ElectricityElectrical current is 220 or 225 volts, 50Hz.
European-style two-pin plugs are standard. LanguageSpanish is the official language, but English is widely
understood in areas frequented by tourists. Catalan, Galician and
Basque are spoken in the relevant areas. TippingHotel and restaurant bills usually include service charges, but
additional tips are welcomed for services rendered. In established
restaurants tips of about 10% are expected. In Mallorca
value-added-tax is usually included in restaurant bills, designated
'I.V.A', and may be mistaken for a service charge. Drivers of
metered taxis expect small tips and it is customary to tip usually
5-10% for most services, including guides. Safety InformationGenerally safety is not too much of a problem for tourists in
Spain. However, ETA has been responsible for numerous bomb
explosions across Spain, and is blamed for the deaths of over 800
people in its fight for independence. There is a potential risk of
international terrorism, as in other countries, although the risk
to tourists is considered to be low. Most visits to Spain are
trouble-free, except for street crime, which is common in the big
cities; travellers are advised to take precautions to avoid theft
of passports, credit cards, travel documents and money. Be wary of
strangers offering or asking for help of any kind, as it is often a
distraction for accomplices. There are also scams involving letters
for outstanding traffic fines or Spanish lottery winnings. Local CustomsSmoking in public places is banned and stiff fines will be
imposed for smoking in areas such as enclosed public spaces, areas
where food is prepared and sold, public transport, designated areas
of bars and restaurants, and any places that cater for children.
Drinking alcohol in the streets of Madrid, and in the Canary and
Balearic Islands is illegal. BusinessArray CommunicationsThe international access code for Spain is +34. The o
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