International Business and
Economics in Spain

International Business and Economics in Spain

12 days
Barcelona and Valencia

International Business, Economics

This 12-day faculty-led program offers an in-depth exploration of Spain’s dynamic business landscape, focusing on international marketing and economic opportunities within the European Union. Students will journey to Barcelona and Valencia, two regions that have successfully leveraged their resources to foster innovation and global competitiveness.

In Barcelona, the heart of Catalonia—a region that occupies just over 6.3% of Spain’s territory but generates more than one-fifth of its GDP—students will experience first-hand how local businesses thrive. Highlights include a tour of Gaudi’s architectural masterpieces, a visit to the bustling Port of Barcelona, and an exclusive look at Poblenou, the city’s innovative tech hub. Participants will examine Catalonia’s role as a powerhouse of Spanish exports and foreign investment, learning how regional differences shape economic success.

In Valencia, a region strategically positioned on the Mediterranean Sea and known for its modern and competitive economy, students will gain insight into leadership and cultural differences in a small business context. Site visits include the renowned City of Arts and Science Museum and a hands-on paella cooking class. Valencia’s prime location has made it a global competitor, attracting highly profitable business projects and offering students the opportunity to analyze its economic strategies.

Throughout the program, students will participate in academic sessions, guest lectures, and company visits, covering topics such as international marketing, the Mediterranean business landscape, and global branding strategies. The experience ends with a visit to Freixenet Winery, where students will learn how a local family business became an international leader.

Itinerary

  • Day 1

    Depart USA – Fly to Barcelona, Spain

  • Day 2

    Arrive in Barcelona Airport

    Meet with TLAC Study Abroad Representative

    Travel to housing by private bus

    Check in to housing

    Walking tour of surrounding area

    Traditional Spanish Welcome dinner

  • Day 3

    Arrival Orientation with TLAC Study Abroad

    Lunch

    Explore Barcelona through a guided tour. Stops will include the famous Gaudi architectural works, such as the Sagrada Familia and Park Guell, the Gothic district, and other sites that contribute to the unique culture of the city.

    Dinner

  • Day 4

    2 Hour Class – Faculty Member

    Lunch

    Visit the port of Barcelona.

    Guest lecture: The Barcelona Port – Role and Opportunity: The

    Barcelona port is more than just a docking for ships – it serves

    an important role in the local economy, providing wealth and

    new opportunities connecting local businesses to new markets.

    Dinner

  • Day 5

    Visit to Poblenou: Barcelona’s Silicon Valley

    Lunch

    Guest Lecture: International Business in the Mediterranean Area

    Dinner

    Enjoy a typical Catalan dinner!

  • Day 6

    Private bus transfer to Valencia

    Check in to housing

    Walking tour to see the most famous sites of Valencia

    Dinner

    Paella cooking class and dinner

  • Day 7

    Visit a small local business owned and managed by an American expat and learn about cultural differences in the workplace and leadership in business

    Lunch

    Free Afternoon

    Dinner

  • Day 8

    2 Hour Class – Faculty

    Lunch

    Visit AIP Language School and meet their marketing team.

    Guest Lecture – International Marketing: Challenges in the European Market and how to attract multi-lingual target audiences

    Dinner

    Traditional Spanish Dinner & Flamenco Show

  • Day 9

    Visit to the City of Arts and Science Museum

  • Day 10

    Check out of housing in Valencia

    Private Bus Transfer to Barcelona

    Free afternoon & evening

    Lunch

    Free Afternoon

    Dinner

  • Day 11

    Visit to Freixenet: Discover the art of Cava Wine and lecture learn how a family business became an international brand.

    Lunch

    2 Hour Class – Faculty

    Farewell Dinner

  • Day 12

    Private Transfer to Barcelona Airport

    Depart for USA

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

  • International Marketing
  • Global Trade
  • Strategic Brand Management
  • Cultural Competency in Business
  • Experiential Learning
Support for Faculty

Support for Faculty

At The Learning Abroad Co., we collaborate with faculty to design custom programs that align with their academic vision. We provide comprehensive support in curriculum development, logistics and resources for promoting and recruiting students for these unique global learning experiences.

  • Online faculty-led program website for consultation by faculty and students pre- and during the trip
  • Expertise from the local team who developed the program proposal
  • Collaborative planning for a unique and customized program
  • Feedback forms for continuous evaluation
  • Pre-departure webinar

Contact Information

We would be delighted to work with you to facilitate a rich experience for your group in Spain. If you would like to discuss any of the details in this proposal please do not hesitate to contact us.

Contact us

What’s Included

  • Housing

    • Housing will be in 3* central hotels
    • Twin bedrooms with private bathrooms for the students
    • Single bedroom with private bathroom for faculty
  • Meals

    • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner are included
    • Breakfast may be at a café near to the housing or breakfast items may be delivered to the housing
    • Lunch will be a packed lunch provided by a local catering company or at a café/restaurant depending on the day’s schedule
    • Dinner will be a sit-down meal at a local restaurant
  • Transport

    • For the most part students will walk around the locations they will visit
    • Private or public transport will be arranged for airport transfers and scheduled day trips/half day trips and this is included in the program fee
  • On-Site Support

    • A TLAC team member on-site in Spain will be assigned to your group for the duration of the program
    • You will be provided with a 24-hour Emergency Contact phone number to reach TLAC at any time during your stay
  • Cultural Activities

    • Classroom space is available with a projector and a flipchart
    • Weather permitting classes can also be held in local parks and green spaces
    • Guest lectures may take place on-site at companies and site visit locations
  • Field Activities

    • Immerse yourself in hands-on learning through insightful visits with industry organizations, thought leaders and key partners, bringing your academic experience to life.

Contact Information

We would be delighted to work with you to facilitate a rich experience for your group in Spain. If you would like to discuss any of the details in this proposal please do not hesitate to contact us.

Contact us