Kyla Spengler, Plus3 Nursing: Bilbao, Summer 2026
Food has honestly been a huge part of my experience in Bilbao, even more than I expected before coming abroad. I knew trying new foods would be part of studying in another country, but I didn’t realize how much it would shape my daily routine and my understanding of the culture. Food here isn’t just something quick you grab between things, it feels like a real part of how people spend time together and slow down during the day.
One of the biggest adjustments for me was getting used to the meal schedule. People eat lunch and dinner much later than I’m used to, and at first that honestly threw me off. I would find myself hungry way earlier in the day while everyone else seemed completely fine waiting. It took a little time to adjust, but eventually my body got used to the schedule and it started to feel normal. That shift made me realize how much your environment shapes even your most basic habits without you noticing.
What stood out to me even more was how meals are treated socially. People don’t rush through eating here the way they often do back home. Instead, meals last a long time, and it’s normal to sit, talk, and just stay at the table without feeling like you need to leave right away. Even something as simple as grabbing food turns into a slower, more intentional experience. It made me think a lot about how fast-paced life can be in the U.S. and how different it feels when you actually slow down and focus on the people you’re with.
Trying new foods has also been one of my favorite parts of being here. I’ve had so many things I never would have tried before, from local pastries to different regional dishes. Even just going into cafés or grabbing small snacks while exploring the city has made everyday life feel more exciting. Food became something I looked forward to because it was always connected to either exploring something new or spending time with other people.
At the same time, I’ve also had moments where I really missed food from home. That part surprised me a little, but it also made sense because food is so tied to comfort and routine. Missing familiar meals made me appreciate them in a different way, and it helped me understand how strongly food connects to home and identity.
Overall, food has been one of the easiest and most meaningful ways to experience the culture in Bilbao. It has influenced my routine, how I interact with people, and even how I think about slowing down in everyday life. It’s something I’ll definitely remember long after I leave.
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