Speaking the Language:

When speaking the language in Spain, you might think that all Spanish is the same, and simply say that “Spanish is Spanish.” Not true. Spanish in Spain is different in every region, and quite different from the Spanish spoken in South America. If you are just beginning to learn how to speak Spanish, then I suggest that you do your traveling through the country at the end of your trip so you have a better chance of being able to communicate with the people of the different regions, especially those from Andalucia and Galicia. This will help you feel more accustomed to the country. Plus, it will be good preparation to allow you to ask common questions like “Where is there a restroom?”

The Lifestyle:

Living for any significant time abroad is tough. If it’s your first time studying abroad, it’s not only difficult for you, but for your family back home, and probably for your homestay family as well. When picking your homestay accommodations, there are two main choices. Both of these choices offer you a different option for improving your level of Spanish and guaranteeing that you are living the “Spanish Lifestyle.” The first choice is living with other students that go to a university nearby. Normally the university students have a moderate level of English so they can help you along the way. Plus, life is much easier when you have friends while you’re abroad. The second choice is living with a family. A family homestay definitely has its perks. For example, the food will be wayyy better than when you live with other college students. The lifestyle is a little more structured, and the families typically don’t speak any English, so you will only be able to speak Spanish with them.

Packing:

In Spain, it can be 100 degrees during the summer and 10 degrees during the winter (and don’t forget the wind). If you are planning to go to Spain during the summer, then you should probably pack as if you were going to Arizona. Now if you are going in the winter, picture Chicago during the rainy season. Those examples are a tad extreme but that’s how you should pack. Don’t forget to pack a bathing suit if you plan to go to the beach in Portugal, Barcelona, or Valencia!

The Food:

As far as food goes, your best bet is to learn from the locals. If a restaurant is crowded and busy, there is probably a good reason for that. The family-owned restaurants are always a safe bet too. You’ll hear this a million times but avoid fast food chains that you can find at home. If you’re there for the experience, then absorb as many new things as you can. By the way, paella is incredible.

Safety:

Safety is the most important thing. Before I made my trip to Spain, everyone warned me “never put anything in your back pockets!” They weren’t kidding. I never heard any horror stories from Salamanca, but the stories I did hear came from touristy places like Barcelona and Madrid. All of them involved stolen money, wallets, or jewelry. I don’t think there is a lot of real “physical” danger, but it never hurts to stay aware of your surroundings.

The People:

I did not believe that the people in Spain were so loving and welcoming until I went there. The people were always so helpful with directions. Even if you are not a fluent Spanish speaker they gladly slow down for you so you can understand and be on your way. Their friendliness also makes it a breeze when meeting people. Two iconic Spanish customs are siestas and tapas, and you aren’t going to meet people during a siesta. On the other hand, going out for tapas is a great way to meet people that you can connect with to build relationships.

The Heart of the Country:

Finding Spain’s most beautiful landscape is going to be a challenge because the entire country is breathtaking. In the north near Galicia you will find a lot of nature, and the Atlantic Ocean. On the other corner of the country near Valencia is the Mediterranean Sea, where you’ll find warm weather and beaches. Not to mention all of the hot spots in between like Salamanca, Seville, Segovia, Avila, Granada, the Pena De Francia, and who could forget Ibiza or Barcelona? The list goes on for places to see. Do your research to find what places excite you, and I promise you will not be cut short on place to go, and things to see during your trip abroad!