This summer has been nothing short of amazing. My parents recently visited Dublin, and together, we went on an unforgettable trip to Barcelona. The culture, delicious food, and warm Mediterranean sun made it a trip to remember.
Our adventure in Barcelona was filled with exciting activities. One of the highlights was taking a cooking class where we learned to make authentic paellas. The rich smells of saffron and fresh seafood filled the air as we cooked, and the final product was delicious. Sharing this experience with my parents was truly special, and it’s a memory we’ll cherish for years to come.

Fresh homeade Paella
We also had the chance to go on a catamaran cruise. Sailing along the coastline, we soaked up the sun and enjoyed the refreshing sea breeze. The homemade sangria flowed, and we laughed and bonded over the beautiful sights and sounds of the ocean. It was a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, and it gave us the chance to unwind and enjoy each other’s company.

My family and I in the Mediterranean Sea!
One of the challenges we faced was the language barrier. However, my years of studying Spanish at Bucknell, as well as my high school and elementary school education, really paid off. I was able to communicate with locals, navigate our way through the city, and even impress my parents with my Spanish skills. It was incredibly rewarding to see how much my language abilities had grown and to use them in a real-world setting.

The famous La Sagrada Familia
As our trip comes to an end, I found myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we’ve shared and the new friendships I’ve formed. I’m so grateful for the wonderful roommates I’ve met and the memories we’ve created together. This semester at Bucknell is going to be even more exciting, as I return with 30 new friends and so many stories to tell.
In conclusion, this trip to Dublin and Barcelona was a testament to the power of family, friendship, and the joys of exploring new cultures. I’m looking forward to the adventures that lie ahead and the opportunity to continue building these meaningful connections. Here’s to a fantastic semester at Bucknell and many more adventures to come!

Best Friends!