The official language is Spanish, but most people understand English in tourist areas. Basque, Galician and Catalan are also spoken in their respective regions.
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Spain’s international country code is 34. To call another country from Spain, dial 00 followed by the appropriate country code. Blue or green pay phones accept coins or phone cards, which can be bought at newsagents, tobacco shops and post offices. Most towns and resorts have Internet cafes.
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Restaurants and hotels usually include a service charge, but tips are still welcomed. Waiters expect a 15 percent tip and taxi drivers expect 10 to 15 percent. Don’t confuse the value-added tax on restaurant bills in Mallorca with a service charge. It’s customary to give guides and other assistance a small, 5 to 10 percent, tip.
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Street crime is common in big cities. Keep your valuables and documents safe and hidden. Most travelers don’t run into trouble, but you should be wary of strangers asking for help as a distraction to aid their co-conspirators.
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Spain has no associated health risks and requires no vaccinations for entry to the country. It’s a good idea to have health insurance.
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Spain’s electrical current is 220 or 225 volts, 50Hz and uses European-style, two-pinned plugs.
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A New England native but explorer at heart, Melisse has lived in four U.S. cities, spent a summer in Hawaii, made her way through wine-producing regions in Australia and New Zealand, and traveled around Europe while studying abroad in London. She is the Content Manager for the U.S. and Canada at Cheapflights.