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Practical Information

Practical Information

Fuerteventura, Canary Islands

Mobile Connectivity

Local SIM cards (prepago) are readily available from major providers like Movistar, Vodafone, Orange, and Masmovil at phone shops in Corralejo or Fuerteventura Airport.

SIM Card Info

  • Purchase requires your passport for registration.
  • Prepaid SIMs with data (10-30GB) often €10-€20.
  • eSIMs from Airalo for data roaming without physical SIM changes.

Internet Access & Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is widely available in Corralejo. Most hotels, apartments, restaurants, and cafes extend free Wi-Fi to customers. Public areas also feature free Wi-Fi hotspots, though speeds vary.

Staying Connected

  • Check with your accommodation for Wi-Fi specifics.
  • Public Wi-Fi hotspots are available in town.
  • Portable Wi-Fi devices from Solis Wi-Fi for consistent connection.

Language and Translation

Spanish (Castilian) is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas by hotel staff, restaurant workers, and tour operators. German and Italian are also frequently heard.

Helpful Tools

  • The Google Translate app offers offline translation capabilities.
  • Carrying a small phrasebook can assist with quick reference.
  • Consider Rosetta Stone for deeper language learning.

Postal Services

Correos is Spain's national postal service. The main post office in Corralejo is located near the town center.

Sending Mail

  • You can send letters, postcards, and parcels from the post office.
  • Find the main Correos office easily in the town center.
  • Check current operating hours as they can vary.

Essential Spanish Phrases

Greetings & Politeness

  • Hello: ¡Hola! (OH-lah!)
  • Good morning: ¡Buenos días! (BWEH-nohs DEE-ahs!)
  • Good afternoon/evening: ¡Buenas tardes! (BWEH-nahs TAR-dehs!)
  • Goodbye: ¡Adiós! (ah-DYOHS!)

General Needs

  • Please: Por favor (por fah-VOR)
  • Thank you: Gracias (GRAH-syahs)
  • Yes/No: Sí/No (see/noh)
  • Do you speak English?: ¿Habla inglés? (AH-blah een-GLEHS?)

Internet Access Notes

Wi-Fi is widely available in Corralejo at most hotels, apartments, restaurants, and cafes for customers.

Business Hours & Schedules

Shops

Generally 9:30 AM - 1:30 PM and 4:30 PM - 8 PM (traditional siesta). Larger supermarkets often 9 AM - 9 PM.

Restaurants

Lunch service 1 PM - 4 PM. Dinner typically 8 PM - 11 PM or later. Tourist-oriented establishments may offer continuous service.

Bars

Open from late morning until late at night, usually closing around 2-3 AM on weekdays and later on weekends.

Banking & ATMs

Most banks operate Monday to Friday, generally from 8:30 AM - 2:30 PM. Some may have extended hours one day a week.

ATM Access

  • ATMs are widely available 24/7 throughout Corralejo.
  • Find ATMs outside bank branches, in shopping centers, and on main streets.
  • For airport lounge access, consider Priority Pass (10% commission, 30-day cookie).

Holidays & Fiestas

National (Spain), Canarian, and local public holidays can affect business operations and services. Most shops, banks, and public services close on public holidays.

Dates

  • National holidays include New Year's, Labour Day, Christmas.
  • Canarian public holidays feature Día de Canarias (May 30).
  • Seek compensation for flight disruptions with Compensair (€5-12 fixed, 30-day cookie).

Seasonal Schedules

Local Fiestas

  • Corralejo has its own local holidays, like Fiestas del Carmen in mid-July.
  • Most shops, banks, and public services close on public holidays.
  • Restaurants and essential services generally remain open.

Seasonal Closures

  • Smaller, independent businesses might close for a short period during the lowest season (e.g., May or November).
  • Less common in Corralejo due to consistent tourism.
  • Businesses typically remain open year-round.

Planning Your Day

Be aware of the Spanish siesta tradition, which affects shop hours. Larger tourist-oriented businesses typically keep longer, continuous hours.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Engaging respectfully with local culture enriches your travel experience and demonstrates appreciation for the community.

Greeting Customs

A handshake is common for formal introductions. Friends and family often greet with one kiss on each cheek, starting with the right cheek.

Polite Greetings

  • Use "¡Hola!" for informal greetings.
  • "¡Buenos días!", "¡Buenas tardes!", and "¡Buenas noches!" are polite greetings for different times of day.
  • Learning a few basic Spanish phrases shows respect.

Appropriate Attire

Casual and relaxed clothing reflects Corralejo’s beach-town vibe. Wear swimwear only on beaches and by the pool. Always cover up when entering shops, restaurants, or walking through the town.

Dressing for Occasions

  • Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) when visiting churches or traditional establishments.
  • Casual wear is accepted for most dining experiences.
  • Swimwear restricted to beach and pool areas.

Dining & Tipping

Meal times are later than in many Northern European countries. Tipping (5-10%) is appreciated for good service but is not mandatory. Rounding up the bill is also common.

Mealtime Manners

  • Wait to be seated in most restaurants rather than choosing your own table.
  • Service charge may be included in the bill.
  • The bill, please: La cuenta, por favor (lah KWEN-tah por fah-VOR).

Photography Ethics

Generally acceptable to photograph landscapes, attractions, and public spaces. Restrictions may apply in museums or specific cultural sites, so look for signs.

Mindful Photography

  • Always ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially children.
  • Be discreet in residential areas to respect privacy.
  • Observe signage for photography restrictions.

Sensitive Topics & Taboos

What to Avoid

  • Avoid discussing politics or sensitive historical events unless locals invite the conversation.
  • Do not make assumptions about people's origins or political views.
  • Show respect for the local environment; do not litter.

Ethical Conduct

  • Avoid activities exploiting animals, like unethical animal shows.
  • Do not engage in illegal activities or purchase illegal goods.
  • Do not purchase items made from protected or endangered species.

Gender Considerations & LGBTQ+

Progressive Environment

  • Spain is a progressive country regarding LGBTQ+ rights, including same-sex marriage and adoption.
  • Corralejo is a liberal tourist destination; public displays of affection are generally accepted.
  • No specific safety concerns for LGBTQ+ travelers.

Welcoming Community

  • Fuerteventura is generally open and welcoming to all visitors.
  • The island's diverse visitor base promotes an inclusive atmosphere.
  • Visitors typically find a respectful and accepting environment.

Photography Note

Always ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially children, to respect their privacy and personal space.

Accessibility Information

Corralejo has made strides in accessibility, but travelers with mobility challenges may encounter varying levels of infrastructure.

Mobility Infrastructure

Newer hotels and resorts tend to be more accessible, offering ramps, elevators, and adapted rooms. Older parts of Corralejo town may present challenges.

Navigating Corralejo

  • Narrower sidewalks, cobblestone streets, or steps in older town areas.
  • The paseos marítimos (promenades) along the coastline are generally flat and accessible.
  • These promenades offer pleasant routes for wheelchairs or strollers.

Accessible Experiences

Many major attractions have improved accessibility, but the level varies. Fuerteventura Airport has accessible facilities, including restrooms and ramps.

Getting Around

  • Newer buses in the Tiadhe fleet are wheelchair accessible with ramps.
  • Accessible taxis or transfer services can be pre-arranged.
  • Beaches within Corralejo Natural Park have wooden walkways providing access.

Support Services

Specialized services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are limited. General tourist information points may have some accessible materials or staff trained to assist.

Access Resources

  • Inquire directly with specific attractions about their facilities.
  • Contact your chosen accommodation directly to confirm their specific accessibility features.
  • Local tourist information centers can provide details and assistance.

Planning Ahead

Consult websites like AccessAble or local disability organizations (if available for Fuerteventura) for resources and specific recommendations. Advance planning confirms needs are met.

Considerations

  • Confirm details for hotels, attractions, and transport.
  • Direct communication with service providers is important.
  • Research accessible routes and pathways in town.

Accessibility Note

Plan ahead and confirm details with service providers to ensure your accessibility needs are fully met during your visit to Corralejo.