It’s Not Easy Leaving the Beaches of Mallorca

Aleksandra, a participant in the cultural exchange program in Spain, writes to us from the sunny island of Mallorca, where she’s been living and working with a host family.

I’ve always been someone who loves a good challenge and new experiences, so this program felt like the perfect opportunity. For me, the idea of going to a foreign country alone, to live with people I’d never met, was both exciting and terrifying. But I’ve always dreamed of spending more time in Spain—not just passing through as a tourist, but truly living there and soaking up the way of life. And now, I finally had the chance.

The people here are everything I hoped they’d be—relaxed, cheerful, always ready to help. What surprised me, though, is how laid-back they are. They don’t stress much, and anything that can be done today is usually left for tomorrow. It took some getting used to, especially their tendency to be late for everything, but I’ve learned to adapt. One of the things I loved most was how much they value their social time. Their dinners last for hours and are filled with laughter, delicious food, and, of course, a good glass of wine. It’s like stepping into one of those warm, feel-good scenes from a movie.

I’m living with a family on Mallorca. The island is gorgeous, just like everyone says, though not exactly how I pictured it. The inland areas are quite dry and desert-like, not lush and green like I imagined, but the beaches make up for everything. Just when I think I’ve found the most beautiful one, I discover another that’s even better.

I completely fell for Palma. The mix of architecture, the vibrant culture, and the international crowd makes the city feel alive and unique. It quickly became one of my favorite places to explore.

At the beginning, I’ll admit—it was a bit lonely. I didn’t know anyone and needed time to adjust. But once I made some new friends, everything changed. Now, I don’t even want to leave. I’ve been enjoying every moment—whether it’s beach days, trying new foods, discovering little towns, or just spending time with the little girl I’m caring for. We’ve gotten close, and I know I’ll miss her so much when it’s time to go.

This whole experience has been incredible. I’d recommend the program to anyone looking to grow, to explore, and to truly connect with a different culture. I’ve improved my English, picked up some Spanish, made friends from around the world, and learned so much about myself. And anytime I needed help, the team from the Center for Affirmation and Development was just a message away. That support meant everything.