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Study Abroad: Travel

Students are responsible for arranging their own travel to and from Sevilla. A valid passport is required for travel to Spain, which is the responsibility of each student. If you do not have a passport, early application is recommended. For further information, visit: http://www.travel.state.gov.

On Friday, April 11, 2008, at 2:10 pm in room RDB 2006 we have scheduled a mandatory orientation, please post in your calendar.

ACADEMICS

Conduct

Florida International University College of Law's Academic Integrity Code & Student Conduct Code are fully incorporated herein by reference and will govern the participants' conduct. Please read this document on http://law.fiu.edu/academic_info/policies_regs.htm.

Daily Schedule

There will be two classes per day of 105 minutes with breaks or morning & afternoon visits and briefings per day. You will attend two courses. Often half-a-day, and then evenings and weekends will normally be free for study, individual activities and for taking advantage of the many cultural and recreational opportunities available in Spain. See the actual itinerary for more details.

Languages of Instruction

The courses will be taught in English, knowledge of Spanish, while useful, is not necessary for participation in the Program.

Requirements

Students will be expected to complete assigned readings; attend and participate regularly in all scheduled classes and events; and successfully pass a final written examination for each course. The final grade will be based on the examination and also on attendance and participation (70 percent, exam; 30 percent, attendance and participation). Make sure to sign the attendance record at each and every officially scheduled academic event. Attendance will be taken at all site visits and the Madrid visit will count as two classes.

Textbooks

You must buy your textbooks before you go and take them with you to Sevilla. To buy books at a discount, visit www.campusbooks.com. This website will give you prices at Half.com, Ecampus.com, etc. The textbooks will also be available at the FIU bookstore for pick-up or mail: fiu.bkstore.com. The book for European Union Law is EU Law Text, Cases and Materials 4th Edition ISBN 978-0-19-927389-8.

BEFORE YOU GO

COMMUNICATIONS

Cell Phones

Most U.S. cell phones will not work unless they have a tri-band model phone and international calling on their phone. This is very expensive and most cell phones are not tri-band. However, check with your provider and check the rates!  Visit: http://www.studyabroad.com/marketplace/telecom.html

Cell Phone Rentals (Temporary)

An excellent website for renting cell phones here in the U.S. for use in Spain is: www.cellularabroad.comspainrcell. Rental for six weeks is about $109 plus the purchase of an appropriate Spain SIM card with prepaid "talk time". Additional "talk time" can be purchased via internet or by visiting any internet café or grocery store. As mentioned above, you cannot get the overseas service through your provider unless you have the tri-band phone. Check with your provider and see what they offer. We do not recommend that you purchase or rent a phone when you arrive in Seville as it can be very expensive. Visit www.exploreseville.com/moviles.

Internet Service

There is wifi access in the lobby of Hotel Murillo. Additionally, the most inexpensive means is at Internet Cafes. There are several of these cafes all over Sevilla. Additionally, you will have access to the Internet at a Lab located at the Universidad de Sevilla from Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm and from 4:00 to 6:00 pm..

Laptops

Feel free to bring your laptop to Spain. Many AC power adapters, like the one for your computer, already take care of converting to 220 volts. Usually it says so right on it. Most laptops are dual voltage and do not need a converter. In that case, you’ll just need a plug adapter so it will fit in the outlet. Wireless internet is prevalent and provided at Murillo and at many cafes. You can find free hotspots or just pay for access at some cafes like Starbucks. You will also have access at the University.

Telephone Rates

Telephone rates are very expensive if direct dialing from the hotel room, 1.20 Euros a minute. A cheaper alternative is to purchase phone cards at newspaper kiosks. The smallest denomination is 6 Euros, also 10 and 20 Euros. For 6 Euros, you can get about 120 minutes to the U. S. using a landline (payphone in the hotel.) Every call, no matter where, is charged by the minute.

FOOD 

Food

The food in Spain is almost guaranteed to be different from what you're used to. While your stomach is still adjusting, you may wish to include some familiar foods in your diet. Look around for a supermarket, and purchase some of the foods that you would eat at home. You can usually find a supermarket in the bottom of a Corte Ingles Department Store. You can find U.S. fast food chains, for those times when you feel you need to have a burger or pizza, although these are typically more expensive than Spanish fast food restaurants serving such foods as tortilla Española or boccadillos. Breakfast in Spain usually consists of toast or a pastry and a coffee or juice. The mid-day meal, comida, usually consists of a first and second course while the evening meal (cena) is often either tapas or soup and sandwich. The point is that gradual adjustment and adaptation to the local diet makes social, financial and usually nutritional sense. Do not hesitate to try new foods and ask your hosts for suggestions or refer to guidebooks to learn what is typical.

Markets

All the information on supermarkets, food markets, bakeries, organic food, etc. is on www.exploreseville.com. Keep in mind that it is very typical to visit a “fruteria” for fruits and vegetables, a “pasteleria” for baked goods (including bread), a “carniceria” for fresh meats, and the supermercado for most other goods. It is considered normal to go to 3 – 4 stores to purchase what we purchase in one trip to the supermarket. There is a small supermarket on Avenida Menendez Pelayo called Mas y Mas. Next door to Mas is a very good Internet Café. Directly across the street is a small Laundromat/dry cleaning store. On Calle San Fernando, towards the river, you will find Open Cor which is a small supermarket open seven days a week. For additional information visit www.exploreseville.com/food.htm#supermarkets

INSURANCE

Health Insurance for U. S. students studying abroad will be provided by HTH Worldwide. A brochure will be provided so you can review what services are covered. Included in this health insurance program is access to a 24 hour Assistance network for emergency assistance in English.

MISCELLANEOUS

Cameras and Film

The price of film in Europe is outrageous. Bring plenty. Make sure that all film is carried in your carryon bag. Film that is carried in your checked bag will be exposed when it is put through the explosive detection equipment. Also, take an extra set of camera batteries. Keep a journal as the trip proceeds. You won't remember what you are looking at when you return.

Children

Those traveling with children, please visit: http://www.spain.info/TourSpain/Destinos/TipoI/MasInfo/0/Ninos%20410910002.htm?Language=EN

Plugs

American appliances such as hair dryers, cell phones, etc. will not work in Spain unless you bring converters and plugs. THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT; THESE PLUGS ARE VERY DIFFICULT TO FIND IN SPAIN. Bring different kinds, as these plugs are all different.

Miscellaneous

1. This program does not tolerate drugs of any kind.
2. Drunkenness puts you in danger and increases the chances that something could happen to you.
3. Addresses are very different from the United States. The first floor is “la planta baja”, or the ground floor. El primer piso is the first floor up, or our second floor.
4. Get a travel alarm clock with a new battery. Many hotels do not have alarm clocks. It is best that you bring an alarm clock.
5. Many Spaniards use profanity in a casual manner, ignore this custom.
6. Do not take expensive watches or jewelry. Leave the Louis at home.
7. Do not take large amounts of cash.

MONEY

ATMs Abroad

Automated teller machines (ATMs) are available in an ever-growing number of locations throughout the world, especially throughout Western Europe, connecting U.S. ATMs with those abroad. If your bank is part of an international network (check on this in advance) you can use your ATM card to obtain cash in the local currency from your bank account in the United States. The most widely used networks are the PLUS network and the CIRRUS network.

Before leaving the U.S. call your bank and notify them that you will be abroad including the locations and dates of your travel. Ask the bank to make a note on your file and to NOT block your card when you use it overseas. This happens frequently as part of the increasing efforts to detect fraud and identity theft. Get a phone number from the bank that you can call from overseas in case your card does get blocked. Generally, the exchange rate is favorable because it's the same one the banks get when exchanging money. However you should check with your bank about additional fees for using foreign or out of network ATMs. Also keep in mind that foreign banks may charge you for using their network. Fees as high as 6 Euros per transaction can be charged by European banks.

In order to use ATMs abroad, your PIN code must be no longer than four digits. Be sure to memorize the numbers as well as the letters -- some ATMs abroad have number pads without letters. Ask your bank for a worldwide directory of its ATMs. If your ATM card is part of the Cirrus network, you can find the location of these ATMs abroad by calling 1-800-424-7787. You can also get information on whether your host country has ATMs on your network by contacting: www.mastercard.com or www.visa.com. Several ATMs can be found on Avenida de la Constitucion.

Credit and Bank Cards

Credit cards can be used to get foreign currency at a good rate of exchange and are invaluable if an emergency arises. They are widely accepted in most places in most countries, although some countries will only allow cash for financial transactions.

The three main cards are American Express, Visa and Master Card, although American Express is less common in most student settings. Visa is most commonly accepted throughout Spain. Make sure that you notify your credit card company that you plan to use your card while overseas to prevent blocking due to fraud detection (see ATM cards).

Currency

As of January 1st, 2002, the new Spanish currency, as in most European Union countries, is the Euro. The currency will have notes and eight coins. The notes will have face value of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 or 500 euros. The Euro is divided into 100 cents and the coins will range in value from 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents and 1, 2 euros. The current rate of exchange varies from week to week. As of January 1, 2008 it was $1.48 US for one Euro. For an updated exchange rate, check with newspapers or banks.

Please keep in mind that there is NO American Express Travel Office in Sevilla. If you plan to bring Traveler’s checks, you must cash them in at the banks for a fee. Most of your large expenses are covered by credit cards, and credit cards are accepted in most places. In order to get the most for your money, we advise you to buy some euros before leaving (for your initial expenses) and exchange the rest of your dollars or travelers checks at the bank once in Spain (although banking hours might be subject to change, presently they are: Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.) There are ATM machines in the customs area of the Madrid airport. Major credit cards are honored in most hotels and restaurants, main stores, rent-a-car companies and others, although this should be checked before each transaction. The convenient Interact System can also be used throughout Spain, providing one of the easiest and cheapest ways of obtaining cash abroad; consult with your bank about your particular card and fees.

Money Matters

PERSONAL 

Culture Shock

As people move from one society to another and come in contact with a different culture, there are some specific stages that they encounter during their adjustment period. You cannot expect to leave your family or home and go abroad for a period of time without feeling some anxiety. There is almost no way to avoid culture shock completely; you should try to accept it as something everyone goes through. Keep in mind that students returning from study abroad often describe working their way through culture shock as a necessary maturing experience, something that provided insight into their own cultural assumptions.

The main meal of the day is called “comida” and is served mid-day, usually from 2:00 to 4:00 pm and most stores close during these hours. Most restaurants will serve a “menu del dia” during the comida hour which might consist of bread, starter, first course, second course, dessert and wine.

This is a very economical way to eat and can usually be found between 8-15 Euros. You might also try looking around the university for the student cafeteria.

As Sevilla is hot in the summer, it is typical to also take a nap or “siesta” during the comida time period. It is typical to go “tapas-hopping” in the early evening hours. “Tapas” are small snacks served with a beer or wine, sometimes for free. It is considered rude to stay in a tapas bar for multiple beverages. Spaniards prefer to move to the next tapas-bar and “spread the wealth”. You might also order tapas as either una-racion (one order) or a media-racion (1/2 an order). This might provide an inexpensive dinner. Dinner is served after 9:00 pm and everyone is out until very late. Dinner is typically served a la carte and is much more expensive than the comida. All meals in restaurants are served at a much slower pace than what you are used to in the U.S. It is rare for the waiter to bring your check before you ask for it. This is because the waiter does not want to hurry you. Restaurant staff do not work for tips and only expect that you round up the bill with a small offering, there is no need to turn tables to make better pay from tips. As such, eating is more of an experience and an occasion. Most of you will enjoy this difference in culture.

You will find that life moves at a much slower pace in Spain than in the U.S. It is common to hear Spaniards repeating the phrase, “Tranquilo, tranquilo” to anxious Americans. You will wait in lines at the grocery store, bank, post office, etc. This is normal in Spain. Try to allow yourself additional time to do your daily tasks and use the time waiting to observe life around you.

Most students will experience an initial “honeymoon” phase upon arrival where they are borderline euphoric. This does not often last and may not be experienced by some. Shortly after, students begin to notice all of the differences and experience “culture shock”. Some will react with frustration, anger, feelings of homesickness or even signs of physical illness. If you experience physical illness, it is almost always legitimate and needs to be treated by a physician. It is highly recommended that you take a good multi-vitamin or Vitamin C during your program in order to help you keep your immune system in the best possible shape for all of the new germs that you will be exposed to while abroad.

After the first few weeks, most of you will begin to integrate into the new culture and become acclimated to your new environment. Each student will operate on his/her own timetable and it is not usual to become acclimated and then have new waves of culture shock brought on by unforeseen events. Keep in mind that you may also experience some degree of culture shock when you return to the U.S. as things will have changed while you were gone. Please keep in mind that most stores are closed on Sundays. Many museums and restaurants are closed as well. Check before you go.

Doctor and Dentist

The University has supplied us with the name of a doctor and dentist. Doctor and Hospital: Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocio, Avenida Manuel Siurot, s/n, 41013 Sevilla (955-012-000) Dentist: Clinica Vital Dent., Ronda de Capuchinos, 23 esquina con C/La Maria, Sevilla. Emergency in Sevilla is 112.

Gyms

Visit http://www.exploreseville.com/gymsevilla.htm, Centro Deportivo Gallsport, Avenida Cardenal Bueno Monreal was used by one of the Professors on our last Study Abroad.

Laundry and Dry Cleaning

Laundry service is available at the hotel for an additional 6 Euros per 4 kilograms of clothes (one European machine load). You will leave your clothes in a bag and call down to the front desk. It will be picked up that day and returned to you the next day. Alternatively, there is a Laundromat on Avenida Menendez Pelayo which washes clothes for 6 Euros/5 kilograms.

For dry cleaning head to a tintorería: El Corte Inglés in Plaza Duque offers decent service and at a good price, too. As mentioned above, there is a dry cleaner/Laundromat on Avenida Menendez Pelayo across from Mas Supermarket.

Medical Kits

Be prepared for minor health problems with a home medical kit. This should include: bandages, gauze and adhesive tape, sterile cleansers, antibacterial cream, painkillers, anti-diarrhea medicine, insect repellent, etc. Always carry tissues in your bag, bathrooms are not always supplied with paper.

Prescriptions

If you take prescription medications regularly, bring a supply to last throughout your time abroad. Foreign drugs are not necessarily closely related to those standards in the United States, even if they have the same chemical formula. They may be marketed under different names and may not be available in the strengths you desire. It might be wise to also have a letter from your home physician or pharmacist describing your medicines, their dosage, a generic name for them and describing the condition being treated. This letter could be helpful in an emergency.

Make sure all drugs are in the original pharmacy containers and are clearly labeled. All drugs must have the same name on the label as on your passport. You should carry copies of the prescriptions to avoid problems with Customs. In the case of narcotic medicines, it may not be prudent to carry additional supplies because of possible Customs difficulties. In that case, bring a prescription with the drug's generic name. For certain conditions such as diabetes, asthma, mild epilepsy, or allergy to penicillin, it would be wise to wear a tag or a bracelet or carry a card to identify the condition so that the student can be treated properly. Take an extra pair of eyeglasses and/or contact lenses if you wear them. Bring along extra contact lens solution too. Do not pack your medication in your checked luggage. Pack them in your carry-on so as not to be without them if your luggage gets lost.

If you have questions about any needs you have due to a chronic health condition, please notify the FIU College of Law or the FIU Office of International Studies in advance of your departure.

Refrigerator Rental

For those of you staying in a hotel room at the Murillo, we have negotiated a refrigerator rental at a rate of Euros 50 for the entire stay.

Staying Safe

The most important factor in your safety abroad is likely to be your behavior. It's wise to do the following:

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Don't wander through unfamiliar areas alone, and always remain alert.
• Don't go out alone at night. Even when you're with friends, stick to well-lit streets where there are lots of people..
• Don't flash jewelry, expensive cameras, or electronic equipment.
• Use caution when walking or jogging.
• When crossing streets, keep in mind that pedestrians may not be given the right of way.
• Be careful with alcohol. If you drink, make sure it is only with people you know and trust, and designate one person to remain sober. As in the United States, never drink and drive. (Drunk driving laws abroad are sometimes much more severe than those in the United States.)
• Don't attract attention to yourself with provocative or expensive clothing or boisterous conversation in public. Observe local students' behavior and dress, and try to mimic it.
• Use only official taxis. Unless meters are used, agree on the fare before you get in.
• Before you travel from your program site, find out what methods of transportation are safest and whether any roads should be avoided.
• Stay away from demonstrations or any kind of civil disturbances. Even innocent bystanders can be hurt or arrested.
• Protect your passport. Keep it with you, in a front pocket or your purse. Consider purchasing a money-belt to be worn under your clothing. Be careful when displaying it.
• In general, avoid being engulfed in a crowd. This is the preferred environment of pickpockets.
• Accidents can happen anywhere. If driving, know what local traffic laws are and follow them. Always use a seat-belt. Make sure you understand local road signs and signals.
• Remain alert when walking. Before crossing streets, remember to look both ways.

TRAVEL

Arriving in Seville

There are no direct flights from North America to Sevilla; you most likely will change planes in Madrid Barajas Airport. Please keep in mind that you will need to clear customs and immigration at your first port of entry so allow plenty of time to make your connection. You will also likely need to change terminals for your domestic flight. The airport is very large, new and beautiful. Unfortunately, you must remain very alert because they change the gate at the last minute. We recommend a minimum of three hours between flights. If you fly to Sevilla you will arrive at Sevilla San Pablo International Airport. There are only two means of public transportation to and from Sevilla San Pablo International Airport: taxis and bus. The average price for a taxi is 25 to 30 Euros and 2 passengers fit in each taxi. A bus is 2.30 Euros per person and there is one leaving every hour. It is highly recommended that you take a taxi and if you stay at the Murillo you will be dropped at Plaza Santa Cruz. If you stay at Cruces you will be dropped at Plaza Refinadores. From there it is a very short walk to the hotel. We will meet you at the Plaza and escort you to the Hotel.

Notes about “The Flight”:

1. The air on the plane is very dry; take bottles of water and use Chapstick.
2. It gets cold on the plane, take a sweater. There is a six hour time difference between Florida and Spain (Spanish time is six hours later).
3. You will not check into the hotel until the late afternoon. You will be wearing those clothes for 18 to 24 hours, so dress comfortably.
4. Rest and sleep as much as you can. When you arrive your body will be temporarily fooled by the daylight, so your metabolism will pick up noticeably. Espresso coffee also helps.

If you plan to travel through Europe, plan ahead. It will be more economical for you. Check with Spanair, Air Europa and Iberia airlines.

Beaches

Visit http://www.exploreseville.com/side-trips.htm

Car Rentals

Renting a car is not recommended. The number one cause of death of American study abroad students is automobile accidents. Drivers in Spain are wild – think hard before driving and drive carefully. In Europe most car rentals are for manual transmission and automatic transmission is extremely expensive. There is no parking in the center of Sevilla (or most major cities) and most hotels do not have parking.

Driving Permits

Your valid U.S. driver’s license and passport will be sufficient to rent a car in Europe. An International Driving Permit is required for foreign drivers in Spain and many other countries. So, if you plan to drive a rented car in Spain, get an International Driving permit before you leave the U.S. The car rental agency may not require one, but if you are stopped by the police for any reason, you will be glad you have it. You can obtain an International Driving Permit for about $15 from any AAA office (www.aaa.com) here in the U.S. Take with you two passport-size photos (or AAA will take photos for a small fee) and your valid state driver’s license. The International Driving Permit is good for one year from date of issue. Check rules at www.travel.state.gov The fine in Spain for talking on a hand-held cellphone while driving is more than $400.

Explore Seville

Visit this website for comprehensive information on Seville.
https://www.exploreseville.com/index.htm

International Airfare

International and intra-European travel will be the responsibility of individual students.
Students are free to make their own transatlantic air travel arrangements.

Airfares to Europe can vary greatly depending on several variables. Students are encouraged to make their plans early to take advantage of advance purchase options. Airline "airfare wars" for the late Spring/early Summer seasons take place during late winter. To take advantage of the lowest fares for travel in May, one may have to purchase tickets by early March. Participants should consult a good travel agent for special airfares offered by wholesalers and "consolidators". There are also reputable web-sites that sell discounted airfares or auction airfares. STA Travel, www.statravel.com, and Student Universe, www.studentuniverse.com, are the largest U.S. student travel agencies, specializing in low-cost airfares. Be sure to contact them early, while spaces are available!  You will need to haven ISIC (see below) (International Student Identification Card) to book through STA Travel.  The ISIC ($22) is an ID card recognized abroad which qualifies students for discounts on travel, accommodations, museums and more (some discounts not available to students age 25 and up.  You may also wish to inquire at:

• www.expedia.com
• www.travelocity.com
• www.orbitz.com (these three sites offer the lowest advertised fares for your requested itinerary on a number of major US and international airlines)
• www.cheaptickets.com
• www.skyauction.com

Airport of Arrival: San Pablo Airport, Sevilla, Spain

International Student ID Card

http://www.isicus.com/MyISIC or www.statravel.com
Visit these websites if you are interested in acquiring an International Student ID card.  If you click on the "Discount" section, click on Spain and then Sevilla, you will see all the information.  You can also get information for other cities in Spain, as well as other countries.  You can also get one by going to the Travel Leaders office in the Graham Center with your FIU ID card, proof of enrollment, a passport photo and $25.00.   You can purchase passport photos from the FIU ID card office, also in Graham Center. 

Jet Lag

In the first few days after your arrival, you are likely to experience physical changes as a result of taking a long flight and traveling through a number of time zones. You will probably be sleeping and waking at the 'wrong' times, feel tired, and have less patience than usual. This will pass within a few days, once your internal clock has adjusted to the time change. Another tip: upon arrival, get some exercise and do your best to wait to go to sleep until it is bedtime in the new time zone. This disorientation can be minimized some by avoiding alcohol and caffeinated products prior to and during your flight, and drinking plenty of fluids. You may also want to set your watch to the time zone to which you are flying as soon as you get on the plane. Still, for most people some degree of short-term jet lag is inevitable.   For this reason, it is suggested that you arrive on Sunday so that you have two days to adjust prior to the commencement of classes on Tuesday, May 20th. Mandatory Orientation is at 5:00 pm at Universidad de Sevilla on Monday, May 19, 2008.

Luggage

You will be allowed a maximum of two checked bags, one carry-on bag and a personal item such as a computer case, briefcase or purse.  Each airline has specific measurement and weight maximums.  These are strictly enforced, especially in the summer when airlines are at or over capacity. Check with your airline! Also check Transportation Security Administration for the latest rules on packing. The airlines will charge you large amounts of fees to take oversized bags or may simply refuse to take additional luggage.  Backpacks or roller suitcases (suitcase that has a handle and can be wheeled like a hand truck or dolly) are the best kind. Mark your suitcase with your name, address, etc. on the inside as well as the outside.  Outside tags can be ripped off.  Bring an inexpensive empty tote bag to pack in your suitcase for short weekends and grocery shopping.  Make sure you have a security lock for your suitcase.  Be sure to pack your important documents, any prescriptions, film, and 1-2 changes of clothing in a carry-on bag.  It is unfortunate, but normal for luggage to get lost in transit.  Dressing in Sevilla is similar to Miami, although short shorts are not usually worn by women in the city.  Sandals are acceptable and it is hot in Sevilla so dress accordingly. A good quantity of items you would change frequently and wash out by hand is advisable!  The streets in Santa Cruz, Seville are cobblestone.  It is difficult to walk in high heels, wedged heels are more comfortable.  If you plan to travel before or after the program, bring as little luggage as possible.  You will be amazed at how little clothing you actually need when traveling. 

Passport and Visa

Do not leave without your Passport and make two copies of it and keep these copies in a safe place, in case you lose your passport. A valid passport is needed for travel to Europe. It should be valid for at least another six months from the date of entry abroad (e.g. until December 2007). To apply for a passport, U.S. citizens should call: 800-487-2778 or contact http://travel.state.gov/passport_services.html. Apply for a passport immediately to avoid last minute problems later on (e.g. the passport is issued but your name is misspelled) and "rush handling" fees. No visa is needed at this time for U.S., Canadian, and European Union Citizens. Citizens of other countries should call the Spanish Consulates to inquire about the possible need for a visa.

Railpass

There are many different types of railpasses.  The traditional Eurail pass covers 22 countries for 2 months.  It is still available but there are many more combinations and less expensive options now available.   If you plan to only travel within Spain and Portugal you will probably find it as cheap to purchase point-to-point tickets.  If you plan to travel on more expensive train systems, such as those in France, Germany or Switzerland, you may wish to consider a single country or multi-country pass.  For those who are 26 or under, you can get a student discount.  Visit http:raileurope.com or http://www.autoeurope.com/index.cfm

Spain has an extensive railroad system with fast and comfortable trains, offering some of the best fares in Europe. The national network is known as RENFE. Internet address: www.renfe.es.

AVE, Spain’s sleek bullet train, is the rail link between Madrid and Seville, going through Ciudad Real and Cordoba. This ultramodern train, which travels at a speed of up to 185 miles per hour, makes the Madrid-Seville run in 2 hours 30 minutes.

TALGO is an ultramodern, fully air-conditioned train operating throughout Spain. New fast and sleek trains called EUROMEDS are going along the Mediterranean Coast, significantly cutting your traveling time from Barcelona to Valencia. Tickets can be purchased through RAIL EUROPE: 1-800-361 RAIL, which sells special rail passes only for Spain. Train Passes, such as EUROPASS and FLEXIPASS can also be purchased through RAIL EUROPE.

Registration with American Consulate

https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/home.asp  -  It is highly recommended that you register yourself at this website.  This will allow the U.S. government to assist you in the case of an emergency or assist your family in contacting you in the case of an emergency at home. 

Transportation in Seville

This website will give you information on how to get around in Sevilla, as well as information on car rentals, bikes, scooters, buses, etc.  http://www.exploreseville.com/transport.htm

Travel through Europe

Visit http://autoeurope.raileurope.com/us/index.htm for additional information on rail passes through Europe.  Again, for those under 26 there are special student discounts.  It is highly recommended that you purchase a guidebook for your travels before leaving for Spain.  Some guidebooks geared towards the student traveler include:         
Lonely Planet Spain, Rough Guide to Spain, Let’s Go 2005: Spain and Portugal, Let’s Go: Europe,  Frommer’s Guides, Fodor’s Guides.  Rick Steves’ Europe Through the Back Door, is one of America’s best-selling budget travel handbooks.

Checklist

Flight:

1. Airline Ticket
2. Passport
3. Traverler's Checks
4. $20 bills (Buy some Euros at airport)
5. Water
6. Chapstick
7. Gum
8. Jacket or Sweater
9. Travel Wallet
10. Backpack
11. Walking/Athletic shoes
12. Reading Material
13. Travel-sized Kleenex
14. ATM card, credit cards
15. Extra glasses, contacts and medicine
16. Film (not in your luggage!)
    

1. Luggage Locks
2. Travel Alarm clock and new battery
3. Travel Guide (Let's Go: Spain, etc.)
4. Electric converters and plugs
5. Batteries
6. Cellphone
7. Extra set of passport photos
8. Photocopy of passport information page
9. List of credit cards and phone numbers
10. Paperback English-Spanish dictionary
11. Covered luggage tags
12. Photocopy of airline ticket

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