What do Avoid?
		My biggest suggestion is, especially in the 2nd biggest destination for American study abroad students, is to avoid constantly hanging out with Americans. It is very easy to do, and you will get a very non-cultural experience if you do (plus you'll spend all your time drinking, which is fine for many but I wanted a little more out of my trip). I sacrificed a lot to go to Spain, so I wanted to get the most out of it. I took the time to meet as many Spaniards as I could, and it was really worth it because I met some amazing friends (including my girlfriend, Maria - pictured in the 'locals' section). To show how little interaction there is between the Spaniards and Americans, out of the dozens of Spaniards I met almost all of them said I was the first American they had met! Amazing.
			created 9/26/03