After landing in Madrid we traveled to Toledo via bus. There, we spent about a day and a half walking through its narrow cobbled streets lined with various stores and restaurants. We saw incredible vistas, ate new food, and learned about the transformation of power throughout Spain’s history that is apparent through the architecture on many of the buildings such as the churches and synagogues spread about the city; all the while being completely immersed in the culture of Toledo. It’s a good thing they have designated times for siestas (naps) which helped us work through our jet lag!  

My favorite thing about Toledo was watching the sunset over the sprawl of the city with silhouettes of the grand cathedrals that stand tall there.

Today (Thursday) we traveled from Toledo to Córdoba on a big orange bus, and how the bus driver navigated through the narrow streets out of the city is beyond me! We were all very nervous to meet our host families today but all of the host mothers greeted us with big smiles and open arms! After getting settled into our houses we got a tour of Córdoba which was filled with more ancient architecture and beautiful patios filled with flowers! We also stopped for some yummy helado (ice cream) which rejuvenated us after a day of traveling and sightseeing. I can’t wait to see more of Córdoba and have more fun adventures with my host family and my J term compañeros! 

-Heather