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Alicante is steeped in a diverse history, with its roots stretching back to the Carthaginians, Romans, and Moors. This rich past is vividly reflected in its ancient fortifications, such as the Castillo de Santa Bárbara, and in the narrow streets of the old town, Barrio de la Santa Cruz, offering a living history lesson at every corner.
Alicante showcases a fascinating architectural landscape, from the medieval Castillo de Santa Bárbara perched atop Mount Benacantil, offering breathtaking views, to the modernist Casa Carbonell along the Explanada de España. The city’s architecture tells the story of its past and present, blending Gothic, Baroque, and contemporary styles.
The artistic scene in Alicante is both historic and vibrant, with museums like the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante (MACA) presenting works by Spanish artists alongside local talents. The city’s streets and squares come alive with public art, festivals, and exhibitions, reflecting a deep-rooted appreciation for creative expression.
Alicante’s gastronomy is a testament to its Mediterranean setting, offering a palette of flavors from the sea and the land. Signature dishes such as arroz alicantino (paella) and tapas like esgarrat embody the region’s culinary traditions, providing a delicious avenue for cultural exploration.
In Alicante, Spanish flows seamlessly from the bustling markets to the tranquil beaches, offering a vibrant setting for immersion in both Castilian Spanish and the regional Valencian dialect. Through language exchanges and daily interactions, students can explore the linguistic richness of Alicante, enhancing their proficiency and cultural understanding.
Living in Alicante means experiencing the warmth of its people, the leisurely pace of life, and the city’s open, welcoming nature. From participating in traditional festivals like the Bonfires of Saint John to enjoying the leisure and sports activities by the sea, life in Alicante is a blend of cultural immersion, educational growth, and unforgettable adventures.
Your semester in Alicante offers much more than just academic pursuits; it’s an invitation to dive deep into the vibrant heart of Spanish culture. Included in your program are a myriad of cultural activities and outings, meticulously selected by our Resident Director to enrich your experience. Here’s a glimpse of the cultural journey that awaits you in Alicante:
Welcome to Mediterranean Delights: Begin your adventure with a warm welcome dinner, where you’ll taste local specialties like arroz alicantino and indulge in authentic Spanish tapas, fostering connections with fellow students and our local team.
Cultural Visits: Immerse yourself in Alicante’s rich history and art through guided tours to the Castillo de Santa Bárbara, the Museo de Bellas Artes, the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo, and the Museo Arqueológico Provincial de Alicante.
Cultural Walks/Itineraries: Discover Alicante’s history, picturesque spots, Modernist architecture, and Civil War air-raid shelters through themed walks like “Historia de Alicante,” “Rincones con encanto de Alicante,” “El Modernismo en la ciudad de Alicante,” and “Refugios antiaéreos de la Guerra Civil en Alicante.”
Gastronomic Workshops: Delve into the culinary arts with workshops on alicantino rice dishes and tapas, where you’ll learn to prepare traditional flavors of the region.
Dance Workshops: Move to the rhythm with Latin dance, flamenco, and zumba workshops, embracing the lively local culture and staying active.
Cultural Events: Celebrate Thanksgiving Alicante-style, and engage with the local community through Spanish cinema screenings, bowling nights, and more.
Spanish Language Cinema and Bowling with Language Exchange: Enhance your Spanish skills and make new friends through movie nights and bowling with language exchange partners.
Gymkhana – Outdoor Escape Room in Alicante: Participate in a thrilling gymkhana based on the ancient history of Alicante, combining fun, teamwork, and learning.
Multi-Activity Nautical Day: Experience the Mediterranean Sea with a day of water sports, offering a blend of excitement and relaxation.
Please note that while most activities are included in your program’s cost, some may require a small additional fee. Availability of activities can vary depending on the program schedule. This comprehensive suite of cultural engagements is designed to ensure you live Alicante not just as a student, but as a true part of its vibrant community.
Both living arrangements are designed to enrich your study abroad experience in Alicante, offering distinct pathways to immerse yourself in the local culture, language, and community. Whether you choose the intimate setting of a homestay or the more independent lifestyle of a student residencia, you’ll have the support and guidance of Spanish Studies Abroad staff to make the most of your time in Spain.
*Residencia spaces are limited and students with special health and dietary needs have first priority
Student residencias* offer a more independent living situation while still providing a sense of community with fellow students. Residencia spaces are limited, with priority given to students who have special health and dietary needs. Living in a residencia allows you to enjoy a blend of independence and support, with amenities that cater to a student’s lifestyle. While residencias provide a unique opportunity to meet students from diverse backgrounds, they also promote a learning environment conducive to academic success. It’s an excellent option for those who prefer a bit more autonomy but still wish to engage closely with the student community in Alicante.
In Alicante, opting for a homestay offers an unparalleled immersion into Spanish life and culture. This choice means you’ll live with a local host family, providing full room and board, including laundry and room cleaning services. Homestays are ideal for students eager to practice Spanish daily in an authentic setting, enhancing their language skills and cultural understanding. Our homestays are carefully selected to ensure a welcoming and conducive atmosphere for learning.
The SSA team maintains high standards by discussing norms and policies with hosts and regularly inspecting homes to guarantee your comfort. Special dietary or housing accommodations are available, though they may come with an additional fee. Most host families have been partnering with us for years, receiving high praise from former students for their hospitality. Remember, bringing a small gift for your host family is a thoughtful gesture to show appreciation for their welcome.
The available courses for students vary by program and are distributed between the SSA center and local universities. Please see the selection below, and contact us for the most current course information:
Contact Hours: 60
Credits: 4
The University of Alicante is a prestigious higher education and research institution located in Alicante, Spain. Known for its innovative and diverse academic programs, the university caters to over 30,000 students with a faculty of highly qualified professors and researchers.
Established in 1979, the University of Alicante has developed a reputation for excellence in both teaching and research. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including arts, sciences, health, business, and engineering.
The university’s campus is renowned for its modern architecture and green spaces, providing an ideal environment for learning and research. It has also been recognized for its contributions to scientific research, particularly in areas such as technology, health sciences, and social sciences.
The University of Alicante is committed to internationalization, with numerous partnerships with universities and research institutions around the world. This global outlook enhances the educational experience for its students, preparing them for success in an increasingly interconnected world.
The January Study Abroad Program in Spanish in Alicante, Spain, offers an intensive immersion into the Spanish language and culture during a compact, month-long course. This program is ideal for students seeking to rapidly improve their Spanish skills and understanding of Spanish culture in a short timeframe, set against the backdrop of Alicante’s stunning Mediterranean scenery.
The mission of SSA is to promote our students’ in-depth understanding of Spanish-speaking countries through specifically designed and academically rigorous university-level and cultural travel programs.
INSTITUTIONAL RELATIONS Manager
Beth is your go-to contact for navigating the complex process of study abroad.
She aims to respond to all inquiries within one business day.
Don’t hesitate to drop a message. No question is too small!
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