Italian electricity operates at 220 volts, which means you will need to purchase a voltage converter ($30-$40) and an adapter in the United States in order to use major electrical appliances you bring from home. It is best to keep appliances to a minimum. You may want to consider purchasing a hair dryer in Europe; you will find it easier to use without having to use the adapter and you will be able to pack it on future European trips. For other appliances, such as chargers for electronic devices, you will need plug adapters to plug dual-voltage appliances into wall outlets; you will find these...

Gyms You will receive more information about gym locations and memberships during orientation. Gyms are generally more expensive compared to the ones in the US and they might require you to pass an on-site physical to gain access to the facilities. IES Abroad Milan and Community Assistants will help you in finding the best solution for your needs. Sporting Events Milan has a large number of professional teams for all sports. The IES Abroad staff can suggest when and where to buy tickets for different events.

Identity Abroad There are few places where most of the population comes from one national, religious, or ethnic group. At IES Abroad, our faculty, staff, and programs are committed to recognizing and acquainting students with the diversity that exists within France. IES Abroad students are continually provided with opportunities to explore the cultural richness of their host environment and learn about the economic, social, and political status of local populations. Here are a few resources that you might find useful: For additional resources visit: IES Abroad Identity Resources Diversity in...

Students are able to receive letter-sized mail to the IES Abroad Center. Packages will not be accepted. If you are shipping a debit or credit card, we recommend that you disguise it as regular mail (i.e., put it in a birthday card or use a cardboard FedEx or UPS envelope). Mail should be addressed to: IES Abroad Madrid ATTN: Student Name Avenida de Séneca, 4 28040 Madrid, SPAIN *In the above address, you will notice that Spanish address are written: Lines 1 & 2 - Recipient Line 3 - Street name followed by building number, floor number, and door number (if applicable) Line 4 - Zip code, City...

Madrileños are known for their social lifestyle. Immerse yourself in their culture by reading in the cafés, window shopping with the crowds in the pedestrian zones of the city, or spending an afternoon in one of the city’s many museums. Seek out ways to interact with the Spaniards and become engulfed in the culture and relentless energy of Madrid. Remember, meeting people in any new place isn't easy, but if you take advantage of the host culture, you will enjoy your stay that much more and feel a part of Madrid that much sooner. The IES Abroad Madrid staff has helped some IES Abroad students...

Madrid is a large city, but with public transportation it is easily navigated. Once you arrive in Madrid you will see that the subway and the buses are going to be your best option to travel within the city. Metro The city’s metro system is one of the most sophisticated in Europe and it is constantly expanding and improving. It serves the downtown area and also some suburban locations. The prices are reasonable and it is a safe option, although you should always watch your belongings. The metro is open from 6am to 1:30am. For a metro map or more information, consult their webpage at www...

Madrid is a large city with heavy traffic. Bicycles are seldom seen and are not considered safe. Running and jogging are more often done on tracks than city streets. Spaniards enjoy a variety of sports, the most popular being soccer, basketball, tennis, and rugby. Sports equipment is easily purchased in Spain, but you should expect to pay more than in your home country for such items as sports clothing and specialty equipment. There are no fees to use the workout room near the IES Abroad offices.

Category Cost Food & Drink Groceries per week, if you cook every meal at home €50 Breakfast at a restaurant €4 Lunch at a restaurant €10,50 Dinner at a restaurant €12-20 Soft drink €2 Coffee €1,50 Meal at a university dining facility €4 Housing Toiletries per week €6-8 Local Transportation Monthly Metro Pass €25 One-way Ground Transportation from airport to IES Abroad Center €30-35 taxi or €5 bus Social Activity & Entertainment Movie €7-9 Theater performance €20-30 Museum entry fee €6 Fitness club membership per month €30-40 Dance club cover charge €12-18 Communication Pre-paid International...

Currency The Spanish monetary unit is the euro (€). For more information on the euro and related topics, visit the website europa.eu. You can check current exchange rates by looking in the business section of a large newspaper or at www.xe.net/currency/table.htm. Handling Money Abroad Before departing for Spain, you should exchange between USD$50 and USD$100 into euros in order to cover incidental expenses during your first few days in Spain. Euros can be purchased at large US banks, American Express offices, and at most international airports in the United States and abroad. During your time...

Spanish electricity operates at 220 volts (as opposed to 110 volts in the United States). You may either: Purchase electrical appliances on site. (We strongly recommend this option, especially for appliances like hair dryers, flat irons and razors). Purchase dual-voltage items such as netbooks, laptops and tablet cords. To determine whether a device is dual voltage, look for a legend on its power adapter "box" or on the device itself. The device is dual voltage if its input rating covers both 110/120 and 220/240V systems. These items will also need an adapter. Purchase a converter and adapter...