Spain is the third most visited country in the world. Here, I tell you everything you need to know about this incredible place. I hope you will like Spain as much as many do!
- When to go
- What to eat
- The nightlife / the people
- Money currency
- How to use your phone/SIM card
- Some facts
- Basic words to know
- Insurance
- Different accommodations
- Essential apps to have
When to go
I went to Spain in November and January. Honestly, I loved traveling in this country in the winter. In the south, it’s still mostly sunny and a good 15–20 degrees. Surprisingly, a lot of people were swimming in the sea. There weren’t a lot of tourists. It’s perfect for relaxing, enjoying a calm trip and not waiting too long in lines for activities. However, in the north and the center of the country, there is a downside to travel in the winter. It can rain a lot, which it did for me in Madrid. But overall, I would recommend traveling to Spain in the winter more than in the summer.
Let’s keep in mind that in the summer, some cities can go over 30+ degrees every day. Most importantly, the majority of people travel in the summer. Trust me when I say there are soooo many tourists.
What to eat
There are so many classics to try in Spain. Here are my favourite ones:
- Paella, of course: There are many varieties, and you can eat paella almost at every restaurant!
- Patatas bravas: Very common in Spain and so good if you like potatoes and fries with a bit of spicy.
- Jamón ibérico: For many Spanish people, this is the finest ham in the world.
- Churros: What more to say: miiiiam. One of my favorite desserts.
- Gelato isn’t from Spain, but all the ones I ate were very good. Don’t hesitate to give it a go.
The nightlife/ the people
Honestly, I wasn’t expecting the Spanish people to behave like this. Most of them don’t speak English and are rude to tourists. Of course, that is not all people. I didn’t receive the respect I was expecting. Remember that I am Canadian and we are known for our warmth.
However, they know how to party. Most bars and clubs close at 6 a.m. I went to see a flamenco dance show in Seville, and it was incredible. You certainly won’t get bored when you go out in Spain. Sangria is always a go-to in the country.
What is the money currency
Spain is one of the many countries in the eurozone. Therefore, their currency is the Euro (€). Unlike Canada, there is no tax. Every price you see is the final price. Also, tipping is not expected. It is never mandatory, but it is always nice to leave a tip if you feel like the person deserves it. There is usually a big fee when getting money out of an ATM. You should always try to pay by card. Go get Euros at your local bank in your country before traveling. You will save a lot on ATM fees.
How to use your phone / SIM card
The most affordable and easy way to have access to your phone is to buy an E-card / pre-paid SIM card. You can buy them online, they are way cheaper than anything at the airport! I bought mine 2 days before I left and it was perfect. The company I used was Holafly and you have multiple options depending on what you want. For example, it’s €34 for 10 days or €47 for 15 days.
If you don’t want to pay for a SIM card, don’t worry, there’s Wi-Fi everywhere. Most of the time, when I go to Europe, I don’t pay for a SIM card. Instead, I download the maps before I get there (either on Maps.me or Google Maps). If I need WI-FI, I stop at a McDonald’s, a grocery store or a mall.
Some facts
- Did you know that Spanish is the 2nd most spoken language in the world?
- Public nudity, mostly happening on the beaches, is legal in Spain.
- Madrid is the home to the oldest operating restaurant in the world, Restaurante Botín, which opened in 1725.
- Mornings last until 2 p.m. Dinner usually happens around 9 p.m. Very different from Canada!
Basic words to know
One of my favorite preparations, when I travel, is to learn some basic words in the language of the country I am going to. It only takes a couple of minutes every day, and it makes all the difference to bond and be respectful with the locals. Of course, you don’t need to know all of them, but only a couple can take you a long way! Here are all the basics I like to know to have smoother conversations with Spanish people:
- Hello – Hola
- How are you? – Como está?
- Excuse me – Lo siento or Disculpe
- Thank you – Gracias
- Yes – Sí
- No – No
- Please – Por favor
- You’re welcome – De nada
- Have a nice day – Que tengas un buen día
- Good morning – Buen días
- Good afternoon – Buenas tardes
- Good night – Buenas noches
- Goodbye – Adiós
- Where is … – Dónde està … ?
- What is your name? – Cómo te llamas?
- Do you speak English? – Hablas inglés?
Insurance
Searching for travel insurance can be a hard task. But, it’s also a very important one. Since there are so many options out there, here’s one that is easy to understand and well known : World Nomads.
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Different accommodation options
Villas/Apartments: Renting a villa/apartment is definitely the most eye-pleasing option. You can find some crazy original stays! Most of the time it is equipped like an apartment, so you will have a fridge and a cooking space. It will be pricier, but you can save on eating out if you cook at your villa. It is a good option for families or if you are a big group of people. You can split the price, and it can be more fun than being all separate in hotel rooms.
Hotels: Hotels are a classic. There are plenty of them with a huge price range. You will be well welcomed and have access to services you don’t get in a villa. Some hotels have spas, some have yoga classes and so much more. Your room will get cleaned every day, and you will have access to room service. If you are an anxious person, hotels are your best option. You will definitely feel more secure since there is always someone working nearby.
Hostels: If you are a backpacker, this is the cheapest option for you. It is less luxurious, less comfortable, less a lot of things. But it is an amazing experience to live while you are young. You will have one bed in a shared room with others. This is the best way to meet people if you are travelling solo. Some hostels have group activities to help with that. You are young, your back is not broken yet, and you can sleep in a less comfortable space in exchange for living an incredible experience.
Essential apps to have
Transport: Having access to transport in Spain is so easy!
- Download Omio
Gives you the best & cheapest way to travel in Europe comparing the bus, car (shared rides), train, and plane. You can book everything directly on the app. I find the prices are always the same or sometimes cheaper than on the websites of the companies.
- Download Uber
You order your car knowing already the price it will cost. You know when your driver will be there, and you have the option of paying cash or directly with your card on the app. I always prefer to pay cash. This way I can always round up the amount and leave a tip. They deserve it! You can even order food from Uber Eat!
Places to stay:
- Booking: You will find all three types of accommodation.
- Airbnb: You will find amazing and original villas/apartments.
- Hostel World: This is an app for hostels only. You will find the best ones with an amazing rating system to help you make your choice. There are also group chats on the app with the people who will be staying at the same place as you.
Others:
- Maps.me: You can download any maps and use them without Wi-Fi.
- WhatsApp: It’s a classic. Everyone in Europe uses WhatsApp to text or call.
- Too Good To Go: You can buy food from restaurants and stores for cheaper prices that would otherwise have been thrown away at the end of the day.
