DESTINATION INFO

This information has been compiled for your reference in good faith but please use this only as a general guide. We advise you to check with relevant authorities with regard to the latest requirement for passport, visa, travel advisory, entry restrictions, health requirements, local currency etc. as these are subjected to change with without prior notice and our information given below may not be as updated.

Best time to go: Although Spain is amazing 365 days a year, the climate varies by region. Travelling to certain parts of the country can be highly dependent on seasonal conditions. Spring and autumn are ideal times to visit nearly all of Spain apart from the Atlantic Coast, which can experience heavy rains in October and November. Just like most of the Mediterranean countries, the best time to travel to this country is between May and June or September and October – these are the ideal months for those who love the beach, the sun and warm temperatures. August sees major influx in tourist due to vacation month in Europe. During winter months, the coast from Algeciras to Malaga is the most popular. Many hotels are closed in beach area; however mountain resorts can experience extreme cold and are open for ski-tourist.

The Kingdom of Spain, as it‟s officially known, is the second largest country in the EU

Visa: New Zealand passport holders do not require a Visa for Spain. Spain tourist visa is granted for a stay up to 90 days. Your passport should be valid for at least 06 months from the expected departure from Spain.

Spanish is the second most widely spoken language in the world

Currency: The currency in Spain is the Euro, same as the other European Union countries. Notes are in the denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 Euros. Coins are in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents and 1 and 2 euros. Major credit cards are commonly accepted. Traveller's cheques, accompanied by a passport, are also accepted in many hotels, restaurants and shops. You can change foreign currency at bureau de change and some banks. This service is also available in many hotels.

Spain has produced some of the world‟s greatest artists

Health: There is no need for precautionary vaccination for Spain but it is recommended to check the latest conditions with your doctor while planning your trip. Medicines can be obtained at pharmacies; these are all marked with a green cross. In case of an emergency you can dail 112 free of charge (valid throughout spain). Service is provided in Spanish, and also in English in some tourist areas. It is highly recommended to have a adequate health insurance.

Spain was the world‟s third most popular tourist destination in 2013

Food and drinks: Spain’s eating and drinking culture is one of its greatest attractions. Each province and region boasts its own unique flavours and specialities that vary depending on factors such as geographical location, customs, weather and the quality of soil. Deeply rooted in the local culture, the typical tapas are the most famous and en experience one could have while visiting Spain. Tapas are not a certain dish, it like a platter, which consist of small bites of local food usually served with when ordering a drink at the bar. Tapas can be almost anything from marinated olives to seafood, Spanish ham or cheese.

What the tourist should bear in mind more than anything are the eating hours in Spain. Lunch and the evening meal start much later than in many other countries. Most restaurants serve a three-course meal including drinks at lunchtime.

Spaniards love to eat and therefore the country is dotted with restaurants ranging from cheap and cheerful to Michelin-starred establishments.

Spain is the country of fiestas, with hundreds of festivals taking place throughout the year

Safety & Security: Like in any other part of the world, a few precautions need to be taken to avoid any problems. Please do not leave your bags unattended at any times. Please use safe deposit in your hotel room or Reception to keep your money or valuables including passport. When you leave the room, it is recommended that you lock your suitcase. It is also recommended to carry a copy of your passport including the visa page. Be alert in crowded places.

When you think of olive oil, you probably think of Italy. In reality, Spain produces 45% of all olive oil in the world 

Clothing: Although practically stylish, Spain is classically conservative. Due to diverse weather condition is it important to keep in mind when choosing what to wear in Spain. The Spanish really care about their personal appearance; therefore wearing shorts would be a giveaway that you’re a tourist. During winter months carry a warm winter coat and warm clothing as it can get cold and temperatures can dip to below freezing. In the summer, it will be hot so pack lightweight, breathable clothing.

Please prepare yourself as per the region you are going to visit. Please take good walking shoes with non-slip sole as you will be required to walk frequently during your sightseeing programs and sometimes on uneven surface.

If you are going to any religious sites then be sure to cover your shoulders and bare legs.

The island of Ibiza in eastern Spain is one of Europe‟s favourite party destinations

Language: Castilian Spanish is the official language of Spain, however it is not the only language used in Spain. The different regions of Spain have different dialects and co-official language, such as Galician, Catalan and Basque are just some examples of the regional language that exist and contribute to the rich cultural diversity. In the major cities at tourist sites, you find people can converse in English. If you learn a few simple phrases it can help a lot and make a huge difference.

Internet: Numerous establishments in Spain offer free wifi connections, you will also find it in a number of Airports, train and bus station. Internet is common in hotel rooms and a lot of hotels also have internet facilities at their reception or business centre for use by guests at a small fee.

Many venues offer free wifi in public spaces like park or squares, you may sometimes need to ask for the password.

Spanish is the second most spoken language in the world.

Telephone: Spain has a dialling code of +34 from New Zealand. Telephone numbers of Hotels arranged by us will be supplied to you in your itinerary. If you wish to call another country from Spain, then dial 00 followed by the country code and the telephone number. If you wish to make a call within Spain, then just dial the number without the prefix. This number should have 09 digits, regardless of whether it is a landline or mobile.

Soccer is the most important sport. It‟s also pretty much like a religion.

Photography: Taking photos of airports, government buildings and military establishments are prohibited. If you are taking photos of local ladies, please politely ask for prior permission.

Spain is the only country in Europe that produces bananas.

Electricity: Electricity supply in Spain is AC 220 volts and use the round pin sockets. Most hotels have adaptors for different plugs, however make sure that electrical appliances you are going to use works at this voltage.

The name Madrid comes from the arabic “magerit” which means „place of many streams‟

General: Usual business hours are from Monday-Saturday from 0930 to 1330 and 1630 to 2000 hrs. Major shopping centres and department stores are open all day from 1000 – 2100 hrs. Many establishments also stay open until after 2200 hrs in the high season in the coastal areas.

Spain changes it time between summer and winter for daylight saving. The last weekend in October the clocks go back 1 hrs and the last weekend in March clock go forward 1 hrs.

Majority of the population practise Catholic, however other religions also practise in Spain including Islam, Judaism, Protestantism and Hinduism, all of which have places where to conduct their rituals.

Public transport system is one of the best in Europe. Spain has extremely efficient network and each year more routes are added.