Tell us about you!
Where are you studying abroad?
Madrid, Spain
How did you choose your study abroad location?
I had been to Madrid before, and I absolutely fell in love with it. I knew it was the only big city I could ever see myself living in.
Do you speak the local language and had you been out of the country before studying abroad?
I understand most Spanish and speak a good amount, but I’m not fluent. I had been out of the country before.
Did you plan anything ahead of time?
I researched gluten-free restaurants and where the closest grocery stores were.
Did you have any concerns about traveling with celiac?
It isn’t a concern for me because Europe is much better about labeling, awareness, and cross contamination than the U.S. is. They also have a lot more dedicated gluten-free restaurants!
What airline did you fly? Did you eat the plane food or have any special accommodations?
I flew Iberia and they were super good about it!! They brought me my own labeled meals and I didn’t have any issues with the food.
Where did you live and how were meals handled?
I stayed in a student hotel where they had a communal kitchen. I would just wash any supplies before and after I used them.
What are your 3 favorite places to eat at in Madrid?
LaLina Tapas y Bravas: Lalina is 100% gluten free and easy to get to via metro!! I had the gazpacho, patatas bravas, and one of that tostadas. The service was so good and I felt very safe eating there!!
Honest Greens: There are Honest Greens all over Madrid. My friends and I go all the time because almost everything is gluten free, healthy, and so good. The prices aren’t bad either. I love the Latin lover bowl. Most of the desserts in the sweet corner are gluten free too.
Tiki Taco: My friends and I LOVE tiki taco!! Each taco is €1 and all gluten free! It’s not a dedicated gluten free restaurant, but they do a good job of labeling allergens on the menu. However, I’ve only ever gotten their tacos because I know they’re safe. This is located right in the middle of gran via so it’s super nice before a night out or after class.
If there’s a food your study abroad location is known for that you were able to have safely, what was it and where did you try it?
Gazpacho and Patatas Bravas at LaLina!
For anyone with a sweet tooth, any spots for sweet finds?
Pasteleria La Oriental, Sin Gluten, and Celisioso.
What other places have you visited so far?
I went to Toledo and Sevilla. I plan on going to Segovia and hopefully Mallorca!
Besides the food, were there any fun experiences or favorite things you did?
Walking around the gardens behind the Royal Palace, going out with friends, and going to different landmarks!
What are your best tips for studying abroad with celiac?
Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself and find friends who are willing to try gluten-free restaurants with you!!
