Unforgettable memories, new friendships, and a serious love for €1 tacos.

27th February 2025 | Mary McHale & Mia Watters | Social Media & Content Creation QQI Level 5

Fifteen of us from Rathmines College touched down in Málaga on February 8th, ready for two weeks of work, adventure, and a bit of sun. By the time we headed back to Dublin on February 23rd, we’d gained so much more than just work experience—we had unforgettable memories, new friendships, and a serious love for €1 tacos.

During the trip, we worked across different businesses in Málaga, giving us hands-on experience and a real taste of the working world in Spain. It was a fantastic way to build skills while experiencing life in a different culture. But don’t worry—it wasn’t all work!
Evenings and weekends were all about making the most of our time in the city. Some nights, we chilled on our rooftop terrace, playing cards and watching the sunset🌅. Other nights, we explored the local bar scene, sang (terribly) at karaoke, and even rented scooters to zip around the city. A highlight had to be the €6 bowling that the lads discovered, and, of course, the legendary €1 taco restaurant – by the end of the two weeks, we were practically part of the furniture there! 🌮
For anyone who loves a bit of shopping, Málaga has you covered. There’s a massive designer outlet and shopping centre just a short train ride away, perfect for picking up some bargains. While we were there, we also checked out a Versace exhibition in the ‘Centro Histórico,’ which showcased some stunning designs and told the story behind the brand—definitely worth a visit if you’re into fashion!
One spot we’d absolutely recommend is the Mercado Central de Atarazanas. Even if you’re just passing through, it’s well worth stopping for a look. The market is full of stalls selling fresh food, and if you’re feeling hungry, you can grab a seat outside and enjoy some delicious hot tapas straight from the market!

Looking back, the trip was honestly a highlight of our time at Rathmines College. None of us really knew each other before we went, but over the two weeks, we became such a close group, despite the mix of ages and backgrounds. The whole experience, from the work placements to the nights out, made for an unforgettable adventure.

If you’re a student considering Erasmus, our advice is simple—go for it! ✈️ You’ll gain work experience, make new friends, and explore a new city while having an absolute blast. Málaga, you were amazing—hasta luego!