Culinary Arts Study Abroad Programs in Alicante, Spain

Studying abroad was an experience I had always dreamed of, and I'm so thankful for the winter study abroad program that USAC offers. Time flew by in college, but this was worth the wait. I took Economic and Political Institutions of the European Union at the Universitat d'Alacant in Alicante, Spain. In the mornings, we debated European politics in class. In the evenings and on the weekends, I strolled the beach with views of the Mediterranean, climbed the Castell de Santa Bàrbara, and explored cafes and restaurants with friends — both old and new. I was excited to arrive in Alicante and sad to leave, and I would do it all over again if I could!

My semester abroad in Alicante, Spain, was an immersion into Spanish culture and the sun-drenched life of the Mediterranean coast. My days were a blend of academic pursuits and afternoon explorations, where I quickly learned to navigate the city by the rhythm of its palm-lined esplanadas and the scent of saltwater in the air. Mornings began with churros and thick hot chocolate, followed by classes that deepened my understanding of Spanish history. The afternoons were for wandering through the narrow, winding streets of the old town, discovering hidden plazas, or relaxing on the expansive sandy beaches that define the city's coastline. I honed my Spanish skills through lively conversations with local shopkeepers.