Spain

Facts About Spain

The unique country of Spain is located in Southern Europe and is attached to Portugal and France. Don’t be surprised when you go to a football (American soccer) game and don’t hear any lyrics in the anthem playing. Spain is one of four of the only countries in the World to have no official lyrics for their anthem. Spain is always alive and everyday is a fiesta. This great country is responsible for the Flamenco dance style, Sangria, and bull fighting. The festivities happen year round and will always have you entertained and looking for more. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_7C8MdtnIHg

Documentation Required

Residents of Canada only need a passport to enter Spain for a 90 day stay. Passports need to be valid for a minimum of three months beyond the date of expected departure from Spain. Residents of other countries need a Passport and a Visa. Business and tourist visas are not needed, but student visas are required to visit Spain. For more info on documentation required please visit: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/spain

Language and Culture

The official language in Spain is Spanish, also known as Castilian, and is spoken by over 72% of the population. Spanish people often have two surnames and keep their mother’s maiden name, making their names harder to address for North Americans, (ex. Mrs./Señora Guantez y Ortiz).  Always pay attention to how they would like to be addressed. Locals sometimes greet each other by giving a soft kiss on the cheek, or a hug but a handshake is also common amongst strangers. When visiting or calling friends, make sure not to call during siesta time, which is usually 2-5 pm. Siesta time for bars and restaurants lasts a few hours from 4PM until 8PM, so don’t be surprised if they’re closed between these times.

Currency

Spain currency is currently the Euro. You should always keep extra cash on hand in case of emergency or like losing your bag or a theft occurs. Tipping is not required, but if you are considering tipping, 5-10% is acceptable in Spain. The locals in Spain don’t always tip, but it is a nice gesture from a tourist. Some establishments don’t allow tips so make sure where you are tipping, the money goes to the person who provided your service.

Getting Around

Major cities like Madrid and Barcelona have great public transit systems. Trams are slowly disappearing around Spain, but a few could still be found around Barcelona. Some trams also go to the beach and have lines servicing Seville, Bilbao, Murcia and, most recently, Zaragoza.

Weather and Clothing

From June to August the city can get unbearably hot so be sure to bring sunscreen and a hat. Beach wear and light clothing is recommended. Most people find it more comfortable to visit May, September and October.

What to do in Spain

Alhambra Guided tours: A two and a half to three hour guided tour of the Alhabra which means Red Castle in Arabic. This castle boasts a great view of the entire city and is first introduced into history in the 9th century. The castle successfully sheltered the city against the attack by the Chirstians and was the last to fall during the Reconquista.

See a Flamenco Show: Watch the beautiful flowing gowns as the ladies of Spain glide across the dance floor in the traditional dance of Spain called Flamenco. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_7C8MdtnIHg

See a bull fight: The “Fiesta Nacional” (National Sport) of Spain. The entertainment of a bullfight can be exciting and thrilling to watch. Part of Spain’s history and culture, be sure to catch at least one bull fight in your life. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63Gk_QPACmY

Nightlife

Due to people taking siestas throughout the day, they tend to stay up all night and party all night. Two of the best places for young people to party in Spain are.

Ibiza: World renowned as the party city of the Mediterranean. Here you can find some of the most popular clubs like Eden, and see the best line-up of Djs.  The beaches and outdoor clubs offer bamboo canopies and are great places to party if you are not in the mood for partying indoors.

Seville: With clubs and parties going until 6AM, Seville is a partygoer’s dream. They pride themselves on the birthplace of Flamenco and tapas. Seville is filled with students, who are young and love to party. You can find them in the Triana District, in the bars, pubs, clubs, and beer halls.