MileHacker Logo
Communication

Communication

Spain

Mobile & Internet

Major providers are Movistar, Orange, Vodafone, and Yoigo. Prepaid SIMs are available at official stores, phone shops, or some supermarkets. Your passport is needed for registration.

Connectivity Options

  • eSIM options deliver convenient activation upon arrival. Consider Airalo.
  • Most hotels, guesthouses, and apartments have free Wi-Fi.
  • Mobile data coverage is generally excellent in cities and towns. Portable Wi-Fi available from Solis Wi-Fi.

Language & Postal Services

Spain has official languages including Castilian Spanish. Basque is co-official in the Basque Country. Correos is the national postal service.

Language Support

  • English proficiency varies; more common in tourist areas.
  • Google Translate app is useful for offline translations.
  • A small Spanish phrasebook helps with daily interactions. Learn Spanish with Rosetta Stone.

Important Phrases

Using a few basic Spanish phrases shows respect and assists with daily interactions.

Phrases

  • Hola (OH-lah): Hello
  • Gracias (GRAH-see-ahs): Thank you
  • ¿Habla inglés? (AH-blah een-GLAYS?): Do you speak English?

More Phrases

Essential words for everyday situations.

Daily Words

  • Adiós (ah-dee-OHS): Goodbye
  • Agua (AH-gwah): Water
  • Comida (koh-MEE-dah): Food

Useful Spanish Phrases

Common Greetings

  • Hola (OH-lah)
  • Adiós (ah-dee-OHS)
  • Por favor (por fah-VOHR)
  • Gracias (GRAH-see-ahs)

Daily Interactions

  • Sí / No (SEE / NOH)
  • ¿Habla inglés? (AH-blah een-GLAYS?)
  • No entiendo (NOH en-TYEN-doh)
  • ¿Cuánto es? (KWAHN-toh es?)

Communication Tip

Locals appreciate any effort to speak Spanish. A smile and simple phrases bridge gaps.

Business Hours & Schedules

Shops

Generally 10 AM - 2 PM and 5 PM - 8:30 PM/9 PM, with some continuous hours until 9 PM.

Restaurants

Lunch service 1:30 PM - 4 PM. Dinner service 8:30 PM - 11 PM or midnight.

Bars/Cafes

Open from early morning until late night. Bars serving alcohol open later.

Banking & Holidays

ATMs are widely available. Public holidays mean closures for banks and many shops.

Financial Access

  • ATMs (`Cajeros automáticos`) are widely available 24/7.
  • Banks typically operate 8:30 AM - 2 PM, Monday-Friday.
  • National holidays include January 1, May 1, and December 25.

Airport Services

Access airport lounges and compensation for flight disruptions.

Traveler Support

  • Airport lounge access for frequent travelers via Priority Pass.
  • Compensation for flight delays or cancellations via Compensair.
  • These services improve overall travel convenience.

Seasonal Schedules

Seasonal Closures

  • Some coastal businesses may close during the low season.
  • In August, some smaller family-run businesses may close for holidays.
  • Public transport may operate on a reduced schedule on holidays.

Holiday Operating

  • Banks, government offices, and many shops close on public holidays.
  • Restaurants and tourist attractions usually open on holidays.
  • Check specific dates for regional and local holidays.

Planning Ahead

Always check opening hours for specific attractions or restaurants, especially on public holidays.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Spaniards are generally warm and welcoming.

Greeting & Attire

Proper greetings and appropriate dress show respect.

Social Customs

  • A simple "Hola" or "Buenos días" is appropriate.
  • Cover shoulders and knees in churches.
  • Smart casual attire suitable for evenings out.

Dining & Tipping

Meals are social events. Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated.

Meal Practices

  • Expect a relaxed meal pace; service is not rushed.
  • Sharing dishes like tapas and pintxos is common.
  • Wine or beer with meals is customary; tap water is safe.

Photography Ethics & Site Etiquette

Be discreet with photos and respectful at religious sites.

Visual Conduct

  • Ask permission before photographing individuals, especially children.
  • Dress modestly at religious sites: cover shoulders and knees.
  • Avoid flash photography in museums unless permitted; check for signs.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Information

Spain is a progressive country regarding gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights.

Social Acceptance

  • Public spaces are safe for women travelers.
  • Spain is LGBTQ+-friendly with strong legal protections.
  • The Costa Verde is generally welcoming to all visitors.

Important Reminders

Personal & Social

  • Personal Space: Spaniards tend to have less personal space.
  • Noise Levels: Be mindful of noise, especially late at night.
  • Siesta: Many smaller shops may still close for an extended lunch break.

Topics & Customs

  • Photography Restrictions: Check rules in museums or religious sites.
  • Franco Era: A sensitive historical period, avoid casual discussion.
  • Entering/Leaving: Common to say "Hola" when entering small establishments.

Cultural Awareness

Engagement

  • Attempting Spanish or Basque is appreciated.
  • Patience is valued; life moves at a different pace.
  • Be mindful of noise levels, especially late at night.

Sensitivity

  • Ask permission before photographing individuals.
  • Avoid sensitive political discussions.
  • Bullfighting is a divisive topic; approach with sensitivity.

Cultural Respect

A conscious effort to follow local customs enriches your travel and fosters good relationships.

Accessibility Information

The Costa Verde develops accessibility, though challenges may persist in older areas.

Infrastructure & Transport

Newer city infrastructure often includes accessibility features. Older areas may pose challenges.

Navigating the Region

  • Modern buses, metros (Bilbao), and trams are increasingly accessible.
  • Older trains and bus services may be less accessible.
  • Some larger or adapted taxis may be available.

Accessible Attractions & Services

Many major museums display full accessibility. Some public transport offers assistance.

Support & Resources

  • Many major museums, like Guggenheim Bilbao, are fully accessible.
  • Some urban beaches have accessible pathways or services during summer.
  • Some public transport has auditory announcements or visual displays.

Planning for Accessibility

Navigating the region often presents considerations for mobility.

General Information

  • Older parts of cities, like the `Casco Viejos`, have cobblestones and steps.
  • Rural areas and natural parks access is limited due to rugged terrain.
  • Contact transport providers in advance for specific accessibility details.

Accessibility Resources

Organizations and websites contain information to assist your planning.

Resources Available

  • PREDIF contains guides and information for accessible tourism.
  • Official tourism websites may have dedicated accessibility sections.
  • Contact hotels directly to confirm specific accessibility features.

Accessibility Advice

Always verify accessibility details directly with service providers before your trip.