A few weeks ago, I was lucky enough to travel to the beautiful Barcelona in Spain with my family. I found it by far, the most beautiful location I've ever visited. The narrow streets, welcoming smiles, new flavours and beaming sun got me thinking. What is it about experiencing new culture that makes people feel so captivated by it?
There is something so wonderful about walking around in a completely new place; taking in every building, every street lamp, every souvenir stand. You feel such a strong sense of freedom as everything is so new to you, just waiting for you to explore it. You see photograph opportunities in everything and want to capture every moment to have it for as long as you can. I personally love taking pictures and find that the simplest things look incredible in the right angle and lighting.
I’m not one for trying new foods and exploring new flavours but when you’re in a location as beautiful as Barcelona, it wouldn’t be right not to. I remember eating in a very luxurious restaurant that overlooked the sea, sitting there and admiring the waves rolling out into the shore and getting swallowed back into the sea. Sea food is something I can’t stand but being in a completely new place made me feel so adventurous that I tried muscles and squid for the first time!
It was very interesting to me to see how people act around each other in a different country. I found that it was a very busy place, so some people didn’t have time to give you a smile, but most were very generous and welcoming and were happy to help you. I noticed that healthy eating and keeping fit is also something that seems important to the local people. Every day, when I walked along the beach, I saw people of all ages running and cycling which was so strange to see. Most food in the restaurants I ate in were very healthy and balanced meals which again impressed me greatly.
So what is it about travelling and experiencing different cultures that makes people feel so adventurous? Is it the fact that they’re in a new place, where everything is new and exciting? Is it the challenge of having to communicate with locals that don’t speak your language? Whatever it is, everyone should experience a new place, a new culture, a new way of living as travelling truly is something magical that isn’t appreciated and celebrated enough.
By Zofia Komorowska - St. Mark's Catholic School
