Living in Barcelona: An ESEI Student Experience

Mostafa Sliman is a 21-year-old student from Egypt, currently studying for his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration at ESEI International Business School. Living in Barcelona in 2023: a city that has captured his heart since childhood. As a devoted Barca fan, he always dreamed of living in this city and experiencing its vibrant culture, beautiful parks, and stunning beaches. Two years ago, Mostafa finally decided to make his dream a reality and moved to Barcelona. In this blog post, he will share his experience so far, including what inspired him to come here, what he has done, and what his favorite things about living in Barcelona are.

What inspired you to live in Barcelona: Living in Barcelona in 2023?

The idea of traveling abroad, experiencing different cultures, and living an independent life has always been an inspiration for me. But what drew me specifically to Barcelona was the unique lifestyle, culture, and of course, my love for Barca. I had heard many inspiring stories about the city’s lifestyle, the beautiful parks, and the stunning beaches, and I knew I had to experience it for myself.

How long have I been in Barcelona, and what have I done so far?

I have been living in Barcelona for two years now, and I can confidently say that I have only scratched the surface of what this city has to offer. One of my favorite things to do here is to visit the different parks and beaches. The city boasts over 15 parks and 3 beautiful beaches, making it a perfect place for nature lovers. I also love playing paddle and tennis every couple of days and the beautiful weather makes it possible almost all year round.

What have I found to be the most challenging part of living in Barcelona?

While living in Barcelona is a dream come true, it does come with its challenges. The hardest thing for me has been balancing my studies and work with the allure of the city’s nightlife. Barcelona is a city that never sleeps, and there is always something to do, which can be both a blessing and a curse.

What are my favorite things about living in Barcelona?

There are so many things I love about living in Barcelona, but my favorite has to be the weather. The city is mostly sunny, which is perfect for me since I love being outdoors. I also enjoy the city’s vibrant culture, friendly people, and delicious food.

What has been my favorite cultural experience in Barcelona so far?

Barcelona is a city with a rich culture, and there are so many ways to experience it. For me, the most exciting cultural experience has been trying out different cuisines. The food scene in Barcelona is diverse, and I have enjoyed trying out various dishes from different countries. The paella is a must-try dish, as also the tapas and the locally made wines.

Have I had any language barriers while living in Barcelona? How have I dealt with them?

While there aren’t many people who speak English in Barcelona, I haven’t faced any language barriers. Spanish is not a difficult language to learn, and I have been taking classes to improve my skills. The locals are also very friendly and willing to help, which has made my transition to life in Barcelona much smoother.

Making Local Friends

I have made many local friends since moving to Barcelona. It is effortless to make friends here, as there are many young people who are students or working professionals. I have met some of my friends at the university and others through different social groups.

Advice for Someone Considering Moving to Barcelona

If you are considering moving to Barcelona, my advice would be to come here as soon as possible. The city has a lot to offer, and it is an excellent place to learn and grow. Be open-minded, embrace the culture, and explore the city to the fullest. You won’t regret it!