You've Landed. Now What?

So you kicked back a few mini bottles of wine, you watched a few movies, read a book or two and tried to ignore the fat snoring man sleeping next to you. And finally, you've arrive in Barcelona at El Prat airport!

El Prat Airport
The airport itself isn't that big, and the signs are in Castellano, or Spanish, Catalan, and English, so you'll be able to get around just fine. For more information on the aeropuerto, including the new Terminal, click HERE.

Getting to the City

The first thing you should do when you get your luggage is go to an ATM and get Euros so you can pay for either a taxi or a bus to the heart of the city, where you'll be staying. The Aerobus is only 5 euros one-way and will take you to Plaza Catalunya, in the heart of the new city. But if you have a lot of luggage, you may want to simply hail a taxi. Taxi's in Barcelona sometimes don't stop unless you're at a Taxi Stand, so go to one and hail a cab. Depending what part of the city you are travelling to, your taxi should cost somewhere between 25 and 40 euros. Remember: do not tip! Tipping is not customary in Barcelona, even with taxis. Sometimes, it's even considered to be an insult. For dollar to euro conversation rates, click HERE.

The Aerobus -- a cheaper way to get around

Welcome Home!
Now you've (hopefully) arrived safe and sound at your new dorm, apartment or home stay. Don't forget to greet your roommates with some key phrases in Spanish:

Hello - Hola (oh-lah)
Nice to meet you - Mucho gusto (moo-choh goo-stoh)
My name is _____ - Me llamo _______ (may yah-moh ________)
What is your name? - Como te llamas? (koh-moh tay yah-mahs)

Now you're ready to begin your semester in Barcelona. All you have to do is unpack. Remember to use your converters and adaptors so you don't blow a fuse! Good luck!