Dive Into the Adventure – A Cultural Exchange in Spain

Una, one of our cultural exchange participants in Spain, wrote to us from the beautiful town of Villaviciosa, located in the Asturias region. She’s been soaking up the charm of this unique part of northern Spain for several weeks now—here’s what she had to say about her journey so far:

Every beginning is tough, and that includes those first few days after arriving at the host family’s home. Meeting new people, adjusting to a new environment, and adapting to a different way of life can be a lot—but luckily, my host family really made an effort to make this new experience as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. When it comes to the kids, I’ve learned they’re not always on their best behavior—which, for me, has been the biggest challenge. Patience is the key. Asturias is a fantastic destination for people like me who aren’t fans of extreme summer heat, and at the same time, I’ve still gotten to enjoy the beautiful beaches of northern Spain.

Right now, I’m staying in a village called Castiello de la Marina, which is pretty remote and perfect for nature lovers. It’s peaceful during the day, but in the evenings, nearby villages often come alive with parties and events—there’s a surprisingly vibrant atmosphere! Villaviciosa itself is a lovely little town, and cities like Oviedo and Gijón nearby are just as charming. During the summer, there are plenty of activities for all ages, so boredom is never an issue. Asturias feels very different from the rest of Spain—it’s such an authentic and special place, and I’m really glad I got the chance to experience its culture and traditions firsthand.

Most of my time is spent with the host family, their friends, and relatives. Sometimes we go to the beach, a concert, or local events in nearby towns. I also spend a good amount of time on my own—going shopping or taking long walks. The nature here is breathtaking, and I genuinely enjoy being out in it. If I had to pick a favorite part of the experience, it would be the food! I’ve loved trying traditional Spanish dishes and discovering so many new flavors.

When it comes to working with our team, Una says:

The staff has been incredibly kind and always willing to help in any situation!

And her message to future participants:

Don’t overthink it—just go for it! Say yes to the adventure and make the most of the opportunity. You won’t regret it.