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HELPFUL INFORMATION

Many of the European nations, including Spain and France have as their national currency the Euro.  The Euro is equivalent to approximately 1.35 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 also 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. 

Finally, you also must alert your bank (and credit card companies) that you are traveling abroad. When they notice what is deemed suspicious activity — transactions in international places — they sometimes freeze your money. That would quickly put a damper on your vacation.

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 $225 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 places in Spain and near your residence where you can make international calls at very reasonable rates. You can also call the U.S. from almost any phone by dialing your home’s international long distance carrier.   It is generally cheaper for family members to call you than for you to call them.  Additional information will be provided upon arrival during the orientation meeting. 

Internet access

There are numerous 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; however, we don't recommend you bring your laptop. 

• Madrid Colegio Mayor Mara:  Coin operated washing machine and dryer available 24hrs.
• Salamanca Centro Universitario Marista:  Coin operated washing machine and dryer.

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

No visa is required for U.S. passport holders for a stay of up to 3 months.  If your stay exceeds three months or you are not a U.S. Passport holder, please contact the Consulates of Spain and France. The telephone numbers of some of the Consulates of Spain in the U.S. are as follows:

You do not need to bring towels, sheets, or pillows.  The dorm/hotel provides your bedding needs and towels.

We offer the following packing suggestions:

• Coordinate your wardrobe around a single color.

• Pack comfortable shoes, casual clothing, a sweater/rain jacket, a wash-cloth, swimsuit, and  an alarm clock.  Dress the same as you do here. Dress very casual.

• Don't pack anything fragile or valuable - if you do not bring them, they cannot be lost or stolen.

• Pack in your carry-on toiletries and at least one change of clothing in the event your bag is delayed or lost.

• Carry with you to Spain copies of the identification numbers the traveler's checks, airline ticket, front page of your passport, and other important documents.

Please remember that the airline as well as our ground transportation has limited space for your luggage and restrictions apply.  Please pack accordingly.