While Vigo works, A Coruña plays

As program renewals are coming up at the end of December, I have been thinking very hard about what my options may be for this upcoming year. As I am a person to make plans A-Z, the option to reapply in Spain was an easy opportunity to grab. However, as a second year auxiliar, I have more control in choosing where I am likely to be placed. If I were to stay in my region of Galicia, I will be able to pick my city and school. On the other hand, if I wanted to leave Galicia altogether, I have the ability to pick whichever region in Spain of my choosing.

More options...a blessing and a curse!

While exploring the possibilities of my future home, the second most populated city in Galicia sprung to mind: A Coruña. Situated in the far northwest corner of Galicia, A Coruña's urban beaches and bustling city center make it a popular destination for travelers, Spaniards, and Auxes alike. In order to get a taste of the city before our decision date, my roommate Jennie and I decided to take a quick day trip up north.

After a two-hour train ride from Vigo, we arrived in A Coruña and headed straight for the center. Closed off from vehicles, the majority of the center are for pedestrians only. We began our tour in María Pita square and then wondered along the winding back streets taking in the countless local cafés. It wasn't long --as in five minutes walking in one direction long-- that we ran into a gorgeous beach! From there, we walked along the the Paseo Marítimo taking in the views. Then, we found ourselves at the base of the Torre de Hércules. This UNESCO World Heritage Site represents the Roman occupation of the Iberian Peninsula. All around the tower were multiple dirt walking paths that picked their way along the coastline. After being stuck in an industrial city such as Vigo for a so long, being out in nature was a blessing! However, it wasn't long before our stomaches started to growl and our snacks began to disappear. We walked the Paseo back towards the city center and found a pizza joint along the beach to escape the wind and impending rainstorms before hopping on a late train back to Vigo to end our day.

I can speak for both Jennie and I when say that A Coruña will be a tough city to beat when it comes time to fill in my application towards the end of this year! Featuring the same Celtic culture and tradition as Vigo, A Coruña seems to have the best of both worlds: a large, engaging city and an easily accessible landscape to die for! If I were to stay in Galicia for another year, at the moment, A Coruña is at the top of my list.