You know the saying, “stuck between a rock and a hard place?” Well, that’s a pretty good explanation of the feeling upon returning to CU Boulder after studying abroad. Anyone with the privilege of visiting or living in Boulder know that it is a vivid and active city with a vast landscape that takes your breath away.
So is it even fair to compare a city as amazing as Boulder to an experience many label as “the best time of their life?” Studying abroad is many students’ first time out of the country, and even if it isn’t, the opportunity to travel the world and get credit for “school” is an experience of a lifetime.
Without time travel, the tastes, smells, sights and experiences of studying abroad are just memories now, but with a little exploration, you can find everyday places in Boulder that will make you feel like you’re sipping a Pilsner in Prague, or picnicking in front of the Eiffel Tower once again.
Prague, Czech Republic: Bohemian Biergarten
The Czech Republic holds a special place in my heart as I was lucky enough to live, study and work there for four months. If you’ve been to the Czech Republic, you know that beer is a major food group and you can tell by their “normal-sized beer” that comes in a half liter glass mug.
The city is never boring, especially on warm days when locals take advantage of the almost nonexistent open container policy. People gather around to drink beer, talk and enjoy the beauty that is Praha. Although you might not hear ‘na zdravi’ as much, the Bohemian Biergarten has the same Eastern European ambiance as Prague and to my enjoyment, a wide selection of beers, including the Czech favorite, Pilsner Urquell.
Barcelona, Spain: The Mediterranean
Tapas. The princesses of food. My slightly educated definition of a tapa is a regular dish, explained in a fancy way, and served on an adorable small plate. The perfect style of dish for foodies, the indecisive, and all lovers of good food.
These small plates range from patatas bravas, fries smothered in spicy tomato and aioli sauce, to gambas al ajillo, crispy prawns doused with a powerful combination of garlic and chili. Is your mouth watering now? Or are you frantically checking flights to Spain?
Well, have no fear; Colorful Spanish tapas can be found at Boulder’s own, The Med. There is an extensive list of hot and cold tapas, and if you head down between 3 and 6:30 pm, tapas and beverages are rewarded a happy hour price.
London, England: St. Julian Hotel and Spa
London, England and the United Kingdom are all synonymous with class, fanciness, and tea. Luckily enough, there is still a way to experience the elegance of London without traveling all the way to the UK. The St. Julian hotel hosts afternoon tea almost every Saturday in their lobby. This tea may not include boat views of Big Ben and London Bridge, but the contemporary fireplaces and live pianist still bring a luxurious experience.
Amsterdam, The Netherlands: Boulder Baked
The infamy of Amsterdam is known all over the world. People flock to this Netherlands city for their lenient marijuana laws and laid-back lifestyle. Boulder, Colorado has a very similar reputation with the legalization of weed and outdoor, active lifestyle.
To truly reminisce one’s time in Amsterdam, Boulder Baked is the way to go. You can comfortably, and legally, enjoy the drug in the comfort of your home and have warm, gooey treats delivered right to your door. Cookies, cupcakes, pies, and comfort food are all deliverable options.
Are you vegan or gluten-free? Have no fear. There’s a special menu for your dietary needs. So go out, hit the dispo, grab some friends, put on a movie, and order up!
Paris, France: Cured Boulder
Paris, France—a city of culture, delicious food, mimes and the infamous Eiffel Tower. Tourists and foodies alike flock to this metropolitan to experience all the delicious aspects of French culture. On warm days, families, friends, lovers and individuals litter the Eiffel Tower lawn with blankets covered in fruit, champagne, cheese, crackers, and overflowing picnic baskets.
What better way to relive your semester abroad in Paris than a picnic? Check out Cured Boulder for their special picnic boxes, perfect for any adventure. Pick up some snacks and go deep into the mountains to admire the true beauty of Boulder while awakening your taste buds.