BIDDEFORD, Maine -- The University of New England women's soccer team is headed to Spain during semester break. The Nor'easters are scheduled to leave Boston for Barcelona on Dec. 29, with a return date of Jan. 7.

While in Spain, UNE will play a total of three games, taking on Union Vierra and Almegrin in Las Palmas (located on the Canary Islands), with the final game versus Atletico Madrid in Spain's capital city. Las Palmas is billed to have 'the best climate in the world' according to a study carried out by Syracuse University researcher Thomas Whitmore.

In compliance with NCAA III regulations, teams are able to take a foreign tour once every three years, with that tour taking place during an institution's vacation period. The UNE women's soccer team traveled to Barbados in January of 2012.

"This trip is a wonderful opportunity to further enhance our program," said UNE head coach Heather Davis. "I absolutely believe our trip to Barbados three years ago contributed to the recent success we have enjoyed. This is a chance to play a high level of soccer in a culturally-diverse setting. We look forward to the competition, as well as the chance to visit the sights and beaches Spain has to offer, and feel this is one of the things that sets us apart from other programs."

Be sure to follow the team's trip on social media accounts - Twitter (@UNEwomensSoccer) and Instagram (unewomenssoccer).