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Meals: If cost for value were taken
into account, meals in Barcelona are
relatively less expensive than meals in most US cities. In general, the
main meal in Spain
is lunch, while dinner typically consists of lighter fare (see our Top 15
reasons for more details). These generalizations are only speculative and
can vary, for instance, according to personal preferences, dollar-euro
exchange rates, etc. As a suggestion only (and not as an official
guideline) it may be wise to budget for meals as one would traveling in
the U.S.
over a ten-week period.
Excursions: It is expected that Merit as
well as student organizations in Barcelona
(at UPC and other universities) might organize and offer excursions to
various interesting sites in the region. In the past, students
participated in weekend getaways to small fishing villages and coves
along the Mediterranean coast, as well as visits to the Pyrenees,
Montserrat, sites of Roman and Greek ruins in Tarragona,
and the old Jewish quarters in Gerona.
These activities are fun, optional, and inexpensive (weekend excursions
to nearby sites are typically $70, including transportation, breakfasts
and lunches, and student housing). There may be two or three such
excursions offered during the program (which will be optional, require
separate registration, and will be announced at a later time). It should
be noted that, due to liability and logistical reasons, Georgia Tech will
not actually organize or conduct these additional excursions and
activities. Also, Georgia Tech neither encourages nor discourages
students from participating in these activities, but rather will simply
relay information about them as information becomes available.
Transportation: Another expense will be daily
transportation within the city. In general, taxis and public
transportation are safe, efficient, and relatively inexpensive. For
instance, in 2004, students were able to purchase a one-month pass for
$70 which allows unlimited travel using the city's metro and bus systems.
It may be wise to allow approximately $250 for daily transportation for
the duration of the program.
Other Expenses: As noted earlier, the schedule
will probably provide ample opportunity to travel throughout, and outside
of, Spain.
Thus, additional (individual) travel funds would be recommended. It is
also likely that you will be interested in buying some souvenirs, as well
as taking advantage of the broad opportunities to sample the cuisine and
nightlife of Barcelona.
Since, however, these are highly personal decisions. It is difficult to
suggest a monetary amount for these types of activities and expenses.
Please visit the other sections of this website to get some idea of
various student travel and leisure activities.
Passport Fee
Increase:
Effective March 8, 2005, a new $12 security surcharge will be collected
from all new and renewal passport applicants. As a result, the total
fee for a new passport is $97 for adults (16 and older) and $82
for minors. Total fees to renew a passport are $67.
To summarize,
round-trip airfare, daily ground transportation, excursions, meals, books
and entertainment costs are NOT included in program fees. However, transportation
to and from the airport in Barcelona
will be provided if traveling with the group.
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