By Tomek W, Teen Summer Language Camp Spain-Salamanca Summer 2025
Every year, Greenheart Travel offers scholarships for First Time Travelers. Our goal is for more people to experience the joys of travel and the importance of cultural exchange. Here’s one of our First Time Travel Scholarship winners here to tell us about his adventures at Greenheart’s Teen Language Camp in Spain…. Take it away, Tomek!
Spending three weeks in Salamanca, Spain, was nothing short of transformative. Beyond the language classes and formal learning, what truly shaped my experience was the day-to-day life—wandering the ancient streets, sharing laughs over café con leche, and discovering how beautifully different (yet surprisingly familiar) life could be in another country.
A City That Breathes History
One of the first things I noticed about Salamanca was how alive history felt. Walking through the Plaza Mayor felt like stepping into a painting. The baroque architecture, glowing golden at sunset, created a backdrop that made even the smallest moments—like sipping espresso or listening to a street musician—feel cinematic.
The entire city feels like an open-air museum. From the intricate carvings on the façade of the Universidad de Salamanca to the soaring towers of the cathedral, I was constantly surrounded by reminders of Spain’s rich heritage. One of the coolest local traditions was trying to spot the frog hidden in the university façade—it’s said to bring good luck to those who find it.
Life with Locals
Living in Salamanca gave me the chance to engage with locals daily. One of the biggest cultural differences I noticed was how social and relaxed everything felt. People took their time at meals, often spending hours chatting over food instead of rushing to finish. “La sobremesa”—the Spanish tradition of lingering at the table after eating—was something I came to truly appreciate. It wasn’t just about food, but about connection.
The people I met were incredibly welcoming and patient, even when I stumbled over my Spanish. One barista even began correcting my pronunciation gently during our daily coffee chats—something I ended up really appreciating. Little by little, these interactions made me feel less like a tourist and more like a temporary local.
Food Adventures and Surprises
Food deserves its own spotlight. Spanish cuisine in Salamanca is hearty, flavorful, and full of character. I quickly became a fan of jamón ibérico, tortilla española, and hornazo, a local meat pie. One of my favorite discoveries was churros con chocolate—a simple but addictive treat I’ll never forget.
The rhythm of meals was a cultural shift, too. Dinner often didn’t start until 9 or 10 PM. At first, it felt odd to eat so late, but soon I began to appreciate the laid-back approach to dining and time. It made the evenings feel longer, warmer, and more connected.
Weekend Adventures and Free Time
On weekends, I explored every corner of Salamanca—and sometimes even beyond. Whether I was joining classmates for a hike along the Tormes River, browsing artisan stalls in a plaza, or attending a spontaneous outdoor concert, every moment felt like a mini adventure.
One highlight was climbing the towers of the New Cathedral. From the top, I had a panoramic view of the city—the red rooftops, church spires, and distant hills. It was a quiet moment of reflection, and it hit me how far I’d come, both geographically and personally.
Lessons and Lasting Impact
This trip was about more than travel—it was about perspective. Living in a different country, even for just three weeks, forced me to slow down, listen more, and embrace discomfort. It made me realize how big the world is, but also how connected we all are. Whether I was laughing with classmates from around the globe or having a conversation in broken Spanish with a local shop owner, I felt a shared human experience that crossed language and cultural barriers.
I returned home with a journal full of memories, a camera roll full of sunsets, and a heart full of gratitude. Salamanca taught me to appreciate the present, to find joy in small things, and to keep exploring—with curiosity, humility, and an open mind.
If you’re considering studying abroad—even for a short time—do it. The world is bigger and more beautiful than you think, and there’s nothing quite like discovering it for yourself.
Thank you Tomek for sharing your experience at the Teen Summer Language Camp in Spain! Readers can learn more about all Greenheart Travel’s Teen Language Programs on our website. In addition, follow us on social media for updates on when the First Time Traveler scholarship window opens again.
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