I have a son who will be attending the University of Salamanca in the fall. My wife and I are planning a 10 day trip in November. This would be our first trip to Spain. We are considering a plan that would have us use Salamanca as a base of operations and strike out in various directions to visit cities/towns/sites. We would also like to spend a couple of days somewhere in Portugal (as yet to be decided). Aside from spending time in Salamanca I would appreciate some recommendations on 1) things to see and do in that region, 2) would it be prudent to rent a car, 3) suggestions for visiting Portugal, 4) any other advice.

This would be our first visit to Spain and neither of us speak any Spanish. We are, however, pretty adventurous travelers and tend to avoid organized although we wouldn't rule one out if it makes sense.

Hope this gives you enough to make some suggestions.

Thx,