Hasta luego, Barcelona. I will miss you terribly.

I spent my last day(s) in Barcelona having a sort of internal toddler tantrum. I can't tell you how many times I thought, "but I don't wanna leave!" in a whiny, pouty voice. Cue stomping of the feet and crossing of the arms. I couldn't believe this amazing experience would be over as soon as I walked out of our apartment door, two heavy suitcases and backpack in tow.

But, it didn't matter how many time I pouted about having to leave, time kept flying by and finally it was my turn to board a plane to Munich.

These past 6 weeks not only taught me so much about how to be a better traveller, to speak Spanish more fluently, to be a pro at mass transit and to survive constant, unbearable heat, but it taught me so much about myself in general. About what I want - and what I deserve - for my future.

I think one thing that made it so hard to leave was all of the incredible people. The students in my program came from all over the country. Some people will return to their home University with new friends on campus, or at least a short drive away. I was the only student from the Southeast at all to come on the trip. (There was a whole new meta-level of culture shock going on.)

Leaving my host Mom family difficult, too. How many times can you say thank you to the woman who insists on packing you a lunch so you don't have to buy food in the Airport? Lauren and I got so lucky with our living situation - I could not have asked for a sweeter, funnier woman. She was always willing to teach us anything. Her son, who is my age, and daughter who is a few years older, were equally as helpful and entertaining. I always looked forward to our nightly dinners.

So just like that, I'm on to the next one. Throughout the next week, I will be traveling to Germany, Italy and Switzerland. I'm excited to meet all the new faces I'll be traveling with and ready to explore these countries that are so different from Spain.

Barcelona will always, always have a special place in my heart. Planning for the day when I can return and be someone's tour guide!