Staying Connected: Puerto Del Carmen

Mobile Connectivity

Purchase prepaid local SIM cards or consider an ESIM for convenient data access.

SIM Card Options

Spanish providers: Movistar, Vodafone, Orange, Yoigo
Passport for registration is required
Ensure your phone is unlocked

Internet Access & Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is widely available in many establishments across Puerto del Carmen.

Availability

Free Wi-Fi in hotels, restaurants, cafes, bars
Good 4G and 5G mobile data coverage
Correos (postal service) available in larger towns

Language & Translation

Spanish is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Helpful Resources

Rosetta Stone or Google Translate app
Small Spanish phrasebook for basics
Locals appreciate effort in Spanish

Essential Phrases

Basic Spanish phrases will make your interactions smoother.

Phrases

Hola (Hello), Adiós (Goodbye)
Por favor (Please), Gracias (Thank you)
¿Habla inglés? (Do you speak English?)

Practical Notes

Pronunciation: "h" is silent, "ll" like "y"
"C" before "e" or "i" often sounds like "th"
"¿Cuánto cuesta?" (How much is this?)
"La cuenta, por favor" (The bill, please)

Additional Phrases

Perdón (Excuse me/Sorry)
Agua (Water)
Cerveza (Beer)
Sí (Yes) / No (No)

Helpful Communication Tip

Download the Spanish language pack on Google Translate for offline use to translate menus or signs.

Operating Hours

Shops

Smaller shops: 9/10 AM - 1:30/2 PM, then 4:30/5 PM - 8/9 PM. Tourist areas may have continuous hours.

Restaurants

Lunch: 1-3 PM. Dinner: from 7:30/8 PM. Tourist-focused places may open earlier for dinner.

Banks

Typically 8:30 AM - 2:00 PM, Monday to Friday. ATMs are widely available.

Banking & ATMs

ATMs (Cajeros automáticos) are widely available across Puerto del Carmen.

Access Points

Along Avenida de las Playas
In commercial centers like Biosfera Plaza
Check for potential fees from foreign banks

Holidays & Closures

Public and religious holidays may impact business operations.

Impact on Services

Banks, public offices closed on holidays
Tourist attractions often remain open with holiday hours
Plan ahead for services on these days

Holiday Calendar

National Holidays

New Year's Day (Jan 1)
Epiphany (Jan 6)
Labour Day (May 1)

Canarian & Local Holidays

Canary Islands Day (May 30)
Specific Tías municipality holidays
Some smaller businesses may close in shoulder seasons.

Planning Ahead

Check the local calendar for holidays, as many services may be affected.

Local Etiquette

Navigating local customs and cultural norms fosters positive interactions during your visit.

Greetings & Attire

Adopt common greeting customs. Casual clothing is generally suitable for tourist settings.

Social Norms

Handshake for formal intros or men greeting men
Two cheek kisses for women greeting women/men greeting women
Smart casual for high-end restaurants

Dining & Photography

Tipping practices are generally appreciated, and photography has simple guidelines.

Considerations

Tipping is customary for good service
Generally fine to take photos in public places
Always ask permission before photographing individuals

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

Some topics are best avoided in conversation with locals to ensure a positive experience.

Sensitive Subjects

Avoid sensitive political discussions
The Franco Era is a sensitive historical period
Nudity is acceptable only on designated nudist beaches

Gender & LGBTQ+ Information

Spain is progressive regarding LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance.

Acceptance & Norms

Canary Islands are welcoming for LGBTQ+ travelers
Public displays of affection are generally accepted
Assistance dogs generally permitted in public places

Religious Site Etiquette

Dress Code

Dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered)
Keep voices low inside
No flash photography during services

General Conduct

Be quiet and respectful, especially during services
Some sites prohibit photography entirely
Observe and respect local customs

Photography Ethics

Permissions & Restrictions

Discreet and respectful at religious sites
Avoid photographing people without consent
Respect signs prohibiting photography

General Guidelines

Fine for public places and landscapes
Be especially cautious with children's photos
Balance curiosity with local respect

Accessible Travel

Lanzarote is improving its accessibility for travelers with mobility challenges.

Infrastructure

The Puerto del Carmen promenade is mostly flat and wide, convenient for various mobility aids.

Areas

Avenida de las Playas is wheelchair-friendly
Playa Grande has accessible ramps
Newer hotels often feature ramps and elevators

Attractions & Transport

Many of César Manrique's centers and public transport are becoming more accessible.

Options Available

Timanfaya's bus tour is generally accessible
Newer public buses have improved features
Adapted taxis can be booked in advance

Visual & Hearing Impairments

Specific English services might be limited, but assistance dogs are welcome.

Support Elements

Assistance dogs are generally permitted in public spaces
Direct contact with providers is recommended
Verify accessibility details beforehand

Finding Information

For detailed and up-to-date accessibility information, direct contact is often the best method.

Recommended Steps

Contact the specific attraction or accommodation directly
Consult organizations specializing in accessible travel to Spain
Seek comprehensive guidance for the Canary Islands

Accessibility Progress

Current Status

Accessible improvements are ongoing
Awareness for inclusive tourism is growing
Some older properties are less accessible

Future Outlook

Lanzarote strives for more inclusive travel
New developments prioritize accessibility
A comfortable experience is a top consideration

Traveler Guidance

Verify accessibility for specific needs directly with accommodations and attractions before your visit.

Staying Connected