Spain is one of the richest countries in the world from a cultural perspective. Its history runs from as far back as the period of the Roman Empire, the inquisitions among other eras that shaped world history.

This makes it an interesting country to visit, at least once in a lifetime. However, there are things you need to know before visiting Spain to make your stay an enjoyable one.

The following are 5 important things to know about traveling to Spain. 

5 Things You Should Know About Traveling to Spain

Learn a Few Spanish Words

Some Spaniards especially those living in major cities such as Madrid do speak English. However, most of the population can only communicate in Spanish.

Before you travel to Spain, learning Spanish can make your travel a lot easier, even if it means mastering only few words. For instance, you can practice how to say hi, and how to ask for directions in Spanish. Here you find some basic words and phrases that will help you be on the firm ground with locals.

It would be catastrophic to get stuck in a foreign country, without being able to ask for directions to your hotel! This can make you more vulnerable to scams and cons which take advantage of your language barrier.

You Don’t Need to Buy Bottled Water

As a tourist, there is always the urge to buy bottled water. This is quite understandable given that you are never sure about the quality of the tap water in most foreign nations.

This is not the case with Spain though, and the tap water is very safe to drink. There is no point in wasting your hard-earned cash on expensive bottled water; travel with a drink bottle and top up when you need to; this also cuts down on plastic waste. 

Be aware though that some old cities, like Barcelona, may have issues with old pipes, meaning high amounts of certain minerals which have the potential to mess with your stomach. If you’re worried about it, chat with the team at your hotel as they see tourists every day and can advise you on what’s the safest way.

In Spain They Eat Late

In most countries, lunch is usually between 12 noon, and 1 P.M, but this is not the case in Spain. Spaniards eat late, and you might not find a place open to eat before 2 P.M in the afternoon.

Knowing this in advance allows you to plan your day around it and work it into your trip planner. Even in the evenings, Spaniards tend to take dinner later at the night, mostly after 9 P.M.

If you visit a Spanish home in the course of your travels and dinner comes a bit late in the evening, don’t be surprised; it’s part of Spanish culture.

There’s No Tipping Culture in Spain

Unlike the Japanese, Spaniards don’t frown upon tipping, but they also won’t mind if you don’t leave a tip. Tipping in Spain is not common, and you won’t find any locals doing it. 

If you choose to tip it will be appreciated, and they’re not going to turn down your money, but if you don’t, it’s not a big deal. 

Drink Orders Come With a Free Snack

Spaniards have a very interesting culture whereby all drink orders come with a free snack! It may be a bite of cheese, potato chips, or even a fruit.

When you receive this, don’t panic; you won’t be charged. Just enjoy the freebie snack together with your drink. It’s just a part of Spanish culture known as tapas. Don’t expect this; free snacks are not a standard in all cities in Spain. Some have it others don’t. But don’t be surprised!

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Spanish travel tips

Spanish travel tips

Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Her husband Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; a website dedicated to opening your eyes to the wild & natural world.

Committed to bringing you the best in adventure travel from all around the globe, there is no mountain too high, and no fete too extreme! They haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on their list.

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