1.  I have never lived in a city, at home or at school.  For me, this has been the biggest barrier.  On top of that, my family (and to some extent Spaniards) don't seem to ever leave the city.  At home, even if you live in the city, you can and do go out frequently.
2.  At first I really felt like I could become a problem.  I felt trapped and anxious from always being around people and always having ambient noise. In the home the problems were equal or greater.  Living in an apartment with non-stop interaction is a far cry from my highly independent and quiet life back home.
3.  Lately, I have found some good outlets.  I go surfing a lot and being in the water or on the beach feels like something from home.  Also, I take some personal time at home when I feel it is necessary.  Sometimes I need to be alone in my room with the lights off.  Luckily, my host family respects that and it has helped.
4.  Getting respite from the beach was inevitable.  I knew it could happen and I am glad to have it.  Deciding to go for walks or go to my room was a choice I made because I knew I needed it.
5.  In the future I'll know what it's like to live in the city.  I'll also know its not for me.