A Perfect Opportunity for an Adventure Abroad

Nikolija shared her story from Palma de Mallorca, where she’s currently spending her days with her host family and new friends she’s made through the program. Here’s why she chose this path—and what she has to say to anyone considering doing the same.

From the very beginning, the program sounded like the perfect chance for an adventure abroad during my gap year after high school. I’ve always had a deep love for Spanish culture, and I didn’t just want to visit—I wanted to live it. I wanted to know what it’s like to be part of a Spanish family, and that’s exactly the experience I’ve had. My host family is incredibly kind and loving, and the search for similarities and differences in our everyday lives has only brought us closer. The city itself is such a perfect embodiment of the Spanish spirit—the people, the architecture, the landmarks… everything feels like it was made just for me. I even started keeping a list of all the things I adore about this place.

Most of my free time is spent at the beach or exploring all the hidden gems this island has to offer (coming from a country without a coastline, it’s a dream to experience life by the sea). I visit museums and cafes, and I’m constantly meeting new people.

What I’ve loved the most is the energy of the Spanish people and how quickly I felt at home. After just a few days, it already felt like I had been living here for two months (or more), not like I had just arrived. There’s something about this island’s vibe—something magical and cinematic, like I’ve stepped into the perfect “coming-of-age” summer movie. Twelve-year-old me would be over the moon with my current life, and that’s what matters the most to me. 🙂

My advice? Bring a notebook with you! Even if you’re not into journaling or don’t think you’re “good” at it, jot down at least a single sentence or word that captures your day. Even just writing “Today was beautiful!” can bring back a flood of memories and emotions when you read it later. I hope you get to experience something just as magical. Wishing you the best of luck with choosing your location and host family!