MileHacker Logo
Practical Information

Practical Information

Spain

Mobile Connectivity

Spain's major mobile providers include Movistar, Vodafone, and Orange. Prepaid SIM cards are available with passport registration.

Stay Connected

Internet & eSIM Options

Internet access is widely available in Tossa de Mar with free Wi-Fi at most hotels and establishments.

Digital Access

  • Public Wi-Fi hotspots are found in town squares.
  • Connectivity is generally reliable throughout the town.
  • Consider purchasing an ESIM plan online for immediate connectivity.

Language Landscape

Catalonia has two official languages: Catalan (local) and Spanish (national), both widely spoken.

Language Insights

  • Road signs, menus, and information often appear in both languages.
  • English is widely spoken in tourist-facing businesses like hotels and main restaurants.
  • In smaller local shops or eateries, English may be less common.

Translation & Phrases

Learning a few basic phrases in Spanish or Catalan fosters better interactions.

Useful Tools

  • The Google Translate app is highly useful for offline translation.
  • Translate text, voice, and images without an internet connection.
  • Consider a language learning platform like Rosetta Stone before your trip.

Important Phrases

Basic Greetings

  • Hello: Hola / Bon dia (Catalan)
  • Goodbye: Adiós / Adéu (Catalan)
  • Please: Por favor
  • Thank you: Gracias / Mercès (Catalan)

Common Questions

  • Excuse me: Perdón / Con permiso
  • Yes: Sí / No: No
  • Do you speak English?: ¿Habla inglés?
  • How much is this?: ¿Cuánto cuesta? / The bill, please: La cuenta, por favor

Postal Services

Correos is the national postal service. Find post offices (Oficina de Correos) for sending postcards or packages. Stamps can also be purchased at tobacconists (estancos).

Essential Schedules

Understand typical operating hours and holiday closures to plan your days efficiently.

Shops

Smaller shops often close for siesta (1:30 PM - 5:00 PM). Larger supermarkets generally operate continuously from morning until evening (e.g., 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM).

Restaurants

Lunch service runs from 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM. Dinner begins later, typically 8:00 PM or 8:30 PM, continuing until 11:00 PM or later.

Banks & ATMs

Banks open weekdays, typically 8:30 AM - 2:00 PM. ATMs (Cajeros Automáticos) are available 24/7 throughout Tossa de Mar.

National & Regional Holidays

Spain observes national public holidays, and Catalonia has additional regional holidays.

Dates

  • January 1, January 6, May 1.
  • Good Friday, Easter Monday, August 15.
  • October 12, November 1, December 6, December 8, December 25.

Catalan & Local Dates

Catalonia celebrates its own holidays, and Tossa de Mar observes specific local dates.

Additional Holidays

  • June 24 (St. John's Day).
  • September 11 (Catalonia National Day), December 26 (St. Stephen's Day).
  • Tossa de Mar local holidays include June 29 (Sant Pere) and January 20 (Sant Sebastià).

Seasonal Operating Times

Low Season

  • Many tourist-focused businesses may close entirely.
  • This period spans from November to March.
  • Confirm opening hours if traveling during this time.

General Expectation

  • Public transport may operate on reduced schedules during holidays.
  • Many businesses will be closed on official public holidays.
  • Plan accordingly for closures on these dates.

Airport Services

For a comfortable wait, Priority Pass provides airport lounge access. If facing flight disruptions, Compensair assists with compensation claims.

Cultural Insights

Embrace local customs and navigate social interactions with these helpful guidelines.

Greeting Customs

A simple "Hola" or "Bon dia" (Catalan) is well-received. Handshakes are common for formal introductions.

Social Norms

  • Handshakes are common for formal introductions.
  • Two kisses on the cheek are common among close friends or family.
  • Locals appreciate the effort of speaking a few phrases.

Attire & Respect

Casual dress suits most situations in Tossa de Mar.

Dress Guidelines

  • Wear respectful attire (shoulders and knees covered) when visiting religious sites.
  • Beachwear is suitable only for the beach area.
  • Avoid wearing beachwear in the town center or when entering shops/restaurants.

Dining Practices

Meals are often leisurely. Do not expect fast service, as dining is a social occasion.

Table Manners

  • Wait to be seated in most restaurants.
  • Keep your hands visible on the table.
  • Tipping is not mandatory but is always appreciated for good service.

Photography Guidelines

It is generally fine to photograph public spaces, landmarks, and street scenes.

Ethical Snaps

  • Be respectful of privacy when photographing individuals.
  • Always ask permission before taking someone's picture.
  • Some museums or religious sites may have restrictions on flash photography.

Sensitive Topics

Conversations to Avoid

  • Avoid discussing politics, especially issues related to Catalan independence.
  • Only discuss these topics with close friends who initiate it.
  • Understand the context before engaging in political discussions.

Comparisons

  • Avoid making negative comparisons between Catalonia and the rest of Spain.
  • Respect local sentiments on regional identity.
  • Local culture is distinct and celebrated.

Inclusivity

General Environment

  • Spain is generally progressive and open.
  • LGBTQ+ rights are well-established and recognized.
  • Public displays of affection are common and accepted.

Tossa de Mar Welcome

  • Tossa de Mar is a welcoming and tolerant destination.
  • Enjoy a comfortable and accepting atmosphere.
  • Feel at ease during your visit.

Accessibility Notes

Tossa de Mar's older areas, like Vila Vella, have cobblestone streets and inclines, presenting challenges. The beachfront promenade and newer town center are generally flatter and more accessible.

Major bus lines may have some accessible buses, but this is not universal. Check with specific attractions regarding ramp access.

Specialized services for visual or hearing impairments are limited locally; larger cities offer more resources. For detailed information, consult specific tourism websites or accessibility travel guides for Spain. Websites of individual hotels or attractions may also provide details.

Further Accessibility Details

Mobility Infrastructure

Tossa de Mar’s older areas, like Vila Vella, with its narrow, cobblestone streets and inclines, pose challenges.

Areas to Consider

  • Vila Vella presents challenges for mobility devices.
  • Cobblestone streets and inclines are common.
  • The beachfront promenade and newer town center are generally flatter.

Accessible Locations

The main beach often provides some accessible sections.

Points of Access

  • Major bus lines may have some accessible buses, but not all.
  • The main beach typically has accessible areas.
  • Check with individual attractions for specific ramp access or accommodations.

Services for Impairments

Specialized services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are limited in Tossa de Mar itself.

Support Resources

  • Larger cities like Barcelona offer more extensive resources.
  • Organizations there provide assistance for these travelers.
  • Specific local services are not widely available.

Information Sources

For detailed accessibility information, consult specific tourism websites.

Where to Find Data

  • Websites of individual hotels or attractions may offer details.
  • Consult accessibility travel guides for Spain.
  • Plan routes based on detailed accessibility maps.

Conscious Travel Choices

Make choices that align with responsible tourism.

Eco Stays

Look for hotels with environmental certifications.

Find eco-friendly lodging.

Carbon Footprint

Consider offsetting your travel emissions.

Explore carbon offset providers.

Ethical Tours

Choose tour operators with clear sustainability practices.

Discover ethical tour options.

Accessibility Summary

While Tossa de Mar has its challenging historical areas, the main beachfront and newer town areas are more manageable for those with mobility aids. Always check specific venue details.