Study Abroad | Salamanca

Housing

Spanish Homestay

Living with a Spanish host is one of the best ways to learn Spanish and experience the culture firsthand. Many former AIFS students say that the Spanish homestay experience was the most rewarding part of their time abroad. The homestay will include:

• Carefully selected homes
• Double room with another AIFS student
• 3 meals a day
• Once a week laundry service
• Single rooms are available for a supplement of $225 January 2025 / $300 January 2026

Internet access is included in all AIFS housing in Salamanca

City Facts

Geography

Salamanca is an ancient university town situated in the west of Spain in the Autonomous Community of Castilla and León. 

History

It is a UNESCO World Heritage City and is home to The University of Salamanca., which dates back to 1218, and is the oldest university in Spain, and third oldest university in Europe.  

Cuisine

Salamanca is known for its local cuisine and is considered one of Spain’s best cities for a “tapeo” or a feast of small bites and drinks.  

Site Staff

AIFS in Salamanca Director, January Term Program

Gaye Michaels

¡Hola! I have coordinated study abroad programs at the University of Salamanca since 1987 and have been working as AIFS Program Director since 1993. I received my BA from SUNY Cortland in 1983 and spent my junior and senior years of undergraduate study at the University of Salamanca, so I am very familiar with where you will be studying and living.

I love getting to know my students and will enjoy assisting you in your adjustment not only to your new environment but to your new self! I want to help you expand your horizons – rarely will you have an opportunity like this to spend time living in a native’s home, watching local television and sharing home-cooked meals with them while chatting about their lives.

As Director, I am your counselor, administrator and friend. I provide guidance and support during this program full of excitement, adventure and education. You will find me in the AIFS office, in the heart of Salamanca, next to the Plaza Mayor and a 5-minute walk from the University.

The Program Director provides academic advice, introduces you to the community and handles communication with the University.

Cultural Activities

Learning does not begin or end in the classroom. To help you get a true taste of Spanish culture, the AIFS team in Salamanca arranges a variety of cultural and social activities. Typical activities may include:

• Welcome dinner
• Guided tour of Salamanca including the university and cathedrals
• “Tapas” tour
• Spanish cooking class
• Flamenco class
• Visit to the Bullfighting Museum
• Chocolate con churros in the Plaza Mayor
• Visit to the Jeronimus Cathedral tower for a bird’s eye view of the city
• Casa Lis Art Nouveau and Art Deco Museum visit
• Farewell dinner