Last Day - 3/13/26

Today was the final day in the beautiful country of Spain. While this trip had been a lifetime experience for many of us, on this trip, it was time to go home. Many of us missed loved ones, pets, and families, and were ready to share all the wonderful adventures we had been on over the past week, from educational walking tours, food journeys, and fun nights out with friends. As we prepared to leave the airport, we ran into some minor challenges. As a large group of 28 people, all with lots of luggage, there were issues with the elevators. The elevators were very small in comparison to the ones we were used to back home. Resulting in delays in getting everyone downstairs in a quick fashion. However, we were able to find a way to do so. 

Once we were ready, we begin are departure on a coach bus with our guide to the Madrid Airport. We arrived at the airport around 9 am for our 1:45 PM flight due to rising concerns of security seen through many students' social media. However, it was a fairly smooth process despite what we were expecting. While, like all departures back home, we had some small issues with bags and a boarding pass that wasn't scanning, but all worked out in the end. With plenty of time to wait, we decided to gather snacks and food and hang out in the area by the gate until boarding time. While some people talked and enjoyed each other's company, others jammed out to music on a speaker with friends, enjoying our last few moments in Spain as we prepared for a long flight. 

We began boarding very early because it was a full flight, with many other flights cancelled. Meaning almost all of our group were spread out amongst the plane in middle seats. This made it difficult for many to rest throughout the flight. On the flight, we got to enjoy a meal. We had the choice between pasta or chicken, which came with a chocolate cake, roll, crackers, cheese, butter, olive oil, salad, and water. After this meal, we also received a salted Caramel ice cream and a choice between a hamburger or a fajita pepper pastry, which was very interesting. Everyone had a different experience on the planes as some slept, some watched movies, while others listened to music. However, everyone was trying to find a way to pass the time on this 7.5-hour flight back home. 

Upon arrival in Philadelphia, our plane was experiencing some turbulence due to the wind here at home, which caused the landing to be a little rough; however, thankfully, our pilot was able to safely land the plane. After getting off the plane, we all made our way to customs and immigration, which was a breeze compared to what we were expecting. After immigration and customs, we headed off to baggage claim. After claiming our back we said our goodbyes and departed from the airport.

-Brianna, Grace, Adam & Jay