Imagine quitting your job at age 27, leaving friends, family, and an amazing life in California to move to a tiny city in Spain that you have never heard of. It was a move that felt so intimidating but it was also the most rewarding risk I have ever taken! At the time I had not read the book called The Alchemist- but since then it has become my favorite book. Everyone should read it and if you don't understand why I would make a decision like moving to Spain, it can definitely shed light on why I did it. I didn't realize it at the time of my move, but I was taking steps toward achieving my personal legend. The decision was hard to make because of fear - and it was the most valuable lesson I have learned in this life. Letting go of fear and moving past the fears we create in our heads. We are the biggest obstacle in most situations holding ourselves back. Overcoming that fear and taking chances, and seeing the risks pay off is one of the most invigorating, uplifting feelings I have experienced. It opens doors in life that may have seemed impossible- the road less traveled is the most beautiful road you can take in my opinion. I made a promise to myself that I will never let fear hold me back from anything in this life again.
I moved to Jaén back in September of 2019 and since then, this little city became my home away from home. Jaén is a hidden gem. There are practically no tourists here, yet the city is one of the most charming, beautiful places I have been. The city sits up on a hill, with a gorgeous castle overlooking it, surrounded by olive fields for miles and miles. The curving, tiny streets in the city center are endless, filled with tiny tapas bars, cafes, and local tiendas (shops). A very small percentage of the population speaks English, so I got the cultural immersion I was hoping for. When I arrived I spoke practically no Spanish, so I had to learn quick in order to survive, and communicate with the locals. I have been fortunate enough to meet a close group of expats living in Jaén who have become my family, as well as some Spanish friends who speak English. When I first arrived, simple things like going to the grocery store were a humiliating task. I was nervous to even go to coffee shop to order a coffee because I didn't know how to order anything. On my first day in Jaén I ordered a cappuccino, expecting a shot of espresso with some foamed milk and what I was presented with was a chocolatey coffee drink with whip cream and sprinkles. At 9 in the morning this is hardly what I had in mind, but I drank it down because I had no idea how to explain what I actually wanted. I can't even count how many times I turned bright red with embarrassment in public situations like this, or how many times I was on the verge of tears because I got on the wrong bus, or just had no idea what was going on. But these are the situations that have helped me grow. Quickly, I learned that I had to stop caring what other people think. I kept trying to speak Spanish, I kept putting myself in uncomfortable situations, because thats how you learn. Now I feel confident ordering at restaurants, traveling alone, I feel like I can do anything. Although there have been many hard and frustrating moments during this learning curve, there have been far MORE kind people, who have gone out of their way to help me. There are a lot of genuine, kind people out there :) Jaén and Spain will forever have a piece of my heart and will be a second home to me for my entire life.
Catedral de Jaén. I love walking by the cathedral or sitting on one of the benches in front it and admiring its beauty. You can attend mass inside as well.
This is a view from the Santa Catalina Castle in Jaén. The hike up is about an hour from the city center and the views are stunning.
The main street in the city center of Jaén.
Some of my mejores amigas (best gal pals) and me at one of our favorite bars - La Clasica.
Waiting at my bus stop in Bailén haha always waiting for a late bus...
My cozy little apartment - so many good memories around my little kitchen table with great friends, food, and wine.
My street.
Trying to make my apartment cute on a budget. Thanks pinterest.
Beautiful streets of Jaén
Nature and goat friends!
Having fun trying on flamenco dresses!
The accessibility and affordability of fresh organic produce in Jaén was unreal. Not to mention the olive oil, the best olive oil i've ever tasted!
Walking down the street on a rainy day, on our way to our favorite cafe! Cafe La Molienda
Our favorite café! Almond milk latte :)
Drinks and tapas at our favorite bar, Taberna Sanatorio. The staff knew us as regulars and were always so kind to us, the bar was around the corner from my house so we went all the time. Our other favorite spot in the area was 4 Esquinas. In Jaén and Granada, with every drink you order, you receive a free tapa!
Cute vintage market that was put on once a month!
Salsa dancing crew:)
My core group of girlfriends in Spain, celebrating Carla's birthday at our favorite vegan restaurant!
Birthday girl!
Jaén during Christmas time with beautiful lights everywhere!
There was tons of great hiking in Jaén, we went all the time!
Some vintage finds, all of this for a total of 8 euros!
My last outing in Jaén before coronavirus forced me to leave. An amazing lunch with amazing friends.
My last moments in Spain 💔 I decided to come home to California to wait out these crazy times and unknowns of coronavirus with my family. Traveling during a pandemic was a terrifying experience but I felt more support and love from strangers in airports, buses, and hotels than I have ever experienced while traveling. There is always something beautiful to be found in something tragic if you look hard enough💓 I can’t wait to return to Spain once this is all over.
Comments