Bike Ride, Train, Metro… In the Park


We made our way to Barcelona! The train from Madrid to our new stay was peaceful and relatively quick. What I love most about Europe is the access to experience different places and cultures so easily. There are people from my hometown that consider it a road trip when going to Pittsburgh, which is an 1.5 hrs away, and may never leave our small community. Here, there are cheaper ways to travel and experience new ideas and living. This is a part of the environment in Spain that promotes a healthier lifestyle, in my opinion. In the United States, transportation can be a huge barrier to many aspects of life. This could include receiving medical treatments or just enjoying leisure activities that support a balanced life. 

I have noticed a lot of differences between the cities of Madrid and Barcelona. I think they are difficult to explain without experiencing them first hand. A main idea I’ve learned on this trip overall, is the importance of having these first-hand experiences, as oppose to just reading about health in Spain, for example. Along these lines is having appreciation for people that are native to places or a culture. A lot of my learning has been within the side conversations or stories I’ve heard from our program directors. 

Our group went on a beautiful bike tour through a part of Barcelona. Bicycle safety has been integrated into the city and was very cool to see, coming from Iowa City, where riding can be dangerous at times. There are specific stop lights for bikes, paths through the roads and parks, speed bumps, and added blocks that would help stop a car from entering the bike lane. These are projects that would better promote exercise as well as decreasing pollution. I am curious if Spain has as many stark differences between the health of neighborhoods that can be seen in the US. Neighborhood effects are hugely impactful to health and well-being, and I don’t presume it to be as large of an issue here. I will keep on observing these ideas through out our next few days here!


 

My excitement to see the sea! This was a part of our bike tour.

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