DISCOVER the WORLD: europe HANDBOOK - St. John's University

Office of Global Studies
HANDBOOK
DISCOVER
the WORLD:
europe

TABLE of CONTENTS
I. Entering Europe and Cultural
Adjustment
Culture Shock
Social Customs
Cultural Stereotypes
Safety Tips for a Better
Study Abroad Experience
II. General Information
Before Leaving the United
States Pre-departure
Check List
Personal Documents
Photocopy Important
Documents
Pre-departure Packing and
Baggage
What to Pack in Your Luggage
III. Rome, Italy
Important Addresses and
Phone Numbers
City Resources
Understanding Rome
Vocabulary
IV. Paris, France
Important Addresses and
Phone Numbers
City Resources
Understanding Paris
Vocabulary
V. Salamanca, Spain
Important Addresses and
Phone Numbers
City Resources
Understanding Salamanca
Vocabulary
VI. Dublin, Ireland
Important Addresses and
Phone Numbers
City Resources
Understanding Dublin

ENTERING
EUROPE and
CULTURAL
ADJUSTMENT
It is very hard to know what life is really like in a
country or region whose culture one has never
experienced directly. But it is very easy to have the
illusion of knowing what it will be like — from
images furnished by popular communications,
media, from reading or perhaps having met a few
people from “there“ – here on home ground.
Simply “knowing about” another culture, however,
is not the same thing as knowing what it will feel
like to be learning and living there. Every culture
has distinct characteristics that make it different
from every other culture. Some differences are
quite evident (e.g. language, religion, political
organization, etc.). Others can be so subtle that
while foreign visitors may be vaguely aware of
them, making adjustments is a complex process
and one may remain uncomfortable and off
balance for a while.
One of the difficulties students have in adjusting to
foreign life, comes about because they take abroad
with them too much of their own “cultural
baggage,” misleading stereotypes and
preconceptions about others, coupled with a lack of
awareness of that part of themselves which was
formed by U.S. culture alone. As a result, suddenly
feeling like a fish out of water is not an uncommon
experience. It is in fact something that should be
anticipated as normal and likely for a short period
of time.
CULTURE SHOCK
Many researchers believe that culture shock is
marked by four basic phases.
Phase One
The first phase is sometimes referred to as
“Euphoria.“ This is the tourist phase. You are
excited to be living in a new place. At first glance,
the people and way of life do not seem
significantly different from your home environment.
Phase Two
After the initial excitement, you may start noticing
more and more dissimilarities between your new
life and life at home. Initial curiosity and
enthusiasm may turn to irritation, frustration, anger
or depression. Symptoms of this phase are
homesickness, boredom and withdrawal. You may
want to associate exclusively with others from the
U.S., you may experience a tendency to stereotype
local people and avoid contact with them.
Fortunately, most people experience only a few of
these symptoms and usually to a mild degree.
Phase Three
The next stage is marked by gradual adjustment.
Your perspective changes over time and you begin
to adapt. You focus on the differences between
the host culture and your home, and these
differences can be troubling. Sometimes
insignificant difficulties can seem like major
problems. One typical reaction against culture
shock is to associate mainly with other North
Americans, but remember, if you avoid contact
with nationals of the host country, you cheat
yourself and prolong the process of adaptation.
Phase Four
The final phase is adaptation. Full adaptation has
taken place when you are able to function in two
cultures with confidence. You realize that you enjoy
some of the customs and cultural features that may
have bothered you at one time.

There is no clear-cut way of dealing with culture
shock. As long as you know in advance that you
may fall victim to culture shock at a certain level,
you can prepare yourself psychologically to accept
the temporary discomfort and turn it into an
advantage by learning from it. Remember that you
are not the only one experiencing this.
Experiencing culture shock, in other words, does
not imply the existence of any shortcomings on
your part.
Undergoing culture shock is a learning experience
that you should take advantage of. It is a way of
sensitizing you to another culture at a level that
goes beyond the intellectual and the rational. Just
as an athlete cannot get in shape without going
through the uncomfortable conditioning stage, so
you cannot fully appreciate the cultural differences
that exist without first going through the
uncomfortable stages of psychological adjustment.
SOCIAL CUSTOMS
Fitting In
Social customs differ greatly from one country to
another. It is therefore impossible to give guidelines
that will be applicable in every culture. Always
keep in mind that you are a guest in someone
else's country. Therefore, you would be safe to
assume that your behavior should be regulated
pretty much in the same manner as if you were the
guest in someone else's home. On the other hand,
as an outsider, especially if you err on the side of
being respectful, some allowances are likely to exist
for the things you do not immediately understand
or feel comfortable with.
Politeness
In keeping with the relatively formal manner of
social customs abroad, you should place much
more emphasis on simple polite social interaction
than you might at home.
Speaking the Language
When it comes to language, most people are
extremely flattered rather than amused at your
efforts to communicate in their native language.
Do not be intimidated or inhibited when practicing
your own limited command of the language.
Summary
Social customs differ from one country and culture
to another, and there is simply no way you can fit
in and be at home unless you learn what is and
isn't appropriate behavior. It is impossible to make
generalizations that can be applicable to every
situation. Expect things to be different overseas.
One of the basic reasons for your participation in a
study abroad program should be developing an
appreciation for the people and customs of a
different culture and way of life. Anyone who goes
overseas, demanding that everything be the same
as what he/she is accustomed to in the United
States will be sorely disappointed, and probably
better served by staying at home. Be flexible and
receptive in dealing with these differences and
your own life experiences will be greatly enriched.
CULTURAL STEREOTYPES
Most overseas visitors and those who receive them,
often unfortunately, are captured by misleading and
often dangerous stereotyping. Most Europeans have
stereotyped perceptions of “the American,” just as
most Americans have stereotyped images of
Europeans, etc. Frequently, the stereotype of the
American is far from complimentary: the boorish
tourist who expects everyone to speak English, the
arrogant patriot who thinks every country in the
world should pattern itself after the United States. It
is up to you to behave in a manner that convinces
your hosts that this is indeed an unjustified
stereotype that cannot be applied to all Americans.
Until you develop a feel for the social customs of
the area where you are living and studying, it is
wise to be more formal and restrained in your
social contacts.
DISCOVER
the WORLD
www.stjohns.edu/studyabroad

It is important to be open toward new cultures, to
try to discard stereotypes and to read as much as
possible about the culture before departure. If you
educate yourself about the country in which you
live, you understand and appreciate your new
surroundings. You learn about the country's
history, natural resources, social customs, religions,
art and political structures. You find out the
culture's set of manners, expected behavior and
unspoken rules. Read about the country's present
problems and national issues.
Once abroad, take some steps to minimize
emotional and physical ups and downs. Try to
establish routines that incorporate both the difficult
and enjoyable tasks of the day or week. Treat
yourself to an occasional indulgence such as a U.S.
magazine, a favorite meal or beverage. Avoid
negativity. Don't let somebody else negatively
impact your experience. Keep yourself healthy
through regular exercise and eating habits. Accept
invitations to activities that allow you to see areas
of the host culture outside the university, and meet
new people. Above all try to MAINTAIN YOUR
SENSE OF HUMOR.
SAFETY TIPS FOR A BETTER STUDY
ABROAD EXPERIENCE
Students should know that there are inherent risks
to studying abroad — and to international travel in
general. You cannot control civil war or bigotry, but
you can, however, minimize your risk by practicing
some basic precautions while abroad:
1. Don't drive!
Please do not drive a motorized vehicle,
whether it is a car or a scooter, during your
study abroad experience. Driving is a
dangerous endeavor wherever you are. Add
into the mix different traffic laws, dangerous
driving practices and narrow mountain roads
and you have a recipe for disaster. Plus, you
may not be accustomed to the type of driving
that is practiced in many countries.
2. Practice the same caution you would
practice when visiting a metropolitan
destination in your own country.
Consider the caution you might employ at
night in New York City, and use the same
caution when in Paris or Rome. Don't go out
at night alone. Don't accept rides from
strangers. Don't go home with a stranger.
Select well-lit areas to walk while out at night.
3. Do not use drugs. St. John’s has a zero
tolerance policy.
You may be in a situation where drug use
seems more tolerated or even a cultural
experience — don't be fooled! Drugs are still
against the law in just about every country.
Even in those countries that tolerate marijuana
use, you still have to consider the safety of your
surroundings. It was widely rumored that
during the early '90s, American students in
Costa Rica were offered drugs for free. Then
upon accepting the gift, they would be
promptly arrested by the informant's police
friends. Also, consider this: A death sentence or
10 years in prison would not only ruin your
study abroad experience, it would also ruin
your life.
4. Be cautious of friendly strangers.
In some cases, people may be bold enough to
approach you and ask for help, or they may
say they just want to make an American
friend. In many cases, however, they are
interested in a conquest, or your U.S. dollars.
These friendly locals come in many forms.
They may be a child offering to guide you
through the city, a cute co-ed who is willing to
help you with directions or an old man who
wants to practice English with you.
5. Be aware of current events, political
volatility and international affairs.
Educate yourself on the recent history and
current events of the country which you plan
to visit.
6. Avoid advertising that you are American.
You don't need to wear your Tommy Hilfiger
shirt, with your Air Jordans and a baseball cap
while hiking the Inca Trail. If you dress like
that, you may as well wear a shirt that says
“look at me, I'm an American.” Although it is
true that in many cases, even the subtlest
outer appearance may give away the fact that
you are an American, you should avoid
inviting the attention. Most of all, honor the
local culture.
7. Take special precautions.
If you are interested in visiting a country where
chauvinism is a way of life, you should prepare
yourself for the culture. Remember that one
American co-ed will not change thousands of
years of tradition no matter how inappropriate
or unjust it may seem. Just walk away.
8. Find out where the U.S. consulate or
embassy is.
Many study abroad programs report their
presence at the local consulate upon arrival.
Carry a photocopy of your passport in a
different bag.
9. Let someone know when you are going out.
Also, where you are going and when you plan
to be home. Whether you are leaving for a
weekend excursion, or going to the local pub
for one beer, someone should know where
you are. Make sure to provide your family
friends with all your contact information.
10. Just be smart, then go study abroad!

GENERAL
INFORMATION
BEFORE LEAVING THE UNITED STATES
1. Leave the following information with your
parents: the names, addresses and telephone
numbers of all important University contacts at
your home institution for Financial Aid, Bursar,
Registration, etc.
2. Leave a copy of your tickets along with your
return dates and times. Your parents want to
know when they can expect to have you back
home!
3. Medical Issues: Have a physical, dental check,
eye examination, etc. prior to your departure.
PERSONAL DOCUMENTS
All students should carry photocopies of all
important documents with them at all times. You
should carry the addresses and phone numbers of
St. John’s University campuses, coordinators and
advisors and your residence in your wallet. Travel
Documents: Make certain that you have a valid
passport and visa. Make sure you have round -trip
air tickets and that all travel dates are correct.
PHOTOCOPY IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS
Make photocopies of your airline ticket, passport,
insurance information, student ID card, travelers’
checks and credit cards. Leave one set at home with
your parents or relatives and keep another with you
in a separate place from the originals. Never pack
your passport and other important documents in
your checked baggage or carry on luggage. These
documents, passport, credit cards and money
should be worn around your neck in a pouch or in
a money belt, as close to you as possible.
PRE-DEPARTURE PACKING AND
BAGGAGE
Airlines restrict the amount of baggage that
passengers are allowed to carry. PLEASE BE
AWARE that baggage requirements WITHIN
Europe differ from international limits. In Europe
you are only allowed to check in one bag that
cannot exceed 20 kilos (44lbs) and have one carryon
bag that is of normal size and weight. For
flights from the US to Europe, passengers are
allowed to check in two bags, each weighing less
than 50 pounds. Also, the bag cannot exceed 62
dimensional inches in size. However, airline
requirements vary from carrier to carrier; it is your
responsibility to be informed of these requirements.
Since you will be traveling mostly throughout
Europe, try to keep your luggage according to
the European standards of 20 kilos (44 lbs).
You will be required to pay per kilo for any
luggage that is above the limit of 20 kilos.
The cost varies by airline, so please refer to
the airline Web site for specific requirements.
Since you are required to pack light, be sure to
eliminate items that are not essential. Do not take
anything with you that you would hate to lose.
Leave at home any unnecessary credit cards,
expensive jewelry or irreplaceable objects. Make
sure to leave extra room in your bags for items
acquired abroad.
When packing your carry-on we suggest that
you include:
• Extra pair of eyeglasses or contact lenses
• Sweater or sweatshirt
• Needed cosmetics, toothbrush/toothpaste
• A book
• Needed medication: keep medication in their
original labeled container to make customs
processing easier. If any medications contain
narcotics, carry a letter with you from your
physician attesting to your need to take them.
• Underwear
• Be sure not to pack liquids in your carry-on
unless they are according to airline standards.
Refer to the airline Web site for details.

WHAT TO PACK IN YOUR LUGGAGE
Since you will be relocating to different countries
throughout your time in Europe, it is very
important that you do not over-pack. Bring your
favorites, but make sure they are practical. Most
travelers pack too much clothing. Take only what is
necessary and what you expect to wear. Keep
luggage weight limits in mind.
The first rule of packing is “less is definitely
better.“ You know best what you consider
essential. Put everything you intend to bring with
you on the bed or floor — now put half of it back
in the closet, you won’t need it. You will probably
buy a few things in Europe which will increase the
weight of your luggage and can make your travels
throughout Europe difficult. You may bring
electronics such as hairdryers, electric shavers,
curling irons etc., but many students suggest
that you purchase your hairdryer and flat iron
in Europe instead of bringing one with you.
They say that the electronics purchased in
Europe are more compatible with the
European voltage system.
If you decide to bring electronics, be sure to follow
these guidelines:
Voltage in Europe is 220 so your appliance must
have a switch from 110 to 220. Plugs are different
in Europe so please bring a plug adapter.
Remember that winter in Europe can be rainy and
chilly — do not forget a winter coat! Here’s a list
of suggested items (remember that many of these
items can be purchased in Europe to minimize
luggage weight):
Clothing
• One business casual outfit
• One pair of good walking shoes
• One pair of shower flip-flops
• Two pairs of shorts
• Bathrobe
• Hat, gloves, scarves
• Heavy winter coat
• Light spring jacket
• Pants
• Shirts
• Slippers
• Sneakers
• Socks
• Sweaters (wool and cotton)
• Sweatpants
• Sweatshirt
• T-shirts
• Underwear
Toiletries
• Antiperspirant
• Aspirin
• Blow-dryer/Curling Iron
• Comb, brush
• Contact cleaning solution
• Cosmetics
• First Aid kit
• Prescription medicines
• Shampoo, conditioner
• Sunscreen, moisturizers
• Toothbrush, toothpaste
Miscellaneous
• Adapter and voltage converter
• Alarm clock
• Calculator
• Calling card
• Camera and film
• Day backpack
• Guidebook to Italy/France/Spain/Ireland
• Italian/French/Spanish/English dictionary
• Money belt or neck wallet
• Notebooks
• Phone book — keep important contact numbers
on you at all times
• Sewing kit
• Umbrella
• iPod

ROME, ITALY
Rome Campus
IMPORTANT ADDRESSES AND
PHONE NUMBERS
Associate Director
Dru Burtz
(06) 9799-6767
burtzd@stjohns.edu
Study Abroad Advisor
Juliet Manto
(06) 9799-6768
jmant644@stjohns.edu
Rome Undergraduate Campus Office Hours
Monday – Thursday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Friday 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
St. John’s University, Rome
Undergraduate Campus
Via Marcantonio Colonna, 21
00192, Roma
Tel (06) 9799-6767
Fax (06) 9799-6769
St John’s University Rome Graduate Campus
Via Santa Maria Mediatrice, 24
00165, Rome, Italy
Tel 001-39-06-393-842
Fax 011-39-06-636-901
St John’s University Rome Graduate Campus
Building Hours
Monday – Thursday 9 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Friday 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Residence Medaglie D’Oro
Via G. Serafino, 8
Tel (06) 3973-9700
Fax (06) 3973-7402
Other Important Numbers
Taxi 06-3570 / 06-4994
Fiumicino Airport 06-65951
Termini Train station info 06-478-411
ATAC (Public Transportation) 800-431-784
LIBRARY AND COMPUTER CENTER
St. John’s Rome Graduate Campus
Via Santa Maria Mediatrice, 24
00165, Rome, Italy
Hours
Computer Lab/Library Hours —
Rome Graduate Campus
Monday – Thursday 10 a.m. – 10:45 p.m.
Friday 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Saturday 9 a.m – 5 p.m.
Sunday 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
The computer facilities allow students access to online
databases, library resources, e-mail and internet.
If you need any information prior to your arrival
regarding technology or library issues related to the
Rome campus, please contact Claudio Marinangeli
via e-mail at marinanc@stjohns.edu.
MEAL PLAN
Details regarding your meal plan, including what
meals are provided and where to eat, will be
provided during your on-site orientation.
STUDENT HOUSING
Residence Medaglie D’Oro
Via Gualtiero Serafino, 8
00196 Rome, Italy
Main switchboard 011-39-06-397-39700
All students are housed in furnished apartments at
the Residence Medaglie d’Oro. Each apartment
consists of a living room, a kitchen, two bathrooms
and three or four bedrooms. Two students occupy
each bedroom. There are coin-operated washing
machines at the residence, in addition to
laundromats in the general area. Linens are
changed once a week and cleaning of the rooms is
done on a daily basis. Only one towel per week is

supplied, so please bring additional towels! There is
also a 24-hour porter on duty. These services and
all utilities, except telephone service, are included
in your housing fee.
No guests are allowed to stay in the students’
apartments. If you have someone visiting you, they
must leave the apartment by 11 p.m. There is a
hotel located next to the residence where relatives
and friends can stay. It is the Hotel Pacific, the
telephone number is 39-06-3973-2085.
Collegio Leoniano Housing
Via Marcantonio Colonna, 21
00192 Rome Italy
The Leoniano housing is a newly renovated
dormitory-style residence located on the top of the
St. John's University campus which is situated in a
bustling area with restaurants, movie theaters,
grocery stores, clothing and shoe stores, etc. It is
within walking distance to the historical center and
only a few blocks from the underground metro.
Shared dormitory-style rooms with two or three
beds are available (single rooms are unavailable.)
The hallways is a common area shared by all the
residents, but all rooms are unisex. Separate male
and female bathrooms with private stalls and
showers are located in the hallway. Rooms are
furnished with the following items: twin beds, one
desk per students, bookshelves and separate
wardrobes. Individually controlled air conditioning
and heating units are provided in each of the
rooms. Wireless internet is available throughout all
locations of the building.
City Resources
AMERICAN EMBASSY
The American Embassy and Consulate is located in
the historical center, on Via Veneto, 119.
The telephone number is 06-46741. The Embassy
offers a number of services for U.S. citizens abroad.
Overseas Citizens Services (in the U.S.)
Crises abroad involving American citizens
202-647-5225 (24 hours)
Passport Services (in the U.S.)
Inquiries about the passport application process or
the status of an application or emergency:
900-225-5674
BANKS
Most banks are open from 8:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
and 2:45 – 3:45 p.m., Monday – Friday.
It is not possible to cash personal checks drawn on
U.S. bank accounts. (Only American Express offers
this service to their cardholders.) Your best bet is to
bring travelers’ checks with you or to use an ATM
card that is part of the Cirrus/Plus network. These
can be used all over Europe. Banks will cash
travelers’ checks and will charge you a commission
fee. You must bring your passport for identification
purposes. You can access up to 250 euro every 24
hours. Most Italian Bancomats and ATMs accept
the Cirrus card.
DOCTORS
Dr. Susan Levenstein
Dr. Catherine Stainier
Aventino Medical Group
Via della Fonte di Fauno, 22
(06) 57-80-738 (secretary speaks Eenglish)
Eye emergency (06) 362-081 (Dr. Robert Steigerwalt)
Dental emergency 335-8140797
(Dr. Lorincz, Dr. Karpel)
Orthopedic emergency 335-621-1414
(Dr. Marcus Frolich)
Gynecological emergency 335-834-2737
(Dr. Luigi Don Francesco)
Poison control (06) 30-54-343
ISOS can also provide you with a list of English
-speaking doctors in the area requested.
ISOS (Emer. Services) (+33) 0155-633-155
STJ-ISOS Membership # 11BSGC000069
Use your international SOS card when you:
• would like to talk with an English-speaking
doctor 24 hours a day, seven days a week
• need a dispatch of prescription medication
• need a referral to a doctor or dentist for even
the most minor of instances
• have a serious injury and need international SOS
for an evacuation or repatriation
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
Central Police Station 06-4686
Carabinieri 112
Police 113
Fire 115
Ambulance 118
HOSPITAL EMERGENCY
If you require medical attention, all hospitals have a
first aid or emergency divisions; “PRONTO
SOCCORSO.“ The closest hospital to the Residence
and classrooms is Ospedale Santo Spirito. The
closest hospital to the Graduate Center is on Via
Aurelia (five minutes down the road) and is called
Ospedale San Carlo.
Hours:
Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Saturday: 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.
*By Appointment Only*

MAIL SERVICE
Vatican Mail
The Italian mail system is often slow. However, the
Vatican Post Office is said to be more reliable, has
longer hours of operation and only takes six-–seven
days for letters and only 10 days for packages to
arrive to the U.S. It is also a bit cheaper than the
Italian post. The Vatican Post Offices are located on
either side of St. Peter’s Basilica and inside the
Vatican Museums. Letters mailed from the Vatican
Post Office must bear the Vatican stamp. These
stamps can only be purchased at the Vatican Post
Office. If the wrong stamp is placed on the letter, the
letter will not be mailed and will be discarded. Office
hours are Monday – Saturday: 8:30 a.m.– 6 p.m.
Italian Mail
If the Vatican Post Office is inconvenient for you,
you may use the regular mail system. Postage
stamps, (francobolli) can be purchased at a
tabaccaio, recognized by a “T“ sign, or at any post
office (recognized by the yellow “PT“ sign).
Mailboxes are usually located near the tabaccaio.
There is one slot for local mail (per la città), and
one slot for all other destinations (tutte le altre
destinazioni). Italian Post Office hours are usually
from 8:30 a.m. – 2 p.m., Monday – Saturday.
Shipping and Mailing packages to and from
the U.S.
Please avoid, at all costs, receiving packages
(regular mail and overnight courier) with any sort
of electronic equipment, cameras, computers,
peripherals, medicines, vitamins, etc. These
packages are always stopped in the customs entry
point in northern Italy.
Before the package is released you must fax the
completed form back to the customs office and
pay a processing fee (approx. $50) and a tax that is
equivalent to 20% of the value. Medicines and
vitamins are often not allowed through customs.
It can also be very expensive and difficult to mail
packages to the U.S. St. John’s University cannot
intervene or be responsible for outgoing packages
that are blocked in the post office or for incoming
packages that are held up in customs.
PHARMACIES
Pharmacies are seen at a distance by a sign with a
red or green cross on it. Pharmacies have normal
business hours, with a rotation system for night
and holiday service. A closed pharmacy keeps a list
in its window with the address of the nearest
pharmacy open in the area. The International
Pharmacy (Farmacia Internazionale) is located at
Piazza Barberini, 49 and can to supply you with
most American prescriptions or at least the Italian
equivalent. All staff members speak English. The
telephone number is (06) 487-1195.
SECURITY
In a recent survey of major European cities, Rome
was voted the safest in terms of crime and
violence. Violent crime is extremely rare.
Unfortunately, petty crime is a problem. PICK-
POCKETERS are active at railway stations, tourist
areas and on public transportation, especially on
tourist bus routes like the # 62, 64 and 46. If
someone comes towards you with a newspaper or
a cardboard sign asking for directions, move away
quickly because they may be trying to pick your
pocket. SAY “NO” FIRMLY! Should a gang of noisy
children surround you on the street, HOLD ON to
your purse or wallet. This is the most popular
method of robbing tourists.
Precautions
The following are some steps that should be taken
to make your stay in Rome pleasurable:
1. Make copies of all your documents, credit cards
and travelers’ checks and keep the copies
separate from the originals.
2. Keep all valuables in your front pockets.
3. When walking keep your purse on the building
side of the street. (Purses can be snatched by
people on motorcycles.)
4. Carry only enough cash and documents for a
day’s need.

5. When traveling on overnight trains, always stay
in a compartment with other people in them.
Make sure to use the night lock located at the
bottom of your compartment door, and keep all
money and documents close to your person.
6. Always be conscious of your surroundings.
Police Reports
You must report all stolen items to the QUESTURA,
Ufficio Stranieri, Via San Vitale (bus # 75) or at the
nearest CARABINIERI or POLIZIA station. You will
have to fill out a police report listing all stolen
items. This report is necessary in order to obtain
passport and traveler’s check replacements and can
be used for insurance claim purposes. You are
more likely to find an English-speaking policeman
at the Ufficio Stranieri on Via S. Vitale.
TELEPHONES
Local telephone calls cost about † .10 and can be
placed by using a phone card, a SCHEDA
TELEFONICA. Schede telefoniche are “debit” cards
that can be purchased in various denominations at
most tabacchi stores and bars. There will be a sign
outside of the location, with a “T” on it. Remove
the upper left-hand corner of the card and insert
into the slot. It is reusable until its “time” runs out.
Pay phones can be found on the street and in most
Italian bars. Other types of prepaid calling cards,
used for international calls, are also available at
tabacchi. (The best one to buy is probably the
Europa phone card, which costs † five for 90
minutes and † 10 euro for three hours. On this
card use the 800 number at the top, not the local
Rome number — otherwise they charge you for
the local call!)
Calling to and from the United States
If calling collect to the United States, you can call
the AT&T operator directly by dialing (800)172-444.
When using a public phone, you must first deposit
a † .10 coin or insert a telephone card, which will
be returned to you upon completion of your call.
Those preferring to use MCI must dial
(800)172-401. To use U.S. SPRINT you must dial
(800) 172-405.
To Dial the USA from Italy
001 + area code + number
To Dial Rome from the USA
011-39-06 + number (06 is Rome’s area code)
Cellular Phones
Students often choose to purchase cell phones
upon their arrival in Italy. Inexpensive cell phones
can be bought for † 50 – † 75 with † 10 of call
time included. U.S. Tri-band cell phones may
operate with an Italian SIM card, but it is
recommended that you consult your local cell
phone company to be sure that your cell phone
would operate with an Italian SIM card.
It is more common in Italy to purchase
rechargeable SIM cards instead of a monthly calling
plan. The three most common cell phone
companies in Italy are TIM, Wind and Vodafone.
Once you have a SIM card, you can purchase
rechargeable minutes at most tabacchi stores.
Unlike cell phone plans in the United States, cell
phone users are not charged for received calls, but
only for dialed calls. If a cell phone is out of
minutes, the user is still able to receive calls.
Understanding Rome
ENGLISH LANGUAGE BOOKSTORES
The Corner Bookshop
Via del Moro, 48
Trastevere
(06) 583-6942
The Lion Bookshop
Via del Babuino, 18
Piazza del Popolo
(06) 3265-4007

Feltrinelli International
Via V.E. Orlando, 84/86
(06) 482-7878
The Anglo American Bookshop
Via della Vite, 27
MASS
Mass in English is celebrated at:
Santa Susanna
Via XX Settembre, 14
(06) 488-2748
Santa Susanna is located near Piazza Barberini and
Via Veneto.
For Mass at the Graduate Campus, you may
contact St. John’s Campus Minister,
Rev. Albin Grous, grousa@stjohns.edu
MOVIES
There are a few cinemas in Rome that show films in
their original language (usually British or American
films) with subtitles in Italian. You can check the
local paper, Wanted in Rome, Roma C’è or
ABCroma.
www.wantedinrome.com
www.abcroma.com/cinema
Wanted in Rome is an English publication with
listings of pubs, apartments, jobs, etc. It can be
found in most English bookstores and at most
newspaper stands. Wanted in Rome also has a
web page which provides information about life in
Rome and adjusting to life in Italy.
Trovaroma is a supplement to La Repubblica, an
Italian newspaper that has an excellent weekly
listing of films, concerts, and events. It comes out
every Thursday.
RESTAURANTS
Almacrì (Near the Trastevere Station)
Via F. Benaglia, 3/5/7. (06) 589-5651
This restaurant serves pizza, pasta and second
courses. They serve huge portions, all at VERY
reasonable prices. It’s a fun and young crowd.
Pastarito (Via Veneto and in Trastevere)
Huge portions. You may pick any type of pasta from
a list of 20 and choose any topping from a list of 15.
Il Bucatino (Testaccio)
Via Luca della Robbia
(06) 574-6886
Closed Mondays
Pizza Ciro (Off the Via del Corso)
Via delle Mercede
Open every day
*This pizzeria serves typical pizza and other traditional
dishes from Napoli and is a little more expensive.
PizzaRè (Piazza del Popolo)
Via del Ripetta, 14
(06) 321-1468
*Call in advance for reservations, there is always a line.
Oliphant (Near the Pantheon)
Via delle Coppelle, 31
(06) 686-1416
*This is a Tex Mex place, one of the most
American places in Rome. Here you can also
watch American sports.
Il Buco
Via S. Ignazio, 7/8
(06) 679-3298
(Cucina Toscana) @ † 25 per person
Bruni
Via Germanico
(06) 397-23373
Girarosto Toscano: BEST steaks in town @ † 25 per
person
Lo Scopettaro
Lungotevere Testaccio, 7
(06) 575-7912
Typical Roman cuisine @ † 25 per person
I Due Ladroni (near Piazza Navona) @ † 35
per person
Superb cuisine! Order anything and you will be
completely satisfied. “Amazing Fish“ – suggestions:
a) the moschardine affocati antipasto
b) spaghetti alla pescatora
c) fish of your choice

SHOPPING
Porta Portese is the largest outdoor market in
Rome. Here you will find all sorts of goodies and
rare items. The market is open every Sunday
morning and takes place in the old streets around
Porta Portese. To get there, take any bus that goes
to Stazione Trastevere and get off three stops after
Piazza Sonnino. It is best to be there by 9 a.m. to
avoid the crowds. The market closes at 1 p.m.
Attention: carry your money in a very safe spot;
the market is a breeding ground for pick-pockets.
Make sure to bargain with all vendors. They are
notorious for lowering their prices.
The San Giovanni market at Via Sannio takes place
every day but Sunday. It is the clothes-only version
of Porta Portese. It is extremely inexpensive and has
lots of different kinds of apparel and trinkets. To get
there you can take the Metro and get off at the San
Giovanni stop or take the bus to Piazza Venezia and
then switch for San Giovanni. It closes at 2 p.m.
Once again, you can bargain down any item.
Department stores, Grande Magazzini, are
dispersed throughout Rome. COIN, LA
RINASCENTE and STANDA are the most popular
department stores.
STANDA is located on Via Tritone. COIN is located
in both San Giovanni and on Via Cola di Rienzo,
near Piazza Risorgimento. LA RINASCENTE is
located on Via del Corso.
The Flower market, which sells wholesale flowers,
is located on Via Trionfale and is open on Tuesdays
from 10:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
The largest fruit and vegetable market is located on
Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II. There is also another
large market located close to the residence on Via
Andrea Doria, where you can buy fruits,
vegetables, fish, meat, cheese, etc.
Good overall shopping streets are Via Cola di
Rienzo, Via del Corso, Via Nazionale, Via Sistina,
Via del Babuino and Via Candia. All designer
boutiques are found on Via Condotti, Via Frattina
and their surroundings. (Gucci, Prada, Valentino,
Bulgari, Ferragamo, Fendi, Armani, etc.)
TRANSPORTATION
Metro and Buses
The city of Rome has a comprehensive
transportation system comprised of two subway
lines, a tram service and a bus service, making it
very convenient to explore Rome in your spare
time. To travel on the subway (METROPOLITANA)
or by bus costs † 1 and is valid for 75 minutes on
the bus or one metro ride.
The ticket should be stamped in the machine of the
first bus you take and stamped again if you get on a
bus just before the 75-minute limit is reached. The
metro stops are shown on your official maps by a
red circle. The broken red line connecting each circle
denotes the route taken. All students should buy a
monthly bus/metro pass (TESSERA) which permits
the holder to travel on any bus, tram or metro for
the entire month. The pass may be purchased at the
end of each month for the following month’s use. A
monthly pass costs † 30. Those who choose not to
buy the pass must buy a supply of individual tickets,
sold at most tabacchi stores and bus and metro
information booths.
ATTENZIONE: There is an expensive fine for using
public transportation without a ticket or pass. You
must pay a † 50 fine on the spot or else!
BUS STOP SIGNS: Read the sign downward to
determine which way the bus is traveling. The bus
stop where you are waiting is framed with a
rectangle. Look at the bottom of each route to
make sure that the bus for which you are waiting
is running at that time. Buses have different hours
depending on the day. Some buses stop running
early; other buses are only night buses and some
only run on Sundays. Read these schedules carefully.
If you are waiting for the bus, be sure to wave
down the bus driver because if there are no
passengers who are waiting to get off at that stop,
the bus will continue onward without stopping.
The bus (ATAC) service generally begins at 5:30 a.m.
with the last departure at 11:30 p.m. The Metro
(ACOTRAL) begins around 5:30 a.m. and the last
departure is around 9 p.m. Metro trains pass every

five minutes. Some buses have night service,
SERVIZIO NOTTURNO. The random departure times
from each stop are indicated on the time schedule
written on the bus signs, under Servizio Notturno.
Taxis
Taxis are white with a taxi sign on the roof.
Regardless of what anyone tells you, never get into
an unmarked car. These unmarked taxis cost double
the price of a regular taxi. In addition to the metered
taxi fare, there are extra charges for a number of
services. There are night fees after 10 p.m., a fee per
piece of luggage and an extra charge on Sundays
and holidays. If you call a taxi from your home,
payment begins from the time the call is received.
The numbers to call are 06-3570 or 06-5551; most
of these taxis are air-conditioned. They will ask for
the address from which you need to be picked up
and the telephone number from which you are
dialing. Taxi stands are denoted by the sign “TAXI.“
It is difficult to obtain a taxi unless you are at a taxi
stand, because taxis are not supposed to pick up
passengers hailing them down. Obtaining a taxi
other than at a designated stand is rare and can
become frustrating.
Trains
The Stazioni Termini is the main train station in
Rome. Trains going throughout Italy and to all other
European countries depart from here. You can
purchase train tickets at the station or at travel
agents, for no extra charge. Train schedules can be
found on the internet at www.trenitalia.it, or at the
train station itself. The schedules are written and
displayed on yellow and white glass-covered signs.
On these posters you should not only check the final
destination column but also the city you want to
reach. This can be found in the “PRINCIPALI
FERMATE“ (major stops) column or “ANNOTAZIONI“
(notes). Remember to validate your ticket at the
yellow boxes before boarding the train, or you will
be fined. There is an information office at the station
where English is spoken. They can tell you any
departure or arrival time to or from any destination.
Airport Service
Taxis to the airport cost approximately † 40 and
possibly a few euros for excess luggage.
IMPORTANT – When at the airport, DO NOT take a
ride with anyone with an unmarked car who
approaches you and claims to be a taxi driver. They
are illegal and will charge you double. When exiting
the airport turn to your right and you will see a line
of official white taxis, get in line and wait until one
is available. Be sure to confirm the rate of † 40
before getting into the car. Many drivers do not
understand English, so save yourself some hassle
and have the address you are going to written down
along with some brief directions and landmarks.
Vocabulary
ALIMENTARI — food stores that are found in
abundance throughout all neighborhoods. They sell
general foods and no produce. Meats and cheeses
are bought in denominations of etti (one etto
equals about 100 grams or enough for one – two
sandwiches). Please keep in mind the differences in
the measuring system used in Italy.
SALSAMENTERIA — sells cold cuts, cheeses and
specialty items.
FORNO or PANETTERIA — sells fresh baked
breads and pastries.
MACELLERIA — a butcher shop.
PESCHERIA — a fish store.
PASTICCERIA — a pastry shop.
ENOTECA/VINI OLII — a wine shop.
BARS in Italy sell coffee, sandwiches (panini),
drinks, candy and ice cream (gelato). At most bars
you must pay at the cash register first then take
your receipt to the counter and hand it to the
man/woman behind it (Barista). They will fill your
order. If you want to sit at a table you will most
likely pay double the price. Most Italians have
cappuccino with a cornetto (pastry) for breakfast at
these bars.
PIZZA RUSTICA/PIZZA A TAGLIO — offers pizza
slices sold by weight, as well as calzoni, supplì and
tramezzini.
TAVOLA CALDA — a bar that has pasta, rice and
bean dishes, roasted meats and salads and
cafeteria-style seating. The food is usually very
good and the prices are reasonable.
ROSTICCERIA — has an elaborate choice of foods
to either eat in or take out. The most popular items
are roasted chickens and potatoes.
PIZZERIA — offers pizza, salads, and some other
dishes. Usually around † six – † 10 per pizza.
Surcharge per person is usually † 2 to † 6 .
TRATTORIA — offers pasta and meat dishes; usually
simple fare. Most are specialized and concentrate on
one type of food. A coperto (cover charge) of one
euro to † 4 per person is usually charged.
RISTORANTE — the most expensive of categories,
this eating establishment has a complete menu,
with four course meals. Check prices on the menu
displayed outside before you enter.

PARIS, FRANCE
Paris
IMPORTANT ADDRESSES AND
PHONE NUMBERS
Paris Advisor
Fiona Compagnon,
+33 (0)6 799716-75
compagnf@stjohns.edu
Paris Coordinator
Anton Koslov
+33 (0)6 14 51 15 29
akoslov@yahoo.com
St. John’s University school address:
Congrégation de la Mission
95 rue de Sèvres
75006 Paris
01 49 54 78 78
The St. Vincent Mother House is a very beautiful
and unique place well located in Paris. In 1625,
St. Vincent de Paul created there the congregation
of the mission, where the Lazarists were educated
to help the poor. The classroom space is classified
as a historical monument, with its beautiful chapel
and one of the biggest gardens of Paris.
Campus Hours
Monday – Thursday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
LIBRARY AND COMPUTER CENTER
The classrooms have wireless access, a printer, a TV
and a projector. While the classrooms are open the
students can come and study. They have to pick up
the keys at the reception desk and sign in and give
them back when they leave.
The FIAP residence has wireless internet access.
Wireless access does not reach the rooms. There are
some quiet spaces; the cafeteria and terrace where
the students can hang out and use their computers.
If they need more internet access, they can buy a
wireless access card three hours for † 10. There is
also a room with seven computers open until
midnight and they can buy a one hour internet card
for † 6 and two and a half hours for † 12 euros.
There is also internet access throughout the city or
free wireless access in libraries and parks.
MEAL PLAN
Students receive two meals a day (breakfast and
lunch or dinner) on class days. The dining facilities
are located in the large cafeteria of the FIAP Jean
Monnet.
Student Housing
FIAP JEAN MONNET – 30 rue Cabanis
75014 Paris – FRANCE
33 1 43 13 17 00
In Paris students are housed in dormitory style
rooms at Le FIAP Jean Monnet where there is a 24
hour reception desk. Staff is trained in offering
travel and cultural services and information. All
double rooms are equipped with a bathroom, two
desks and a telephone. Sheets and towels are
provided as daily housekeeping. Laundry facilities
are available in the FIAP Jean Monnet. There is also
a snack bar located on the ground floor in a glass
room with a terrace and a flower garden. The FIAP
Jean Monnet is located near the St. John’s
University classrooms. No guests are allowed to
stay in the students’ rooms. If you have someone
visiting you, they must leave the room by 11 p.m.
City Resources
AMERICAN EMBASSY
Office of American Services
2, rue Saint-Florentin, 75382 Paris Cedex 08
(Métro: Concorde)
Tel 01-43-12-22-22
www.france.usembassy.gov
Fax 01 42 96 28 39 (passport section)

E-mail citizeninfo@state.gov
Fax 01-42-61-61-40
The Embassy offers a number of services for U.S.
citizens abroad.
Overseas Citizens Services (in the U.S.)
Crises abroad involving American citizens
202-647-5225 (24 hours)
Passport Services (in the U.S.)
Inquiries about the passport application process or
the status of an application or emergency
900-225-5674
BANKS
Banks are generally open from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.,
from Monday to Friday or from Tuesday to
Saturday. Some branches may close over lunchtime,
usually between 12:30 – 2 p.m. For cash
withdrawals, automatic cash points (ATMs) operate
24 hours a day, seven days a week. Banks are
closed on public holidays.
It is not possible to cash personal checks drawn on
U.S. bank accounts. (Only American Express offers
this service to their cardholders.) Your best bet is to
bring travelers’ checks with you or to use an ATM
card that is part of the Cirrus/Plus network. These
can be used all over Europe. Banks will cash
travelers’ checks and will charge you a commission
fee. You must bring your passport for identification
purposes. You can access up to 250 euros every 24
hours.
DOCTORS
ISOS can provide you with a list of Englishspeaking
doctors in the area requested.
ISOS (Emer. Services) (+33) 0155-633-155
STJ-ISOS Membership # 11BSGC000069
Use your international SOS card when you:
• would like to talk with an English-speaking
doctor 24 hours a day, seven days a week
• need a dispatch of prescription medication
• need a referral to a doctor or dentist for even
the most minor of instances
• have a serious injury and need international SOS
for an evacuation or repatriation
A regular doctor consultation in Paris costs about
† 20.
English -speaking doctor near the residence: FIAP
Dr. Magne, 79 rue de la Santé, 13th
Tel 01-45-81-52-41
The American Hospital of Paris
63 Bd Victor Hugo, 92200 Neuilly-sur-Seine,
01-46-41-25-25
www.american-hospital.org
A private hospital is located in Neuilly-sur-Seine,
west Paris. It has an excellent reputation and offers
a full range of medical services in English 24 hours
a day. The doctors have a private practice in the
American Hospital. Prices are much more than
average († 150) The American Hospital of Paris has
a psychological counselor. Contact the unit nurse
or the psychotherapist directly at 01 46 41 27 21 if
you would like to make an appointment.
SOS medecins 01-47-07-77-77
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
Police 17
Fire 18
Samu (accidents/ life -threatening incidents) 15
Ambulance (in France we call the Fire
department for an ambulance)
SOS Help English-speaking hotline open daily:
01-46-21-46-46
Eye emergency 06-362-081 (Dr. Robert
Steigerwalt)
Dental emergency 01-43-37-51-00 (SOS Dentaire)
HOSPITAL EMERGENCY
Health care in the ER units of public hospitals are free.
Hôpital Cochin (near the residence), 24 hours per
day, 27 rue du Faubourg St. Jacques, 14th,
01-58-41-41-41

MAIL SERVICE
The French mail can be used as your regular mail
system. Postage stamps (timbres) can be purchased
at tabac stores, or at the post office. Mailboxes are
usually located near the tabac stores. There is one
slot for local mail and one slot for all other
destinations. The French Post Office hours are
usually from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m., Monday – Friday.,
Saturday 8 a.m. – Noon. The Post Office is closed
during lunch time, like most French offices.
Shipping and Mailing packages to and from
the U.S.
Please avoid, at all costs, receiving packages
(regular mail and overnight courier) with any sort
of electronic equipment, cameras, computers,
peripherals, medicines, vitamins, etc. These
packages are always stopped in the customs entry
point in France. Before the package is released you
must fax the completed form back to the customs
office and pay a processing fee (approx. $50) and a
tax that is equivalent to 20% of the value.
Medicines and vitamins are often not allowed
through customs.
PHARMACIES
In Paris pharmacies are seen at a distance by a sign
with a red or green cross on it. They are usually
open from 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. They take turns closing
on Sundays and also sometimes on Mondays. When
a chemist is closed, the addresses of the nearest onduty
chemists are displayed on the door. A few
chemists remain open late and even all night.
The International Pharmacy Anglo American
Pharmacy: Pharmacy serving the needs of English
speakers needing a chemist in the Champs Elysées
and Avenue Montaigne area. At 37 ave Marceau
(Arr 16). Metro: Alma-Marceau; will be able to
supply you with most American prescriptions or the
French equivalent. All staff members speak English.
The telephone number is 01-47-20-57-37
Pharmacie Les Champs: 84 av des Champs
Elysées, 8th, 01-45-62-02-41
Open 24/7, English speaking
British Pharmacy: 62 av des Champs Elysées, 8th,
01-43-59-22-52
Anglo-American Pharmacy Swan-Rocher: 6 rue
de Castiglione, 1st, 01-42-60-72-96
SECURITY
Paris is relatively safe in terms of crime and
violence. Violent crime is extremely rare.
Unfortunately, petty crime is a problem. PICK-
POCKETERS are active in railway stations, tourist
areas and on public transportation, especially on
tourist bus routes. If someone comes towards you
with a newspaper or a cardboard sign asking for
directions, move away quickly because they may be
trying to pick your pocket. SAY “NO” FIRMLY!
Should a gang of noisy children surround you on
the street, HOLD ON to your purse or wallet. This is
the most popular method of robbing tourists.
TELEPHONES
Local telephone calls cost about † .10 and can be
placed by using a phone card, a CARTE
TELEFONIQUE/CARTE MAGNETIQUE. Cartes
telefoniques are “debit” cards that can be
purchased at most tabac stores and bars. It is
reusable until its “time” runs out. Pay phones can
be found on the street and in most French bars.
Other types of prepaid calling cards, used for
international calls, are also available at tabac stores.
Calling to and from the United States
If calling collect to the United States, you can call
the AT&T operator directly by dialing 800-172-444.
When using a public phone, you must first deposit
a .10 euro coin or insert a telephone card, which
you can pull out upon completion of your call.
Those preferring to use MCI must dial 800-172-401.
To use U.S. SPRINT you must dial 800-172-405.
To Dial the USA from France
001 + area code + number
To Dial Paris from the USA
011-33 + number without the first 0

Understanding Paris
Paris is like a snailspiral. From the center to the
outside, the areas are numbered turns from the first
to the 20th. Each area, or quarter, is called an
“arrondissement.” There is not only one center but
each arrondissement has is own center. There are 20
arrondissements. The end of the Paris zip code
indicates in which arrondissement you are: 75009: 75
is always Paris, nine is the arrondissement.
The river La Seine flows east to west and separates
the North side of Paris called “rive droite” (right),
from the South side called “rive gauche” (left). Rive
gauche central is often seen as the chic side in the
center and artistic bohemian more in the south.
Rive droite is seen as more dynamic and trendy.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE BOOKSTORES
The Village Voice: in St Germain des Prés, open
everyday, 6 rue Pincesse, 6th,
www.villagevoicebookshop.com, 01-46-33-36-47
Shakespeare & Company: 37 rue de la Bûcherie,
6th, a beautiful, cozy bookstore near Notre Dame,
www.shakespeareco.org, 01-43-25-40-93
Berkeley Books of Paris, an American and English
secondhand bookshop: 8, rue Casimir Delavigne,
6th, M° Odéon, www.berkeleybooksofparis.com,
01-46-34-85-73
Brentano’s: 37 avenue del’ Opéra, 2nd,
www.brentanos.fr, 01-42-61-52-50
MASS
Notre de Dame de Paris: 01-42-34-56-10
American Church in Paris (all Protestant
denominations): 65 Quai d'Orsay 7th
01-40-62-05-00
American Cathedral in Paris (Episcopal, Anglican):
23 av Georges V, 8th, 01-53-23-84-00
St Joseph's Catholic Church: 50 av Hoche, 8th,
01-42-27-28-56
MOVIES
Paris is a paradise for cinema lovers. The city has
hundreds of movie theaters. They show many
movies from all over the world and from all times
in the history of cinema. To find out which theatres
play movies in English, you must purchase “officiel
des spectacles” or “Pariscope.”
The main chains are UGC, Gaumont, Pathé and
MK2. The first three show mainly blockbusters
(American or French) and while MK2 is more
author, director and independent movies. Watch
out for “VO” (original version) and “VF” (French
version) unless you want to hear your favorite
American actors speaking fluent French. Many
cinemas are located on the Champs Elysées, Les
Halles, Odéon, Bercy, Place Clichy, Odéon and
Montparnasse.
Many other cinemas are located in the Quartier
Latin (5th and 6th arrondissement).
In the French Cinémathèque, at Bercy, you can find
many old movies, usually programmed around a
special subject and also assist with accompanying
lectures. You can also see an exhibition about it (at
the moment, it is about expressionist cinema).
Cinémathèque: 51 rue de Bercy 75012, Metro
Bercy
www.cinemathequefrancaise.com
NEWSPAPERS
Courrier International, Le Monde, Parisien,
Liberation, Le Figaro are all popular newspapers
that can be found in Paris.
MUSEUMS
As a rule, museums are open from 9 or 10 a.m.
until 5 or 6 p.m. Others open later and close at
8 or 9 p.m. Closing days are usually Monday or
Tuesday, with a few exceptions. Some are even
open seven days a week, such as some of the
major monuments which can even be visited as
late as 11 p.m. or midnight.
A good many museums and monuments remain open
late at least once a week, until 9 or 10 p.m.
Every first of the month, museums are free.

Centre Pompidou (Beaubourg)
Cultural center with a Modern Art Museum inside.
Open every day except Tuesdays and May 1,
11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Exhibitions open until 9 p.m. and late night
opening until 11 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays for
certain exhibitions.
Le Louvre
The biggest museum in the world.
The museum is open from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. every
day except Tuesday.
It is open until 9:45 p.m. on Wednesday and
Friday evening.
Admission to the Louvre is free on the first Sunday
of every month.
Le Musée d’Orsay
Dedicated to Impressionism. You will find in its very
interesting architecture (it used to be a train
station) all the famous painters who represented
this important artistic period.
Le Grand Palais
International exhibitions are held here.
Palais de Tokyo
Just beside another very important museum of
contemporary art (le Musée d’Art Moderne de la ville
de Paris), le Palais de Tokyo has no permanent
collection but exhibits young and creative artists from
all over the world. Nice view of the Eiffel Tower from
the very modern cafeteria and its terrace.
And so many others…but you will have the
opportunity to discover most of them during our
walking tours and make your choice to visit the
ones that interests you.
PARKS
A ballade on the Quais de la Seine
Le Bois de Boulogne or le Bois de Vincennes
(one is on the west side of Paris, and the other
one on the east)
And all the gardens or parks in Paris :
• Le jardin des Tuileries
• Le jardin du Luxembourg
• Le jardin du Palais Royal
• Le parc Montsouris (Near the residence)
• Le parc des Buttes-Chaumont
• Le parc de Belleville
All of them have metro stations with the same name.
SHOPPING
Paris fashion boutiques are plentiful and can be
found on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré area and
Avenue Montaigne in the 8th arrondissement.
Some of the noted haute couturiers and designers
boutiques are – hermes, cartier, Chanel, Chaumet,
Christian Dior, Christian Lacroix. Other noted
couturiers in the 16th arrondissement are Piaget,
and Yves Saint Laurent. Fauchon and Hediard are
both on Place de la Madeleine. Leather goods such
as shoes and handbags can be found on Rue du
Cherche-Midi and rue de Grenelle in the 6th
arrondissement.
The Champs-Elyseées has always been the favorite
mile for “Haute Couture” to shop on, but bistros
and small glitzy boutiques have taken their place.
The trend-setting areas for high fashion are Rue
Etienne Marcel and Place des Victoires that border
on the first and second arrondissements.
Store hours: Generally are 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. or 8
p.m. Monday – Saturday. Grocers [or as noted stores
like Monoprix] however may open earlier than that.
Times may be different in France regions, than they
are in Paris. Please note: Many stores also keep
similar hours to the banks: they will close for
two hours for lunch, sometimes longer, and
then sometimes they will stay open later at
night. There are not rigid or standard hours;
each shop owner keeps their own hours.
Please remember that the French are more formal
than we Americans. Upon entering a shop, the
owner will greet you with a bonjour madam,
mademoiselle or monsieur. Be sure to return the
greeting or initiate it with the owner. A simple
”bonjour” and then if you do not speak French at
all, ask if he/she speaks English. Do not touch
merchandise in store displays, it is highly frowned

upon and please ask the owner or clerk for
assistance by saying “s’il vous plait” [see-voo-plait]
and then what item you're looking for.
The Flea Market noted above is the Marche aux
Puces [Market of Fleas] in Porte de Saint-Ouen. A
huge market [noted to be the world's largest flea
market] for the avid antique buff to visit, with
more than 3,000 sidewalk stands and permanent
stalls. It is open every weekend, where thousands
of Parisians browse, bargain and buy. You may
possibly discover a really great find here!
There are several fruit and vegetable markets
located throughout Paris.
Good overall shopping streets are Le Marais, Blvd.
St. Michel, Rue Mouftard, Champs Elysées and
Blvd. St. Germain.
Also there are department stores in the center of
the city: des Galleries Lafayette, BHV and La
Printemps are just a few.
RESTAURANTS
Paris is full of good restaurants. You can eat a good
meal, plat du jour, in almost every Café-Brasserie,
for about † 10.
There are a lot of restaurants in the St. Germain
des Préés area:
• rue Grégoire de Tours (there is a good crêperie)
• rue de Buci
• around the Marché Mabillon
• rue des Cannettes (Chez Georges)
• rue St Sulpice (Séraphin: a little expensive but
good and cute)
• rue St. André des Arts
Some suggestions in this area close to the school:
• In front of the school, Le Bon Marché, famous
fine grocery, where you can buy delicious
sandwiches and eat in the park
• Cosi, rue de Seine which has inexpensive and
good salads and sandwiches
• Osaka, 70 rue Mazarine has good and
inexpensive sushi
• There is a good Thai place in rue des Ciseaux
• Les jardins St Germains, 14 rue du Dragon, is
very French
• Les Cocottes, a French restaurant with an
original concept and decoration, 135 rue
St. Dominique, 7ème
• Brasserie Lipp, Bld St. Germain, for the
atmosphere and décor (more expensive)
In Denfert-Rochereau area (near the
residence):
Rue Daguerre: a street full of restaurants and
markets during the day.
Montparnasse area:
All kind of restaurants; rue de la Ggaiîté
Lots of crêperies, rue d'Odessa
La Coupole, Blvd. du Montparnasse: a huge and
legendary restaurant including tango and salsa
classes.
In the Marais area including:
• Gallerie 88: in front of La Seine and the other
side of Notre-Dame, a small, ethnic and intimate
place for affordable prices. 88 Quai de Seine,
4ème
• Lots of restaurants on Place Ste Catherine
• Lots of good Jewish restaurants in rue des
Rosiers; the most famous is Marianne
In the “Grands Boulevards” area (9th):
Restaurant Chez Cartier, seven rue du Faubourg
Montmartre. A little touristy now, but it’s still
worth it for the atmosphere and the nice prices.
No reservation needed.
In Châtelet area, Le pied de Cochon, six rue
Coquillière, metro “Louvre,” famous for the French
food but touristy.

There are also some famous typical chain
restaurants where you can eat for about † 15.
These restaurants are located in the Champs
Elysées, St. Germain des Prés and Montparnasse
district. They are called Chez Clément, Chez Léon,
Le Bistrot Romain, L'Entrecôte and are open
everyday until midnight.
Paris is also very cosmopolitan, and you will find
restaurants from all over the world: if you want to
eat Asian food, go to the 13th arrondissement,
which is Paris’s Chinatown, or to rue Sainte Anne,
close to the old Opéra or else rue de Belleville.
In the Passage Brady, in the 10th arrondissement,
you will find Indian restaurants and the passage
itself makes you feel like you are in India.
In La Goutte d’Or, close to Montmartre, there are
many African restaurants.
And one of the most popular places for students in
Paris is “La Favela chic,” a Brazilian restaurant where
you can also listen to music and dance (18 rue du
Faubourg du Temple, 75011, metro République,
www.favelachic.com)
TRANSPORTATION
Metro and RER
At the train station you can ask for a pocket
metro map.
The RER are like big arteries and the metro lines are
like plenty of veins. The metro is the fastest and
cheapest way of getting around. Trains run daily
5:30 –12:40 a.m.
The five RER (A, B, C, D and E) run from 5:30 –
1 a.m. daily through Paris into the suburbs. Within
Paris the RER is useful for faster journeys.
Buses: Paris also has a vast array of bus lines. You
can use a metro ticket or purchase one from the
driver († 1.40). Tickets should be punched in the
machine next to the driver and passes should be
shown. While on the bus, when you wish to stop
at the next exit, simply press the red request button
and depart the bus out of the back door.
Night buses: the Noctambus runs hourly 1.30 –
5:35 a.m. Look for the owl logo on the bus stop.
At Place Denfert Rochereau near FIAP, you have the
N122, N121 and N14.
Fares and Tickets
Almost all of the Paris public transportation is run by
the RATP. Paris and suburbs are divided in eight
travel zones. Zones one and two cover the city
center. RATP tickets and passes are valid in the
metro, bus and RER. Tickets can be bought at metro
station and tabacs. Hold on to your ticket in case of
checks, you’ll also need it to exit from RER station.
• A single ticket costs † 1.40 but it is more
economical to buy a carnet of ten for † 10.90
• A one day Mobilis pass costs from † 5.50 for
zones one-two
• A one week or one month carte orange pass
(passport photo needed) offers unlimited travel
in the relevant zone. For zone one, a two week
pass costs † 15.90 and monthly † 51.50. It is a
good value.
Cycling
Vélib’ is a new self service “bike hire” in Paris.
Parisians are enjoying this system but it still has
to improve (sometimes there is a line or no place
to park).
Multi pick up and drop off locations allow you to
pick up your bike from one service point and drop
off to another. The Vélib’ Service Points are located
300 meters apart, consisting of terminals and
stands for fastening the bikes.
A one-day or a seven-day Vélib’ ticket is available
for purchase at any of the Vélib’ Service Points. A
† 150 deposit will be held on your credit card
during the validity of your ticket.
The first 30 minutes of every journey are free of
charge, and then it is one euro for the next half hour,
† 2 for the second, four euro for the third… so it
increases quickly. It is meant to be for transportation.
You should park it at a service point when you don’t
use it and pick it up again when you move.
There are increasingly more bike roads in the city.
You can download bike maps from www.paris.fr

Taxis
Do not put your fingers to your mouth and whistle,
or jump out in the road and wave a taxi down [you
may get run over]. There is a system in place that
you have to follow just like everyone else! Get in
line at the taxi stand. There are taxi stands all
around Paris — this does not apply however to the
suburbs and other regions of France. But in Paris,
people really get aggravated with you, if you jump
the line to grab a taxi!
Boat
Boatbus: the boat is a less ordinary way to travel.
You have an unlimited pass for the day († 11) and
it stops at central places on the river, La Seine.
Airport Service
A shuttle into Paris is great, with very friendly doorto-door
service. They are very helpful, speak English
fluently and are quite reasonably priced and more
comfortable in most cases than a taxi. A taxi is
“tres cher” from the airports into Paris.
IMPORTANT: Do NOT ride in a stranger’s car or
an unmarked taxi.
French Vocabulary
ENGLISH
Do you speak English?
Excuse me/sorry
Fine thanks and you?
Glad to meet you
Good-bye
Good evening
Good morning/good day
Hello
Here
How are you?
I don't understand
I'm sorry
My name is
No
Ok
Pardon me
Please
Pleased to meet you
Please speak slowly
So-so
Thank you
That's ok
There
Very well
What?
What is your name?
When
Where
PRONUNCIATION
par-lay voo zon-glay
ex-koo-zay mwah
bee-ehn mer-see ay voo?
on-shohn-tay
oh ruh-vwar
bon-swar
bon-zhoor
sah-loo
ee-see
kom-mohn tah-lay voo
Jhuhn kom-prohn pah
day-zoh-lay/pahr-dohn
juh mah-pell
Nohn
dah-core
pahr-dohn
seel voo play
on-shahn-tay
par-lay lehn-ta-mohn
kum-see, kum-sah
mare-see
dah ree-ehn
Lah
treh bee-ehn
kom-mohn
kom-mohn voo-za-peh-lay voo
Kohn
Oo
FRENCH
Parlez-vous anglais?
Excusez-moi
Merci et vous?
Enchanté
Au revoir
Bon soir
Bon jour
Salut
Ici
Comment allez-vous?
Je ne comprends pas
Desolé/Pardon
Je m'appelle
Non
d'accord
Pardon
S'il vous plaît
Enchanté(e)
Parlez lentement
Comme ci, comme ça
Merci
De rien
Là
Très bien
Comment?
Comment vous appellez-vous?
Quand
Où

SALAMANCA,
SPAIN
Salamanca
IMPORTANT ADDRESSES AND
PHONE NUMBERS
Salamanca Advisor
Maria de Hoces
dehocesm@stjohns.edu
+34-665-953242
Salamanca Coordinator
Manuel Santos
manuel@usal.es
+34-606-339238
LIBRARY AND COMPUTER CENTER
Students will have wireless internet at the University
of Salamanca campus. Cursos Internacionales will
provide students with a password and they will
have access in the library, common rooms and other
places (but not classrooms!). This service works only
when campus is open (Monday to Friday) At
Residencia Helmantica, students will have wired
internet only in their bedrooms (24 hours from
Monday to Sunday).
CLASSROOMS
Universidad de Salamanca – Cursos Internacionales
Patio de Escuelas Menores
Salamanca
The classrooms are approximately a 10 – 15 minute
walk from the Residencia Helmantica.
MEAL PLAN
Residencias usually provides a complete meal plan
(breakfast, lunch and dinner) from Monday to
Saturday. The main dining area where students will
have their meals is on the first floor of the residence.
STUDENT HOUSING
Residencia Helmántica
Calle San Narciso 8
Salamanca
+34-923-261943
Students will have linens and towels provided in
their rooms. There are also laundry facilities
available in the residence.
City Resources
AMERICAN EMBASSY
Calle Serrano 75
28006 Madrid
Tel +34 (91) 587-2240
Fax +34 (91) 587-2243
Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
BANKS
Deutsche Bank
Concejo 20, 37002
Salamanca, Spain
923-280-400
Banco de Castilla
San Pablo 5, 37001
Salamanca, Spain
923-261-072
BBVA
Toro 19, 37002
Salamanca, Spain
923-214-900
Gran Vía 49, 37001
Salamanca, Spain
923-216-424

DOCTORS
Clínica San Marcos
C/ Condes Crespo Rascón 56
Tel 923-121-422
Fax 923-269-822
Dr. Antonio Manuel Sánchez Alvarez
General – Dental Care
Ard Portugal, 108
923-121-331
ISOS can provide you with a list of Englishspeaking
doctors in the area requested.
ISOS (Emer. Services) (+34) 91-572-4363
STJ-ISOS Membership # 11BSGC000069
Use your international SOS card when you:
• would like to talk with an English-speaking
doctor 24 hours a day, seven days a week
• need a dispatch of prescription medication
• need a referral to a doctor or dentist for even
the most minor of instances
• have a serious injury and need international SOS
for an evacuation or repatriation
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
Police
Policia Local: 092
Policia Nacional: 091
Guardia Civil: 062
Fire (Bomberos): 080
Ambulance: 061
Red Cross: 923 300 711
Emergency: 112
HOSPITAL EMERGENCY
Hospital Universitario de Salamanca
P.º San Vicente 58, 37007
Salamanca, Spain
923-291-100
Hospital General de la Santisima Trinidad
P.º Carmelitas 74, 37002
Salamanca, Spain
923-269-300
MAIL SERVICE
Remember that stores with the big brown-andyellow
“tabaco” signs are estancos, and all estancos
sell stamps (same price as the post office). Los
Correos is the name for the Spanish mail system.
Sindicato Libre de Correos Telecomunicacion
y Caja
Postal de Ahorros
Gran Vía 25
37001 Salamanca, Spain
Tel 923 268 781
Sociedad Estatal Correos y Telegrafos S.A.
Gran Vía 25
37001 Salamanca, Spain
Tel 902 197 197
Av. Portugal 75
37005 Salamanca, Spain
Tel 923 226 746
Shipping and Mailing packages to and from
the U.S.
Please avoid, at all costs, receiving packages
(regular mail and overnight courier) with any sort
of electronic equipment, cameras, computers,
peripherals, medicines, vitamins, etc. These
packages are always stopped in the customs entry
point in Spain. Before the package is released you
must fax the completed form back to the customs
office and pay a processing fee (approx. $50) and a
tax that is equivalent to 20% of the value.
Medicines and vitamins are often not allowed
through customs.

PHARMACIES
Farmacia Escudero
Pol Conesa, M.ª Soledad
Pza. Mercado 4, 37001
Salamanca, Spain
923-213-682
Farmacia Liceo
Toro 25, 37002
Salamanca, Spain
923-214-124
Farmacia Aurora Martin Fernandez
Gran Vía 21, 37001
Salamanca, Spain
923-266-907
SECURITY
Comisaria De Policia
Rda. Sancti-Spíritus 8, 37001 Salamanca, Spain
923-127-700
Understanding
Salamanca
Salamanca is a city reminiscent of Oxford or
Cambridge in the sense that it seems to breathe art,
culture and knowledge as you walk along the
streets and admire its señorial houses, small palaces,
university buildings, towers, churches, and
cathedrals. For the best panoramic view of the city,
go to the Parador of Salamanca on the other side
of the River Tormes. Popular with thousands of
foreign students who come to Salamanca each year
to study, Salamanca is a cosmopolitan and lively city.
ENGLISH-LANGUAGE BOOKSTORES
Servilisa
Perú 1, 37003
Salamanca, Spain
923-220-632
Cervantes
Azafranal 11, 13
Salamanca, Spain
Tel 923-21-8602
MOVIES
Cines Van Dyck Tormes
P.º Dr. Torres Villarroel 40,
37005 Salamanca, Spain
Tel 923 243 538
Premier Megaplex
P.º Estación, S/N, 37004
Salamanca, Spain
Tel 923 259 326
RESTAURANTS
Salamancan cuisine is deeply influenced by the
geographical diversity of a province that ranges
from pastures and wheat fields to mountainous
highlands. A common feature shared with the rest
of Castile is the roast; be it suckling pig (cochinillo)
or goat (cabrito). Yet the real local staple is pork —
appearing in the vast majority of the region's
dishes. There is the limón of Ciudad Rodrigo, a
cold platter prepared from meat, chorizo (spicy
Spanish sausage), egg and lemon, and eaten
during Carnival season. Another is Hornazo, a pie
traditionally associated with Easter time, but nowa-days
available any time, anywhere. The dish
varies depending on the district in which it’s served.
Hornazo contains chorizo, ham, bacon, pork, hard
boiled egg and sometimes even poultry. Another
typical dish is Farinato, a white sausage meat made
with bread crumbs, lard and seasoning (usually
eaten with fried eggs).

Many good restaurants are to be found en route,
where the region's varied fare may be enjoyed to
the fullest. Bars abound, and the custom of tapeo
(ordering a mix of snack-like servings, known as
Tapas) is a must in and around the Plaza Mayor.
The Arco del Toro, Calle Clavel and Plaza San Julián
are other neighborhoods where local specialties
are served.
Recommended Restaurants:
Chez Victor
One of the best restaurants in the city
Espoz y Mina 26, 37002 Salamanca, Spain
923-213-123
La Hoja
Offers good traditional food
Espoz y Mina 19, 37002 Salamanca, Spain
(Next to the Plaza Mayor)
923-264-028
Parilla de la Calleja
Typical Spanish cuisine
Ventura Ruiz de Aguilera, 7, Salamanca, 37002
Spain
Erasmus-Bruin Café
Central European cuisine
Melendez, 7, Salamanca, 37002 Spain
El Meson
Plaza de Poeta Iglesias, 10, Salamanca, 37001
Spain
El Corillo
Melendez, 14, Salamanca, 37008 Spain
SHOPPING
Salamanca, a capital city in this region of Spain, is
known for its university tradition and cultural
richness. It is also known for its rich variety of
services and commercial establishments. The city
has a central area with stores and shops of all kinds.
Here are some suggestions for a day out shopping
in Salamanca.
There are several well-known areas for shopping in
the city center. There are two streets lined with
shops that extend from the main Plaza Mayor:
Zamora and Toro Streets. Rua Mayor extends from
the other side of the plaza and is an important
commercial area especially for souvenirs and gifts
typical of Salamanca. Leaving the Plaza Mayor in
the direction of the market and moving down the
street a bit more you reach another shopping area
on Gran Via.
There are also larger shopping centers on the
outskirts of Salamanca such as the Tormes shopping
center, which has an ample range of clothing
stores, but also contains a variety of restaurants,
bars and cafeterias in which you can take a break
between visiting stores. One of the best and most
central areas for buying clothing is Calle Toro. You
can find all types of clothing at a variety of price
ranges in stores like H&M or Zara. Stradivarious is
another good option. Cortefiel has good quality
clothing for men and Mango for women — but it is
expensive.
Crossing the Plaza in the direction of the Cathedral,
on Rua Mayor there are many shops which offer
typical foods of the region. In Aperos y Viandas and
La Despensa you can find such appetizing variety of
products such as hornazos, cured ham, wine,
legumes, obleas, chorizo, honey, typical sweets and
many other tasty items of the Salamanca region.
A recommended stop in your search for souvenirs is
to pass by the VALOR chocolate shop to savor the
best “churros con chocolate” in the area. When it’s
time to continue on you can go over to the
Universitate Mercatus Salamantinae, very near the
cathedral where you can find sweatshirts, T-shirts,
books, notebooks and just about everything with
the Salamanca University shield. You should also
visit several souvenir shops spread all along the Rua
Mayor, among them worth mention is Hispania e
Imar where you can purchase assorted and valuable
souvenirs such as Spanish shawls, decorated fans,
tapestries, key rings, wineskins, flamenco dresses,
jewelry, hats and t-shirts, stuffed animals, especially
the frog, the decorative element on the university
façade, which tends to be an obligatory purchase
among visitors to Salamanca.

Also worth mentioning is the Sunday “rastro”
market in the area of Aldehuela where you can
purchase all types of products at good prices in the
most pure Spanish atmosphere. And finally Asian
students may like to know that there is a
Taiwanese store on Avenida Italia where you can
buy all types of products necessary for preparing
typical oriental dishes.
Recommended Shopping Areas:
New Palacio de los Licores
Correhuela, 24,
Salamanca, 37001 Spain
Carrefour (This is a Supermarket)
Avenida Agustinos Recoletos, 1-35
Salamanca, 37005 Spain
Centro Comercial El Tormes
Santa Marta de Tormes
Salamanca
SITES OF INTEREST
What to see in Salamanca:
Plaza Mayor
The best place to start walking around Salamanca is
the square. You can have a café con leche or a glass
of cold water at one of the tables set up by the bars
and cafés. Fun fact: It was built in the 18th century.
The University of Salamanca
The University has beautiful architecture and the
famous façade, with the hidden frog. The Old
University Library is simply awesome, with shelves
full of old literary and scholarly works of art. The
library has over 160,000 volumes. Also visit the
cloister, the paraninfo and the surrounding
University buildings.
Ciudad Rodrigo
Ciudad Rodrigo sits on top of a hill just next to the
border dividing Spain from Portugal, and the wall
surrounding this small town (14,000 inhabitants)
reflects its strategic importance in the past. Ciudad
Rodrigo was once occupied by Neolithic settlers,
Vettones, Romans, Moors and finally Christians. In
the 12th century Count Rodrigo González Girón
gave his name to the city, and some years later the
cathedral was built. During the 15th and 16th
centuries Ciudad Rodrigo flourished, and many of
the small palaces and stately homes built during
that period are still standing today. Ciudad Rodrigo
is a bit like a miniature Salamanca. Visitors are
advised to stay in the beautiful Ciudad Rodrigo
Parador and to enjoy strolling around this sleepy
town which oozes history on every street.
La Alberca
La Alberca is a beautiful small village — just over
one thousand inhabitants — with narrow
picturesque streets, unique half-timbered houses
with geraniums hanging over the balconies; and
although it has become more crowded with
tourists (mainly daytrippers) in the last few years,
Alberca still retains its unique charm. Local fiestas
in August are a mixture of pagan and religious
celebration, typical of rural Spain. Set in the heart
of the Sierra de France, a beautiful range of
mountains. It is at the foot of the Peña de Francia
and surrounded by fertile lands, Alberca is just 45
miles from Salamanca, and the drive there is lovely.
If you go in autumn, try one of the local dishes
with setas and wild mushrooms.
Alba de Tormes
Alba de Tormes is just 12 miles from Salamanca;
set on the banks of the River Tormes in a lovely
setting. Visit the 16th-century Carmelitas convent
— Convento de la Anunciación — where the
remains of Saint Teresa are buried.
Casa de las Conchas
Casa de las Conchas is one of Salamanca's most
emblematic buildings. Today it is an art gallery and
also a library.
Convento de las Dueñas
A convent founded by Juana Rodríguez Maldonado
in 1419. Beautiful cloister. The nuns sell pastries
and sweets to visitors.

Clerecia
An unfinished example of religious baroque art. A
huge cupola, magnificent 12th-century altarpiece
covered with gold, and stairway.
Casa Lis Museum
Art nouveau and Art Deco, the Casa Lis Museum
receives more visitors than any other museum in
the whole of Castilla and Leon. Open Tuesday –
Friday 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. and 5 – 9 p.m., Sundays
and public holidays 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Museo de Bellas Artes
Art museum, open Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. –
2 p.m. and 5 – 8 p.m., Sundays and public holidays
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Cueva de Salamanca
Where, according to legend, the devil taught
scholars everything that their religious teachers
would not teach them. Huerto de Calixto and
Melibea: Lovely garden where according to legend
Calixto and Melibea met.
Museo de la Historia de la Ciudad
Museum that explains the history of Salamanca.
Open Tuesday to Thursday 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., Friday to
Saturdays from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. and 4 – 7 p.m.
TRANSPORTATION
Salamanca is a relatively compact city, so reliance
on public transportation is not necessary if one is
willing to walk. The old historical center of the city
where the Plaza Mayor is located is the core of all
the action: nightlife, university and shopping. A
main road encircles this area; beyond this you find
apartments and residential buildings.
Bus
From the central bus station in Salamanca it is
possible to find bus companies that connect
Salamanca with all the provinces of Spain. Taking a
bus in Spain is normally the cheapest alternative
when wishing to travel within the country. The
buses are modern and comfortable and the road
network is usually effective, although the many
mountains and the heavy traffic (especially during
the summer and during national holidays) can make
it very time consuming. The central bus station is
located at Avenida de Filiberto Villalobos Estación
de Autobuses. For information call 923 236 717.
Any one-way ticket by bus will cost † 1. Bono
passes can be bought at any Caja Duero Bank for
around † 3. This punch card gives you 10 rides for
half the price. Be prepared; buses become very
crowded on rainy days!
Taxi
Taxis are readily available from taxi points located
just outside of the Plaza Mayor or just outside the
old quarter area. Taxis aren't usually very expensive
(three or four euros a ride).
Train
The Salamanca train station is located in the center
of Salamanca (Paseo de la Estación) and connects
the town to the rest of the capitals in Castilla Leon
as well as Madrid and a few other destinations.
Taking the train is normally the fastest way
whereby Salamanca is connected to other Spanish
towns. It is a bit more expensive than the bus
network, but is compensated by being nicer. The
train station in Salamanca is located on Paseo de la
Estación de Trenes.
For Information call 923 120 202 or visit www.renfe.es
Airport
All international flights leave out of Barajas Airport
in Madrid. There is no direct transportion. You
need to take a bus or a train to Madrid and then a
taxi to Barajas Airport. Remember that you need
two and a half hours to go to Madrid, and
approximately another 30 minutes to arrive at
Barajas (with no traffic!)
Vocabulary
Greetings:
Hi! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ¡Hola!
Good Morning! . . . . . . . . . . . . ¡Buenos dias!
Good Evening! . . . . . . . . . . . . . ¡Buenos tardes!
Welcome! (to greet someone) . ¡Bienvenido!
How are you?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . ¿Cómo estás?
I’m fine, thanks! . . . . . . . . . . . . . Estoy bien, ¡gracias!
And you? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ¿Y tú?
Good . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bien
Thank you (very much)! . . . . . . ¡(Muchas) Gracias!
You’re welcome!
(answering “thank you”) . . . . . ¡De nada!
Good night! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ¡Buenas noches!
See you later!. . . . . . . . . . . . . . ¡Hasta luego!
Good bye! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ¡Adiós!
Help and Directions:
I’m lost / I don’t understand . . . Estoy perdido /
No comprendo
Can you help me? . . . . . . . . . . ¿Puede ayudarme?
Where is the…? . . . . . . . . . . . . ¿Dónde está…?
Left /Right/Straight . . . . . . . . . . Izquierda/Derecha/
Recto
I’m looking for . . . . . . . . . . . . . Estoy buscando
One moment please! . . . . . . . . ¡Un momento,
por favor!
Hold on please! (phone). . . . . . ¡No cuelgue,
por favor!
How much is this? . . . . . . . . . . ¿Cuanto vale/
cuesta eso?
Excuse me
(to ask for something) . . . . . . . Perdone/Disculpe

DUBLIN,
IRELAND
Dublin
IMPORTANT ADDRESSES AND PHONE
NUMBERS
All Hallows College
Grace Park Road
Drumcondra, Dublin 9, Ireland
Tel +353-1-837-3745
Fax +353-1-837-7642
The resources and staff of All Hallows College will
be available to you during your time in Ireland.
These services will include student life, housing and
student activities. The specific contact person from
All Hallows College will be introduced during the
on-site orietation.
LIBRARY AND COMPUTER CENTER
The John Hand Library
Hours of operation:
Monday – Wednesday: 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Thursday – Friday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
CLASSROOMS
All Hallows College
Grace Park Road
Drumcondra, Dublin 9, Ireland.
Tel +353-1-837-3745
Fax +353-1-837-7642
MEAL PLAN
Students receive two meals a day on class days.
Students are able to have their meals at the
cafeteria located near the residence.
Coffee Dock — Purcell House Coffee Dock
provides an ideal opportunity for groups to relax
during working sessions. They can arrange coffee
breaks to suit your schedule. Those who avail of
residential accommodation are welcome to use the
Coffee Dock throughout the evening.
Dining Room — The College Dining Room is
adjacent to Drumcondra House, located to the left
of the Conference Centre. They provide a friendly,
efficient service, high quality food and make every
effort to cater for special occasion dinners and
dietary requirements.
STUDENT HOUSING
Facilities include:
Common Room with cable TV and kitchenette
Launderette
Prayer Room
Reading/Games Room
Showers
City Resources
AMERICAN EMBASSY
The ACS Unit is closed to the public on
Wednesdays except in cases of extreme emergency.
We are located at 42 Elgin Road, Ballsbridge,
Dublin 4. They may be contacted at (+353-1) 668-
8777 during business hours; Fax (+353-1) 668-
8056. 24 hour emergency number: (+353-1) 668-
9612, for emergencies involving American citizens.
Please e-mail (acs_dublin@state.gov) if you have
questions regarding American Citizen Services.
They are unable to respond to U.S. visa inquiries
from this mailbox. Please fax your U.S. visa
inquiries to the Visa Information Unit at
+353-1-668-8881 and include your address and
return fax number.
www.dublin.usembassy.gov/

BANKS
Ulster Bank
Spar 8 – 12 Drumcondra
8 Lower Drumcondra Road Drumcondra Dublin 9
Easy Cash/ATM
Ulster Bank
Orchard Spar
122 Upper Drumcondra Rd Dublin 9
Easy Cash/ATM
Allied Irish Bank
140 Lower Drumcondra Road Dublin 9
ATM available
Monday, Tuesday, Friday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Wednesday: 10:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Thursday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Bank of Ireland
43 Lower Drumcondra Road, Dublin 9
Monday and Tuesday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Wednesday: 10:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Thursday and Friday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Permanent TSB
130 Lr. Drumcondra Rd.
Drumcondra
Dublin 9
ATM available
DOCTORS
ISOS can provide you with a list of doctors in
the area requested.
ISOS (Emer. Services) (+44) (0)20-8762-8008
STJ-ISOS Membership # 11BSGC000069
Use your international SOS card when you:
• would like to talk with an English-speaking
doctor 24 hours a day, seven days a week
• need a dispatch of prescription medication
• need a referral to a doctor or dentist for even
the most minor of instances
• have a serious injury and need international SOS
for an evacuation or repatriation
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
Police 112 or 999
Ambulance 112 or 999
Fire 112 or 999
* When you call either number you must state
which emergency service you need.*
HOSPITAL EMERGENCY
Beaumont Hospital
Beaumont Road, Dublin 9, Ireland
Tel +353-1-809-3000
Fax +353-1-837-6982
webmaster@beaumont.ie
For additional information: www.beaumont.ie/
Bon Secours Hospital
Glasnevin, Dublin 9, Ireland
Tel 01 837 5111/806 5300
Fax 01 837 5896
For additional information:
www.bonsecoursireland.org/artman2/publish/index.asp
MAIL SERVICE
Post Offices
10 Lower Drumcondra Road
Dublin 9
Co. Dublin
+353-1-830-5056
Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. and 2:15 –
5:30 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
153 Lower Drumcondra Road
Dublin 9
Co. Dublin
+353-1-837-4391
Monday – Friday: 9 a.m.–1 p.m. and
2:15 – 5:30 p.m., Saturday: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Botanic Road
Glasnevin
Dublin 9
Co. Dublin
+353-1-830-7977
Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. and
2:15 – 5:30 p.m., Saturday: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Shipping and Mailing packages to and from
the U.S.
Please avoid, at all costs, receiving packages
(regular mail and overnight courier) with any sort
of electronic equipment, cameras, computers,
peripherals, medicines, vitamins, etc. These
packages are always stopped in the customs entry
point in Ireland. Before the package is released you
must fax the completed form back to the customs
office and pay a processing fee (approx. $50) and a
tax that is equivalent to 20% of the value.
Medicines and vitamins are often not allowed
through customs.
PHARMACIES
Bon Secours Hospital
(Located inside the hospital)
Tel +353 (01) 806 5338
Fax +353 (01) 806 5335
Hours of Operation:
Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Saturday: 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Closed on Sundays and on national holidays
*Chief Pharmacist: Joseph Leahy MPSI
For additional information:
www.bonsecoursireland.org/artman2/publish/index.asp
Unicare Pharmacy Ltd Omni Park
Shopping Centre Dublin 9, Ireland
+353 (0)1 842-9857
SECURITY
Ireland has a low rate of violent crime, although
that rate is increasing. There have been a limited
number of incidents in which foreigners and
tourists have been victims of assault, including
instances of violence toward those who appear to
be members of racial minority groups. In addition,
there have been several reported incidents in
Dublin of persons severely assaulted by small,
unorganized gangs roaming the streets in the early
morning hours after the pubs close. There is a high
incidence of petty crime: mostly theft, burglary,
and purse snatching in major tourist areas. Thieves
target rental cars and tourists, particularly in the
vicinity of tourist attractions, and some purse and
bag snatching incidents in these areas have turned
violent, especially in Dublin. Extra caution should
be taken to safeguard passports and wallets from
pickpockets and bag snatchers.
There has been an increase over the last year in the
number of crimes involving credit cards and
Automated Teller Machines (ATMs). The use of
skimmers to record credit card details has increased,
and these recorded details are being sent elsewhere
to program false and stolen credit cards.
More information is available at the U.S.
Department of State website:
www.travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1145.
html
TELEPHONES
Both the Irish Republic and Northern Ireland have
public phones that accept coins (.40/.27 euro) and
pre-paid phone cards. In the Republic of Ireland,
dial 114 for an international operator or 10 for a
national operator. Mobile phones are also popular
and an economical alternative.
Understanding Dublin
MASS
Christ Church Cathedral
Christchurch Place, Dublin 8, Ireland
Tel +353 (0)1 679-8999
Fax +353 (0)1 679-8991
www.cccdub.ie

Saint Patrick’s Cathedral
St. Patrick's Close, Dublin 8, Ireland
Tel +353 (0)1 475-4817
Fax +353 (0)1 454-6374
www.stpatrickscathedral.ie
St. Vincent de Paul, Marino
Griffith Avenue, Marino Dublin 9, Ireland
Tel +353 (0)1 833 2772
Mass Times:
Vigil (Saturday Evening) Masses: 7:30 p.m.
Sunday Masses: 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m.
and 7:30 p.m.
Masses on Holy Days:
Vigil: 7:30 p.m.
Bank Holy Days: 7:25 a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m.
Weekday Masses: 8 a.m. and 10 a.m.
Lent: 7:25 a.m., 10 a.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Saturdays: 10 a.m.
Church of the Virgin Mary, Ballymun
Shangan Rd., Ballymun Dublin 9, Ireland
01-842-1551
Mass Times:
Vigil (Saturday Evening) Masses: 7 p.m.
Sunday Masses: 11 a.m. (Family), 12:15 p.m.
Masses on Holy Days:
Vigil: 7 a.m., 9:15 a.m. and 11 a.m.
Weekday Masses:
Monday–Saturday: 9:15 a.m.
First Fridays: 9:15 a.m. and 7 p.m.
*If interested in any other churches/parishes use this
link: www.catholicireland.net/parishes/index.php and
select Dublin 9, where All Hallows College is located.
MOVIES
Santry Omniplex
Old Airport Road
Santry Dublin 9 Dublin
+353-1-8428844
Or choose a place yourself at:
www.dublinevents.com/dublin-cinemas.php
RESTAURANTS
Queen of Tarts
Dame Street
670-7499
Offers homemade pastries, scones, cakes and
coffee; also breakfasts and great sandwiches.
Unicorn Café Restaurant
12B Merrion Court
676-2182
Great Italian eatery.
Tante Zoe’s
1 Crowe Steet
679-4407
New Orleans creole food in an elegant setting.
The Mermaid Café
69-70 Dame Steet
670-8236
Great brunch; more traditional British Isles fare.
Gruel
68 Dame Street
670-7119
Great beef stew; wonderful entrees, desserts
and coffee.
Monty’s of Kathmandu
28 Eustace St.
670-4911
Great Nepalese food.
SHOPPING
Website contains a list of places to shop, and
location with phone numbers
www.irelandby.com/shopping/shopping_dublin.htm
www.dublinevents.com/dublin-shopping/
Best places to shop are Grafton and O’Connell
Street. Both places consist of outlets for everyday
shopping. Irish shops are usually open from 9 a.m.
– 5:30 p.m. (latest 6 p.m.) from Monday through
Saturday and closed on Sundays. Usually Thursday
nights are for late shoppers — certain shops

emain open until 8 p.m. And for tourists, some
shops are open Sunday, depending on the time of
the year.
Some things to do in Dublin, Ireland:
• Guinness Factory
• Trinity College (The Book of Kells)
• Temple Bar
• The Old Jameson Distillery
• Dublin Castle
• St. Stephen’s Green (Nice big park)
Interested in stepping outside of Dublin or seeing
more of Dublin?
• Walking tours (guided)
• Historical walking tours in Dublin
• Dublin City Bus tours
• Day tours from Dublin
• Overnight tours
For additional information:
www.dublintourist.com/tours/#walking
SITES OF INTEREST
Trinity College and Grafton Street
Kildare Street and Temple Bar
Dame Street and the Cathedrals
Guinness Brewery and Kilmainham
O’Connell Street and Parnell Square
*Remember to bring your student ID
EVERYWHERE because majority of the tourist
attractions give student discounts
Do you want further information on tourist
attractions? www.dublintourist.com
TRANSPORTATION
Trains and Buses
In the Republic of Ireland, the state transport
authority, CIE is the controlling body for Dublin
Bus, Bus Eireann and Irish Rail. Dublin Bus serves
the city while Bus Eireann serves the provincial
areas from Dublin. Irish Rail operates inter-city
trains as well as the Dublin Area Rapid Transport
(DART) system.
To receive timetables or travel information on bus
and rail services, contact either Dublin Bus or Bus
Eirann or Irish Rail (Iarnrod Eirann). It is also
important to look for information on money-saving
commuter and tourist tickets. Eurailpasses are valid
for bus and train travel everywhere in Ireland,
excluding city services. CIE offer reduced-rate
rambler passes providing unlimited bus and train
travel for between eight–15 days, city services are
again excluded. However, various city bus tickets
are available.
When in Dublin, the DART is an efficient and
pleasant way to travel along the eastern coastal
strip between Bray and Howth. It is well worth
your while to take a day trip out to either Howth
or Bray by using the DART.
Taxis
In most major cities such as Dublin, Galway, Cork,
Belfast, Limerick and Derry there are metered taxis
at railway stations, ports, airports and taxi ranks.
Elsewhere it is possible to book hackney cabs where
fares are agreed to in advance with the drivers.

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