Costa del Sol

Time zone:

Spain is one hour ahead of the UK. Since they also switch to daylight saving time this remains the same throughout the year.

Language:

Spanish. The main dialect you'll hear on the Costa del Sol is Andalusian, which can prove difficult even for students of the language. Don't worry though, if you stay in the resorts you will easily find someone who speaks English.

Population:

Malaga has about one million permanent residents, the Torremolinos-Fuengirola has about 250,000 and Marbella has just under 125,000.

Dialling codes:

+34 for Spain then 95 for Malaga, Marbella, Estepona, Nerja, Torremolinos, Fuengirola and other smaller resorts. However, if you want to call Gibralta you'll need to dial +350 from the UK

Electricity

230V, so most appliances should work you just need to remember to take a European two-pin adaptor with you. These are fairly easy to get hold of, but beware that prices at the airport are astronomical compared to regular high street shops for this kind of item!

Money:

€ Euros. Banks and ATMs are the best places to exchange and withdraw cash, but be aware that most banks close in the afternoons.

Costs:

The cost of living is broadly similar to the UK, but it is tied to the Euro levels so watch out for those. Drinks can be a bargain because shots aren't measured like they are in the UK, but that does also mean you might be drunker than you think! If you're trying to eat on a budget look out for the lunchtime menu del dia, which will be a hearty local meal with meat or fish, plus a dessert or coffee and a drink. If you prefer to eat big in the evenings then the fish of the day is always an excellent pick. If you want tapas it's often much cheaper to eat at the bar than at the tables.

Tipping:

As with the UK, tipping is normal in restaurants and anywhere with table service, such as the lovely street cafes which you'll see everywhere along the Costa del Sol. 10% is the standard figure but it's not strictly adhered to; normally just leaving a euro or two would be fine.

Local customs:

Most places in Spain close down between 2pm and 3pm so that everyone can eat their main meal and have a small siesta. Plan to have a rest or eat then too and you won't even notice, just don't try to go shopping!

Safety:

By and large the Costa del Sol is a very safe destination but as with a lot of tourist destinations petty theft can be an issue. Make sure that you keep an eye out when you're out and about, and don't take anything too valuable out with you.

Health:

Make sure that your EHIC card (replacement for the E111) is valid and you'll be treated for the same prices as the locals if you need medical assistance. You should also take out travel insurance, as the EHIC card can't cover all costs.

Entry:

A valid UK passport is all that is required as Spain is part of the EU.

Current Foreign Office Advice for Spain