Today was another exciting and memorable day in Bilbao! We started the morning by trying traditional churros with hot chocolate. They were very different from the churros I am used to in America. Instead of being coated in cinnamon sugar, these churros were simpler and reminded me more of funnel cake without powdered sugar. Paired with the rich hot chocolate, it was a delicious and authentic experience that gave us a taste of local culture.

After breakfast, we explored a flea market filled with booths from local artists and vendors. There were handmade t-shirts, bags, jewelry, pottery, and many other unique items. It was the perfect opportunity to pick up souvenirs and gifts for family and friends back home while supporting local artists. From there, we walked to a larger market along the river that included even more vendors selling jewelry, records, books, and flowers. One of the most meaningful parts of the day was in the flower market, where we each gave a flower to a stranger as a small act of kindness. It was a simple gesture, but it created such positive interactions and memorable moments.

Later, we traveled up to the vernacular overlook, where we were able to see breathtaking views of Bilbao. Looking out over the city, river, and surrounding mountains was absolutely incredible. While there, we held our team meeting to reflect on everything we have experienced so far during the trip. Some of the major themes we discussed included compassion in healthcare, work-life balance, and perspectives on socialized medicine. Hearing everyone’s thoughts and experiences made for a meaningful conversation.

To end the day, we headed back down the mountain in the pouring rain and stopped for pintxos before grabbing gelato. Even with the rainy weather, it was another amazing day exploring Bilbao together.