In the autumn of 2022, Johanna landed in Barcelona for a one-year adventure — curious and full of excitement. She came to pursue a master’s degree, soak up the sun, play beach volleyball, and enjoy every bit of the Mediterranean vibe.

Luis, meanwhile, had just started a demanding new chapter: his surgical residency. With endless hospital shifts and barely a moment to spare, meeting someone new was the last thing on his mind.

But life, as always, had other plans and between beach days and night shifts somehow they found each other.

The conversation started with pineapple pizza — a big sin in Johanna’s eyes but one of Luis’ guilty pleasures. They didn’t come to an agreement but it definitely was a great icebreaker! She thought he was a bit posh at first but couldn’t quite fit him into any box — there was something interesting about this bass-playing, snowboard-loving Venezuelan. Luis was immediately dazzled by those blue eyes and contagious laugh. He hadn’t been looking for anything, but somehow, he knew he struck gold.

Two months into dating, they faced their first real couple’s challenge; a snowboarding “adventure” that ended with Johanna as a patient and gave Luis a chance to prove his doctor skills — and his patience.

He took his new role as Johanna’s new part-time nurse surprisingly seriously. Johanna enjoyed the unexpected VIP treatment more than she’ll admit — and the whole experience ended up bringing them even closer together.

And now, many shared moments (and a few surgeries later), they’re getting married!