For anyone wondering how much preparation Semester at Sea Voyagers undergo for a port visit, the short answer is A LOT. So far, we have had two Global Studies courses, an Explorer’s Seminar, and a Cultural Pre-Port Presentation and tomorrow, the entire community will be attending the Logistical Pre-Port Presentation.So what does this all mean? The Semester at Sea Voyagers will disembark in Cadiz on Wednesday for our four-day visit to Spain knowing where to go, what to say, how to eat, and a practical knowledge of the culture we will encounter. Of course, there will be surprises and a lot to learn, but the pre-port program does a
tremendous job of laying a strong foundation upon which Voyagers can build their visits.
Let me give you an example of just how thorough the prep-work has been on a subject that will be fun for everyone – Spanish food! A week ago, my knowledge of the Spanish culinary arts was limited to paella and tapas. I had a lot to learn if I really wanted to experience the specialties that Spain has to offer. Here’s a little lesson for all of you based upon what we went over.
For the morning people, desayuno (breakfast) is served from about 7:00-10:30. You can start off the day with a croissant, café con leche, and if you really want to be decadent, which I plan to be, chocolate con churros (check them out here). After a short break, it’s time for the merienda, or
snack time. The typical Spanish choice would be to head over to a café or family bar for a bocadilla, pictured 
right. The time for merienda typically ends by about 1:00. Time for lunch, right? Not yet!Before that, it’s time to meet up with friends and enjoy some tapas. I hope you’re not full, because we’re just getting to lunch, the biggest meal of the day. Lunch generally lasts from about 2:00-4:00. Usually, it is 2-3 courses and you can get whatever you’re looking for. On the recommendation of Sir David, I can’t wait to get to try out the bocadillos and tortilla de patatas. I also learned about a few things I’m going to avoid, like amprea (eel) and perceos (barnacle) but for those braver than me, they’re supposed to be delicious!
Don’t worry about being full because you will have plenty of time to digest until dinner, which for the average Spaniard does not begin until around 9:30 or 10:00. Be prepared for some great fish dishes. I didn’t know this but the Spanish eat more fish than any other country in the world except for Japan.
For those of you back at home, think about how much we learned just about how to eat. Now apply that to Spain’s culture, history, travel tips, and useful logistical information, and you’ll begin to get an appreciation of the depth of knowledge that Semester at Sea bestows upon its Voyagers before they depart for land.
Que aproveche! - Enjoy your meal!
Photos #1 and 2 by SAS Photographer John Weakley
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