TRAVEL TIPS SPAIN

SAFETY FIRST

All emergencies dial : 112                

Police: 091

Fire Service: 080

Ambulance: 061                       

International dialing code: +34

British Consulate

Torre Espacio

Paseo de la Castellana, 259D

28046 Madrid

Tel (+34) 917 146 400

Look at my safety tips when travelling abroad page, for in-depth advice.

Spain is a stable and highly developed country with a modern economy. Crime rates in Spain are generally low, apart from Madrid and Barcelona where there have been high incidents of muggings and violent attacks against tourists especially around museums and monuments.   

SPANISH CLIMATE

There is a considerable difference between north and south Spain. Mediterranean Spain has high levels of sunshine, from 12 hours per day in the summer to 6 hours per day in the winter. Winters are very mild here.

Central Spain's summers are generally hot and rainfall is mainly low, however winter snow can be heavy on the Sierras.  North and Northwest Spain are the wettest and cloudiest parts of Spain especially in autumn and winter.  Sunshine levels are 8 hours per day in summer to 3 hours per day in the winter. 

TIPPING

Tips are usually included in the service charge, but if you have had excellent service 5 percent is more than reasonable.  Spanish people rarely tip if with friends.  Business lunches  €1 - 5 tip if service is good. Never tip for beverages.

COST OF LIVING IN SPAIN

The cost of living in Spain is varies greatly.  Comparisons can be made with larger cities like Madrid and Barcelona as they are expensive, especially the housing market, however, rural areas are much cheaper.  Grocery prices in Spain are very reasonable, here's an example.

1 ltr of fresh milk - €0.80

Medium chicken - €4.50

1 kg Pork chops - €5.50

1 kg Potatoes - €0.70

1 kg Tomatoes - €0.80

12 Eggs - €1.50

Butter - €1.10

1 ltr mineral water - €0.45

Good bottle of wine - €3

Deodorant - €2

200 ml Shampoo - €3

English Newspaper - €1