Language

Spanish

Time

Difference with Moscow: -2 hours

Currency and tips

Euro. Tipping in Spain is not customary to give, with the exception of the catering sector. In small bars and restaurants, locals usually leave change as a tip. In larger establishments, tips are given from 5% to 10% of the bill.

Mains voltage

220 volt. In Spain, sockets are of the European standard type, so an adapter is not needed.

Medicine

water you can drink from the tap in Madrid and the province of Granada. In small settlements, water is also of acceptable quality, but it is not recommended to drink it. Bottled water is sold in most stores.

Medicine in Spain is paid. If you have health insurance, first aid will be provided free of charge. In the event of an insured event, call the insurance company back, stating the insurance number and the reason for the call.

Pharmacies marked with the words Farmacia and a green cross. Opening hours - until 20:00 with a break for a siesta (lunch lasting 3-4 hours). When the pharmacy is closed, there is information on the doors about where the pharmacy is on duty and/or what phone number can be used to contact a doctor.

Transport

Buses- a convenient mode of transport for moving between cities in Spain. The bus route is indicated on the electronic scoreboard, and the fare is paid directly to the driver or a ticket is purchased at the bus station (in the case of a long distance).

On the mainland of the country, a network is developed railways. You can travel by commuter trains, regional trains, high-speed and high-speed international trains. Tickets must be purchased in advance at the station.

Madrid Metro one of the longest in the world, literally anywhere in the city there is an opportunity to get on this transport. The metro network consists of 12 lines, operating hours from 06:00 am to 02:00 am. Children under the age of four can ride the subway for free.

Taxi in Spain can be called by phone from a hotel or bar. There are taxi ranks on the street, the cars are distinguished by a light board with the corresponding inscription - taxi. Payment for services is made by the meter, while night and holiday rates are slightly higher than standard. A libre flag or a green light on a taxi means that the car is free.

Car rental

To rent a car, you need standard documents: international driving license and a passport. Additionally, some companies may require that the rights were issued at least one or two years ago, and the age was at least 21 or 23 years old. Quite often, a deposit is also required.

Roads in Spain are divided into three types: national (free, marked on road signs and maps with the letter N), motorways (toll, sign A), municipal (free, sign C). The prevailing number of motorways in Catalonia is paid. Toll roads significantly reduce travel time and as a result are no more expensive than free ones, this is due to lower fuel consumption. The maximum speed limit for expressways is 110 km/h, national highways 100 km/h, and populated areas 50 km/h.

Phone and communication

For telephone conversations in Spain, it is convenient to use cards sold in shops and kiosks. The main post office is open 24/7. The reduced rate is valid from 22:00 to 06:00 and on public holidays.

To call from Spain to Russia, you need to dial 007 (country code) + area code + subscriber number. To call from Russia to Spain - 8 + 10 + 34 (country code) + Spanish city code (without "0") + subscriber number.

Emergency numbers:
Police: 092 (local), 091 (national)
Ambulance (red cross): 22-22-22

Mobile operators: Vodafone, Movistar, Orange, Yoigo

The shops

In Spain, shops are usually open on weekdays from 09:00 to 13:00 and from 16:00 to 20:00, on Saturdays until 12:00. Shopping is best done in major cities of the country - Madrid, Barcelona, ​​Malaga. The largest chain of department stores is El Corte Ingles, where you can buy whatever your heart desires. Sales (Rebajas) are held twice a year: in summer (July 1 - end of August) and in winter (January 7 - end of February).

Best city for shopping Barcelona, this city is jokingly called "the biggest store in Europe". A large number of different shops and boutiques are located on Passeig de Gracia Boulevard. It is also worth a look at the shopping center L`Illa ("Island") and the shopping and entertainment complex Maremagnum, located in the Old Port.

Active Tax Free return system when leaving Spain, if the purchased goods cost more than 180 euros. In order for you to receive a tax refund in the amount of 6% to 12%, you must present the corresponding check at a special point at the airport before departure.

spanish souvenirs

Classic souvenirs from Spain: fans, castanets, majolica, figurines in national costumes, knives and daggers made of Toledo steel, embroidery and lace.

You can bring your own special souvenirs from different regions of the country. In Andalusia, wonderful ceramics are made, in Cadiz and Salamanca - colored blankets, in Galicia - lace. Bladed weapons lovers may like blades from Toledo and knives from Albacete. Precious metals with artistic ornaments are purchased in Cordoba, Salamanca and Toledo. On the Mediterranean coast and the Balearic Islands, hats, baskets and mats are woven. On the island of Mallorca, artificial pearls are produced, as well as products made of colored glass.

Kitchen

The national cuisine of Spain is rich and varied. Conventionally, it can be divided into eight gastronomic zones, each of which is characterized by its own dishes and drinks:

North of Spain: Basque fish dishes, cheeses, Asturian fabada, cider;
Pyrenees: ham and chilindron sauce;
Catalonia: smoked sausages "fuet" and sauce with garlic "Alioli";
Valencia: various rice dishes, including the famous "paella";
Andalusia: cold vegetable soup "gazpacho" and "jabugo" ham from the Huelva region;
Central zone: sausages and baked meat;
Balearic Islands: pork dishes, ensaimadas puff pastry buns;
Canary Islands: fish and tropical fruit dishes.

Traditionally, Spaniards generously season many dishes with different spices, among which saffron, rosemary, parsley, nutmeg and marjoram are especially popular. Served with hot meals sauces made from red and white wine, herbs and grated almonds. A special dish and a whole ritual is "tapas"(tapas) - light snacks served during the day and evening in the bars of Spain with wine, beer and other drinks.

Within Spain, there are about 40 wine-growing zones, differing in soil composition and climatic conditions. The main types of wine: white (blanco), rose (rosado), red (tinto).

• Top 5 national dishes of Spain
• 1. Paella (rice with seafood, vegetables, chicken, sausage).
• 2. Jamon (raw-cured pork ham).
• 3. Gazpacho (cold vegetable soup).
• 4. Espetos (fish on a skewer).
• 5. Turron (nougat with nuts).

Customs and rules

There are stories about the ardent temperament of the Spaniards. Usually, they are expressive and noisy, they treat tourists kindly. The inhabitants of Spain have two main passions - the love of football and bullfighting.

While in Spain, you should take into account the time siesta- afternoon rest, this period lasts from 13:00 to 16:00. At this time, most shops, banks and government offices are closed for a break.

On the territory of Spain, there is a law that prohibits smoking in public places, with the exception of specially designated places marked with a sign "ESTÁ PERMITIDO FUMAR".

According to Spanish law, alcohol is not sold after 22:00.

You should not carry large amounts of cash with you, as theft from tourists happens quite often. Despite the severity of law enforcement agencies towards violators, in order to avoid unpleasant situations, it is recommended to keep an eye on your bags and wallets, especially in large cities and resorts.

Even 20 years ago we could travel almost light. Now our suitcase is filled with a bunch of electronics, without which a modern tourist simply cannot do. But, when going to another country, you need to understand that not always and not everywhere you can find a native electrical connector for recharging your gadget. Knowing about electrical networks and accepted electrical standards will certainly come in handy on a foreign side.

So. In the world, two types of voltage and frequency are most often found. The first one is American standard 100-127 Volt/60 Hertz, together with A and B plugs. The other one is European standard, 220*240 Volt/50 Hertz, Type C to M plugs.

There are a great many ways to connect to the electrical network, a huge number of types of plugs and sockets, as well as different voltages and frequencies. All this becomes a serious problem for the tourist.
To connect electrical appliances to networks with sockets of the wrong format, various adapters and adapters are used. Some of them can be purchased here in Russia, at the nearest electrical appliances store, or already on the spot, in the host country. When buying an adapter in a Russian store, you need to know the mains voltage, frequency and type of outlet of the country where you are going. We will discuss the types of sockets and voltage in the most popular tourist countries below.

In Russia, the mains voltage is 220 volts, the frequency is 50 hertz. Socket types C and F are used

Great Britain

Mains voltage 230 volts, frequency 50 hertz. Type G sockets, less often D and M. Russian electrical appliances require adapters for all types of English sockets.

Greece

Mains voltage 220 volts, frequency 50 hertz. Type of sockets - European standard (or type C) That is, it would seem that you can safely forget the adapter at home. But in Crete, you will still need an adapter, which can be bought at any local supermarket for only 2 euros. The fact is that sometimes there are sockets with three inputs (type D), respectively, you will not be able to use your electrical appliance directly.

Israel

Mains voltage 230 volts, frequency 50 hertz. Types of sockets C, H, M. Accordingly, an adapter to sockets of type H and M may be required.

India

Mains voltage 230 volts, frequency 50 hertz. The sockets are the same as in Greece of type C and D. That is, if you are lucky and you find yourself in a hotel with European standard sockets (type C), then you don’t have to look for an adapter. But, if the outlet is type D, you will have to run to the reception or the nearest store.

Spain

Mains voltage 230 volts, frequency 50 hertz. Outlet types - C and F. No adapter needed.

Italy

Mains voltage 230 volts, frequency 50 hertz. Most often, euro sockets are installed (type C and F), but a type L socket can also be found, an adapter will be needed for it.

Egypt

Mains voltage 230 volts, frequency 50 hertz. Types of sockets C (as in Russia) and D. An adapter is needed.

Cuba

Mains voltage 110/220 volts, frequency 60 hertz. Types of sockets A, B, C, L, F. It is better to purchase an adapter on the spot, everything will depend on what type of socket will be installed in your hotel.

Mexico

Voltage 127 volts, frequency 60 hertz. Socket types A, B. Adapter required.

Voltage 120 volts, frequency 60 hertz. Types of sockets A, B. You can't do without an adapter.

Switzerland

Voltage 230 volts, frequency 50 hertz. Types of sockets C and J. And then - how lucky. Perhaps the adapter will not be useful if the hotel will have type C sockets, but be careful: the second type of socket (J) is very similar to our Russian one, however, it will require an adapter.

Japan

Voltage 100 volts, frequency 50/60 hertz. Types of sockets A, B. You can't do without an adapter.

Türkiye, Tunisia, Finland, France, Germany- No adapter required.

Types of sockets in hotels of tourist countries (UAE, Cyprus, Thailand, Vietnam, Italy, etc.)

While abroad, tourists sometimes face the problem of a mismatch between the plug and the local electrical outlet. Most often this happens when recharging gadgets, when trying to use a hair dryer or electric razor.

In most hotels in the world, there are no problems in order to rent the necessary adapter for a symbolic amount. Often the necessary adapter can be purchased at the nearest store. But if you travel frequently, prefer not to stay at a hotel, or don't want to leave it to chance, the following information will be useful to you.

To connect household appliances to the mains in the world, two types of electrical voltage and two mains frequencies are used:

• European current at 220-240 V with a frequency of 50 Hz
• US-Japanese at 100-127V at 60Hz.

At the same time, there are no longer 2 or 3, but as many as 15 different types of electrical plugs for household appliances and socket standards. They differ not only in shape, but in the size of the plugs, the absence or presence of grounding.

The diagram shows all 15 types of outlets, they are arranged in the numbering order adopted by the ITA - US Department of Commerce, in 1998. (Some models are similar in the drawing, but they differ in the size of sockets and plugs.)

There is no need to be scared because of so many different types of outlets. If you wish, you can buy an adapter in advance and travel with it. There are several types of adapters that will allow you to connect your device to a different type of outlet and there are universal adapters.

Knowing what type of outlets is used in a particular country will help you choose the right adapter, or understand that you do not need it on a given trip.

Cyprus

In all hotels in Cyprus, electrical plugs for household appliances and the corresponding sockets are type G. This is a well-known British system with three rectangular pins - one vertical and two horizontal. How they look can be seen in the photo. If you do not want to spend money on an adapter, you can rent it at the hotel reception, leaving a small deposit. The money will be returned upon departure. Some Russian narrow plugs are inserted into such outlets, so it's worth a try first (without the use of physical force).

Sockets in Thailand

Thai sockets have either two holes, or two pins, or two pins with a hole. Accordingly, this is type C (Euro socket), A and B (American sockets with and without grounding). Russian and Ukrainian electrical appliances are connected to type C sockets without any problems. There are also universal hole options (pictured). Refrigerators are usually plugged into flat-prong plug sockets, which is why they are less cluttered in hotels. If you need to charge your phone or laptop, then it is better to find an adapter and use such type A “refrigerator sockets”, and when you need to turn on several devices at once, it is useful to have an extension cord with several sockets, they are inexpensive in Thailand. What kind of sockets in Thailand - you can see in the photo (universal option). However, if you have expensive equipment, it is better to have a ground adapter.

Features of sockets in Vietnam

The type of sockets in Vietnam varies by region. In South Vietnam - type A (pictured), in North Vietnam - type C (European). In expensive hotels, British G sockets can be found. But everywhere - the usual mains current is 220 V, 50 Hz. There are adapters in hotels, but with a large influx of visitors, they may not be enough for everyone.

India

The generally accepted types of sockets in India are C, D and M. The current in the network is European. Russian plugs are quite suitable for Indian sockets. There are no problems with euro plugs, but some thin pins may not fit tightly and will have to be fixed somehow, in which case it is better to use adapters. In general, tourists with sockets do not have problems in hotels of any star rating. In the photo - a common example of the type of outlets in hotels in India.

Italy

Most sockets in Italian hotels are type F. There is a grounding bracket inside, which does not interfere with inserting most of our domestic plugs. The European type of sockets C and the three-point type L are also common. If the plugs have thick legs or have grounding, like a computer, then you can not do without an adapter. In the photo on the left - type L socket, on the right - type F in Italy. If necessary, adapters are bought in any shop for 1-2 euros, and at the hotel reception they will be issued free of charge.

Sockets in the Dominican Republic and Cuba in hotels. Mains voltage features

Sockets in the Dominican Republic in hotels have types A and B - American, with and without grounding. Adapters in hotels are at the reception. But the country's power supply standards are different: the mains voltage is 110 V, the frequency is 60 Hz. If you plug in a kettle, a razor or an iron for 220 V, they will work at a quarter of the force, and charging will take longer. Transformer adapters are sold, they cost about $ 16, although they do not have much power. Sockets in the Dominican Republic in more modern hotels are suitable for plugs not only of American models, but also of European ones, both with or without grounding. Similarly, the situation with the mains voltage and types of outlets is in Cuba. In modern hotels in Cuba, there are even Euro sockets with a voltage of 220 V.

Sockets in Israel

Israel is "famous" for its unusual sockets, which are used only in this country, the voltage standard is European. Type H sockets are designed for a plug with three plugs. In old buildings, old European type C sockets are still preserved. Modern hotels are equipped with sockets where a three-plug input allows you to connect a regular European plug. Chargers and other household appliances turn on without problems, even the old Soviet model.

Sockets in the UAE

Many who have visited this country will give different answers to the question of what sockets are in the UAE and whether an adapter is required. The fact is that three standards coexist there - the widespread type G of the British socket with three flat pins, where an adapter is needed, type C of the usual European one, which does not need an adapter, and type D, which came here from Old England. It is no longer used in Britain, but it is found in India. Many narrow European plugs are stuck into this type, and with plugs of the old Soviet model, you can connect through an adapter. The problem is easily solved on the spot - adapters are available in hotels. The voltage and frequency in the UAE network are the same as ours.

France

Sockets in France are the usual European type C and type E (pictured), the voltage and frequency are standard. Sometimes you need an adapter, as for the old Tefal kettles, but most often a tee and an extension cord are useful, since the socket in the hotel room will be in the singular.

Spain

Sockets in Spain in hotels of types C and F, which fit the European standard. In the photo - type F. Adapter is not needed.

Greece

In Greece, sockets are European standard (type C). In Crete, you may need an adapter - there are sockets with three inputs (D in the photo), so you won’t be able to use them just like that.

Maldives

G, J, K - types of sockets in the Maldives. Power supply 230 V, 50 Hz. An adapter is required, but it is better to decide on its type on the spot. Expensive hotels already have the necessary adapters.

G J K

Indonesia

The most common types of electrical outlets are C and F; adapters are not needed for them. Less often - British G, then an adapter is needed. The current in the network is 220 V 50 Hz, in Bali - 127 V, there may also be sockets and American type B with grounding.

Mexico

Voltage 127 V, frequency 60 Hz. Types of sockets - North American A and B. Therefore, an adapter is needed. Not everywhere in Mexico hotels offer it for free, so you have to spend a little. It can also come in handy on the road - at the airport, on the ferry, cafes, so it's better to get your own.

Singapore

Types of electrical sockets A, C and G are used to connect video equipment, M - for air conditioners and stationary hair dryers; hotels have different adapters. European current.

Sri Lanka

In four-five-star hotels in Sri Lanka, the type of sockets is more often British G, although there are types D and M. Current 230 V, 50 Hz.

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Geographical position

Location -- BARCELONA, Spain
(N 41° 16") (E 2° 4") (GMT +1.0 hour)
Elevation -- 6 m above sea level
Normal elevation pressure -- 101253 Pa
Barcelona is located on the northeast coast of Spain - about two hours from the French border.

Timezone.

The time zone of Spain is GMT + 1 hour.

Seasons

Summer- June August

Winter– December - February

Autumn– September - November

Communication languages

Barcelona is bilingual - Spanish and Catalan. Barcelona is the capital of Catalonia, so the Catalan language is widely spoken among the population of Barcelona. However, both Spanish and Catalan are used interchangeably and are widely spoken.

In tourist places, some will speak not only Spanish, but also English. But take a step away from the beaten track and most will only speak Spanish or Catalan.

Barcelona, ​​however, is a very cosmopolitan European city, with millions of tourists visiting every year, so you shouldn't have any difficulty communicating.

Power supply system

The supply voltage in Spain is 220V and sockets with 2 sockets. Appliances from any European country where 240V is used, such as the United Kingdom and Ireland, will work normally in Spain.

If you plan to use UK standard electrical plugs, you will need to use a 3-socket to 2-socket adapter. To use electrical appliances from the USA, where the supply voltage is 110 V, you will need a step-down transformer up to 110 V. Electrical appliances designed for 110 V can be broken by connecting them to a 220 V outlet.

It is recommended to buy electrical adapters at the international airport of departure and not at the electrical shop in Barcelona. In my experience, adapters bought in Spain are of poor build quality and tend to fall apart when unplugged. It's much better to buy adapters at your airport, even if they cost a couple of pounds/euros/dollars more.

Water supply

Drinking water in Barcelona tastes very bad and it is highly recommended to drink bottled water here. Although tap water is not dangerous, it is preferable to drink bottled water. Inexpensive mineral water is sold in local supermarkets, such as the supermarket on the Ramblas.

If you buy mineral water from the stalls on the Ramblas, it can cost you €2.00 per liter, but the same bottle in the supermarket will cost €0.50 (half a euro).

Identification

Spanish law requires you to carry a photo ID at all times. This can be a passport, driver's license or foreign identity card. With security tightening in the city, it is highly recommended to carry at least a copy of your passport in case you get stopped.

Phone calls

From abroad, you can call Barcelona by dialing the Spanish code first. +34 followed by the area code for Barcelona 93 .

Cheap international calls

The cheapest international calls come from a card, which you can buy in stores called "Tabac". You can also buy these cards at Internet cafes and some magazine kiosks.

First, you will need to call a local or toll-free number. Then you need to select the language in which you want to listen to the instructions, enter the pin code indicated on the card, and then dial the international number.

Cards must be chosen carefully because some of them allow you to make cheap calls only to certain countries.

For calls to the USA and European countries, I liked the card Euro Talk Card. This card costs €5.00 and is valid for 3 hours of calls to any city in the US, Canada or Europe via a toll-free number.

The Euro Talk Card is the best value for your money, but you won't be able to buy it in stores for Tabacs. You may find another card with similar conditions.

Dress code

Dress code in Barcelona is free. Jeans and T-shirts are par for the course, and in simple attire, you'll be let into almost all establishments, except for very exclusive restaurants. The only exception is sleeveless shirts, in which you might have trouble getting into bars or clubs. Some expensive nightclubs are only allowed in shoes (no sweatpants), and sleeveless shirts are also not allowed.

Money/Currency

As in all of Spain, in Barcelona the euro is in circulation.

Comparison of the population of Barcelona with other cities in Spain

If you want to compare the population of Barcelona with other cities in Spain, I can recommend you a page on the excellent Spanish-fiestas.com travel website.

• The Portuguese are a non-confrontational and sociable people. There is no need to be shy or take a hostile attitude towards their friendliness - this will only ruin the experience. You can turn to any resident for help, he will definitely listen. The Portuguese are very pleased when tourists try to speak their language, but sign language is enough.

Cloth

• It is necessary to choose the right shoes, especially for women. In many Portuguese cities, the terrain and paving stones on the sidewalks will turn walking in heels into a real torment. Therefore, it is worth taking care of comfortable sneakers or sneakers.

Food

• The Portuguese are very punctual when it comes to food, so restaurants are only open for lunch from about 12:00 to 15:00 and dinner from about 19:00 to 23:00. Some close even earlier. From morning to evening, only cafes are open, where it is not very customary to eat up and fast foods.
• The surest way to find a good restaurant is to pay attention to where the locals dine. As a rule, tasty and inexpensive food is served in establishments with a simple, sometimes even boring interior. Such restaurants, by the way, are almost always full.
• A great option for an economical lunch is a set menu, which in Portuguese restaurants is simply called menu. There is usually a choice between meat and fish, with a drink included with lunch. In good establishments, the menu varies from day to day.
• Snacks that are brought in at the beginning, such as bread, different types of olives or cheese, are not a compliment, as in many countries. You will have to pay for them, and sometimes as much as for the main course. To refuse snacks, you can say: “naw, obrigado” (if a man speaks) or “naw, obrigada” (if a woman speaks), which translates as “no, thanks.”

• Portions in Portuguese restaurants are quite large, so the main course can almost always be safely shared between two.
• Feel free to order homemade wine in restaurants - it is of excellent quality and cheaper than vintage. Wine is brought in a decanter and sometimes in a bottle.
• Everything that you ordered can be asked to wrap with you. This is not unusual, the "take away" system is very common in Portugal, including among the locals.

• Some toilets in Portugal are marked in an unusual way: the letter H indicates the men's toilet, and the letter S indicates the women's. There are a lot of free toilets, for example, in train stations and in supermarkets. You can go to any cafe, but it is considered good form to order something.

Electricity

• Mains voltage 230 V, 50 Hz. Outlets in Portugal type C and F.