Time: Local time is GMT +1 (GMT +2 between the last Sunday in March and the Saturday before the last Sunday in October). The Canary Islands: GMT (GMT +1 in summer).
Electricity: Electrical current is 220 or 225 volts, 50Hz. European-style two-pin plugs are standard.

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.

Health: There are no health risks associated with travel to Spain, and no vaccination certificates are required for entry.

Tipping: Hotel and restaurant bills usually include service charges, but additional tips are welcomed for services rendered. In established restaurants tips of about 10% are expected. Drivers of metered taxis expect small tips and it is customary to tip usually 5-10% for most services, including guides.

Safety: There is still a potential risk of international terrorism, as in other countries, although the risk to tourists is considered to be low. However most visits to Spain are trouble-free, except for street crime, which is common in the big cities, and travellers 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.

Customs: Smoking in public places is banned and stiff fines will be imposed for smoking in areas such as enclosed public spaces, areas where food is prepared and sold, public transport, designated areas of bars and restaurants, and any places that cater for children. Drinking alcohol in the streets of Madrid, and in the Canary and Balearic Islands is illegal.

Business: Spain is one of the most conservative countries in Europe and it is important to dress accordingly at all business engagements; formal suits are appropriate. Punctuality is expected of visitors, however, may not necessarily be reciprocated. People should be addressed as Senor (Mr), Senora (Mrs) and Senorita (Miss) unless otherwise specified. Shaking hands is usual with introductions. Business cards are common and like all documents it is recommended that they be printed in both Spanish and English. Gift giving is not common and not expected. Meetings often occur over lunches and dinners and may be characterised by several speakers. A hierarchy is generally observed with respect. Business hours are generally from 8am to 5pm.

Communications: The international access code for Spain is +34. Pay phones are either blue or green and accept either coins or phone cards, which are sold at post offices, tobacco shops and newsagents. Three mobile phone operators provide thorough GSM 900/1800 coverage throughout the country and the Balearic and Canary Islands. Email and Internet access is available at Internet cafes in most towns and resorts.

Duty Free: Strictly prohibited are poultry products from Asia.

Travel guide content sourced from wordtravels.com

04/18/08 by visitEarth
Tags: Spain, travel tips, language, currency, tips, customs, business, electricity