After three months in Ecuador, I landed in Madrid: from the land of the conquered to that of the conqueror. The architecture and plazas of the cities share the same vision, but the cultures remain distinct.Here in Spain I do not hear “Buen Provecho” said as someone passes a table of diners- there is less interaction between strangers. Security seems evident, yet I do not see a single police officer to enforce it. Supermarkets and shops are stocked with fresh enticing produce and high quality goods. Despite Spain’s recent economic crisis there is no comparing the richness of life. It’s roads are flawless and far exceed those of Ecuador’s despite the latter’s pride of the major improvements made.

The European way of life is familiar to me and I quickly adjust to the different accent upon people’s tongues, but they do not adjust to mine. In Ecuador no matter how many mistakes I made, I never heard a “Qué?” The people had an uncanny way of understanding everything I said. Here I have been met with several confused looks.

I will not forget the multitudes of kindness and beauty I left behind in Ecuador.

Undoubtedly I have found kindness in Spain too. At times it just seems less forthcoming.

I continue on a road trip to discover Spain’s history and great beauty.