I first visited Spain in 2018, after I started working for a company with offices in both Bucharest and Barcelona. It was my first time ever in Spain. I remember that when I first arrived in the city, I was impressed by how relaxed and happy people looked. Totally opposite to Bucharest.

The vibe, the beach, the warm days and the people I met during my trips made me wonder what would it feel like to live in Barcelona, something I’ve never contemplated before. Back then, I had a good life in Bucharest, my own apartment, my good-paying job, my family and friends close by.

I continued traveling to Barcelona for work for about a year and a half, usually one week per month. During that time, I got to know the Marketing team better, worked closely with my colleagues, and build real friendships. I was so lucky to be in a great team, I think it was the best team I ever had in any workplace. We did not feel any competition, we were all for teamwork. I still ship that team! ❤️

My love for Barcelona kept growing and growing. And the more I came back, the more I dreamed about the possibility of living in the city. My friends here were so encouraging and really made me feel like I belonged.

I still remember that day in our office in Zürich, where I was for a working session with my boss, when she asked me: “So… what about you living in Barcelona?” And I was like: “Wait, whaaaaat about it? 😅” So, we were in this meeting and we started talking about taking chances, chasing new opportunities, enjoying new things and new adventures.

At that time, I was in what I thought to be a serious relationship, but even so… I took this decision without talking to my partner or my family. Some thought I was selfish – probably I was – but to me, it was everything I manifested for over a year.

And I was soooo excited about this chance at that moment and so many moments after this… I never ever looked back on saying YES to moving to Barcelona. I did not know exactly what was ahead of me, but it was the start of my new life abroad.