• I moved to Spain from the US, and instead of going home for the holidays, I went to Ireland. • I didn't do a ton of planning, but I decided to limit my trip to West Cork and Dublin. • I had a great time and met many friendly fellow travelers along the way.

Last year, I moved from New Jersey to Spain.

Instead of flying home for the holidays, I wanted to experience something new that would hopefully be a salve to the constant political disappointment I've been feeling as a Black woman living in the country. As much as I love my family, being in the US stresses me out.

Though Barcelona (my current city) comes alive during December with Christmas markets, festive lights, and a wave of tourists, I was craving greenery, the tranquility of nature, and maybe a sprinkle of luxury (at least

See Full Page