10 Travel Information
Climate:
Along the Costa de Almería, the climate can be considered Mediterranean. In the summer it is sunny, the aridity is remarkable, and the landscape is a desert. There are several beaches that are located in a rocky and arid environment. In summer, the heat is generally bearable, and sea breezes blow, but there may be periods of intense heat. On the hottest day of the year, the temperature typically reaches 100/100 °F. The heat record is 107 °F, recorded in July 2019.
What to Pack:
Be sure to double check luggage size and weight requirements. Suitcases cannot weigh more than 50 pounds and cannot be larger than 62 inches for height + width + length combined. For carry-on you can only bring one bag + personal item. The bag cannot be larger than 22 x 18 x 10 and the personal item must be a book bag, laptop bag or a purse. We suggest that every student bring a collapsible duffle bag for new purchases and a backpack for school days and excursions.
Since the climate of Almería can be very hot, it is important to be prepared for very dry weather and almost no rain. As such, it is advisable that everyone packs a couple pairs of light pants, light and airy clothes, breathable shoes and sandals, sunscreen. Additionally, you want to bring at least one dress outfit for the farewell show and the visit to the local government building. Also, you want to make sure that you pack a few athletic clothes since we have a sports day once a week, and other outdoor activities may be planned. Lastly, don’t forget a bathing suit! We do have a beach trip planned!
It is important to note that Spaniards tend not to wear casual clothes as often as Americans. It is not very common to see people out of their house dressed in sweatpants or baggy t-shirts. Additionally, we advise that you do not bring t-shirts that have American logos, sports teams, or English words written on them.
Additionally, you should DEFINITELY bring sunscreen with you from the United States. Sunscreen or sunblock is significantly more expensive in other countries, and sometimes it is very difficult to find higher SPFs.
If you have any particular makeup, lotion, hygiene, etc. brands that you prefer, you should probably pack those since it can be difficult to find American brands in other countries. Additionally, if you have medicine that you prefer or must take, pack enough for the whole summer and keep it in its original packaging.
Don’t forget to pack a digital camera! It is important to pack a digital camera if you want to take photos during your trip. You won’t be able to use your cell phones to snap photos since they will be safely stored in a safe with the instructors. Do not bring other electronics such as tablets, and laptops as you won’t be allowed to use them to connect to the internet.
Adapters and Converters:
Another item that you should pack is an adapter (it attaches to an American plug on one side and has the European plugs on the other side) as well as a converter (it converts the European voltage [220 volts] to American voltage [110-120 volts]). You can often buy a device that is both an adaptor and a converter but it is important to check. If you get just an adapter, you can destroy your electronics.
Currency:
The currency in Almería is the euro, the official currency of 19 European countries. As of April 2024, one Euro was worth 1.08 US dollars. Please keep in mind that it is not a direct 1:1 ratio when calculating your expenses.
It is important to have some Euros as cash on hand when you depart from the United States since there is no guarantee that you will be able to get to an ATM immediately when we arrive in Spain. Sometimes the airport ATM machines run out of Euros due to high travel volume. Additionally, it is important to bring both a Debit card and a Credit card IN THE STUDENT’S NAME. It is best that this credit card is a Visa/Mastercard, which are much more frequently accepted in Europe. Don’t use a Discover/American Express credit card.
Call your bank ahead of time and let them know where, when and how long you are traveling. You don’t want them putting a block on your card while you are abroad!
Cultural Etiquette:
Tipping:
Tipping is not as common in Europe as in the United States and is not expected. The norm is to leave the change, that is, to round up to the nearest dollar. Thus, if your meal costs 10.12, often people leave the .88 cents.
Customs Pertaining to Gift-Giving:
It would be appropriate to bring a small gift for your host family, such as a souvenir from your hometown or from Indiana University. Other ideas include photo albums to spark some of the first conversations with your host family.
Food Abroad:
In Andalusia, Spain, food is not just sustenance; it’s a cultural experience deeply rooted in tradition and history. With influences from various civilizations like the Moors and Romans, Andalusian cuisine offers a vibrant tapestry of flavors and ingredients. One of the most iconic dishes is gazpacho, a refreshing cold soup made from tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and garlic, perfect for the region’s hot summers. Another beloved dish is paella, although it’s more commonly associated with Valencia, Andalusia puts its own spin on this rice-based delicacy, often incorporating seafood caught fresh from the nearby Mediterranean Sea.
Andalusia is also famous for its tapas culture, where small plates of food are shared among friends and family. These tapas can range from simple olives and almonds to more elaborate dishes like fried fish, Spanish omelet (tortilla española), or grilled meats. Additionally, the region boasts an abundance of olive trees, making olive oil a staple in Andalusian cooking. From drizzling it over salads to using it in frying and baking, olive oil infuses a distinct flavor into many dishes. Furthermore, the region’s sweet tooth is satisfied with treats like churros dipped in thick hot chocolate or the delicate pastries of the Andalusian convents, such as pestiños and alfajores.
In Andalusia, food brings people together. Meals are often leisurely affairs, where friends and family gather around the table to share stories and laughter. Whether enjoying a picnic in the picturesque countryside or dining al fresco in a bustling plaza, the essence of Andalusian cuisine lies in its simplicity, freshness, and the joy of communal dining. Through its rich culinary heritage, Andalusia offers a taste of Spain that is as diverse and vibrant as the region itself, leaving visitors with unforgettable gastronomic experiences.
Local Health Risks:
In Almeria, Spain, like in many other regions, there are some local health risks that residents and visitors should be aware of. One significant concern is the intense sun and high temperatures, especially during the summer months, which can lead to heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke and dehydration if proper precautions like staying hydrated and seeking shade are not taken. Additionally, due to its agricultural activity, there may be exposure to pesticides and other chemicals used in farming, potentially posing risks to health if not handled or consumed properly. Furthermore, like in many coastal areas, there may be concerns related to water quality, particularly in smaller, less regulated water sources, where there could be a risk of contamination from pollutants or bacteria. Overall, while Almeria offers a beautiful environment and a rich cultural experience, being mindful of these health risks can help ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to this stunning region of Spain.
Local Transportation:
Some students will use the local buses, which are a very convenient and efficient way to get around in Almería. If you use public transportation to get to and from the academy, the program will cover the expenses of your transit. Your host family will help you learn how to arrive using the bus routes.