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 being immediately struck by how relaxed and happy people looked. It was a completely different rhythm from what I knew.
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.
For the next year and a half, I traveled there regularly for work — usually one week a month — spending time with our team, building friendships, and slowly falling for the city. I was lucky to work with the best team I’ve ever had, and every trip made me feel more connected.
My love for Barcelona kept growing. The more I came back, the more I dreamed about moving here. My colleagues and friends encouraged me, supported me, and made me feel like I already belonged.
I didn’t know it then, but those work trips were quietly planting the seeds of a much bigger change: starting a new life abroad.
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.
So, I remember one day I had a working session with my boss in our office in Zürich and she asked me: So, what about you living in Barcelona? And I was like: Whaaaaat about? 😀 Talking to her about taking chances, finding the right opportunities – I was in what I thought to be a serious relationship at that point – enjoying this while I am young.
And I was soooo excited about this chance at that moment and so many moments after this… I never looked back on telling her: Yes, I would love to move to Barcelona, can you help?
I did not talked to my partner or my family before accepting it. Some felt it was egoistic from my side to take this decision, but honestly… it was everything I wanted at that moment.
And it is everything I still want.