Experiencing Spain During the Pandemic

Many countries are still feeling the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, and some of our participants are currently living in those regions. We stay in regular contact with them—not only to make sure they’re safe and healthy, but also to hear firsthand how they’re spending their time during the program and what everyday life looks like on the ground.

Here’s what Ivana shared from her cultural exchange experience in Spain:

The Basque Country was the only part of Spain I hadn’t visited before, so I’m truly grateful to the family in Getxo for welcoming me into their home. Even though traveling between cities isn’t possible right now, there’s always something new to explore right here in town—whether it’s discovering a new corner or just relaxing, or walking along the beach. Honestly, I blinked and a whole month had already flown by.

My first impression was amazing. After just one shared dinner, I already felt like part of the family. I couldn’t have asked for sweeter or smarter kids—we’ve bonded. The daily routine makes time fly, and our weekends together are full of fun and laughter. Sure, the ‘new normal’ makes it harder to meet people and make new friends, but where there’s a will, there’s always a way 🙂