The official language is Spanish, but English is spoken in tourist areas. Basque, Galician and Catalan are also spoken in their respective regions.
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The official currency is the Euro. ATMs are easy to find and the cheapest way to withdraw euros, but check the bank fees before travelling so you don't get any nasty surprises when you return home.
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Spain’s international country code is 34. To call another country from Spain, dial 00 followed by the appropriate country code (0044 for the UK, for example). Blue or green pay phones accept coins or phone cards, which can be bought at newsagents, tobacco shops and post offices. Internet cafes are easy to find in towns and cities.
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Tips are welcomed despite the service charge that hotels and restaurants tack on. Waiters expect a 15 per cent tip and taxi drivers expect between 10 and 15 per cent. It’s customary to give guides a small, 5 to 10 per cent, tip.
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Street crime is common in the bigger cities. Keep your valuables and documents safe and out of sight. Most visits are trouble free, but you should be wary of strangers asking for help as a distraction to aid their co-conspirators.
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There are no health risks associated with travel to Spain. Ensure you have a valid EHIC card and adequate travel insurance.
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The electrical current is 220 or 225 volts, 50Hz (European-style, two-pinned plugs).
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