Where should I study abroad in Spain?

I want to study abroad in Spain next fall (first semester of my junior year in college). My options are Alicante, Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Alcala, Palma de Mallorca, Granada, or Malaga. I would go through either the International Studies Abroad (ISA) Program or CIEE.





I've heard some good things about studying abroad in Alicante because there is only one program that goes there, therefor less American students and more interacting with spanish students.





If anyone has studied abroad in any of these cites (especially if you did it through either of those programs) I would love to hear what you thought about your experience.





Or if you have vacationed/lived in any of these cites, or have any other feedback I would really appreciate it.





Thanks!

Where should I study abroad in Spain?
All the cities you have metioned are great places to visit, to live and to study. Each one of them is different and unlike what you stated, Alicante is not the only place where you will have the chance to interact with locals. The program is the problem? if you choose any of these two programs you will end up with americans even if the school is in the smallest town in Spain. These programs are geared toward Americans who are willing to spend money (student loans) in studying abroad. However, if you to acheive your goals, you need to look for a program or a school in your own, especially a local small school. These language schools will usually have foreigners from all over Europe and Japan. This diversity will open the doors for you to locals. They are usually more knowledgeable and schools are more prepared to provide with real (not commercial like for americans) local experience.


You need to go out there and do it yourself. But here is a quick reference about the cities you mentioned:


- Mallorca is an expensive summer gateaway for rich people from all over Europe. Great night life and beaches.


-Barcelona is a place for everyone. It is one of the most beautifull cities in Europe. You find anything and evrything you want. Spanish is not commonly used by locals though, it is the Catalan. Safety is good but not the best.


-Madrid, in my opinion is the best place to be especially for the fall semester. The weather is nice and the city got everything from nightlife to culture. It is very student friendly city and it is somewhat affordable if you know the spots. I will highly recommend.


-Alicante is smaller coastal town with nice beaches, famous resorts for spaniards. Locals can be friendly but you can get bored easily. It is the most affordable of your choices.





In general I will avoid coastal towns in the fall, because the weather is not nice enough ro swim and stuff, and nothing really going on since everyone is back to school.





Contact me if you need more info
Reply:cairo