Alicante Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Digital Resources

Essential Apps for the Destination

Google Maps:
Indispensable for navigation, walking directions, and public transport routes. Download offline maps.
Google Translate:
Useful for language translation; download Spanish language pack for offline use. Camera translation feature.
Vectalia App:
The official app for Alicante's bus network; route, schedule, and real-time tracking.
TRAM Alicante App:
The official app for the Alicante tram system; schedules, route maps, station information.
The Fork (ElTenedor):
Popular app for restaurant reservations in Spain; browse, read reviews, find deals.

Useful Websites & Social Media

Official Tourism Alicante:
Alicanteturismo.com – City's official tourism website; information on attractions, events, accommodation.
Renfe / ALSA:
Renfe.com for national trains, alsa.com for long-distance buses connecting Alicante.
VPN Service:
A VPN service keeps your connection secure on public Wi-Fi.
Social Media:
Search for @alicanteturismo on Instagram/Facebook for real-time updates and inspiration.
Podcasts:
Search for "Spain travel podcast" or "Alicante podcast" on Spotify/Apple Podcasts for insights.

Print Resources

Recommended Guidebooks

General Spain or Costa Blanca guidebooks from reputable publishers (Rick Steves, Fodor's, Lonely Planet) provide comprehensive information.

High-Quality City Maps

City maps are available at tourist information offices, hotels, and bookstores in Alicante. A physical map is useful when offline.

Local Publications

Look for free city maps and local event listings at tourist information offices or hotels. These detail current festivals and exhibitions.

Emergency & Medical Information

Contacts

General Emergency (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 112 (EU universal).
National Police (Policía Nacional): 091 (for serious concerns).
Local Police (Policía Local): 092 (for local issues).
Ambulance/Medical Emergencies: 061 (direct line).

Medical Facilities & Protocols

Hospital General Universitario de Alicante (main public hospital).
Hospital Internacional Medimar (private, often English-speaking staff).
Lost Documents: Report to Policía Nacional immediately, obtain a police report.
Natural Disasters: Pay attention to local weather alerts, follow 112 instructions.

Pre-Trip Checklist

Critical Checkpoints for a Seamless Trip

Passport & Visa Essentials

Passport must be valid for six months beyond your Schengen Area return.
Renew promptly if needed.
Research visa and ETIAS requirements for your nationality (ETIAS from mid-2025).
Begin visa application if necessary.

Financial & Connectivity

Notify your bank and credit card companies of travel plans.
Confirm foreign transaction fees.
Purchase a Universal Travel Adapter (Type C/F).
NordVPN for secure Wi-Fi.

Health & Comfort

Pack prescription medications in original containers with pharmacy labels.
Obtain a doctor's note for medications.
Wear Comfortable walking shoes.
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance (World Nomads recommended).

Essential Preparations

Planning Timeline

3-6 Months Before: Check passport, research visa, book flights and main accommodation.
1-2 Months Before: Finalize itinerary, notify bank, obtain IDP if renting car, begin Spanish phrases.
2-4 Weeks Before: Confirm bookings, pack medications, purchase insurance, download apps and offline maps.

Final Week & Home Prep

1 Week Before: Print/save digital copies of documents, pack clothes, confirm airport transfers.
1-2 Days Before: Fully charge devices, secure small Euros, confirm luggage limits. A Portable charger is helpful.
Home Prep: Secure home, arrange mail, organize pet care, unplug appliances.

Arrival & Departure

Arrival Checklist

Immigration and luggage collection at ALC.
Withdraw Euros from an ATM (avoid airport exchange kiosks).
Locate pre-planned airport transfer.

Departure Checklist

Plan luggage space for souvenirs; inquire about shipping services.
VAT refund procedures for non-EU residents.
Allow 2-3 hours for international flight check-in.

Pre-Trip Research & Preparation

Research & Booking

Familiarize yourself with local culture, common situations, and transport options.
Reading this guide covers many points.
Book international flights and main accommodation in advance for better prices.
Reserve high-speed train tickets (AVE/Avant) if planning intercity travel.
Pre-book popular tours and car rentals (if applicable).

Upon Arrival & Home Security

Obtain a local map upon arrival, identify nearby stops and landmarks.
A short walk around your neighborhood helps you get your bearings.
Secure your home: lock doors/windows, notify neighbors.
Arrange for mail collection or forwarding.
Unplug unnecessary appliances.

Essential Packing Items

Power Adapter

A Universal travel adapter (Type C/F) is necessary for Spain.

Portable Charger

A Portable charger for your electronic devices ensures connectivity.

Reusable Bag

A Reusable shopping bag helps minimize waste and is useful for purchases.

Travel Document Folder

Create a simple travel folder, either physical or digital, containing copies of your passport, visa (if applicable), travel insurance, and all booking confirmations. This assists if your phone battery dies or documents are lost.

Alicante Travel Resources