays tribute to the castle’s gold interior. The library contains over 22,000 volumes, but the book-related item here is very American: earrings inspired by Dr. Seuss’ Cat In The Hat. This is the perfect outfit to study for midterms with, so slip on some easy-to-walk-in black Converse, and tuck your books into a bag that complements the bright jacket. Now, off to the library!

Sasha Graffagna is a junior at New York University studying Journalism and Comparative Literature. She is currently on exchange at La Universidad del Sagrado Corazón in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Check her out on Polyvore at sasha74.polyvore.com.

Top 11 Ways To Save Money On Study Abroad

Studying abroad may be one of the best experiences of your college career, but it also can be one of the most expensive. Let College Lifestyles help you out with our top 11 ways to save money while studying abroad.

Before You Go:

1. Choose your place wisely. If you know in advance that money is going to be tight, choose a study abroad site you know you can afford. Studying Spanish? Skip Spain and head to South America instead.

2. Get a scholarship. There are several scholarships exclusively for study abroad. Make sure you look as far in advance as possible for these, since they can fill up quickly. These scholarships are especially common if you are studying in a less popular area, like China or the Middle East.

3. Get the International Student ID Card (ISIC). There’s a good chance a foreign country won’t recognize the ID card from your American university, especially if it’s not well-known. Having the ISIC ensures you always get the student prices you need. Best of all, the card comes with exclusive deals and works in 120 countries.

4. Enroll directly. The United States has one of the most expensive university systems in the world. If you speak the language (or are going somewhere they speak English), it can be several thousand dollars cheaper to enroll directly in a foreign university. Make sure you confirm this is possible with your university before trying this, as it can change how they accept your credits and your financial aid for that semester. And be prepared to deal with a lot of bureaucracy.

While You’re There:

5. Buy a sturdy coin purse. America’s most expensive coin is worth just $1, and those aren’t as common as the far less valuable quarter. But in other countries, coins can be more valuable – take the euro coin, which at today’s exchange rate is worth $1.30 on the dollar. That doesn’t sound like a lot more, but it adds up. Also, many public transport systems will also only accept coins. The lesson here? Skip the flimsy pocket in your wallet and buy a sturdy coin purse. They’re so cheap, they can double as a souvenir.

6. Cooking your own food, if it’s an option, is generally far cheaper (and healthier!) than buying it everyday. This is great for practicing the language, since it forces you to learn the names of new foods and talk with the shopkeepers. Who knows? Maybe you’ll even learn a new recipe.

7. Try Couchsurfing. Don’t have money to spend on hostels? Couchsurfing is absolutely free. This company pairs up travelers with regular people who are willing to open up their home for a few days. This is much safer than it sounds since Couchsurfing allows people to write reviews of both hosts and guests. You might even love it so much that you’ll host travelers once you return to the States.

8. Keeping an expense journal is a great budget skill wherever you are. But it’s especially important when you’re studying abroad, i.e. spending way more money than normal and dealing with a foreign currency. Buy a tiny notebook you can tuck into any purse and write each purchase in as you go. At the end of the week, add the money up and convert it into US dollars.

9. Make local (and foreign) friends. One of the many benefits of having local friends is that they can save you money, showing you all the cool, cheap hangouts that you would never discover on your own. But foreign friends, specifically ones from nearby countries are great too. Studying in France and make friends with someone who lives in Dublin? Now you have a place to stay for the weekend and your own personal tour guide.

10. Read a weekly publication. Most major cities have a weekly publication that has an event listing in the back, most of which are cheap or free. If you’re lucky, they’ll even have one in English. Use Google, a local friend, or a guidebook to find one. If you’re really stuck, Time Out is also a good place to start.

11. Travel domestically. One of the advantages of studying abroad is that you get to stay in the same country for several months. Get to know the whole place, not just the city you’re in, by traveling domestically – which is generally cheaper than traveling internationally. Don’t feel like you’re missing out: When I was studying in Buenos Aires, I never left Argentina once. I did, however, go to Bariloche, Mendoza, Salta, Jujuy, and Iguazú Falls – and I had an amazing time.

Want more study abroad articles? Check out Top 10 Ways to Stay Fit While Studying Abroad, or CL Top 10: What and What Not to Pack for Study Abroad.

Sasha Graffagna is a current junior studying Journalism and Comparative Literature at NYU. She studied abroad in Buenos Aires last semester, and is currently on exchange at La Universidad de Sagrado Corazón in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Study Abroad: Spain

Spain is a wonderful study abroad location whether you’re studying languages, architecture, history, or, in the case of this CL intern’s trip, religion. Here, CL Senior Writing Intern Debra takes you on a tour of Spain, via her experiences, with beautiful locations, places to visit, weather tips, and cuisine to taste.

Hello CL readers! I visited Spain my sophomore year with Duquesne University’s Global and Cultural Perspectives class. Our assignment was to learn about the rich history of Spanish religion, which includes Judaism, Christianity and Islam.

We covered a lot of ground in just ten days, visiting Madrid, Córdoba, Granada and Málaga. These last three places, located in Andalucía (Southern Spain), were where we spent the bulk of our time.

For those of you who have studied Don Quijote in your literature classes, you can visit La Mancha, home of the brave (or crazed) knight himself.

 

We stopped at this beautiful plaza on our road trip from Madrid to Córdoba. The statue is Don Quijote de la Mancha.

Once settled into Córdoba, we visited the Cathedral Mosque, a structure that definitely shows the diversity of religion in Spain. The cathedral was built inside the mosque!

 

The architecture and decorations have both Islamic and Catholic influences.

Within the next few days, we drove to Granada, home to the seat of the old Moorish kings and queens:  La Alhambra, a gorgeous palace, along with the beautiful  Generalife gardens.

The Moors loved to incorporate light, beauty and water, and this palace had them all!

My favorite place was Málaga. It is right next to the Mediterranean Sea, and is home to an incredibly diverse population of very friendly people! More often than not, they were tourists, just like us.

 

It was also home to some unbelievable views!

 Unfortunately, I missed a lot of this part of the trip because I was stuck in banks all day. Traveler’s checks may seem like a good idea, but two out of the three banks I went to had trouble converting mine. Best to stick to Euros. Also, if you plan to do any banking abroad, have your passport with you when you go to the banks. As my friend from Honduras told me, and I learned firsthand, the States is the only place where a driver’s license is an acceptable form of I.D.

Luckily, I got out in time to join our group in visiting the Pablo Picasso museum. Picasso is a central figure to Spanish history and culture, and his art, timeless.

Now he even has his own bench!

From the pictures above, you may have been assuming the weather in Spain is absolutely gorgeous all of the time. WARNING: it isn’t. We went during the crossover of February to March. It is winter in Spain then, and trust me; the rain in Spain most definitely does not fall mainly on the plain!

 And if you plan to visit ruins like the Medina Azahara on a rainy day, don’t forget to pack your rain boots and your umbrella!

A rain coat is also wise. The best thing you can do when packing to visit a foreign country is to pack layers. The weather can surprise you at any time, so be prepared!

CL Quick Tip: Check out our study abroad packing tips!

Something else that may surprise you is the food – I wasn’t prepared, but we had a tour guide to take us to some fabulous restaurants!

We spent our last day in Spain in the capital city of Madrid. This city is bursting with culture and history!

 It is also home to some of the best pickpockets. One student in our group had his phone stolen from his zipped-up jacket pocket. If anything like a phone or credit card is stolen, find a way to cancel your service IMMEDIATELY.

Other amazing places to  visit while you’re there are the Prado museum, the bullfighting rings, and the football (soccer) stadiums.

I didn’t get to visit those places, so comment below and let us know about your experiences there!

 Debra Schreiber is a senior Spanish and journalism major at Duquesne University. She is a Senior CL Writing Intern. Her experience in Spain was unforgettable, and she hopes to go back and visit all of the places she missed!

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