English is used for official purposes and in schools, but Spanish is also widely spoken.
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The official currency is the Gibraltar Pound (GIP), which is divided into 100 new pence. UK notes and coins are also accepted and have the same value, but Gibraltar Pounds are not accepted in the UK and any unspent Gibraltar Pounds should be changed before leaving. Euros are also widely accepted, and foreign currency can be exchanged at any one of the numerous banks or exchange bureau in town. All major credit cards and travelers checks are widely accepted, and travelers checks are best carried in Pound Sterling.
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The international dialing code for Gibraltar is +350, except when calling from Spain when 9567 must precede the local number instead. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 001 for the U.S.). City codes are not required. The local mobile phone operator uses the GSM 900 network and has roaming agreements with all major international operators. There is at present one Internet cafe in Gibraltar.
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A service charge is generally included in restaurant bills, but it is usual to leave an extra 10 percent.
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There is a risk of international terrorism and visitors should be vigilant in public places and tourist sites. There are very few incidences of street crime or violence. Authorities on both sides of the Spanish/Gibraltar border often delay vehicles and it is usually better to leave one's car in Spain and walk to and from Gibraltar to avoid lengthy queues.
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No vaccinations are required. Tap water is chlorinated, but it is advisable to start with bottled water.
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Electrical current is 240 volts AC, 50 Hz. Plugs in use are the round two-pin type or the rectangular three-pin plug.
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