Spain is a beautiful country that is a travel destination for many. However, if you are currently planning your first trip to this stunning destination, there are a few things to know before you get there.
Whether you fly on a plane or find Spain cruises, getting lost in the sunshine and beauty will be easy when you get there. That is why understanding these travel tips before you arrive is imperative.
General Information
Spain is a part of the European Union located in Western Europe on the Iberian Peninsula. It is in the Central European Standard time zone, so depending on where you are traveling from, you will want to look up the time difference to prepare for possible jet lag.
There are approximately 46 million people, and it incorporates 17 autonomous regions with varying geography, culture, and language. Their capital, Madrid, is located close to the center of the country, which seems like the perfect place for the capital to be. Besides their capital, the other larger cities to note are Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, and Zaragoza. There are also a few islands that are part of Spain, such as Mallorca, Tenerife, and Ibiza.
Weather and Climate
Spain is known for its diverse geography. With the country’s size, it is unsurprising that they would have varying climates depending on the region. Summers are known for being hot and dry, while their winters are rainy and mild. During the summer months, it is common for temperatures to get up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
Communicating with Locals
Their primary language is Spanish, specifically Castellano, but some regions in Spain will speak other languages, such as Basque’s official language, Euskera. So, before you head to Spain, do proper research to verify the official language in the region you are visiting.
Once you confirm the primary language of the area you are traveling to, you should learn a few words in that language so you can communicate somewhat with the locals of that area. Many may have a basic understanding of English, but never assume everyone will.
Cultural Differences
Going to a different country means there will be some significant cultural differences, even between regions in Spain. For example, there are some major differences between Basque, Catalonia, and Galicia. Each of these areas has its own languages and unique identities.
While traveling through Spain, it is good to keep your mind open and never make presumptions. If something was done in one region, it does not mean it will be the same in all of Spain. An excellent way to think about this is to consider how certain states in America have cultural differences, but it is not the same in every state. An example would be how some areas Americans are known for wearing cowboy hats, but it is not true for every state.
Paying and Tipping
If you are going on a trip to Spain, there is a good chance you will purchase things while visiting. This is because, in Spain, their national currency is the Euro. However, if you are shopping in a more extensive shop, you can use either a European debit card or an international credit card to purchase items.
It is suggested that you should always have cash on hand in case you go out to eat or grab a coffee or other drink. Of course, there is a chance they will accept cash, but it may be a good idea to find a way to convert some money into Euros to be safe.
When you visit various restaurants, bars, or coffee shops, know that it is not necessarily mandatory to leave a tip. Still, it is common amongst their restaurants, hotels, taxis, and bars to tip between five and ten percent.
To ensure that your first trip to Spain is fulfilling and enjoyable, you will want to do the proper research to be as prepared as possible before your trip.