Population: 1,621,537

Region: Catalonia

Spanish immersion program locations in Spain can be found on the menu to the left. If you have questions about any aspect of our Spanish immersion programs in Spain, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our Teach in Spain, Teach in Spain Basics, and Teach in Spain with Language Immersion programs all include placement as a Language and Culture Assistant at a Spanish public school, but with different levels of orientation and Spanish lessons depending on your Spanish language proficiency.

Currency: Euro

Famous for: Architecture, World Heritage Sights, Gothic Quarter, Fashion, Beaches

Spanish Daily Routine:

Breakfast/Desayuno is not a major meal, consisting of small amount of food and is generally eaten early in the morning.

Lunch/Almuerzo is the biggest and most important meal of the day and is generally eaten between 2:00 and 4:00PM.

Dinner/Cena is a small meal, although more substantial than breakfast and is generally served between 9:00 and 10:00 PM.

Siesta is a time to rest. It starts around 1:30 PM when all the shops begin to close, and lasts until 5:00 PM. Almost all shops are closed during siesta while Spaniards may sleep or watch TV, leaving you no choice but to also relax.

Traditional Spanish Dishes:

Paella is a rice dish commonly mixed with a variation of seafood, meat, vegetables, and beans.

Tortilla is a dense omelet full of fried potatoes (sometimes onions or another vegetable as well).

Jamón Serrano is a salted, cured ham that is sliced thin and is typically served either on its own or in a bocadillo (sandwich).

Vegetarians/Vegans:

Spanish Immersion Programs Spain

Spanish culture is not particularly vegetarian/vegan friendly due to the importance of ham and other pork products in their diet. While the salads may not be filling, Spain offers delicious breads, cheeses, and vegetables dishes.

How to Dress in Spain:

Most Spanish people dress up more than the average American. Young men wear jeans and t-shirts or soccer jerseys, but you’ll also see men wearing nice pants and shoes. Women generally wear very feminine clothing.

To fit in with your surroundings, avoid wearing grubby jeans, sweatshirts, and sneakers. Nice, fitted clothing is what most people wear.

Life Outside the Classroom:

Spanish people tend to be very friendly and open. However, you will need to make an effort to introduce yourself. Some of the best ways to do so are by signing up for a local speaking partner, attending Spanish Studies cultural activities, or by going to the places Spanish students hang out.

English Immersion Programs In Spain

Spanish Studies Abroad wants you to have fun while studying abroad; however, you are expected to meet all of your academic responsibilities. Spanish nightlife is probably unlike the social scene you have experienced in the U.S. The Spanish often plan to go out at midnight or later, which is just the start of the evening. Many friends you meet will stay out until six or seven in the morning, then go straight to breakfast, and rest during siesta.