Spain travel Tips

Spanish people are generally laid-back and warm, and most visits to Spain are trouble-free. As in most countries, street crime is present in the major cities, and travellers should take the necessary precautions to avoid being a soft target. Here are some other basic situations to be aware of.

• Smoking is a large part of Spanish culture, and Spaniards do not take kindly to complaints about smoking in public places. Don’t hope to find non-smoking sections in restaurants and bars, or expect to get a polite response if you ask someone to stop smoking – you are likely to be disappointed.

• Shorts are generally worn only on the beach or at the poolside, and are considered to be absolutely inappropriate attire for churches.

• Women are often the recipients of unwanted attention in Spain, especially if travelling alone or visiting Andalusia or the southern Mediterranean coast. The best way to handle this kind of situation is to give no response at all.

• It is customary to tip small amounts for most services rendered, and a tip of roughly 15 per cent is expected at restaurants. Service charge is often included in the bill, but Spaniards usually leave an additional tip.

• Avoid travelling to Spain during the months of July and August, as this time of year is unbearably hot and overcrowded.

• Bullfighting is highly respected, so be aware that criticisms of the practice may be offensive to many Spaniards.

• Negotiate a fare before getting into taxis, or you may be overcharged.

Useful travel tips resources

Footprint Guides - Spain
Incomparable resource on Spain travel from this well-known travel guide publisher.
http://www.footprintguides.com/

Career Mosaic India
Information on customs and taboos in Spain.
www.careermosaicindia.com/JS/CRC/CA/CA13.htm

In-spain.info
Advice and information on a variety of issues related to travelling Spain.
http://www.in-spain.info/spain-information/spanish-culture.htm

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Essentials

Visas: Most nationalities do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days
Season: May – June, September
Money: Euro
Language: Spanish, with Catalan, Basque and Galician in certain areas. English is widely understood.
Emergency #: Police - 091; Fire / Ambulance (Bomberas) - 085

Spain