I have been so lucky to spend a full week in Spanish school in the town of Ronda in the south of Spain. Each day has been pretty much the same: get up and ready, do my homework, go hiking/exploring the town, school from 4pm-8pm, try different tapas and wines, home to bed. Repeat. A simple but awesome life.
I was drawn to the Entrelenguas school as soon as I read their website.
I have seen a huge advancement in my Spanish over the week. I must give credit to the conversation club that I’ve been attending weekly at the Medicine Hat Public Library which has definitely kept my momentum going. This week concepts that previously made my brain explode have been much easier to understand and use. I’ve still had my fair share of smoke coming out of my ears, but all in the name of progress!
Ronda is such an easy town to immerse into because it can be explored fully on foot. It’s famous for it’s bridges that span a gorge which runs through the middle of the town. There are 3 different bridges, but the newest one (finished in 1793) is the biggest tourist attraction in town.
Ronda also has a significant history in bullfighting. The local Romero family is credited for introducing the red cape and making it more of an art rather than just a slaughter. The oldest bullfighting ring in town still hosts an annual event. I’m thankful I wasn’t present for it.
Numerous writers and artists have gotten inspiration from this picturesque town, including Hemingway’s ‘For Whom The Bell Tolls’.
Much of the time when hiking I’ve felt like I’m walking through a painting. I’ve definitely put some miles on my shoes. I consider it more like earning the ability to eat more Iberian ham.
I could definitely see myself returning here again, hopefully next time with RobO.
Tomorrow I take the train to Córdoba. It’s only 1 week until another Olson reunion. The countdown timer is running…