Tips

Guide To Expand Your Circle!

 So, you’ve packed your bags, waved goodbye to the familiar, and set off on an epic journey to explore the great unknown. But let’s be real, as exhilarating as it is, moving to a new country can sometimes feel like being the new kid at school all over again.

 

Fear not, we’ve got the guide on how to kickstart your social life and make friends faster than you can say “hola”. Here are some tips to help you crack the code and level up your social game abroad!

 

Local culture

First things first, let’s crack the code on language and culture! Whether you’re perfecting your “hola,” “gracias,” or “buenos días,” embracing the local language is your passport to making connections and winning hearts wherever you go. Pro tip: Duolingo is your new best friend, and a little confidence goes a long way, so don’t be afraid to bust out those beginner phrases and charm the locals with your language skills.

 

You can sit with us!

No adventure is complete without a squad by your side! Whether you’re into art, music, or extreme knitting (hey, we don’t judge!), there’s a crew out there with your name on it. Dive into social clubs, meetups, and online communities to find your tribe and kickstart epic adventures together. Psst…     Enter Coliving is where the magic happens, join our community and unlock a world of collaboration, connection, and lifelong friendships!

 

Network like a boss

 

Okay, so you’re not exactly here to play tourist 24/7, , ,  you’ve got bills to pay, dreams to chase, and a killer career to build! But who says you can’t mix business with pleasure? Keep an eye out for networking events, workshops, and conferences in your field. For example, Enter Coliving x Carmel Club organizes fantastic collaboration and networking events where you can connect with other dynamic individuals, share stories, and build relationships that will elevate both your career and social life.

 

Spread good vibes, do good deeds

 

Ready to be a real-life superhero? Volunteering is your chance to make a difference and meet awesome people along the way. Whether you’re rescuing puppies, cleaning up beaches, or teaching English to aspiring learners, there’s no shortage of ways to spread positivity and connect with fellow do-gooders who share your passion for making the world a better place. It’s a win-win for humanity and your social life! The company Wepleia is a great place to look up if your interested in activities like this!

 

Be unapologetically yourself

Last but certainly not least, don’t forget to be your awesome, authentic self! Embrace your quirks, flaunt your passions, and don’t be afraid to be your crazy self.  Because trust us, there’s nothing more attractive than someone who’s unapologetically themselves. So, strike up a convo with that stranger sitting next to you, and let the magic happen. You never know, your new BFF or soulmate could be just one “hello” away!

 

And hey, speaking of making friends, did you know there are apps out there that are like Tinder but for friendships? Yup, you heard that right! Whether it’s Bumble BFF, Meetup, or Friender, there’s a whole world of friendship-building apps just waiting for you to swipe right and make new connections. Because let’s face it, finding friends should be as easy as finding a date!

 

 

 So there you have it, fellow adventurers, your ultimate guide to making friends and thriving abroad! Grab your essentials, be open to new experiences, and get ready to dive into this exciting new chapter of your life. Remember, the world is full of amazing people and opportunities just waiting for you to discover.

 

Here’s to new beginnings, unforgettable experiences, and lifelong friendships. Happy exploring!

 

By Laura Johanna Tirion

The Magic Night of Sant Joan

Fireworks above the city of Barcelona on the night of Sant Joan


As the sun sets on June 23rd, 2024, get ready for the magic night of Sant Joan to light up the streets and beaches of Barcelona! This awesome festival, also known as Saint John’s Festival, is all about celebrating the start of summer and the shortest night of the year. Come join us as we dive into the fun and unique traditions that make Sant Joan one of the most exciting experiences in Barcelona.


A Night of Fire and Festivities

In Barcelona and all over Catalonia, Sant Joan is all about fire. People light bonfires, called ‘fogueres,’ in their neighborhoods, plazas, and beaches, making everything glow. Get ready to see the sky light up with fireworks as families and friends gather to set off their own bangers and firecrackers.The streets come alive with the sounds of music and laughter.

 

The tradition of fire runs deep. The night is often called ‘Nit del Foc’ (Fire Night) or ‘Nit de Sant Joan’ (St. John’s Night). Local residents and authorities organize community celebrations with live music, dancing, and the enjoyment of ‘coca,’ a delicious sweet flatbread, often paired with a glass of cava, the region’s famous sparkling wine.

 

For many people, the beaches of Barcelona, especially those around the Barceloneta area, are the place to be. Around 70,000 people gather on the sand, turning the beachfront into a massive party zone. Beachfront restaurants and clubs offer special dinners and events, making the night a continuous celebration from sunset to sunrise!

 

Do you know the rituals of Sant Joan?

Sant Joan is full of old traditions, together with ancient rituals and modern celebrations to create an unforgettable experience. Here’s a glimpse into what makes it so special:

 

                Fire: The flame of Canigó, a symbolic fire from the Pyrenees, is used to light many of the bonfires. This tradition represents unity and the enduring spirit of Catalan culture.

                Water: Taking a midnight dip in the sea is believed to cleanse the sins and bring health for the year ahead. With water temperatures around 22-23°C, a swim is both refreshing and symbolic.

                Herbs: Sant Joan is also a time to gather and use herbs like thyme, rosemary, and verbena, believed to have special healing on this night.

                Coca and Cava: No celebration is complete without food and drink. ‘Coca de Sant Joan,’ a sweet, brioche-like bread, is a must-try, often enjoyed with a glass of chilled cava.

 

Some Important Tips!

Here are some must-know tips to make the most of your Sant Joan experience:

 

                Getting Around: Want to hop from one bonfire to the next? The Barcelona metro runs all night long, ensuring you can travel across the city easily. Night buses will also run, with some extra services on specific lines. However, suburban and regional trains will not run all night.

                Safety First: Fireworks may be dazzling, but they can also be dangerous. Keep a safe distance from firecrackers and bonfires and use protective eyewear if you’re participating directly. And don’t forget to wear comfy shoes for all that dancing!

                Clean-Up Crew: After the party winds down, a team of dedicated cleaners swoops in to tidy up the beaches. The day after Sant Joan, over 300 city cleaners will work from 6 am to 10 am to clean the beaches, ensuring they are prepared for the usual beach visitors.

                For pet owners: Think about going somewhere quiet outside the city during events like Sant Joan. Fireworks can scare pets, so being away from the noise in a calmer place can help them feel better and be less stressed. This way, you and your pets can have a peaceful and safe evening away from the loud sounds of fireworks.

                Just a heads-up! The day after Saint Joan is a public holiday in Catalonia, so make sure to enjoy your well-deserved day off!

                If you want visit Barcelona during this time, watch out for rental scams. Here are some tips how to avoid it.  

Sant Joan isn’t your average holiday, it’s a wild ride that truly embodies the heart and soul of Barcelona! Whether you’re a local soaking up the hometown pride or a traveler eager to dive into Catalan culture, brace yourself for a night of blazing lights, laughter, and cultural rituals that’ll leave you breathless. So, crank up the volume, soak in the dazzling lights, and join the party! Sant Joan in Barcelona is the ultimate night out you won’t want to skip!


By Laura Johanna Tirion

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