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Trip Report
Studying in Salamanca, Spain
One month in Salamanca, Spain for a study abroad with The University of Massachusetts. Lived with host family but only for housing and food. Everything else was with school program.
Highs & Lows
Meeting up at The Plaza Mayor and going out with my friends. Also, witnessing the sunset at the Templo de Debod.
COVID-19 changed my itinerary. Could not go to Portugal or Seville.
Itinerary Overview
Q & A
What would you have changed?
I would have changed parts of the day when in Madrid. We did a lot but we had no time for breaks in between which was incredibly draining.
Anything go wrong during the trip?
COVID-19 affected my first host family of twelve members. Eventually, I had to move to another host family household but it was fine.
How was the food?
The food was very meat and cheese based. Delicious, but I eventually felt like I needed a change of diet which included vegetables or fruits.
What tips would you give a friend?
I would tell a friend to take a siesta when given the chance. It helped boost my energy in between school and going out.
Packing tips?
Pack moisturizer because it gets really dry in Salamancan heat. Also, comfortable walking shoes is so important because you will be walking every single day.
Transportation Tips?
Walking is really the best mode of transportation, unless traveling to a different city. In which case, utilize the trains. But I ended up walking 11,000 steps each day which I didn't even notice.
Any surprises?
What surprised me was that bars and clubs opened until about 3am following Spanish customs of eating dinner at around 10pm and drinking until late.
Booking details?
In terms of housing, everything was done through the program.
Lodging
Host family provided by UMASS (through the API program)
Central Palace hotel - I cannot recommend this hotel more, it faced the Palacio Real and was in a great location where we could walk to any attraction. The manager was very accommodating to our every needs. It was also surprisingly on the cheaper side. One of the best hotel experiences I've ever had!