As you prepare for your time abroad, we wanted to send a quick reminder about dining arrangements and share a few tips to help you settle into the food culture in Spain.
Your housing and meals
Your housing in Getafe includes half board Monday through Friday, which means you’ll receive breakfast and either lunch or dinner each weekday. It’s a great way to enjoy fresh, local meals without the need to cook every day—though you’re absolutely welcome to if you’d like!
Each apartment includes a small kitchenette, so you’ll have the flexibility to prepare simple meals, snacks or weekend breakfasts at your convenience. Basic cooking utensils will be provided.
Groceries close by
Need something for your fridge or pantry? You’re in luck! There are two grocery stores within a five-minute walk of your residence. You’ll be able to pick up fresh produce, Spanish staples or your new favorite go-to snacks whenever you need them.
A taste of Spanish food culture
Here are a few helpful things to keep in mind as you adjust to the rhythm of Spanish dining:
- Meal times are later: Typically individuals eat lunch between 2 and 4 p.m., and dinner around 9 or 10 p.m. Don’t be surprised if restaurants are quiet earlier or don’t open until 8 or 9 p.m.!
- Lunch is the main meal: In Spain, lunch is often the biggest and most leisurely meal of the day. Various eateries are also available on the Getafe campus of Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M). The main cafeteria provides a two-course sit-down meal for around 7 euros, and you can always grab a coffee or snack at one of the cafes. There are a handful of restaurants right outside the campus gates that offer cheap eats for students during lunch time.
- Sobremesa culture: Spanish culture encourages the sobremesa after a meal. While no direct translation to English exists, it is the time after a meal to converse with friends and enjoy their company. Restaurants typically do not rush you out!
- Tapas culture: Madrid is famous for its tapas, small shared plates, and many places will give you a free tapa with a drink. It’s a great (and budget-friendly) way to try lots of different dishes.
- Fresh, local, simple: From jamón ibérico to tortilla española, Spanish cuisine emphasizes fresh ingredients and traditional preparation. Be open to trying new things and don’t forget to explore the markets. As you do, it is helpful to note that the typical Spanish breakfast of cafe con leche and toast is around 2 to 3 euros, the average lunch out is 15 euros for three courses plus a beverage, and the average dinner out is 20 to 40 euros depending on the type of restaurant.
- A few other things: Tipping 1 to 2 euros for a meal if eating out is customary. Hospitality employees in Europe are paid a living wage and tipping 10% to 20% is not expected or encouraged.
As you get settled, feel free to explore the local cafés, panaderías (bakeries) and mercados. Eating well is a big part of life in Spain, and now, part of your study abroad experience too!