In 2014, once again the University of Akron kids returned to Valladolid, Spain
The students chose from a variety of options including staying the month of june, the month of july or staying for both months. Not only did they get ample opportunity to practice their Spanish but they also had a chance to visit several cities in Spain, try delicious food & kick up their heels.
One evening we took the train and spent an evening in Avila. We were able to walk along the walls and look out over the surrounding countryside.
For one of our Saturday trips we spent a day in Salamanca. The University of Valladolid professors guided our group to provide us with historic descriptions of the city and its buildings. Students had time to lose themselves in this famous university city and grab a bite to eat as well as take a couple photo opps.
One of our evening excursions landed us in the beautiful town of Burgos. Most famous for its enormous cathedral which dominates the central plaza, a great spot to soak in the view while sipping on a cafe or chowing on some churros, Burgos offers a unique view of small city life.
We also took a "ruta de castillos" trip where we visited 3 castles scattered throughout the province of Castilla y Leon.
On the 3rd weekend of June, we ventured to the northern coast of Spain, to San Sebastian, as a group. The bus ride wound its way north to this vibrant city which offers fantastic views of the Cantabrica Sea.
Our final excursion was to Segovia. This small city welcomes you with a Roman aqueduct and is also home to a castle that is Disney worthy. Unfortunately many shops were closed because of their Saints celebrations but students were still able to take advantage of the spectacular view and enjoy the day.
After four weeks of living and studying in Valladolid, classes concluded with the graduation ceremony in Plaza Santa Cruz, followed by a reception in the courtyard. This was a bittersweet celebration of the end of their studies in Spain.
Our visit to Spain came to a close with a few days in Madrid. With so much to do in this bustling city, students had the option to wander through Retiro Park, visit Velazquez, Dali and Picasso in El Prado and Reina Sofia Museums or shop to their heart's content.
Adios Valladolid! Y hasta el año que viene!