Marcela’s Journals

May 31, 2025

Vilda Blommor i Blom

Something I find funny is all the traveling going on during this time of year. Whether it’s been planned months in advance or is a last-minute decision, May has shown me the beauty of spring in Northern Europe from different angles.

First Stop, Copenhagen. I’ve realized that living in Malmö as an exchange student means being a part-time exchange student in this wonderful Danish city. This might sound controversial coming from someone living in Skåne, but Denmark will forever own a little piece of my heart. The memories I’ve created through Rotary with the Danish inbounds, and all the events we’ve done together, will remain a highlight of this year.

Although Swedish and Danish cultures may share similarities, it doesn’t take away from their uniqueness and the significant differences between them. I’m thankful that this year I not only got to learn about Sweden but also a lot about Denmark—which, to be fair, is quite inevitable when living in Sweden, especially Skåne.

Fun history fact! There was a former king, Christian II, who ruled over Denmark and Norway before also taking the throne in Sweden. Due to the course of events during his reign, he is known in Sweden by some as “Christian the Nefarious Tyrant,” while in Denmark, he is known as “Christian the Good One.” Whether these titles reflect his true character, propaganda, or idealized narratives is still debated—but regardless, it's just one of those amusing historical contrasts.

Despite having been in and around Copenhagen several times, I had never gotten the chance to visit the famous Little Mermaid statue—until now! Seeing the statue and the city in full bloom gave me an odd sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. I guess that’s what happens when you get to experience watching your neighbor through every season, and finally visit one of its most iconic landmarks.

Next stop, Söderöra. Located in Scandinavia’s largest archipelago, I spent my days kayaking on the Baltic Sea. I went there feeling a bit sad, knowing it would be the last time I’d see some of the other inbounds, but despite that, we had an amazing time together, which only made saying goodbye harder. Tears were shed and laughter was shared. The end is near—but that only means a new beginning is around the corner.

It won’t necessarily be “good” or “bad”—just different. And honestly, it makes me happy to say that saying goodbye was hard, because that means our time together was meaningful. Either way, I like to think of it as a “see you soon” rather than a farewell, but at the end time will tell it all.

Last stop, Heidelberg! This one trip has been what I’ve been looking forward to the most for a while. If I haven’t mentioned it already: the world becomes a smaller place when you get to know people from all over. One of the perks of having a close friend living relatively nearby in Europe is that I got to pay her a visit in her German town.

There’s a quote by Edith Wharton that says, “One of the greatest things about travel is that you find out how many good, kind people there are.” Every time a stranger helps me out in some far-off corner of the world—or even just smiles back—I’m reminded of how grateful I am to have gone on exchange. There’s something familiar and comforting about people with open hearts, and the way they can make you feel at home even in the most unfamiliar places. Although I’ve known Erin for a while, her German family and friends are the kind of people who make you feel like you’ve known them forever. Thanks to all of them, I got a sneak peek into German culture that enjoyed quite a lot.

Even though I haven’t been practicing my German much lately (maybe you know why), I managed to put my skills to the test during this trip. My German may not be nearly as good as Erin’s, but I was happy to understand at least some of what was going on. One thing I’ve noticed is that wherever I go, I always seem to meet either a native Spanish speaker or someone somewhat fluent in Spanish—which, as a native speaker myself, makes me happy. It’s such a joy to connect with others through my mother tongue. To everyone studying a foreign language: I know the struggle, but don’t give up. In the end, it’s so rewarding—and for native speakers, it’s always heartwarming. (And to those going on exchange: you’ll definitely notice this with locals as you improve throughout the year.)

Second-to-last journal! I don’t want to stop writing these—it’s such a fun way to reflect on my time here. More importantly, it’s where I get to share the Swedish music I’ve been enjoying. A lot of incredible artists have been on my playlists this month, and with good music comes good times. My pick for you this time is this band I recently started listening to Nektar, so go give their album Magnolia a listen!

Slutet kommer, men I’ll cross that bridge when I get to it, until I see you one last time through here, please take care and stay safe out there wonderer. Vi ses snart!