Salamanca Survival Guide

· Don’t bring rain gear!

o “The rain in Spain stays mainly in the plain” = true statement

· Eat everything! (Meat as well!)

o Before coming to Spain I was a vegetarian (as were many other Ann Arbor folk). However, most of us decided to let loose for this trip. If you haven’t eaten meat in a while, I suggest you start practicing in the U.S. so you don’t have stomach issues while abroad. The best ham in the world is here, as well as many other meat dishes – you don’t want to miss out!

· Clothes to bring

o People generally are a little dressier for class everyday. Jean shorts probably aren’t necessary. Being a girl, I wish I brought more sundresses because it is all I wear here. Also, you will go out a lot! Bring fun clothes to dance in.

· Comfortable shoes are a must

o You will easily walk at least 6 miles everyday.

· Bring tissue packets

o Many of the public restrooms will not have toilet paper. This will save you.

· Bring hand sanitizer

o Many of the public restrooms also will not have soap.

· Don’t travel every weekend

o There are a lot of cool things to do in Salamanca, and the weekend is a great time to get to know people here as well. Check out the market on Sundays or head to one of the many museums. A day trip to go hiking around the mountains close by is fun too.

· Exercising outdoors

o First of all, beware of the heat. Running between 1:00 and 6:00 can be dangerously hot. However, running is great for getting to know your way around the city. I recommend running with a friend/map until you feel comfortable though!

· Talk to your Señora

o You will learn so much just sitting in the kitchen talking to your Señora in Spanish and watching/helping her cook!

· Spend time with your new friends

o Housemates, classmates etc.

· To all you girls, do not walk home alone! It is better to spare a few bucks for a taxi than risk getting mugged.

· 6 a.m. is the most dangerous time of day. If walking to a bus for an excursion, meet a friend or take a cab.

· Take the drink coupons from the people in the plaza.

o Drinks are expensive and with these it is possible to get free drinks all night! (Remember not to have too much fun, you are still in a foreign country).

· Don’t bring credit cards with you at night, only cash.

o People have been pick-pocketed at clubs

· Bring a purse that zips/goes across your shoulder.

· Take your siestas!! (Try not to sleep for hours though, a Spanish siesta actually only lasts between 20 minutes to an hour tops)

· Be open-minded to the new culture you will be apart of.

o Be respectful. Take the time to learn the correct way to sit and order food at a restaurant.

· Don’t forget to say goodbye to the people and places that you see everyday.

· When in doubt, just do it. Don’t hold back, you are only here once!