If you don't have a bank card, you can also take travelers checks and change them in Alicante. Although the weather in Alicante is generally mild, the winter can be cold. Slacks and jeans are great, paired with sweaters, a fleece, and a light winter coat. Although Spaniards do not dress more conservatively than Americans, they tend to dress up more often, even when going out to the market. For example, Spanish women may wear short skirts, but they rarely wear shorts.
Pants are popular in Spain, even during the summer months.
Your experience will be what you make it so take advantage of your free time in Alicante. Situated on the Mediterranean coast, Alicante is a beautiful city. You can visit the beaches, explore the old part of the city, Barrio Santa Cruz, take a walk around the port or have a caf with friends at a sidewalk cafe. You can also choose to take advantage of the many opportunities presented to you by the university. You can get involved in an intramural sports team, sing in the choir or attend a political science seminar.