Top 10 Reasons to Study Abroad in Spain

You have numerous options when it comes to studying abroad in Spain.

Regardless of what you study, you'll enjoy settling into your new city and getting immersed in Spanish culture. Students studying in the country will find inspiration in the country's food, culture, and vibrant nightlife.

It's no wonder that studying abroad in Spain is so popular! The following top ten reasons will demonstrate just how great it can be and motivate you to embark on your Spanish study abroad journey.

1. Discover the history

From the Inquisition to the Spanish "Golden Age" to the War of Spanish Independence, Spain has played a role in some of the most dramatic events in human history.

With so many reminders of the past still present throughout the country, studying abroad in Spain is one of the best experiences you can have.

During your time in Spain, you'll be able to see and feel the history entwined in every building and street. For example, you could:

• Visit the Catedral de Sevilla in Seville, Spain. It's the world's largest Gothic cathedral, which was built over the city's mosque after the Castilian King Fernando III captured the city from its previous rulers.
• Visit the Prado in Madrid, which has served as a meeting place of intellectuals, barracks for Napoleon's troops, a palace, and now a museum.

3. Learn the language

Since you're studying abroad in Spain, you might as well learn one of the world's most influential languages: Spanish!

• Spoken across oceans and continents, Spanish is the second most spoken language in the world, when you count only native speakers.
• Many universities offer courses to international students to learn Spanish.

No matter if you're a total beginner or want to improve what you've already learned in school, studying abroad in Spain is the best way to do it! Being immersed in the culture will give you the ability to practice what you learn, no matter where you go!

4. Taste the cuisine

Your Spanish study abroad experience wouldn't be complete without diving into the local food, so if you're not yet familiar with Spanish cuisine, it's time to get to know it.

Some of the classics include:

• Paella
• Spanish omelettes
• Gazpacho
• Chorizo

When studying abroad in Spain, it's best to participate in one of Spain's cultural institutions - tapas. To experience tapas like a local, make sure to bring along some of your new international friends, then collectively find a bar to get a drink and order your first round of tapas.

But don't eat (or drink) too much at the first spot, tapas are to be enjoyed in several different locations over an evening. When you're ready to move on, the next tapas bar is only a few steps away.

5. Participate in the festivals

Students in Spain will be surprised that a country that dedicates so much time to living the good life is home to a plethora of unique and entertaining festivals!

Cities and small villages alike all have their own special celebrations, some of which have become world famous.

While studying abroad in Spain, make sure not to miss some of the best:

La Tomatina:

Every August in the town of Buñol, participants get involved in the world's largest tomato fight. That's right, for about one hour, thousands of people throw tomatoes at each other, drenching the entire town in tomato pulp!

The Semana Grande of Bilbao:

One of Spain's new, up-and-coming cities, Bilbao, is also home to the Semana Grande, a nine-day festival featuring performances, fairs, concerts, and exhibitions. Don't miss the firework competitions that take place on eight of the nine nights during the fair!

Carnival:

Throughout Spain, carnival celebrations occur nationwide during the month of February. So, no matter where you study abroad in Spain, you'll be able to experience the wonderful colors and rhythms of one of the world's most popular festivities!

6. Witness the art and literature

After all the partying, you might need a little downtime to recuperate. Any student studying abroad in Spain can also experience the more laid-back side of Spanish culture.

• Begin by exploring the diverse literature produced by renowned Spaniards, such as Miguel de Cervantes or Javier Marías.
• Try reading them in their original language to practice your Spanish skills.

The list of famous painters from Spain will not disappoint either. If you haven't heard of Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali, Francisco Goya, or Joan Miró, you should check out one of the many worthwhile art museums during your Spain study abroad trip.

7. Experience the music and performing arts

Whether it's traditional Spanish music or commercial pop, the variety of styles and genres found in Spain will entertain music lovers throughout their study abroad experience. 

Perhaps the most famous is Flamenco, an art form that combines music and dance, rooted in the folk traditions of southern Spain.

Also, don't forget to check out Spanish opera. Major opera houses exist in almost every Spanish city, hosting world-renowned opera singers who perform widely recognized pieces.

Afterwards, if you need something a little more upbeat, head to any Spanish club to experience what makes Spanish pop music so catchy!

8. Celebrate the sports

When studying abroad in Spain, be prepared to celebrate after one of Spain's many sporting successes if you're a sports fan (and even if you're not)!

• In recent decades, Spain has experienced great success in football (soccer), tennis, and basketball.
• Spain has also hosted international events such as the FIFA World Cup and the Summer Olympics, making it an ideal destination for any student who enjoys catching a game or two during breaks from class. 

9. Catch a glimpse of the monuments

If you're looking to spice up your social media feed during your study abroad experience, snap pictures of the amazing Spanish architecture!

Some popular monuments across Spain include:

• Cathedrals
• Fortresses
• Basilicas
• Mosques

If you're planning a study abroad in Mallorca, don't miss getting a few snaps of the Cathedral of Palma de Mallorca, a beautiful 14th-century Gothic cathedral featuring a tower that houses nine bells.

Or, check out one of the best places for architecture: Barcelona! There's the Arc de Triomf, the Sagrada Familia, Parc Güell, and the fountains at Montjuic, to name just a few wonders worth seeing.

10. Find yourself

The decision to leave friends and family behind to study abroad is not an easy one. However, it grants students who are ready to take on the challenge the opportunity to explore what it means to be an individual in the world at large.

While studying abroad in Spain, take the chance to find yourself, make new friends, learn a new language, explore a new city, and immerse yourself in a new culture!

Conclusion

Spain isn't just a destination; it's an experience. From historic landmarks to world-class festivals and flamenco rhythms to lifelong friendships, studying abroad in Spain offers endless opportunities for academic, personal, and cultural enrichment.

Whether learning Spanish, exploring art, or enjoying food with new friends, Spain will leave a lasting impression on your life and education.