Studying abroad was always a dream of mine, so when I got accepted into a program to study in Ireland, I was thrilled. Before I knew it, I was on a 6 hour plane ride and arrived in Dublin. I immediately fell in love with the city's vibrant atmosphere. I met with new people, experienced new cultures, and explored new places. Over the next few weeks, I explored the city's many attractions, from the Guinness Storehouse to Trinity College. But, I also knew I wanted to get a taste of traditional Irish life outside of the city, which is why I headed to the charming fishing village of Howth and it quickly became one of my favorite memories from my time abroad.
The train ride to Howth was only about thirty minutes from Dublin, but it felt like a world away. The village was picturesque, with colorful houses and fishing boats bobbing in the harbor. We decided to walk along the Howth Cliff Path. It was a bit windy and cold, but the views of the sea and the cliffs were absolutely breathtaking. It was a perfect way to spend the morning and I felt like I had gotten an authentic taste of Irish life. After that 2 hour hike, we headed straight to a local fish and chips shop and ate like we never have before.
My visit to Venice, Italy, was a gastronomic delight, as I indulged in copious amounts of pasta during my stay. I tried everything from classic spaghetti with tomato sauce to delicious carbonara and seafood linguine. The pasta in Venice was like no other I had ever tasted, with the perfect al dente texture and rich, savory flavors. I also loved exploring the city's many restaurants and cafes, each with its own unique ambiance and style. One of my favorite memories was the night we first arrived in Venice. We landed at around 9:30 pm but didn't get to Venice until around 11:00 pm. As we were
hungrily scrolling google trying to find restaurants near our Air bnb we stumbled upon a small restaurant, where I enjoyed a delicious plate of pasta while sipping on a glass of local white wine. Locals would come in with their
dogs and the owners would have food ready for the dogs. The combination of the food, wine, and the feeling of authenticity made for a truly unforgettable experience. Eating my way through Venice was a highlight of my time in Italy, and I can't wait to return and try even more pasta in the future.
Amsterdam's winding canals and charming architecture made it feel like a fairy tale come to life. I visited Anne Frank's house and it was a surreal and thought-provoking experience. The museum did an excellent job of telling Anne's story through her diary entries, photographs, and personal belongings.
Looking back on my current adventure studying abroad in Ireland and travelling to Amsterdam and Italy, I feel incredibly grateful for my experiences. I met many amazing people, tried many new things, and learned much about the world around me. It was truly an adventure of a lifetime, and I can't wait to see where my travels take me next.
Georgette Encinas
GW Echange - University College Dublin
Spring 2023
School of Engineering and Applied Sciences
Civil Engineering Major