Student Spotlight: Olivia Shaffer in Spain
What is the relationship to food that the people in your host country have? When do they eat? What kinds of foods and ingredients do they eat? Are meals usually with a group or alone? Are there any traditions or customs surrounding food that aid digestion?
“I've found that in Spain, especially in Madrid, meals are about more than just eating—they're a time to slow down and connect with others. People really use meals to catch up with loved ones, and it's totally normal for them to sit around the table long after the food is gone just talking and enjoying each other’s company. Because I live with a Spanish host mom, I’ve been lucky enough to try a lot of authentic home-cooked dishes like paella, tortilla española, and lentejas (lentils). Even though I don’t eat red meat, I’ve noticed how huge jamón ibérico is here—it’s in everything from bocadillos to soups and even pasta.
One big difference I’ve noticed is that people in Spain don’t really snack much throughout the day. Instead, they have full meals, and everything runs about two hours later than in the U.S.—lunch around 2 or 3 PM, and dinner around 9 PM. Meals are almost always eaten with other people, and it’s super common to see people sitting in restaurants for hours without any pressure to leave. Another thing I’ve noticed is how integrated food and drinks are here. Coffee culture is huge, and almost every coffee shop, even the tiny ones, has a food menu too. I’m a coffee fan myself, so I love that.
In terms of digestion, there are some low-key customs that help. Since meals are long and slow-paced, it gives your body time to digest properly. Lunch is usually the biggest meal, while dinner is lighter—often just tapas, which are small dishes meant for sharing. Tapas might not be a direct digestive aid, but the way people eat—slowly, socially, and in moderation—definitely supports better digestion. Plus, it’s common to drink herbal teas like chamomile or mint after dinner to help settle the stomach.”
What does daily movement look like in your host country? Do people mainly drive cars or use public transportation? Do they walk or bike? Do you see people exercising? Are exercise facilities available and accessible?
“I don’t know if it’s because I love to explore or because I commute to school every day, but I’ve definitely walked more than ever since being in Madrid. The city is so walkable, and I genuinely enjoy wandering through the beautiful streets and discovering new cafes—that’s a big part of why I’ve been so active here. I also live near Retiro Park (basically Madrid’s version of Central Park), and on nice days it’s full of people walking, running, picnicking, or even rowing little boats on the lake. It’s such a peaceful spot and perfect for daily movement.
I do take the metro too, especially since my campus is about an hour’s walk away. The metro system here is super clean, fast, and easy to use. I was actually shocked my first morning commute at 7am—there were so many people already on the metro heading to work. Coming from a suburb with basically no public transportation, it was a totally new experience for me. I’ve also taken the bus a couple times, but I’ll admit I’m not the biggest fan—mainly because I found out (the hard way) that you have to wave the bus down or they’ll just drive right by! Motorcycles and scooters are everywhere in Madrid too. Tons of people use them to get around, and it’s especially common for food delivery drivers. One of my professors even drives one to school!
As for exercise, I’d say most Madrileños stay active by walking or running. The gym culture isn’t as intense as it is in the U.S.—there are gyms, but they’re usually smaller and spread out across the city. For me, the easiest way to stay active has been just picking a destination on Google Maps (usually a thrift store or coffee shop) and walking there. It’s a fun way to explore the city while getting my steps in.”
Is there a cadence or rest in your host country? Do people generally go home or start their work or school at a certain hour? Do they have periods of rest during the day? Is there urgency or relaxedness in your host culture?
“I’d have to say that the cadence of life in Madrid was one of the most unexpected things about being here. For such a large, bustling city, people truly know how to slow down and prioritize rest. One of the clearest examples of this is the siesta—a midday break where shops and small businesses literally close for a couple of hours. It’s such a contrast to a place like New York, where the “hustle culture” is nonstop (which, don’t get me wrong, I also appreciate). But Madrid somehow finds a balance—it’s a city that always has something going on, yet it's also deeply rooted in relaxation, taking your time, and enjoying moments with loved ones.
I love that rest isn't reserved just for weekends here—it’s built into daily life. Even though people still start work and school fairly early, lunch breaks are longer, and it’s not uncommon to see people taking a walk with friends or sitting at a terrace enjoying the (usually sunny) Madrid weather. There’s definitely a more relaxed vibe overall, and I think being here has really shown me the value of slowing down and making time for things that bring you joy—not just productivity.
One of my favorite parts of the day is when I walk home from the train. I always pass people out walking their dogs (who are often wearing cute little coats), and sometimes the dogs even have little playdates while the owners stop and chat. It’s such a wholesome reminder that even in a big city, people make space in their day for connection and a slower pace.”