10 things to do before you leave for Spain

Spain is one of Switzerland's favorite destinations, with its history, architecture, sumptuous landscapes, but also (and above all!) its gastronomy and warm, welcoming people.
We've put together a list of 10 things you need to do to prepare for your trip to Spain:

1 - Identity card

As Spain is part of the European Union, and Switzerland has agreements with it, you don't need a passport to go there - just your national identity card.

2 - What to pack

Spain is a vast country, and while it can be very hot in Andalusia, you can be in a coat in Galicia at the same time! So make sure you pack clothes suited to the region you'll be visiting. Also take a small travel guide, a photocopy of your papers and bank cards, and of course your mobile phone and a camera.

3 - Medical expenses

On the back of your compulsory health insurance card, you will normally find the European insurance card. If this is not the case, contact your insurance company to obtain it. This card gives you access to medical care in public health establishments in Spain without having to pay in advance. It is valid for 2 years, and can also be used in other European Union / European Economic Area countries.

Be careful, however, as this card often covers you for limited amounts, with the rest of the costs being borne by you. Even in the event of repatriation, this can be very costly. So don't forget to take out travel insurance for Spain, and leave with the peace of mind of knowing you're covered! At Europ Assistance, we offer several travel insurance options for Spain and other countries around the world, including reimbursement of cancellation costs, medical expenses up to CHF 250'000 (depending on the option chosen), repatriation, baggage coverage and much more.

4- Medicines

We strongly recommend that you take a small first-aid kit with basic medicines, anti-inflammatories, plasters and antiseptics.

5 - Means of payment

In Spain, you'll pay in euros. Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, and ATMs are easy to find. Beware, however, of exchange rates and commissions on withdrawals.

6 - Electricity

The current is 220 V and the plugs have 2 round pins. Remember to take an adapter if your sockets have 3 prongs.

7 - Travel tips

Don't hesitate to visit the websites of local tourist offices, which are very comprehensive, and buy a guide to the country or region to take with you wherever you go.

8 - Cell phone and Internet

For Spain, dial +34 to reach a local number, or +41 to reach a Swiss number. As for the Internet, it all depends on your mobile subscription and whether or not data is included in Europe and abroad. Be sure to check your mobile contract, as charges can be very high. If data is not included in your subscription, remember to deactivate it when you arrive, and you'll often receive an SMS from your operator offering you various packages for your stay. In any case, you'll have easy access to WIFI in all towns and tourist accommodations.

9 - Meal times

Spain has the same time zone as Switzerland (except for the Canary Islands). On the other hand, meal times are slightly later than in our country: breakfast around 8-11 a.m., dinner around 1:30 p.m. at the earliest and supper after 9:30 p.m.

10 - Gratuities

Gratuities are not compulsory, but are greatly appreciated, given that meals in Spain are much cheaper than in Switzerland.
 

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