From Morocco to Malaga: Our First Day in Spain! 5/28/25

Today was our last day in Morocco! I woke up at the crack of dawn to pack all my things. As I packed everything up, I reminisced about all the places we traveled through Morocco, from the carpet I got from Chefchaouen to the various pottery pieces I got from Meknes. It was a bit sad since I don’t know the next time I will be back, but there was also excitement to travel to Spain. 

Arriving to board our ferry to Spain!

As we arrived at the port, before boarding the ferry, we said our goodbyes to Oussama. He was our ISA representative who guided us through our many different experiences in Morocco. It was very sad to say goodbye to him because he became one of our good friends, and we enjoyed spending time together throughout our trip. 

After an hour on the ferry, we arrived in Spain! Getting off the ferry was a bit of a hassle, I thought I was going to blow away into the ocean with the crazy winds! After going through security, we boarded a bus that took us to Malaga, Spain. 

Upon our arrival, we went to the city center where we went to learn about Pablo Picasso. Pablo Picasso was born in Málaga, Spain. Our tour guide explained how Picasso's father was an art teacher. Initially, Picasso painted in a traditional style associated with European paintings. Many people criticized Picasso's style of cubism, but regardless, Picasso created many famous works that are recognized worldwide. 

Me with Picasso!

We also visited the Alcazaba Teatro Romano and saw the amphitheater where choirs and bands would perform music. Additionally, we visited Santa Iglesia Catedral Basílica, which was absolutely breathtaking! Throughout our trip to both Morocco and Spain, each country has had an influence on the other due to being in close contact. Throughout the cathedral, and the Muslim occupation through Spain, the cathedral reflects both elements of being a mosque, then turned into a cathedral. It was interesting to see the incorporation of motifs and architectural styles of both religions within one structure. As an art enthusiast, I absolutely loved this trip! It has deepened my understanding of how religion and religious elements are incorporated into art and design, and how this reflects the importance of religion within each country.

Alcazaba Teatro Romano

 Santa Iglesia Catedral Basílica (look at all the little birdies!)

After our tour of Malaga, I went shopping! If there is one word that I could characterize the entire trip by, it would be shopping. From the little shops at the Medinas in Morocco to the many stores that lined the city center in Spain, there are too many enticing places but souvenirs, and especially for me, clothes. Let’s just say this was day seven of shopping throughout this trip. 

Although our time abroad is coming to an end, this experience has forever changed me as a global citizen and increased my eagerness to travel abroad again!

Signing off, 

Mia