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Practical Information

Practical Information

Spain

Mobile Connectivity

Major providers in Spain include Orange, Vodafone, Movistar. Local SIM cards are available at the airport or mobile shops. Passports needed for registration.

Options for Staying Connected

  • Local SIM Cards for data & calls
  • eSIM options for digital connectivity (Airalo)
  • Portable WiFi devices for reliable internet (Solis Wi-Fi)

Internet Access

Wi-Fi is widely available in Palma. Most hotels, cafes, and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi. Many public spaces also feature internet access.

Access Points

  • Hotels and accommodations
  • Cafes and restaurants
  • Many public areas

Language & Translation

Official languages: Spanish (Castilian) and Catalan (Mallorquín dialect). English is spoken in tourist areas.

Helpful Resources

  • Google Translate app (offline packs)
  • Spanish phrasebook for basic communication
  • Consider language learning (Rosetta Stone)

Important Phrases

Essential Communication

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

Palma's Business Rhythm

Typical Operating Hours

  • Shops: 9/10 AM - 1:30/2 PM, then 4:30/5 PM - 8/9 PM (some continuous)
  • Restaurants: Lunch from 1:30 PM, Dinner from 8:00 PM
  • Cafes/Bars: Open morning until late evening
  • Banks: Mon-Fri, 8:30 AM - 2:00 PM

Holidays & Seasonal Closures

  • National, regional, and local holidays change hours
  • Major holidays: New Year, Epiphany, Labour Day, Christmas
  • Some tourist businesses reduce hours in low season (Nov-Mar)
  • Confirm opening hours for low season visits

Cash for Small Purchases

Carry small denominations of Euros (coins and small bills) for public transport, small purchases, and places where card payments are not accepted.

Travel Logistics & Etiquette

information for smoother travel and respectful interactions.

Airport Comforts

Access independent airport lounges worldwide with a Priority Pass.

Flight Interruption Help

Receive compensation for flight delays or cancellations through Compensair.

Banking Services

ATMs are widely available for cash access. Most places accept major credit/debit cards.

Etiquette & Customs

Social Interactions

  • Handshake for formal greetings, two cheek kisses for informal
  • "Hola" is polite when entering shops/cafes
  • Cover shoulders/knees in religious sites

Dining & Tipping

Mealtime Practices

  • Dinner often starts later than in some other countries
  • Tipping is not mandatory, but a few Euros for good service are welcome
  • "¡Buen provecho!" is a polite dining phrase to use

Social Norms & Photography

Photography Etiquette

  • Ask permission before photographing individuals, especially children
  • Some museums prohibit photography or flash
  • Generally fine to photograph public spaces

Gender & LGBTQ+ Information

  • Spain is generally progressive and welcoming to LGBTQ+ travelers
  • Same-sex marriage is legal
  • Palma has gay-friendly venues, notably in the city center

Additional Travel Notes

Avoid discussing politics or personal finances with strangers. Keep conversations light and positive.

Accessibility Information

Palma is working to improve accessibility, but some areas may still pose challenges.

Infrastructure for Mobility

Newer buildings and public transport (buses, metro) are increasingly designed with accessibility in mind.

Accessible Features

  • Many major attractions have accessible routes or elevators
  • Palma's Passeig Marítim is largely flat and wheelchair-friendly
  • Modern public buses often have ramps

Challenges & Other Services

Awareness of potential barriers helps in planning your visit effectively.

Points to Note

  • Old Town's cobblestone streets and stairs can be challenging
  • Some older establishments may lack ramps or elevators
  • Guide dogs are generally accepted in public places

Resources for Planning

Information can be found to support travelers with specific needs.

Where to Find Info

  • Local tourism websites may have accessibility details
  • Specialized disability travel forums for Spain
  • Information on accessible hotels and attractions

Financial Travel Advice

Smart money management helps during your trip.

Money Tips

  • Carry small denominations for everyday use
  • Be aware some small places might not accept cards
  • ATMs are widely available for cash access

Important Travel Consideration

Safety Measures

  • Always prioritize your safety and stay aware of your surroundings
  • Be informed about local regulations and advisories
  • Keep an eye on personal belongings, especially in crowded areas

Emergency Contacts

  • Emergency Services: 112 (Police, Fire, Ambulance)
  • Local Police: 091
  • Non-emergency medical advice: check local clinic details

Postal Services & Communication

Sending Mail

  • Correos is the national postal service
  • Post offices are available in Palma
  • Send postcards or packages home

Digital vs. Physical

  • Many travelers opt for eSIMs for convenience
  • A Spanish phrasebook still an useful companion
  • Always carry identification

Accessibility Tip

Information on accessible hotels, attractions, and transportation can sometimes be found on local tourism websites or specialized disability travel forums for Spain. Seek out these resources when planning.