La Palma, Canary Islands
Movistar, Vodafone, and Orange are major providers. Purchase prepaid SIM cards at their stores in Santa Cruz de La Palma. Your passport is needed for registration.
Correos, the Spanish postal service, operates offices. Yellow post boxes are common.
Official language is Spanish (Castilian). The Canarian dialect varies slightly. English is spoken in most tourist-oriented areas.
Basic Spanish phrases for daily interactions.
A local SIM card or an eSIM from Airalo simplifies staying connected. Wi-Fi is generally available in populated areas.
Typical operating hours and holiday closures.
Generally open 9:30/10 AM - 1:30/2 PM, and 4:30/5 PM - 8/9 PM (Mon-Fri) with a long siesta. Sat: 10 AM - 2 PM. Closed Sundays.
Lunch service 1 PM - 3:30 PM. Dinner service 8 PM - 10:30/11 PM. Many close between services.
Typically 8:30 AM - 2:30 PM, Monday-Friday. ATMs are available 24/7.
Hours vary widely. Many close on Mondays and public holidays. Verify specific opening times.
Some smaller, family-run businesses may close for a week or two for holidays, especially in summer.
Be aware of the siesta period when many shops close in the afternoon. Check holiday calendars for national, regional, and local observances, which affect business hours and public services.
Interacting respectfully with local culture.
Shake hands when meeting new people. Two kisses on the cheek, right then left, are common among friends or acquaintances. Say "¡Hola!" or "Buenos días/tardes/noches."
Generally casual. For religious sites, covering shoulders and knees is appropriate. Beachwear belongs only at the beach.
Generally fine to photograph public spaces. Be respectful when photographing people; ask for permission, especially for close-ups. Avoid military installations.
Avoid discussions on politics (Catalonia, Civil War) or comparing the Canary Islands to mainland Spain. Respect local religious beliefs.
Politeness and basic Spanish phrases open doors to more authentic interactions. Observance of local customs, even small ones, shows respect and enriches your experience.
La Palma works to improve access for all travelers.
Infrastructure improves in major towns like Santa Cruz de La Palma, with ramps and wider pavements in some areas.
Major attractions, like museums, are increasingly accessible. Verify before visiting. Rural areas and hiking trails are often not accessible.
Specialized services are limited for visual or hearing impairments. Apps and personal assistance are recommended.
Official tourism websites or specific disability travel forums offer updated information.
While accessibility is improving, especially in urban areas and with newer public transport, it is wise to confirm access details for specific attractions or accommodations before your visit.
