España Encounter as Text
“Home away from Home”
by Kelly Johana Diaz-Rios of FIU at Florida International University, June 12, 2023
Arriving in España after a semester-long wait was really eye-opening with how it is both diverse but conservative at the same time. Spain is composed of many different regions with its own traditions as well as languages. Systems open to the public are vastly different from the ones provided in Miami. Parks as well as transportation is an important aspect of everyday Spanish life. For a metropolitan city, Madrid houses a multitude of different cultures but remains connected to its roots.
Santo Domingo is a metro stop within walking distance of the city’s center. Part of Line 2, the Santo Domingo stop attracts much of Latin America as a result of its name as the capital of the Dominican Republic. When you first walk out of the metro, you are greeted by various forms of art that represent its name. The neighborhood is filled with Latin American restaurants especially a Cuban one that is a home away from home for many immigrants. It is quite a safe neighborhood filled with many places to dine but the station is what would allow an individual to feel accepted. Like much of Madrid, the place was easy to get to and is a walking distance to the center but also has its own shops. The neighborhood is located in a populous area with lots of tourism but also locals seem to enjoy the diverse options in food the place provides.
Madrid is greatly different in contrast to Miami in regard to acceptance. Here an individual has to learn how to adapt to the culture and its people. Miami has always been accepting of differences since the majority of its citizens come from a different countries and are just trying to make it out there. But Madrid is more accepting of the consequence of the Spanish forced colonization in the form of museums. The Museum of the Americas is a place with works that describe the long and complicated history Spain has with Latin America. Unlike Madrid, Miami’s museums are more tailored towards entertainment and tourism rather than education. Miami has a long history of forgotten events that deserve to be recognized and understood. However, Madrid is similar to Miami when it comes to tourism and its acceptance. Many of the locals are helpful with directions in the city as well as good places to enjoy life as a local.
All in all, being able to take the metro to such a long distance was very informative. After being here for a couple of days, being able to enjoy a bite from home was very comforting but also made me realize that I need to explore more. Spain has proven to be a country with great diversity and much to learn. Despite the differences between Miami and Madrid, both have a welcoming atmosphere for both its locals and the tourism. Seeing both places has allowed me the opportunity for an exploration of new perspectives as well as a profound appreciation for Miami.
Miami in Miami 