Salamanca is located 200kms north-west of Madrid and is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe. Its old town was declared a World Heritage Sight by UNESCO in 1988. It is often referred to as the “golden city” because of the colour of the local stone used in the construction of most of its monuments. New teachers find it easy to adapt to living here. Life is relaxed, there is no need to use transport to get around, accommodation is cheap and easy to find, and it is not difficult to make new friends. Given the large student population (around 30,000) there is excellent night-life, a variety of cultural activities, good sports’ facilities and outstanding cinemas. However, what most impresses newcomers is the huge variety of tapa bars with their “terrazas” which are always full of locals, students, families and tourists and really liven up the town centre.