Spain Flights and Travel Guide

Language

Spanish is the official language, but English is widely understood in areas frequented by tourists. Catalan, Galician and Basque are spoken in the relevant areas.

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Money

Spain's official currency is the Euro (EUR). One Euro is divided into 100 cents. Money can be exchanged at bureau de change and major hotels, but banks give the best rates. All major credit cards and travelers checks are widely accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are widespread and are generally the cheapest and most convenient method of obtaining money.

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Communications

The international access code for Spain is +34. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 001 for the US). City/area codes are in use, e.g. (0)93 for Barcelona and (0)91 for Madrid. Pay phones are either blue or green and accept either coins or phone cards, which are sold at postoffices, tobacco shops, and newsagents. Three mobile phone operators provide thorough GSM 900/1800 coverage throughout the country and the Balaeric and Canary Islands. Email and internet access is available at internet cafes in most towns and resorts.

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Tipping

Hotel and restaurant bills usually include service charges, but additional tips are welcomed for services rendered. In restaurants tips of about 15 percent are expected. In Mallorca value-added-tax is usually included in restaurant bills, designated 'I.V.A', and may be mistaken for a service charge. Drivers of metered taxis expect tips of 10 to 15 percent. It is customary to tip small amounts, usually5-10 percent for most services, including guides.

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Safety

There is still a potential risk of international terrorism, as in other countries, although the risk to tourists is considered to be low. Most visits to Spain are trouble-free, except for street crime, which is common in big cities and travelers are advised to take precautions to avoid theft of passports, credit cards, travel documents and money. Be wary of strangers offering or asking for help of any kind as it is often a distraction for accomplices.

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Health

There are no health risks associated with travel to Spain, and no vaccination certificates are required for entry. Bird flu was detected in a dead bird in July 2006, and although there is little risk to travelers, close contact with live birds should be avoided and all poultry products well cooked as a precaution. No humandeaths or infections have been reported. Comprehensive travel insurance is advised.

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Electricity

Electrical current is 220 or 225 volts, 50Hz. European-style two-pin plugs are standard.

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