Between these two locations, where would you recommend I study abroad: Gold Coast or Barcelona?

Question

I plan to study abroad during the spring semester of 2009. I should offer a little background before I continue. I go to the University of Vermont, where it gets pretty d**n cold during the winter. By studying abroad, I would like to live in a city that is very much the opposite of Burlington, VT. Optimally, I would like to study very close to a beach, and be in or near a city. Gold Coast has both: it seems like the perfect place for this and I have heard nothing but good things. I am also considering Barcelona, Spain which is on the Mediterranean coast. Spain seems to offer more culture (I have taken some Spanish classes), but Australia seems so attractive to me.

Please offer your insight. Experienced travelers are preferred! Also, if you have any additional locations that might be good to go to, please offer them!

Answer 1

since its just for a semester, try goldcoast.  something different  yet similar to america.  if long term barcelona is better 'cos of culture.

remember both are western/white culture.

do u dare to think / go to a different color culture? south africa? kenya? ghana? singapore? thailand? manila? shanghai? xiamen? my daughter went from minnesota to accra! geeee! still talking abt it!

totally different mind-boggling rich experience awaits u

cheeeeeers