Spanish Doctor

Spanish Doctor
12:03am

Buenos Dias!

Had my first experience with Spanish health care today. My throat has been hurting me for a few days and I wanted to confirm that I did not have strep. I went with one of the helpers from our group to el medico, walked in, said my throat hurt, and was immediately taken into a room and seen by the doctor. No paper work, waiting, or paying! She asked for my name, age, and address. Then she asked if I had any allergies and how many times a day I ate. She looked at my throat and told me it was inflamed and said it was because I am drinking cold liquids when it is extremely hot outside. I got a prescription, went to the pharmacy next door, and paid only 6 euro for a 40 pack of 600 mg Ibuprofeno and some fancy lozenges. The quickest, least expensive, and stress free doctor visit I have ever had! Go Spain.

It’s been a bit toasty in our house at night and Mel is having an extremely hard time sleeping and has continued to wake up on the hour. We keep our window and door open to help the air circulate. It will be nice to have AC again, but thinking of leaving in about a week is making me triste (sad).

As I was buying last minute gifts at one of the local stores, I began speaking with the young girl at the counter. We talked for a few minutes and she then asked if I was from France! I guess Paris rubbed off on me more than I realized. I took it as a complement. She is from Santa Domingo and has family in the US. She is in Spain with her mom but would like to live in a different place and travel while she is still young. I told her we are only this independent and able to travel now, so do it! Maybe one day we’ll reunite while backpacking across Europe.

Mel and I watched Disney channel after dinner; it is a bit more promiscuous here. I was a bit surprised but then realized that the Spain culture of showing affection is also a bit more accepting.

Heading to bed!

Besas,
Kristina