Mobile
/ Cell Phones:
Do
consider taking a cell phone with you on your trip. We have
found it to be an essential part of our equipment when traveling.
Many of our hotels are off the beaten track and the ability
to phone the innkeeper (to say you are lost or you will be late)
is extremely useful. A cell phone is also useful in case of
problems or accidents. Auto Europe often have specials when
renting a car from them, however, you must always advise the
car rental company in advance of your trip as they mail the
phone and instructions to you. You are, of course, responsible
for air time charges, and must return the cell phone to them
at the end of your rental period. Approximate rental rate, through
a car rental company, is about $60 week. Another alternative
is to take your own cell phone with you, where you can arrange
(and prepay) Global Roaming Services in advance with your service
provider.
Electricity:
220
volts (50 cycles) are commonly used in Spain. Round prong plugs
are used in all outlets. Standard North American and UK plugs
won’t work. Buy an adapter before you leave.
Tipping:
In
Spain waitpersons are on salary and therefore tipping is not
a particularly big issue for them. There is no obligation to
tip, but if you receive particularly good service, a 5% gratuity
is normal. Using small coins in a café is perfectly acceptable.
Sometimes a tip is already included on the bill, and this is
indicated.
VAT
/ Taxes:
7%
VAT is added to hotel rooms.
You
may be able to claim your VAT for a refund, provided you
keep all receipts, and the purchases total more than a set minimum
(usually 100 Euros). Ask your hotel, and each shop where you
make a purchase, for more information.
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