My daughter is trying to decide between two programs to study abroad this summer, in Valencia and Granada. The programs seem very similar in scope so location is the biggest factor -- and both cities sound wonderful. She had been leaning toward Granada because of the Moorish influences but now is looking at Valenia. We don't know alot about either place and her interests are so broad that focusing on that hasn't helped her select.
Any thoughts or advice?
Posted by
Seattle, WA, United States
63 posts
Hi Lisa,
I spent my junior year of college in Seville. I visited Granada 3 times and absolutely loved it! While Seville was wonderful, I did notice that the local culture in Granada felt more accessible with a lot less American students to get in the way of the immersion experience.
I also enjoyed the strong Moorish influence which is so interesting since nearby Seville does not have retain that within contemporary culture very much at all.
The tourist attractions are great, too. I've been to the Alhambra several times and the caves where you can watch gitanos perform flamenco (very touristy - I'm sure there are folks who could point you to more authentic areas for Flamenco.) I also snowboarded there, and the view of the ocean was great from the peak of the mountain.
Sadly, I never made it as far east as Valencia, but I believe it would be a great city as well. It is a little less central for exploring the rest of Spain, unless your daughter would like to visit Barcelona or France.
Let me know what she decides to do!