Study Abroad in Spain: Arrival Orientation
Our goal is that you make the most of your study abroad program. This is why we make sure that you start enjoying your experience in Barcelona the moment you arrive at the airport.
Our arrival orientation will help you to function effectively in the new cultural environment, and to live successfully in the Catalonian context. We will give an introduction into cultural differences, special characteristics of Barcelona society, etc. You will also have the possibility of participating of social and cultural activities, which will make your stay a memorable one. Our staff will be constantly at your service to support you and guide you.
It is important that a week before you arrive to Barcelona you give us your flight details (date, airline, flight number, etc). If for some reason your flight is cancelled or a personal problem arises at the very last minute, you can reach an agent from COINED Spain at the following number: +34-660409930.
Language
In Barcelona the official languages are Catalan and Castilian, and the two languages equally coexist. It is a good idea that you learn a few phrases in Catalan, you will get friendly smiles from the locals. It is not uncommon to hear a variety of languages, such as English, French, Italian, Portuguese, German, various regional forms of Arabic, and a number of Asian languages.
Meal times
In Barcelona, as in the rest of Spain, people normally have their meals later than in other European countries. The first meal of the day is usually eaten between 9:00 and 11:00 in the morning, and tends to be lighter than in the rest of Europe. People sit down for lunch between 2:00 and 3:00 in the afternoon and for dinner between 9:00 and 10:00 in the evening. Nevertheless, restaurant hours have adapted to the pace of working life, and you are able to find lunch as early as 1:00, while dinner may be served as late as 11:30 at night. There are also restaurants that serve meals throughout the day.
Working hours
The workday generally begins at 8:00 or 9:00 in the morning and lasts until 8:00 in the evening, allowing a one or two hour break for lunch in the early afternoon.
Shopping hours
Shops in Barcelona open between 9:00 and 10:00 in the morning and generally close for lunch at 1:30 or 2:00. They open again between 4:00 and 5:00 in the afternoon and remain open until 8:00 or 8:30 in the evening. It should be noted that many shopping centers and larger establishments do not close for the mid-day break. Many shops and all department stores and shopping centers open Saturday afternoons and all shops close Sundays, except for a few dates where they remain open.
08015 - Barcelona - Spain
Tel: +34 93 4254901 | Fax: +34 93 4234156 | Email: spain@intercoined.org