Application Information

When should I apply for the volunteer programs in Spain?

Global Crossroad has recently begun running volunteer programs in Spain . We are able to offer placements as per your convenience year round. Because of the increasing volume of applications, participants are requested to apply at least two months in advance. In the event that interested individuals require expediting of their application (within less than two months' time), they are encouraged to contact Global Crossroad's offices for further information.

What happens once I submit my documents and application to Global Crossroad?

Once Global Crossroad receives and reviews your completed application, it is then forwarded to our In-Country Coordinator in Spain who will then finalize a specific placement as per your qualifications and request. Upon receipt of your finalized placement details, this information is then immediately sent to you.

How long does it take to process my application?

The application process can usually take anywhere from 2-3 weeks – occasionally longer (given the time of year). However, in the event that interested participants require their application expedited due to time constraints, they are requested to contact Global Crossroad's offices prior to submitting their application.

What documents do I need to submit with my application?

Usually, the only documentation required is the completed application form which can be found online ( http://www.globalcrossroad.com/apply.php ). Applicants have the option to either submit their application online or download the application from the website and submit the completed form to Global Crossroad's USA-based offices either by post or fax.

Are there any necessary requirements to participate in the volunteer programs Spain ?

The only qualifications are:

•  An open mind and a willingness to teach others as well a passion for helping those in need.
•  18 years of age and no older than 60 years of age
•  Speak English fluently
•  Ability to speak Spanish or willingness to learn
•  Enthusiasm for living abroad and meeting new people.
•  Be in good health.

Visa Information

A valid passport is required to enter Spain . Spain does not permit foreigners/visitors entrance if the holder's passport expires in less than six months; returning home with an expired passport is illegal, and may result in a substantial fine as well. If you do require a visa, additional information can be found at the Spanish Embassy's website: http://es.embassyinformation.com .

It is a suggested that participants have a photo-copy of their passport containing their photo and passport number, along with proof of their international travel insurance, airfare, and traveler's checks' serial numbers to prevent any lost of important information.

Global Crossroad suggests that ALL volunteers acquire the appropriate visa in their home country BEFORE arriving in-country to avoid any unnecessary hassles in the airport.

Project Information

Who manages the volunteer projects in Spain ?

Global Crossroad's In-Country Coordinator in Spain is responsible for researching appropriate volunteer projects as per the qualifications and skills of the applicants.

What are the daily schedules of the project?

Project schedules vary for each project in Spain . Most volunteers participate in their assigned projects from Monday to Friday for 4-6 hours a day. Most volunteers have the weekends to themselves where they can see the local sights and explore Spain on their own.

Where are the projects located?

Global Crossroad's volunteer projects in Spain are located in various cities throughout Spain – with the majority of locations in and around Bilbao . Bilbao is located in the North of Spain and is the largest city in the Basque Country and the capital of the province of Biscay .

What is the language spoken in Spain ?

Spanish is the primary language spoke in Spain , but many locals do speak English.

When are the Spain projects available?

Literally, the projects are open year-round and volunteers are encouraged to apply anytime at their convenience.

How long can I volunteer in Spain ?

We normally suggest participants volunteer from 2-12 weeks, but volunteers can often stay in Spain for up to three (3) months

Arrival and Departure Information

Who will arrange my flight to Spain ?

Airfare is the responsibility of the volunteer.

Which airport should I book my flight into?

Depending on the location of the project (as these projects are based in various areas/cities throughout Spain ), participants can fly into any of the country's major, international airports. These airports include:

• Madrid Barajas International Airport
• Barcelona International Airport

After arriving at these international airports, participants should take a connecting flight to the airport nearest to their project. Some of the major cities covered by our in-country coordinators include:

• Madrid
• Barcelona
• Valencia
• Granada
• Bilbao
• Seville
• Málaga
• Cadiz

Once participants have arrived in any of these major cities (after catching a connecting flight), they can either go directly to their pre-arranged accommodations or schedule an airport pick-up with our Spain coordinators.

When should I arrive in Spain ?

Volunteers should arrive in Spain the day before their projects begin – usually on a Sunday. In the event that participants arrive before their designated start date, they are encouraged to stay in a nearby hotel and contact Global Crossroad's In-Country Coordinator (this information will be supplied to participants in their pre-departure package/placement details which is given to participants prior to their arrival in Spain ).

Will someone pick me from the airport? If so, how do I know about the person?

Participants are picked-up by a Global Crossroad representative. Participants are REQUIRED to submit their travel itinerary to Global Crossroad's USA-based offices prior to departure. A Global Crossroad representative will furnish a sign displaying the respective participant's name.

What should I do if my flight is delayed?

•  Contact Global Crossroad's Spanish In-Country Coordinator from the airport, informing him/her of the possibly-delayed arrival time; the In-Country Coordinator will check the status of your flight before your arrival time to ensure your pick up.

•  Check your placement instructions pertaining to details of hotels that have been recommended for late arrival if your flight is to arrive after midnight;

•  Call/email the In-Country Coordinator upon arrival in Spain so that he/she can take the necessary steps to ensure a prompt pick-up.

How can I get to the hotel from the airport? If I did not see Global Crossroad's representative in the airport?

In the event that your arrival time is changed/delayed, requiring you to stay overnight in a hotel (or if you failed to meet Global Crossroad's representative at the airport), you should hire a taxi at the airport who will take you to a hotel designated in your placement details/pre-departure information (and do remember to request a receipt from the driver). ALSO: make sure that you call Global Crossroad's In-Country Coordinator BEFORE boarding the taxi. Participants are advised to contact Global Crossroad's Spanish In-Country Coordinator the next day and let him/her know your whereabouts.

What do I need prior to departure from my home country?

• Make sure that you pack all your necessary documents (passport, visa, clothes, insurance, documents)

• Prepare financially, in advance, to cover various expenses up to $50 USD/week for extra expenses.

• If enrolled in Spanish courses, you will need to bring additional funds to cover these.

• You will also need to cater for all your other expenses like bottled water, personal costs, beverages, entertainment, and other expenses incurred.

• Prepare your mind and spirit for the duration of time you have committed as the cultural shock may be so intense that you may even want to quit the week following your arrival.  

If I want to arrive earlier than when program begins, where do I stay and who will organize the accommodations?

In most cases, you will have to cover all expenses incurred by earlier arrival, but our Spanish In-Country Coordinator can usually provide assistance in booking hotel rooms and even domestic travel at a good price.

When should I depart from Spain ?

We suggest that participants depart from Spain on the Sunday after their project is completed.

Which airport will I fly out of?

Depending on the location of the project (as these projects are based in various areas/cities throughout Spain ), participants can fly into any of the country's major, international airports. These airports include:

•  Madrid Barajas International Airport
•  Barcelona International Airport

After arriving at these international airports, participants should take a connecting flight to the airport nearest to their project. Some of the major cities covered by our in-country coordinators include:

•  Madrid
•  Barcelona
•  Valencia
•  Granada
•  Bilbao
•  Seville
•  Málaga
•  Cadiz

Who will drop me off at the airport?

Global Crossroad does not provide airport drop-off services. Participants are required to arrange a taxi or bus ride to the airport upon completion of their respective project. This is usually a simple process which Global Crossroad's In-Country Coordinator in Spain (or host family) will be more than happy to assist participating in arranging. If participants require assistance in this matter, they are encouraged to discuss the matter with either their host family or In-Country Coordinator. NOTE: from experience, we find that volunteers are usually familiar with the area and are more than comfortable with arranging their own return-travel to the airport.

Can I store my luggage if I arrive earlier than my program starts?

Yes, you may, but please note that this service is usually charged and/or calculated on an hourly basis. So, do not leave your luggage at the airport for an extended amount of time.

Living Accommodations Information

Who will arrange my accommodations and what are they?

Accommodations are arranged by Global Crossroad's In-Country Coordinator in Spain . Volunteers stay with a host family in Spain in the respective city where their volunteer project is located. Global Crossroad attempts to place all of volunteers with a host family by themselves. Occasionally, due to project location, participants may have other volunteers staying in the same host family. Should participants wish to travel/participate with a friend, Global Crossroad can arrange dual-placement in the same project and/or host family. Other information – such as electricity, hot water, etc. – will be included in participants' placement details.

In Spain , volunteers are also able to be accommodated in a shared apartment/flat, hostel or regional hotel at an extra cost.

Are singles rooms available?

Yes, in most cases participants have their own room unless requesting to stay with another volunteer. Occasionally, participants may have to share a room with another volunteer.

If I arrive with my friend, or girlfriend/boyfriend, can we stay together?

Yes, but participants are required to inform Global Crossroad's Spanish Coordinator of this prior to arrival so that he/she can make the appropriate accommodations before hand.

Will there be other foreign volunteers/interns at my placement?

This usually depends on the exact placement (i.e. date, project) and your preference in this issue.

What are the bathroom facilities?

In most cases, volunteers share a bathroom with their host family. Specifics pertaining to bathroom facilities will be included in placement details.

What are the laundry arrangements?

There are a number of laundry services available in the various cities where the volunteer projects are located. In some accommodations (i.e. the host family and student residences), there are laundry and cleaning services available.

Can I use appliances if I bring them from my home country?

Yes, you may use appliances from your home-country. Please note that Spain uses 230 volts alternating at 50 cycles/second (i.e. 230v/50Hz). Standard outlets receive Type G Plug – rectangular blade plug (pictured below). Outlets in Spain generally accept 5 types of plugs, so it may be a good idea to invest in a combination voltage converter and plug adapter (especially if you're an avid traveler).

Electrical Plug Details

What are the local cuisines?

One of the most ever-present dishes famous throughout all of Spain is “Tapas” – an appetizer often accompanying drinks and can often range from simple finger foods such as french fries and various cheeses to friend squid. Other popular dishes include “paella” – a rice dish with a variety of either seafood or vegetables. Fish and various forms of seafood are also usually found in many dishes (such as the ‘bocadillo de calamares' which is a sandwich stiffed with fried squid).

Can you supply special diets?

Global Crossroad can provide both vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals. Occasionally, in the event that you require a special diet, you are responsible for your own meals. Participants are strongly urged to inform Global Crossroad of any special dietary need prior to arrival in-country.

Is the running tap water safe for drink?

Most cities throughout Spain have safe drinking water. NOTE: some cities' water supplies have a very strong alkaline taste to it. You may prefer bottled water.

Are there hot and cold water facilities available?

Specifics pertaining to availability of hot water will be included in participants' placement details. Usually, accommodations do offer both hot and cold water.

Will bottled water be provided?

No, if participants require bottled water, they are responsible for obtaining it themselves.

Health and Safety

What are the principle health risks?

Basically, every country in the world has potential health concerns and Spain is no exception. Common sense pertaining to and awareness of some health concerns when traveling to Spain always proves to be a beneficial approach. Global Crossroad urges all participants to visit the Center for Disease Control's website ( www.cdc.gov ) for the most up-to-date information pertaining to health risks around the world. Listed below are some of the major health risks associated with travel to Spain :

•  AIDS: exists in Spain and every country in the world but is more so a widely-spread, present-day epidemic affecting a vast majority. The things to avoid are well known (protected intercourse, etc.). The blood supply in Spain is not always as safe as at home.

NOTE: Protecting yourself against insect bites (via bug spray) will help to prevent both Malaria and Dengue. Visitors are encouraged to take malaria prophylactic drugs as well.

The following vaccinations are recommended:

• Hepatitis B
• Tetanus-Diphtheria and Measles (MMR, DPT, etc.)
• Rabies

What health precautions should I be aware of and tend to?

Medical facilities in Spain are quite up-to-date and modern. Pharmaceuticals are not sold in supermarkets (as they are in most other countries) but in ‘farmacias' (identified by either a green cross or the symbol of the Hygeia's cup).

During the summer months, it is a good idea to avoid direct exposure to sunlight for long periods of time to prevent sunburn and/or heatstroke. Drink plenty of water and remember to apply sunscreen.

Do I need health insurance?

Global Crossroad takes out comprehensive medical insurance for its volunteers. It is suggested that insured participants pay up-front costs and then file an insurance claim for reimbursement upon return to their respective home countries. Occasionally, for larger expenses, the insurance company may be able to arrange direct payment to the hospital or medical provider. 

Who do I contact in case of a health-related emergency?

East or west, home is the best. There is no place better than home when you are ill. But if you do get ill, don't panic. Participants can obtain information pertaining to medical assistance through a number of channels:

• Global Crossroad's In-Country Coordinator;

• Assigned host-family;

• Your country's embassy in Spain – participants are greatly encouraged to obtain and maintain contact information for their respective embassy; keeping it on their person for easy access.

Is the food safe if I buy it from a street vendor?

Yes, in most cases, the food prepared throughout Spain is safe for consumption.

How safe is Spain ?

Compared to many other countries, Spain is a relatively safe country for personal security and is known for it warm hospitality to foreigners (especially tourists). But, petty crime does exist, especially in and around the major cities. However, serious crime against foreigners is relatively rare. Petty crimes, such as pick-pocketing and purse-snatching, do occur (especially in crowded areas such as stations, markets, shopping areas, sight-seeing destinations, etc.). Additionally, there are frequent instances of false taxicabs in which passengers have been robbed. So, it is wise to be cautious with your personal possessions in public places. Following are some precautions to avoid potential problems:

• Do not show off your wallet or valuable goods in public

• Keep enough money for your immediate needs in your pocket, and hide the rest on your body or leave your backup supply in a safety deposit box at your hotel

• Always keep valuables in a safety deposit box at your hotel instead of leaving them in your room

• Remove any jewelry that may draw a thief's attention before you go out for strolling

• Never wear a bag or purse on your street-side shoulder in order to avoid becoming a target of the "snatch-and-ride"

• Never carry your passport/visa, credit cards, traveler's schedules or other travel documents in your shoulder bag.

• Ensure that you are aware of the values of different local banknotes to avoid being deceived

• Be particularly cautious about your possessions in crowded areas such as local festivals, markets, tourist sites, railways, bus stations, or on trains and buses.

• Always let your hotel or guides know where you are on your free days during your tour.

• Respect the customs of the local ethnic groups.

• Do not quarrel with anyone during your trip.

• Any disputes should be reported to your local guides for resolution.

• Avoid traveling in any areas or sites that are not open to foreigners.

• Do not voice publicly any opinions contrary to Spain 's laws and code of ethics and/or morals.

What are the sanitary conditions in Spain ?

• Be prepared and never expect a clean public toilet 100% of the time. Carry some tissue in-case you need to use the public toilet.

• Toilets in Spain generally do not do well when flushing large amounts of items or feminine hygiene products (i.e. tampons) so do not flush them. Rather, throw them away in the trash can (which is usually located close to the toilet).

• In some areas/restaurants, toilet systems are old and have very narrow plumbing and get blocked easily. In these cases, a small basket is usually placed beside the toilet (for used toilet paper).

• Use hotel lobby toilets; these are everywhere and are always clean. Still, they may not always have toilet paper and depends on the class of hotel.

What vaccinations are required/recommended?

The following vaccinations are recommended :

• Hepatitis B
• Tetanus-Diphtheria and Measles (MMR, DPT, etc.)
• Rabies

Global Crossroad STRONGLY suggests volunteers follow the Center for Disease Control's travel advice ( www.cdc.gov ) or consult a travel doctor.

Money

Are ATMs easily available? If yes, which debit and credit card are accepted?

Credit cards such as Master Card, Visa, American Express and Diners Club are accepted almost everywhere in major cities. Participants are also able to withdraw cash from most international banks with credit cards from ATM machines, but a $2.00-$4.00 USD surcharge may apply for each transaction.

What is the local currency and how do I know the exchange rate?

Being that Spain is part of the European Union, the Euro replaced the Spanish Pesetas in 2002. Being that only a short amount of time has passed since the Euro's inception, a number (albeit small) of people still use the national currency when converting.

Current exchange rates can be found using Global Crossroad's currency converter or by visiting www.xe.com .

Where do I exchange my money and how much?

Money exchanges are best done at banks, but some financial institutions in Spain may first require that you have an account. If this is the case, the sure-fire way to exchange money or cash traveler's checks is at international airports.

While at one time currency exchanges were ever-present throughout Spain , most have nearly completely disappeared since the inception of the Euro. Within cities more regularly frequented by tourists (i.e. Barcelona , Madrid ), exchange services can still be found.

As for credit cards, be prepared to show ID when making purchases when credit cards.

How much money should I bring with me?

Spain in general is very convenient for foreigners and has a significantly low cost of living as compared to other countries of the Western World. It is suggested that participants bring $100-200 US Dollars to be converted upon arrival. This amount will often be sufficient to cover the first week's petty expenses.

Is it safe to carry cash with me?

Carrying cash is not safe – therefore, don't carry a large surplus of cash with you.

Important Reminder: Retain your receipts whenever you exchange any currency. You may be asked to show proof of the exchange.

Communications

How do I make contact with Global Crossroad's local coordinator?

All contact information (i.e. phone numbers, email addresses, location addresses) will be provided to participants in their pre-departure/placement details.

How do I contact my host-family once I arrive in Spain ?

The optimal methods used to call internationally is with prepaid calling cards (named: ‘tarjeta telefonica') which are widely available in newspapers or grocery stores located throughout the cities.

Also: there are a couple of “call-through” services which provide you with an access number, allowing you to call internationally for as little as $0.02/minute. These numbers can be dialed from any payphone or landline within Spain . For more information, visit:

•  www.chollofon.com

•  www.reducitel.com

Are internet services easily available?

Yes, in most urban areas. Internet cafes are available in most of Spain 's major cities, although the cafes can be very noisy as they are a popular venue for the youth to play online games and for students to do work.

How can my family members contact me?

Upon settling into your assigned host-family, you will want to use your calling card to contact your family if you have not already done so when you arrived in Spain . Also: contact information of your host family (or other living accommodations) will be provided before you arrive in Spain .

Can I bring my telephone from my home country?

Cell phones should work fine, although volunteers from outside the Americas will need to bring an electricity converter. For this reason, we recommend that, upon your arrival, you change your cell phone SIM-card and number to a local one (usually costing approximately US $5).

Culture and Religion

Is there a special dress code that I should follow while staying in Spain ?

Volunteers should dress conservatively when at their projects. Jeans and a t-shirt are acceptable. No high shorts and tank tops please.

Should I care about any religious conduct?

Spain respects different cultural backgrounds, religious beliefs, and moral concepts. You may practice on your own accord. NOTE: the Roman Catholic Church is of some importance to the Spanish society.

How do I respect Spanish people?

Be more inclusive, have an open mind and show respect of other cultures. Spanish culture is rich in customs and traditions. The Spanish people enjoy sharing their customs and traditions with foreigners so feel free to share in their culture. You may even be asked to join your host family at their local church for services – this is up to you and you do not have to attend the services if you do not wish.

Additional Information

Climate

What is weather like in Spain ?

The climate of Bilbao is know as an oceanic climate and is generally mild – with January temperatures (the coolest) averaging 9°C and July temperatures (the warmest) averaging 21°C. The annual rainfall average is approximately 1200mm with snow occurring (usually) within only 3 days of the entire year. There are some summertime days which see some extremely high temperatures due to the strong winds which originate from the south.

Required Clothing

Lightweight clothing and rainwear is recommended as well as warmer clothing for the evenings (light jacket and/or light sweaters if in the mountainous areas). A solid pair of walking shoes is highly recommended for trekking.

Average Rainfall

Average Daily Temperature

Official Spanish Holidays

•  January 1: New Year's Day

•  Good Friday (moveable)

•  May 1: Labor Day

•  August 15: Assumption of Mary

•  October 12: Hispanic Day (Columbus Day)

•  November 1: All Saints' Day

•  December 6: Constitution Day

•  December 8: Immaculate Conception

•  December 25: Christmas Day

What about tipping in Spain ?

While tipping is not standard practice in Spain , it is ALWAYS GREATLY appreciated. It is quite normal to tip 5-10% at tourist-oriented restaurants. NOTE: guides and drivers should ALWAYS be tipped!

Materials to Bring

• Camera
• Sleeping bag
• Some books about Spain
• Map of Spain
• Toiletries
• Electricity adapter/converter
• Sunglasses
• Walking shoes (for work and travel)
• Towel

NOTE: Frequently asked questions (FAQ) is generic information and should not be used as a definitive travel guide. Travel information and situations abroad change constantly. Participants should consult Global Crossroad or travel advisors to verify this information.