Caroline during her internship in Málaga

What was the first thing you thought when you arrived in Spain?

The first thing I thought when I arrived in Spain was: "Can someone pinch me? Is this for real?"

What was the most shocking difference between the Netherlands and Spain?

The most shocking difference is the climate; it’s 30 degrees Celsius here during the day.

What does your typical workday look like?

My workday goes like this: I get ready at 7:30 am to take the bus to work. Once there, I set everything up. Usually, I get an assignment from my employer, Gonzalo. I receive a lot of information, and at 2:00 pm we have lunch. At 6:00 pm, I take the bus home again.

How is the working atmosphere at your internship company?

The working atmosphere at the internship company is very relaxed. The TV is often on, and Gonzalo once showed us YouTube videos from his vacation (Las Vegas) and from a company outing where they took surfing lessons.

Have you ever felt homesick? How did you deal with it?

I think I will get homesick when I’m back in the Netherlands (unfortunately).

Do you feel at home in Spain? Why (not)?

I do feel at home in Spain. My Spanish is terrible, but somehow I manage to communicate.

Give us tips about who you should befriend abroad. The Russians? The Irish? The Chileans?

Tips about who to befriend... I think it’s whoever you feel comfortable with. The people of Spain are passionate, friendly, and hospitable. Some things are cheaper here, but others are much more expensive. Public transport is really cheap here. A bus ticket to Málaga (45 km) costs €8, to my work (7 km) costs €1.20. Mouthwash, like Listerine, costs €8.