Travel Tips

Climate & Clothing

Spring and Fall: 55°F - 75°F; Summer: 70°F - 85°F; Winter: 40°F - 55°F. Bring comfortable shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather coat.

Passport & Visas

Passport required. Visa not required for tourist or business stays up to 90 days.

Currency

The Euro

Tipping

This is a matter of personal discretion. Although bills normally include a service charge, it is customary to tip in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. You may use the following as a guideline:

* Porters: 50¢ per bag
* Waiter/Waitress: $1.00 per person (dinner)
* Chamber Maid: 50¢ per person, per day
* Bus Driver: $2.00 per person, per day
* Group Tour Guide: $5.00 per person, per day
* Private Car Tour Guide: $10 - $15 per person, per day

Electricity

220V - most plugs are two pin with no earth

Shopping

Throughout Spain, stores are open in the morning, closing at noon for siesta. They re-open around 4:00 p.m. and do a lively business late into the evening. Spain is known for its fine leather goods and porcelain.

Health Precautions

No inoculations are necessary when arriving in Spain

Code of Conduct

Spanish life has undergone rapid change in recent years and many of the stricter religious customs are giving way to more modern ways, particularly in the cities and among women. Nonetheless, many old customs, manners and traditions have not faded and hospitality, chivalry and courtesy remain important. Handshaking is the customary form of greeting. Normal social courtesies should be observed when visiting someone’s home. If invited to a private home, a small gift is appreciated. Flowers are only sent for special celebrations. Conservative casual wear is widely acceptable. Some hotels and restaurants encourage men to wear jackets. A black tie is only necessary for very formal occasions and is usually specified if required. Outside resorts, beachwear should be confined to beach or poolside. Smoking is widely accepted. The evening meal is taken late, generally 9 -10 p.m. The Spanish have two family names; in conversation only the first should be used.

Departure Taxes

There are currently no departure taxes

Driving

Traffic drives on the right. There are more than 150,000km of roads. Motorways are well-maintained and connect Spain north–south. Tolls are in operation on some sections and have to be paid in Euros. Trunk roads between major cities are generally fast and well-maintained. Rural roads are of differing quality.