Vanessa: The final chapter – Saying Goodbye to Barcelona

Our last week in Barcelona was filled with mixed emotions — part normal, part unforgettable.

At work, things remained steady. I worked from 9 to 1 every day, while Valentina and Rosa were given a different task for the week. The routine felt familiar by now, but there was also this quiet sense of “this is the last time I’ll be doing this here.”

Outside of work, we made the most of every minute. We had pizza on the beach, soaking in the late sun and warm breeze one final time. One of the highlights of the week was visiting the Bunkers del Carmel. The view over the city at sunset was absolutely magical – a moment that felt like the perfect postcard memory of Barcelona.

We ate typical Spanish tapas and enjoyed shopping in the city. Then, from Friday to Monday, Sophia visited us, which made the weekend even more special. Together we went to a rooftop bar, had good food, and of course, went shopping (again). Having her there was like bringing a piece of home into this experience.

On Monday, the day we had to say goodbye, we woke up at 5 a.m. to catch our flight. Luckily, we planned much time at the airport because we stood in line to drop off our luggage for one hour. And just when we thought we were on our way, the pilot announced a 1.5-hour delay due to a weather warning. Luckily, we took off after just 30 minutes. Still, it was one final test of patience. When we landed, the rain in Austria greeted us — as if Barcelona wanted to remind us one last time how much we’d miss its sunshine.

Now that I’m back, I realize how much these past weeks have meant to me. Erasmus+ wasn’t just about working abroad. It was about stepping out of my comfort zone, learning to be independent, and seeing life from a different perspective. I also realized how much I appreciate the little things at home — like drinking water straight from the tap or knowing exactly where to find everything in the supermarket.

I’m so grateful for the opportunity to have experienced all of this.Yes, I’m happy to be home — but Barcelona will always have a piece of my heart. This experience changed me in ways I’m still discovering. And for that, I’ll always be thankful.

Thank you, Erasmus+ and Mr Crewe.

Thank you, Barcelona. Until we meet again.