Marija is currently enjoying her cultural exchange adventure through the Discover Spain program, living with a local family and soaking up every bit of summer life. Here’s what she had to say:
The family reminds me a lot of my own back in Bosnia—lots of people, a big yard… Everyone’s in a good mood, well-organized, loves hanging out, eating well, and listening to music. I like how relaxed they are, and honestly, I feel like I’m at home. I’m staying in Poio, a small town that’s a suburb of Pontevedra, and it’s perfect for enjoying nature.
Since I’m with the kids from 10 to 2, my free time starts right after lunch, which we always eat together. Then I usually choose between chilling in the backyard (they’ve got a big pool, speakers, lounge chairs—total summer vibe!) or heading out with friends to explore nearby places. In just three weeks, I’ve met four guys and six girls through this program or locals, and we’ve already visited Santiago de Compostela, Sanxenxo, Combarro, Cabo Udra, Pontevedra, and about four or five beaches.
The family’s white wine, the a la Lanzada beach, the 85-year-old great-grandma sipping beer and sunbathing by the pool with me (so cool!), the dad who’s convinced I’ll master Spanish, and the mom who worries così much—pure gold 🥰.