Cooking, Culture, and Exploring Spain

So far, we’ve had two incredible class field trips and one unforgettable cooking class. From learning how to make authentic paella to walking through the ancient ruins of Italica and marveling at the breathtaking architecture of Córdoba, these past two weeks have been packed with amazing adventure. Let's dive in!

Paella Cooking Class:

This was, without a doubt, one of my favorite nights so far. Several classmates came together for a joint cooking class, hosted at one of the host moms’ apartments. Their apartment was stunning, a 10th-floor apartment with a breathtaking view of the sunset. The evening started with happy hour, where we enjoyed delicious snacks before diving into the cooking process.

We began by prepping the ingredients, chopping garlic, chicken, and sausage, while also preparing a delicious pesto garlic bread. Throughout the night, music played in the background, conversations flowed, and we enjoyed refreshing drinks while snacking on our delicious garlic bread masterpiece. As the paella slowly came together, we all took turns adding ingredients to the simmering pot of infused goodness. Since my friend and I are social media interns, we were also capturing videos and photos to document the entire experience.

Finally, after patiently waiting for the rice to cook, it was time to decorate the top of the paella. I got to choose the design and decided on a heart in an early celebration of Valentine’s Day. Once the final photos were taken, we served up our creation, and let me tell you, it was the best paella I’ve had yet (though I might be a little biased).

Day Trip to Italica: Walking Through Roman History

Our Friday adventure started with a short bus ride to Itálica, an ancient Roman city founded in 206 BC. I deliberately didn’t research the city beforehand, wanting to experience it with fresh eyes, and I was absolutely blown away. Itálica was once a thriving Roman settlement and even the birthplace of emperors Trajan and Hadrian. Walking through its well-preserved ruins felt like stepping back in time. We explored the amphitheater, which once held up to 25,000 spectators, admired the stunning mosaic tile work, and wandered through the remnants of ancient bathhouses.

After soaking in the history, we stopped at a restaurant right across the street. I had the most incredible steak and salsa, hands down the best meal I’ve had on this trip so far. The entire day was a perfect mix of history, exploration, and amazing food.

Córdoba: A Blend of Cultures and Stunning Architecture

The next day, we set off on another adventure, this time to the historic city of Córdoba. The journey was about two hours by bus, and in my excitement, I made the mistake of drinking way too much water before leaving. Let’s just say, that was not my smartest decision. About 30 minutes into the ride, I was already regretting it! Once we arrived, I quickly found a bathroom, and then we began exploring the city. Córdoba is a cultural gem, known for its blend of Islamic, Christian, and Jewish influences. The highlight of our visit was the Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most stunning architectural masterpieces I’ve ever seen.

Originally built as a mosque during the Islamic rule of Al-Andalus, it was later converted into a cathedral after the Christian Reconquista. The result was a mesmerizing mix of horseshoe arches, intricate geometric patterns, and grand Renaissance-style chapels. Walking through the site, I could feel the layers of history embedded in every corner. After the tour, we had free time to wander through the city. We strolled along the picturesque Jewish Quarter, admired the famous Patios of Córdoba with their colorful flowers, and enjoyed a delicious meal at a local restaurant. Shopping, sightseeing, and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere made for a truly unforgettable day.

These past two weeks have been nothing short of incredible. From cooking an authentic Spanish dish to stepping into the past through the ruins of Itálica and the amazing architecture of Córdoba, I’ve experienced so much of Spain’s rich history and culture. Each trip has deepened my appreciation for this beautiful country, and I can’t wait to see what’s next!