As part of my university course, it is compulsory that we spend a year studying or working abroad which is why I am in the beautiful Spanish region of La Rioja for the year. It’s a tough life I know ;). I have thoroughly enjoyed exploring what the region has to offer and it is a particularly pretty area as the vineyards make for stunning scenery. I don’t even mind my early morning commutes to work because I can watch the sunrise over the striking landscape.
However, I have always wanted to use this year to be able to travel around Spain in order to discover and learn more about the other regions and cities in this fascinating country. So far I have made it to Madrid, Bilbao, Barcelona, Zaragoza, Salamanca and Sevilla … Not bad after only a few months here!
What is interesting is that a lot of my friends who are still studying in the UK have asked me how I am able to afford all of this travel. The truth is that if you do not choose luxury accommodation or the fastest route to your destination, it is fairly easy to travel around Spain on a small budget. I usually stay in hostels or with friends and normally choose to travel by bus as it is cheaper than going by train, even though that may take me longer. Therefore, my trips are not usually very luxurious but I am happy because I am able to explore new areas and meet new people.
Additionally, I make sacrifices so that I am able to afford my travel costs. For example, the €30 shirt which I loved last week in my favourite shop had to be put back down because that €30 will pay for a return bus to Madrid … I therefore choose to travel rather than do other things. Besides, I don’t ask my friend how much it costs her to go horse riding every week – a hobby which must be at least equally as expensive as my travelling hobby!
If you really want to do something, you find a way to make it happen and that is why I am able to travel around so much. I am very lucky that I have this opportunity and I intend to make the most of it. Next stop, Cádiz!
Do you consider travel to be one of your hobbies? Do you think travel is too expensive?
