International interns in Barcelona talk about how the current situation influences their daily life
and that they would still recommend others to come to Barcelona.
The media is full of information about the present situation in Spain. Catalonia is an autonomous community, located in the north-eastern part of the country. It’s one of Spain’s eight communities, but many people in Catalonia have the strong desire to be independent and don’t want to be a part of Spain anymore. Due to that fact, many young people are scared to come to the catalonian capital Barcelona and think the current situation is unsafe. Therefore, we asked interns with different nationalities about their opinion and if they would recommend others to come to Barcelona.
“Obviously, I notice what’s going on in the city. Sometimes, I see strikes on the streets, when I am on my way to work. Also at work, we talk about the Independència and the reasons, why several inhabitants of Catalonia don’t want to be a part of Spain anymore. My colleagues keep me updated about the happenings and sometimes, they also try to convince me. However, they respect that I don’t want to get involved and we can work together without any problems. Of course, I would recommend other people to come to Barcelona, it’s such a beautiful and interesting city, you shouldn’t miss this.”
-Daniel 24, Luzern
“At work I am not influenced at all. My colleagues avoid the topic and concentrate on their work, of course I could talk to them if I’d like to, but until now I didn’t feel like talking about the political situation. Barcelona is great, I would absolutely recommend people to come and do their internship here.”
-Alejandra 22, Santa Cruz de la Sierra
“I work at a shop in the centre of Barcelona and sometimes, we have to close due to demonstrations. My colleagues come from all over the country, but they don’t express their opinions at work. It’s definitely not dangerous for interns in Barcelona and it’s totally recommendable.”
-Yiqun 25, Beijing
I am from Barcelona, so I am totally influenced by the political situation. My friends, my parents, my colleagues, everybody talks about this topic. I have no strong position and I try to be neutral. I would recommend people to come to Barcelona, simply because it’s the best city. Everybody can find something they’d love here.”
-Hector 27, Barcelona
“Sometimes, there are problems with transportation, because of demonstrations. However, this is the only thing that influences me. At work, we don’t talk about politics and I am ok with that. I would also recommend people to come to Barcelona. I can understand people who fear the demonstrations but there is no need to be afraid. The demonstrations are very peaceful, and I have never seen people getting aggressive.”
-Melis 23, Istanbul
“Although I live in a flat at Las Ramblas, the city center, I am not that influenced by the current situation in Barcelona. Surely, I notice the demonstrations but I have to work during the times when they take place. I would recommend others to come to Barcelona, it’s such an amazing and international city. I love to be here, since I met people from all over the world. During the weekends, I still do trips in and outside of Barcelona, go out at nights and enjoy my life.”
-Alina 23, Hamm
“Many friends ask me if I am afraid and what I think about the strikes and demonstrations. I always answer that I am influenced for sure, but I am not afraid at all. This is an historical incident and I am right in the middle of it. There is no need to be afraid, it’s interesting to talk about different kinds of opinions and try to understand how locals and expats feel. Nobody should worry about coming to Barcelona, this city is simply perfect, and I am so happy that I have the chance to do my internship in this metropolis.”
-Anna-Maria 21, Vienna
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