220 volts (50 cycles) is commonly used in Spain. Round-prong plugs are used in all outlets. Standard American plugs will not fit into Spanish outlets.   We recommend that you purchase outlets in Spain to make sure they work. Outlets are available at any "Corte Inglés."
 

If you have an emergency while in Europe, contact your school representative. If he/she is not available or you are traveling on your own, ask the FRONT DESK at the hotel or dorm to contact the Forspro representative.  The Forspro contact numbers in case of emergencies are listed on our Final Instructions newsletter.  For the emergency services in any EU country, dial 112.
 

Many of the European nations, including Spain and France have as their national currency the Euro.  The Euro is equivalent to approximately 1.42 (as of 8/15/11) dollars. This rate may vary from week to week.

You should generally avoid changing currency in popular tourist destinations, such as airports, train stations, and hotels, because they do not offer the best exchange rates. Instead, favor local banks.  Banks are open from 9:00 to 14:00 weekdays and from 9:00 to 13:00 on Saturdays. In order to change money at a bank you need your passport.

However, the best method is to use ATM cards for cash. By using an ATM you're basically cashing in on the fact that your bank is trading currencies in larger amounts. “That makes ATM exchanges some of the best rates you can get. 

If you want to use your credit cards/check card you will find a complete network of cash points at your disposal; most shops also take credit cards.  We recommend to use a credit card to charge most purchases.  Credit cards not only provide a chargeback provision but they offer the best exchange rate.  Just beware of fees.  Also, make sure you check with your bank that your cards can be used in foreign ATMs. Do NOT assume they can be - check, check, check.  Bring a back up card in the event your card is lost.  Make sure you know what number to call to report a lost or stolen card.

You do not need to bring towels, sheets, or pillows.  The dorm/hotel provides your bedding needs and towels.  Follow the luggage limits of the airline and pack according to the limit of one suitcase and a carry-on. 

We offer the following packing suggestions:

For additional tips on how to pack your suitcase, below are links to sites with suggestions on how/what to pack.

How Much $ to Take

Amount of money to take for out-of-pocket expenses depends on each individual; however, an adequate amount is $175 to $200 per week.  This amount, of course, does not take into account purchases and optional tours.   As a rule of thumb, budget the same as you would while vacationing in the U.S. - however, it all depends on you.
 

International Calls

There are a number of options open to you for making international calls in Spain.  Below are some of them.  We do not endorse nor do we have experience with all the sources listed below.  We are only providing information regarding ways in which to communicate with friends and family at home.

• By Telephone :  Basically, there are three options by phone:

  • Phone shop/Internet café:  If you choose to go to a an Internet cafe where you can make international calls, use the Internet and send faxes at good rates, make sure that you ask for the rates if they are not clearly specified before you make your call to make sure their prices are competitive.

  • Buying a phone card:  You may purchase these cards here or abroad.  There are many shops available in Spain where you may purchase these cards.  They come in different increments of cost and call time, and are highly recommended for short term stays.  Below are sources of prepaid phone cards.  There are many others.  We recommend you to compare all the options available to you.

    • NobelCom

    • Eurodirect

  • Purchasing a cell phone: You can go into any telephone shop in Spain and buy a phone  or, if you’re able to use your own phone abroad, purchase a SIM card.

    • STA International SIM Card

    • Vodafone SIM

    • Vodafone – Buy a phone in Spain

• By Internet:   In Spain you won't have any problems finding cyber-cafes; in most cities you can find a good number of locations with varying operating hours.  Most of the student dorms have internet service available.  The Internet is the most flexible of communication options and offers plenty of ways to communicate with your family and friends back home.

  • The traditional email

  • Facebook

  • Voice conversations through Skype or Magic Jack.  These methods allow you to call from a computer to another computer for free, and calls to land-based phones are extremely cheap (calls to cell phones aren’t that well priced).  Some people decide to purchase a Skype In line, which gives you a fixed number where people who don’t use Skype can call you. Magic Jack works similarly.
     

Internet access

There are internet locations near the dorms and in the city where you can use the internet for a very reasonable fee.  Some residences/rooms have internet access.  Although we don't suggest to take valuables to Spain, a laptop is recommended.
 

Madrid Colegio Mayor Mara:  Coin operated washing machine and dryer available 24hrs
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Medical

If you have any special health problems, have your doctor prepare your medical history and take it with you to Spain. Carry prescription duplicates since brand names are different in Spain. Ask your doctor for the generic drug name of your prescription. Also, carry a prescription for your eyeglasses. No inoculations are required when entering or leaving Spain.
 

Passport/Visa

Vegetarians

The diet is based on meat and fish.  Vegetables and fruits are available; however, the variety is limited.  Salad is commonly comprised of lettuce, onions, and tomatoes. Salad dressing is oil and vinegar.  If you are a vegetarian, we will make an effort to meet your needs.