The city life

The girls at Club Joy

Monica and I on the metro

In the past few days, I have started to understand what it is like living in such a large city like Madrid. Though I am nowhere near being a true Madrilena (yet), it has been interesting to observe the lifestyle here.

People are generally very friendly and are more than willing to help an American. Last night for example my metro pass wasn't working, and without me having to ask or say anything, three policemen came up to help. Speaking of the metro, it is muy facil! And getting to school and the bars is very easy. Another aspect of Madrid culture I love observing is the street life. People seem to really take their time here to enjoy the little things, and much of what can be observed on the streets is authentic Spanish life. Last night, as my roommate Monica and I walked to meet our friends, we noticed how all of the teenagers meet at street corners in large groups. They are always laughing (that could in part be due to the bottles of alcohol they are holding), but they seem like they always know how to have a good time!

Two nights ago, most of the students on the Azahar trip went to a club called Joy in the Puerto del Sol. It was a little overwhelming, but very cool to actually be in a real European club. It was about half Spaniards and half Americans, which is nice for the first weekend, but I would love to go dancing in an authentic Spanish club. We stayed out until 6:30 AM. If this is what it takes to be a Madrilena...I'm going to have to work hard!

This week we have had two days of orientation with Syracuse University. Yesterday the American Embassy came to talk to us about safety issues. Though I have heard these warnings before, I think it is very important to make the message clear that pick-pocketing and rape, and even specific attacks on Americans are very serious. Two girls on my trip have already been pick-pocketed! But on a lighter note, the orientation also consisted of descriptions of activities and travel opportunities that are offered to us through SU. This program really has a lot to offer. There are nights to meet locals and eat tapas with them, movie nights with young Spaniards, cooking classes, and wine tasting. I hope to take advantage of as much as I have time for!

Classes start Monday, and I am looking forward to the routine of daily life in Madrid :)

Adios,

Emily