Dos and Dont´s

DO

  • Expect to be kissed on both cheeks when you meet someone for the first time.
  • Learn appropriate greetings for different times of day and different occasions.
  • Remember that the Spanish tend to run 5-10 minutes behind schedule.
  • Be prepared to eat lunch and dinner later than you´re used to.
  • Remember that the Spanish tend to be fairly formal.
  • Take an interest in how you look; Spaniards are clothes conscious and always dress appropriately for the occasion.
  • Treat shrines, sanctuaries, churches and cathedrals with respect.

DON´T

  • Forget to call your parents when you arrive!
  • Be afraid to try new things, talk to new people, and explore new places.
  • Be frustrated with the slow paced Spanish life style. Things may take a while to happen, but they will eventually!
  • Yawn, or stretch in public since, believe it or not, this is considered very bad manners.
  • Forget you are representing your country. Behave appropriately and maturely.

SAFETY

Salamanca is a small student city, which generally feels safe and comfortable. However safety is always relative to what you are accustomed to. Whether you are from a city or a rural community, whether you are well-traveled or a first-timer, it is important to be aware of your surroundings because as a foreigner, you may be seen as a target for petty crimes.

Here are a few tips to keep you safe during your stay here:

  • Carry the minimum amount of money with you when you go out.
  • Do not carry passports or any other important documents on your person. Ask for a photocopy at the school’s office (first floor) and leave the original at home.
  • When traveling by bus, always keep your bag or purse in front of you. Keep your hand on the zipper.
  • Do not speak in your language loudly in public. This makes you stand out as a tourist thus making you an easy target.
  • Do not walk home alone at night. Always save some money for a taxi at the end of the night or go home in a group.
  • When sitting outside a café or in a bar, never leave your bag unattended.

REMEMBER TO TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS. IF A PERSON OR SITUATION SEEMS SUSPICIOUS, REMOVE YOURSELF FROM THE SITUATION.