Orlando Vacation Planning Kit

Orlando Vacation Planning Kit  You are here: About > Travel > Travel with Kids Travel Travel with Kids Essentials Family Vacation Ideas Winter and Spring Break All-Inclusive Resorts Ten Latest Family Travel Deals Family Resorts: top places; photos Articles & Resources Family Travel: What's Hot Top Vacation Spots VT, ME, NH, CT, MA, NY, PA Mexico Family Vacations Caribbean Vacations More Beach Vacations Florida Family Vacations Resorts with Water Park More Family Resorts Fun Places for Kids Disney Vacations Family Cruises Babies;Teens;Single Parents Lots More Destinations Family Travel TIPS, GAMES Buyer's Guide TAKE ALONG: Christmas books Christmas flicks Activity Kits more CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS Forums Help FREE Newsletter Sign Up Now for the Travel with Kids newsletter! See Online Courses   Search Travel with Kids Orlando Vacation Planning Kit Travel with Kids Blog « Beach Vacations | Main | Summer Vacation » From Teresa Plowright , Your Guide to Travel with Kids . FREE Newsletter. Sign Up Now! July 19, 2005 Orlando Vacation Planning Kit How much fun can one city take? Walt Disney World alone is the size of Boston; Universal Orlando has great new attractions, such as the Shrek and Revenge of the Mummy "rides"; the new Nickelodeon Family Suites by Holiday Inn has set a new high for on-property fun. So maybe you need a free Orlando Vacation Kit : three brochures to help you plan your visit, and maybe get some discounts too. Click above to order online or by phone. Also: read about Nickelodeon Family Suites by Holiday Inn, with two terrific waterplay complexes and games and entertainment developed by Nickelodeon see what's new in Disney World for 2005 : a lot! New attractions, free shuttles to Disney resorts, meal plan... Universal Orlando - for families continued below... Free Official Orlando Vacation Kit Order online at the official Orlando site, or call 1-800-551-0181 (United States and Canada)m to get these free brochures: Official Destination Guide : trip planning advice along with lists of Orlandos accommodations, attractions, culture & heritage, dining & nightlife, shopping, recreational activities and more. Unexpected Orlando Guide : nearly 100 listings of Orlandos natural, cultural and heritage tourism offerings. Orlando Magicard : Offers up to $500 in savings at 114 area attractions, accommodations, restaurants and dinner theaters,ground transportation, and shopping malls. The card can be downloaded at orlandoinfo.com/magicard. In Orlando, visitors can stop by the Official Visitor Center at 8723 International Drive (southeast corner of Austrian Row.) The Center is open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day of the year except Dec. 25. Also, for additional assistance or to purchase vacation packages and discount attraction tickets, visitors can call an Official Travel Counselor at 1-800-972-3304 or 407-363-5872. Email to a Friend Display Latest Headlines | | | Read Archives powered by Movable Type Advertisement Most Popular Charades -How To Play Charades Family Vacation Spots The Atlantis Resort Great Places to See Santa Disney Christmas Magic Kingdom What's Hot Grand Floridian Chinese New Year - 2006 Poconos Great Wolf Lodge photo Dog Friendly Hotels, inns, lodges -- find dog-friendly vacat... Kwanzaa Related Topics Florida for Visitors New England for Visitors Theme Parks Hotels / Resorts / Inns Parenting of K-6 Children        Topic Index | Email to a Friend Our Story | Be a Guide | Advertising Info | Work at About | Site Map | Icons | Help User Agreement | Ethics Policy | Patent Info. | Privacy Policy | Kids' Privacy Policy ©2005 About, Inc., A part of the New York Times Company . All rights reserved. Around About New Video iPod - Review POLL: Must-Have Gadgets VIDEO: Portable Gaming VIDEO: Choosing a TV Hugh Hefner's Life What's Hot Grand Floridian Chinese New Year - 2006 Poconos Great Wolf Lodge photo Dog Friendly Hotels, inns, lodges -- find dog-friendly vacat... Kwanzaa Headlines Bunch of family travel deals Latest deals added include a January Travel Special at the... First Nights! "First Night" events celebrate New Year's with family-friendly festivities-- and... Top Family Travel Trends in 2005 It's that time of year... to pause the mad dash... Bookmark the NORAD Tracks Santa site! It's not a family trip, but it's certainly a trip...

Taiwan travel links Direct

BBC NEWS | Business | 'Progress' on Taiwan travel links NEWS SPORT WEATHER WORLD SERVICE WHERE I LIVE -- A-Z INDEX SEARCH You are in: Business News Front Page Africa Americas Asia-Pacific Europe Middle East South Asia UK Business E-Commerce Economy Market Data Entertainment Science/Nature Technology Health ------------- Talking Point ------------- Country Profiles In Depth ------------- Programmes ------------- SERVICES Daily E-mail News Ticker Mobile/PDAs ------------- Text Only Feedback Help EDITIONS Change to UK Thursday, 17 October, 2002, 07:00 GMT 08:00 UK 'Progress' on Taiwan travel links Direct transport links could help ease economic woes Taiwanese officials have given a positive reception to a proposal from China to ease the way towards re-establishing direct transport links with the mainland. In an interview with a Taiwan newspaper, China's Vice Premier Qian Qichen suggested transport links could be described as "cross-strait" rather than "domestic". Verbal distinctions have played an important role in hostilities between Beijing and Taipei, whose leaders say they are heading a sovereign state, the Republic of China. Taiwan's President Chen Shui-bian had rejected the use of the word "domestic", saying it would "belittle, provincialise and marginalise" Taiwan. 'Worth encouraging' Taiwan's Cabinet decided last year that it wanted to restore direct transport to the mainland for the first time in more than 50 years. Direct transport links were severed after the Communist victory in China's civil war in 1949. Two high-ranking Taiwanese officials have welcomed Mr Qian's proposal, though the Cabinet-level Mainland Affairs Council has declined to comment. "The change is worth encouraging," said Chiou I-jen,secretary-general of the National Security Council. He told a parliamentary sub-committee that the shift was a goodwill gesture. "But details need to be discussed by both sides," he added. Taiwan's transport minister, Lin Lin-san, also welcomed the proposal: "I think labelling them as cross-strait routes is a positive concept. It is progress." New policy Taiwan's Cabinet is in the midst of an internal discussion on how to re-open direct transport, trade and postal services and is due to complete its review of the issue by November. Taiwan has already lifted a ceiling on mainland investment by Taiwanese firms and allowed them to invest directly in China rather than via a third country. It has also eased curbs on mainland investment by the sensitive semi-conductor industry, which forms the backbone of Taiwan's economy. In the interview with popular Taiwan paper United Daily News, Mr Qian maintained Beijing's insistence on the need for Taiwan to "recognise 'one China' before we can enter into political negotiations". "But the three links does not need political negotiations, it is an economic issue," he added. "Therefore talks can proceed." WTO membership deal Deal done in Doha China enters WTO fold Final accord at hand Insurance row settled WTO 'breakthrough' Deal's history EU resolves differences US clinches deal US Congress votes EU-China agree deal US signs historic deal Analysis Consumer revolution Migrants flood cities Entry to boost growth Extra gains for US, EU Price controls cut Boon for stock market China's US trade critics Case Studies Bamboo coffin exports Olympic tourism hopes Dog food brand plan See also: 07 Nov 01 | Business Taiwan eases China trade restrictions 19 Oct 01 | Business Asia braced for China's WTO entry 13 Aug 01 | Business Taiwan to free up China investment 12 Aug 01 | Asia-Pacific New party to reshape Taiwan politics 10 Aug 01 | Asia-Pacific Taiwan denies UN bid threatens China 06 Aug 01 | Country profiles Country profile: Taiwan Top Business stories now: Hacker breaches credit card security Job losses escalate at Reuters New SEC chief pledges tough line Oil prices push higher Rwanda denies DRC plundering Overseas sales drive Wal-Mart Congo's finance minister resigns Blair keeps euro options open Links to more Business stories are at the foot of the page. E-mail this story to a friend Links to more Business stories In This Section Hacker breaches credit card security Job losses escalate at Reuters New SEC chief pledges tough line Oil prices push higher Rwanda denies DRC plundering Overseas sales drive Wal-Mart Congo's finance minister resigns Blair keeps euro options open ^^ Back to top News Front Page | Africa | Americas | Asia-Pacific | Europe | Middle East | South Asia | UK | Business | Entertainment | Science/Nature | Technology | Health | Talking Point | Country Profiles | In Depth | Programmes ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- To BBC Sport>> | To BBC Weather>> | To BBC World Service>> ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- © MMIII | News Sources | Privacy

Spain Travel Destination From

Salamanca Spain - Travel Essentials for Salamanca  You are here: About > Travel > Europe for Visitors > Spain and Portugal > Spain > Cities and Islands of Spain > Salamanca Spain - Travel Essentials for Salamanca Travel Go Europe Essentials European Vacation Planning Map Europe Travel 101 - Before you Go European Distances The Best of Europe European Photo Gallery Articles & Resources Europe Travel Planning What to do In Europe Lodging - Hotels and More European Travel Maps Sex and Nudism Travel Photography Transportation Benelux Countries France Germany Austria Switzerland Greece Italy and Malta Travel Info Scandinavian Travel Spain and Portugal United Kingdom and Ireland Buyer's Guide Before You Buy Top Picks Italy Travel Guidebooks Europe Travel Guidebooks German Travel Guidebooks Product Reviews Forums Help FREE Newsletter Sign Up Now for the Europe for Visitors newsletter! See Online Courses   Search Europe for Visitors Location map showing Salamanca, Spain James Martin Stay up to date! Location map showing Salamanca, Spain James Martin Email to a friend Print this page Spain Resources Spain Map and Travel Essentials Spain Links Eating in Spain Salamanca and Environs Castilla y Leon Travel Links Salamanca Picture Gallery Salamanca on the Web Salamanca Festivals Salamanca Museums Most Popular Europe Map - Distances Between Cities in Western Europe Europe's Best Nudist Beaches Europe Picture Galleries Italy Pictures Europe Travel 101 - Before You Travel to Europe for the Firs... What's Hot Power Adapters Noord-Holland - Delights of North Holland Travel Visiting Pompeii Italy Guidebooks Naples - Getting There Related Topics France for Visitors Greece for Visitors United Kingdom / Ireland for Visitors Eastern Europe for Visitors Italy for Visitors Salamanca Spain - Travel and Tourism Information Spain Travel Destination From James Martin , Your Guide to Europe for Visitors . FREE Newsletter. Sign Up Now! Location of Salamanca:  Salamanca is located in the southwest corner of Castile y Leon region of Spain, in the western part of Spain near Portugal. The old part of the city is found south of the modern city, on the banks of the Rio Tormes. Salamanca is 212 km west of Madrid. Population:  Salamanca has 363,000 people. Salamanca - Train Station:  Salamanca's train station, called the Paseo de la Estación de Ferrocarril, is located northwest of the old town. To get to the old section from the train station, exit and walk left on the Paseo de la Estacion. Just past the Plaza de Espana is the old city. Salamanca - Bus Station:  The main bus terminal is at Av. Filiberto Villalobos, northwest of the old town. Busses from Madrid, Avila, Zamora, Valladolid, León, and Cáceres use this station. Language:  The language spoken is Spanish, of course. Being a university town, you'll have no problem using English. In fact, it's hard to find a restaurant in Salamanca that doesn't have a menu in English with pictures of the food, a bad sign, usually. There are many language schools in Salamanca; it's an ideal place to study Spanish if you're so inclined. Food and Drink in Salamanca:  Roasts are popular--you'll see cabrito (young goat) and Cochinillo (suckling pig). Besides the Spaniards who've come here to study, Moors and Jews have left their mark on the cuisine of Salamanca--a very wide variety of dishes are available. There are many bars where you can enjoy tapas or pinchos, small bits of appetizers you have with a beer or glass of wine. Tourist Information:  You'll find tourist information in the Plaza Mayor and in the Casa de las Conchas. Festivals in Salamanca:  The most interesting sounding festival, it seems to me, would be the Lenten festival of Lunes de Aguas, the Monday of the Waters, where the women of ill repute are sent from Salamanca out to La Salud de Tejares to pass Lent, returning of the Monday of Quasimodo. People of Salamanica waited for their return at the Roman bridge with Easter cakes. How can you restist? See the festival links in the upper right for more. When to go to Salamanca:  Spring and fall are ideal. Summer temperatures run above 40 degrees C many days, and winter November through March can be quite cold. What to do in Salamanca:   Cathedrals Old and New - They're right next to each other. The older is Romanesque, begun in 1140, the new one is a sprightly 490 years old, having been started in 1513 and taking 200 years to complete. Southern section of the old town in Plaza Juan XXII. Open daily 9:30am-1pm and 4-7:30pm in the season. The University - I like nothing better than to stroll around the University quarter. It's the oldest in Spain and chock full of interesting architecture and arcades. Have tapas in the Plaza Mayor - It's one of my favorites, so clean that you'll see students sitting and playing chess in the center, while all around people eat, drink and make merry after the sun goes down. Lots of student performances in the evening keep you circulating. Casa de las Conchas - The house of the conch shells is now the Public Library where you can wander around wondering why the US doesn't pay as much attention to aesthetics as other folks in their public buildings. Dating from the 15th century it was considered one of the most representative constructions of the times of the Catholic King and Queen. The Monasteries - Near the cathedral along the Gran Via you can visit several monasteries, including the Convento y Museo de las Duenas, a 16th century building with cloister. There are 15 Museums in Salamanca, where you can see exhibits ranging from Art Deco to Fine Arts to religion. But mostly, this is a fine walking town, from the Roman bridge over the river to the Plaza Mayor, which may likely be the most compelling in Spain. Take a virtual tour of Salamanca with our Salamanca Picture Gallery .        Topic Index | Email to a Friend Our Story | Be a Guide | Advertising Info | Work at About | Site Map | Icons | Help User Agreement | Ethics Policy | Patent Info. | Privacy Policy | Kids' Privacy Policy ©2005 About, Inc., A part of the New York Times Company . All rights reserved. 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Argentina Travel

Travel: Argentina Travel Notes -- Argentina Regions Round The World Flights - Free TravelNotes e-mail Travel Notes : Latin America : Argentina @ Travel Notes : Argentina Regions -- Booking Engine Vacation Finder Latin America @ Travel Notes Argentina Belize Bolivia Brazil Caribbean Chile Colombia Costa Rica Ecuador El Salvador Falklands Fr. Guiana Guatemala Guyana Honduras Mexico Nicaragua Panama Paraguay Peru Sth. Georgia Suriname Uruguay Venezuela Around Argentina Argentina is a diverse country with plenty to see and do, even for the most jaded of seen it all travellers. Beaches, giant water falls in tropical rainforests, skiing in the Andes, horseriding on the Pampas, or watching whales and penguins off the tip of Patagonia . All you need in Argentina is time. Travel and Leisure : The Buenos Aires Herald's travel section, covering Argentina and beyond. Virtual Argentina : General information on places of interest around Argentina. Iguaz National Park The area extends on both sides of the River Iguaz and its water falls between Brazil and Argentina. Derived from a Guaran word for great water, the name is Iguau in Portuguese-speaking Brazil. The falls are the centrepiece of the parks. Over 60 m high, the series of falls and cascades stretch for 4 km in the wet season. Visitors can view the base of the falls in Argentina, and the lip in Brazil . The Great Waters Rain Forest : This is the region of the great rivers, of the humid tropics, of the red earth and the magnificent jungle. A virgin jungle full of gigantic trees, and extraordinary flora and fauna. Great Waters, in the Guaran language Iguaz, which overflow with a roar in one of the wonders of the world, the Falls of Iguaz. Pampa Region The Pamas are the vast treeless plains of central Argentina that stretches from the Atlantic coast to the Andes Mountains. The humid Pampa, eastern portion, is one of the most fertile regions in the country. The dry Pampa is the area towards the Andes, a less populated region famous for its horses, and sheep. The name Pampas comes from a Quechua Native American term for flat land or plain. Argentine Ranches : Fancy horseriding on an Argentine estancia? La Pampa -- Land of the Gaucho : La Pampa is a sea of green grass that occupies a quarter of the country. Home of the legendary gaucho, all the romantic fantasies about Argentina are concentrated here. The Andes The great mountain range of the Andes forms the spine of South America. Running almost parallel with the Pacific coast, the Andes stretch for more than 7,000 km -- that's 41/2 thousand miles, from Panama down towards Cape Horn. The highest mountain in the western hemisphere is in the Andes -- Argentina's Aconcagua (6,959 m). South America Touches the Sky : The North-western and the Cuyo are regions of high peaks -- here is the Aconcagua, stone sentinel - snow-capped volcanoes, plateaux, ravines and deserts. Under clear blue sky, small villages let the seasons pass by quietly, only interrupted by the carnivals, Indian markets and the worship of "Pachamama" or Mother Earth who provides maize and the pastures where the llamas and guanacos graze. Mount Aconcagua : The Aconcagua, in the province of Mendoza, is the highest mountain in the Americas. The passes through the Andes are at their highest, steepest, and narrowest in Peru . Arequipa to Puno (4,468 m); Lima to Tarma and Cerro de Pasco (4,804 m). Between Mendoza, Argentina, and Santiago, Chile , the Uspallata Pass, still reaches a staggering 3,900 m. Between Puerto Montt and Bariloche: Crossing the lakes and lower mountain passes of the southern Andes, with a condor flying overhead, beats looking up at hang-gliders in the Alps. Argentina Cities : The major cities in Argentina. Argentinian Patagonia : Patagonia was formerly the name for the southernmost portion of the South American continent, including what is now the southern parts of both Argentina and Chile . Argentina Tours : Adventure travellers have a lot to choose from in Argentina that a tour might help you focus on what to do. Skiing in Argentina : The main ski resorts in Argentina. SightseeingTours, Events and Attractions . Miscellaneous -- Online Reservations Maps & Travel Books : Stanfords is the UK's leading specialist retailer of maps and travel books. 1800-Hostels.com : Budget Accommodation in Latin America. Latin American Directory : Latin America links sorted by country and category. Send @ Postcard Unique images of travel destinations by Travel Notes. Travel Industry : Add Your Tours Add Your Property Latin American Spanish Phrasebook : Most guidebooks have a few words to help you get by but real travellers will need this companion. Learn Spanish . Mailing List Keep up with the latest news @ Travel Notes. Meta-Travel Forums : If you have a question, want to hang out with other travellers, tourists or the natives.... then join Travelnotes in the Meta-Travel forums and share in the global experience. Countries Weather Flights Cars Lodging Specials Contact Meta Flight Tickets : Save money on Round The World flight tickets. Travel News : Get the inside scoop with the latest travel features and tips. Past Articles . Argentina Cities Argentina Culture Argentina Hotels Argentina News Argentina Regions Argentina Skiing Argentina Tourism Argentina Tours Bariloche Buenos Aires Business Corner LearningSpanish Patagonia Local Currency Convert your currency into Argentine pesos. Travel Directory : Latin America : Argentina @ Travel Notes : Argentina Regions -- Add URL Search Travel Notes | Travel Notes | Search Resources | Submit Your Travel Site | Meta-Travel Search | | 1800-Countries | 1800-Casinos | 1800-Cruises | 1800-Olympics | 1800-Worldcup | | Airlines | Airports | 1800-Fly | 1800-Lodging | 1800-RentalCars | Vacation Rentals | | Legal Notice | Travel Articles | Magun's Compass | Advertisers | Online Reservations | The URL for this page is: http://www.travelnotes.org/LatinAmerica/Argentina/argentina_regions.htm

Spain Travel

Tourist Office of Spain - Travel Tips for travel to and within Spain Our Office Useful Addresses How to get there Travel Tips Activities Travel Bulletin Tour Operators' Index Request Information Home Visiting Spain is not only about sun, great cuisine, and a warm welcome, but also its rich monumental heritage and dazzling natural environment. There is a perfect destination for everyone -choose yours. Visit our main Web site: Travel Tips for travel to and within Spain PASSPORT - MONEY - CUSTOMS PASSPORT AND VISA REGULATIONS : No visa for Spain is required for Canadian, US passport holders and nationals of European Unions countries for stays up to 3 months as a tourist. For stays exceeding this period, other nationalities or work permits please contact the Consulate of Spain nearest you. The addresses and telephone numbers of the Spanish Consulates are as follows: Toronto : 200 Front Street, Suite 2401, Toronto, Ont. M5V 3K2. Tel. (416) 977 1661 cgspain.toronto@mail.mae.es Open to the public from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. Montreal : 1 Westmount Sq. Ste 1456, Montreal, P.Q. H3Z 2P9. Tel. (514) 935 5235 consular@total.net Open to the public from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday to Friday. For more information click here . INOCULATIONS : No inoculations are required when entering or leaving Spain. MONEY: As of January 1st, 2002, the new Spanish currency, as in most European Union countries, is the Euro. The currency will have notes and eight coins. The notes will have face value of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 or 500 euros. The Euro is divided into 100 cents and the coins will range in value from 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents and 1, 2 euros. Tourists may bring up to 6,010.12 euros (approximetly $10,000 Canadian dollars) without declaring the amount at customs. The current rate of exchange varies from week to week. For an updated exchange rate, check with newspapers or banks. Travellers cheques are most practical and Canadian currency can be exchanged at banks, airports, main hotels, etc. In order to get the most for your money, we advise you to buy some euros before leaving (for first day expenses) and exchange the rest of your dollars or travellers cheques at the bank once in Spain (although banking hours might be subject to change, presently they are: Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.) Major credit cards are honoured in most hotels and restaurants, main stores, rent-a-car companies and others, although this should be checked before each transaction. The convenient Interact System can also be used throughout Spain, providing one of the easiest and cheapest ways of obtaining cash abroad; consult with your bank about your particular card and fees. For Currency converter click here . CUSTOMS: You may bring the following into Spain: personal effects, a personal laptop, one video camera or two still cameras with ten rolls of film each. A portable radio or portable tape recorder per person is admitted free of duty, as well as 200 cigarettes, or 50 cigars, or 250 grams of tobacco. One bottle of wine and one of liquor per person. The following sports equipment is also allowed: fishing gear, one bicycle, skis, tennis or squash racquets and golf clubs. PETS: Pets do not need to be held in quarantine prior to entering Spain. A certificate stating that an animal is in good health and has been inoculated against rabies (for dogs and cats) is required. The document must be issued by a veterinarian and certified at the nearest Consulate of Spain. TRANSPORTATION WITHIN SPAIN Railways: Spain has an extensive railroad system with fast and comfortable trains, offering some of the best fares in Europe. The national network is known as RENFE. Internet address: www.renfe.es . One of Europes most luxurious sightseeing trains is the AL ANDALUS EXPRESS with classic cars restored and refurbished in modern "grand luxe" style. There is 5-stars accommodation in the bedroom/salon cars. All excursions and meals are included. The AL ANDALUS EXPRESS have several itineraries, although it usually goes from Madrid south to Andalusia. The TRANSCANTABRICO, another sightseeing train, covers the northern and north-western parts of Spain know as Green Spain, from San Sebastian in the Basque region to Santiago de Compostela in Galicia. The train is air-conditioned and has showers, a bar and live music. All excursions and meals are included. AVE, Spains sleek bullet train, is the rail link between Madrid and Seville, going through Ciudad Real and Cordoba. This ultramodern train, which travels at a speed of up to 185 miles per hour, makes the Madrid-Seville run in 2 hours 30 minutes. TALGO is an ultramodern, fully air-conditioned train operating throughout Spain. New fast and sleek trains called EUROMEDS are going along the Mediterranean Coast, significantly cutting your travelling time from Barcelona to Valencia. Tickets can be purchased through RAIL EUROPE: 1-800-361 RAIL , which sells special rail passes only for Spain. Train Passes, such as EUROPASS and FLEXIPASS can also be purchased through RAIL EUROPE. Buses: Public bus service in Spain is comfortable and efficient. Although there are many lines which cover long distances, buses are specially recommended for short trips and for excursions from major tourist centres. Local tourist offices can provide you with schedule information. Ships: Travellers who wish to visit the Spanish Islands may depart from the mainland using the COMPAIA TRANSMEDITERRANEA. this national carrier has regular scheduled ferries from Barcelona and Valencia to the Balearic Islands and from Cadiz to the Canary Islands. TRANSMEDITERRANEA also offers inter-island service. The same company offers service to North Africa: from Almeria and Malaga to Melilla and from Algeciras to Tangiers and Ceuta. For reservations please call the headquarters in Madrid. Tel. : 011-341-431-0700, fax: 011-34- 431- 0804. Website: http://www.trasmediterranea.es Modern Hydrofoil ships are now linking Mainland Spain to the Balearic Islands, Algeciras to Tangier and between the Canary Islands. Inquire in our Office for more details about ferries. Driving in Spain: In order for Canadians to drive in Spain, they must: Have an International Driving Licence Be 18 years of age or older Be a tourist Traffic Offences: On the spot payment of fines (reduced by 20%) is compulsory for non-residents. Taxis: All major cities in Spain have metered taxi service. Any extra charges must be posted in the vehicle. For further information click here . ACCOMMODATION There are more than 10,000 hotel accommodations in Spain. They are divided into several categories, among them Hotels, Residence-Hotels, Apartment-Hotels, Motels and Pensions. All of them have a plaque at the entrance showing their official category, from one to five stars. Establishment classified, as "Residence-Hotels" does not provide meals. Official forms are available at hotels and any complaint concerning service may be registered. PARADORES DE ESPAA is a state-run network of hotels. Many of them are castles, convents, or palaces restored and furnished with every modern amenity. Most of them are scenically located. Reservations can be made directly to: Central of Reservations in Madrid, Tel: 011 34 91 5166666 and the fax: 011 34 91 516657/8 - Web site: http://www.parador.es For further information please visit Tourism Spain main Web site or contact our Tourist Office in Canada. New representatives in Canada: Adsum Tourism Services 4159 Dundas St. West, Suite 218 Toronto, ON M8X 1Y4 Phone : 416-237-1930 Fax: 416-237-9212 paradores-ca@adsum.ws Apartments and Villas: There are many for rent, especially along the coastal resort areas. It is advisable to stay a few days at a hotel or pension and look around for a suitable place. Prices can vary according to the season, area or location. An Official Guide to Apartment-Hotels can be obtained from the Tourist Office. Call us for a list of addresses. Camping: Spains excellent campsites can be found along the coast, on the islands, as well as in scenic areas. Campings are also classified under a star rating system which can be obtained from the Tourist Office. Rural Tourism: A magnificent alternative to visit the real Spain off the beaten track. Accommodation in traditional country farms is available all over Spain and most of then offer complementary activities such as horseback riding, bicycling, etc. OTHER INFORMATION Taxes: A 7% VAT is to be added to rates for all restaurants and hotel rooms. Service is included. Getting your VAT back: Travellers to Spain are entitled to a reimbursement of the 16% VAT tax they pay on all purchases as long as these add up to no less than 90.16 euros (approximately $150) per store. The vendor must provide the purchaser with a duly filled out invoice, which includes the price of each good, the VAT paid for each item, as well as the identification for both the vendor and purchaser. The goods must be brought out of Spain whitin three months. At the time of departure, the invoice must be submitted to the Spanish Customs Officer in charge of VAT refunds at the international port, gate or airport (there is a specific booth for this purpose just prior to the entrance to the international area). The Customs Officer will stamp the original copy, which should be turned in at a bank in the airport for reimbursement. Tipping: Service is generally included in the bill. Tips are at your own discretion, although a 10% tip is customary. Language: Castilian (Spanish) in the whole territory. Catalan, Basque (Euskera) and Galician in their respective autonomous regions. English is usually spoken in the tourist areas along the Mediterranean coast as well as French, although a booklet with the most common phrases in Spanish is always helpful. Electric Current: 220 volts (50 cycles) are commonly used in Spain, although 110 still exist in some areas. Round prong plugs are used in all outlets. Standard Canadian plugs will not fit into Spanish outlets. Bullfights: The season starts in March and runs until the middle of October. Shopping in Spain: This is not only an exciting venture but also practical as Spain offers today some of the best prices on many articles. Spain has a long tradition in making leather goods (shoes, luggage, bags, coats, dresses gloves, etc.), clothing (original fashion designers or ready-made), embroidery and lace; jewellery (classical or modern designs, as well as artisan gold and silver works); blown glass, pottery, antiques (some of the antique galleries in Madrid, Barcelona or Seville are among the best in Europe); furniture; interior decorating items (the famous Lladro porcelains, iron grille designs, silver and other metals such as candelabra, trays, bowls, etc.); toys; musical instruments (Spanish guitars are know to be the best in the world). Madrid and Barcelona are of course the major cities for shopping. In Madrid, the main commercial areas are: the Goya, Principe de Vergara and Serrano districts for exclusive fashions; Narvaez, Conde de Penalver and the old downtown area of Puerta del Sol, Alcala, Gran Via, Carretas and Arsenal, a place also to find major Department stores. A must is the Sunday flea market of El Rastro, where you can find anything from a hatpin to a masterpiece. In Barcelona, Paseo de Gracia and Diagonal for elegant shopping; the Ramblas and Plaza de Catalunya for almost anything; and the area around the church of Sta. Maria de los Reyes for antique galleries. Other excellent areas for shopping are tourist centres, such as Torremolinos and Marbella in Costa del Sol, Benidorm in Costa Blanca, Playa de Aro in the Costa Brava, Palma de Mallorca and Ibiza in the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands (mainly Tenerife and Gran Canaria) specially, since they are duty-free ports. Shopping Hours: Although big department stores are open from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday, most shops keep traditional business hours, approximately 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Some stores are open on Sunday. Museums: The standard hours are Tuesday to Saturday from 9:a.m. to 7:00 p.m.. Sundays and holidays from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., but check with the Tourist Office in Spain nearest you for hours of specific museums. For further information click here . Books and maps on Spain: The Tourist Office of Spain supplies maps, brochures and information circulars free of charge. Persons wishing further information may obtain additional guides and maps at retail stores or, in Spain, from local tourist offices. Travelling with children: Most hotels make reductions for babies and small children, although there are not official regulations. This matter should be arranged with the hotel management. Baby food and disposable diapers are available at most resorts and are obtainable from supermarkets and pharmacies. Baby-sitting arrangements can usually be made locally. The availability and cost should be checked with the establishment directly or through the booking agent. Health Service: Only members of the European Union enjoy free medical assistance under the Spanish Health Service during their stay. You are advised to take out adequate holiday insurance. This is available at your local bank or from most tour operators and travel agents. Although there are multilingual doctors in the tourist areas, those requiring special treatment or diets are advised to carry a letter from their doctor translated into Spanish, indicating the nature of the condition, treatment and medicines required. Special dietary products are available from health shops and pharmacies. Telephoning Home: Canada Direct, offered by Canada's major telecommunications companies, provides travellers with toll-free and hassle-free access to the Canadian telephone network. The Canada Direct access number from Spain is 9000-99-0015 where a Canadian operator is always available. For more information, call 1-800-561-8868 or on the Internet: ( www.canada-direct.com ) Radio Canada International: Radio Canada International ( RCI ) broadcasts on short-wave in Spain. For a schedule of times and frequency of broadcasts, check the RCI web site ( www.rcinet.ca ). You may also e-mail RCI at rci@montreal.radio-canada.ca or call ( 514 ) 597 7555 Casinos: Gambling is legal in Spain. There are 22 casinos in operation. Lists are available upon request. Public Holidays: January 1, New Years Day January 6 Good Friday March 19 May 1, Labour Day August 15, Feast of the Assumption October 12, Spains National Day November 1, All Saints December 6, Constitution Day December 25, Christmas day Each of the 17 Autonomous Regions and Municipalities in Spain has extra official public holidays celebrated only within its boundaries. Important Web site address: (in English) General information: www.tourspain.es IBERIA: www.iberia.com/ibusa RENFE: www.renfe.es PARADORES: www.parador.es SPANISH EMBASSY IN CANADA: www.docuweb.ca/SpainInCanada/ Information on Commercial matters: Please contact the Commercial Office of Spain at: 55 Bloor Street West, Toronto, Tel.. (416) 967-0488. e-mail: buzon.oficial@toronto.ofcomes.mcx.es THE CLIMATE IN SPAIN SPRING is an ideal time to visit the central regions of Castile, Andalusia, the Mediterranean Coast and the Balearic Islands. The climate is generally very good, but expect occasional rain. SUMMER is a good season to visit the northern regions, especially the resorts along the Cantabrian Coast, from Hondarribia on the French-Spanish border to La Guardia at the Portuguese-Spanish frontier. FALL is perhaps the best season of the year to visit the entire country. The climate is excellent, with sunny days and blue skies. WINTER is a good season for the Mediterranean regions, particularly the Costa del Sol, Alicante (Costa Blanca) and the Balearic Islands. The high mountain ranges offer excellent conditions for winter sports. The Canary Islands have an even and pleasant climate all year round. For further information click here . Site Content Our Office Useful addresses Travel Bulletin Travel Tips Activities Tour operators index How to get there Information request Home page ACTIVITIES Cultural: Spain has a very intense cultural life; opera, ballet and concerts can be enjoyed in the major cities - Madrid and Barcelona have their opera, ballet and concert season. Spanish theatre is very popular with more than 30 theatres in Madrid playing daily. There are also the famous "Fiestas". Every city, town and village has its own, usually commemorating their patron saint, including bullfighting, folklore dances, outdoors fairs and events. Larger cities often include ballets, plays and flamenco spectacles. For dates and information please contact our Office. For further information click here . Gastronomy and Restaurants: Food in Spain is taken very seriously. Dining is an indispensable ingredient, in the countrys ebullient social lifestyle. Meals are long and leisurely, providing an opportunity to enjoy good company freshly prepared dishes, and fine wines, such as the world-famous Riojas. Lunch is the big meal of the day and is generally served between 2:00 and 4:00 p.m. Dinner is traditionally served between 9:00 and 11:00 p.m. Vertical forks (from one to five) rate restaurants on a plaque outside the entrance. Prices must be listed both inside and outside the establishment. Ask for the tourist menu, usually an all- included meal very reasonably priced according to the category of the restaurant. Spanish cuisine is based on the healthy Mediterranean diet. Prized Spanish olive oil, garlic, fresh daily produce and wine are the staples. The striking cultural contrasts between regions in Spain are reflected in the tremendous variety of cooking styles. The central plateau of Castile is known for its delicious roasts: lamb, kid, suckling pig, and game such as partridge. Try the garlic soup, hearty bean stews, and famous Manchego cheeses. Valdepeas and Ribera del Duero make exceptional red wines. Catalans are very inventive cooks, combining game and poultry with seafood, and savoury meats with sweet sauces of dried fruits and nuts. Basque cooking is considered the most sophisticated and innovative in Spain. The city of San Sebastian is exemplary, with many restaurants serving some of the finest food in Europe. Traditional cuisine is at its best in fish and shellfish. The north-western region of Galicia is Spains source of a wide variety of fresh shellfish, and delicacies such as barnacles and spider crab. Try the octopus accompanied by the famous Albario and Ribeiro wines. Andalusia is home to the refreshing gazpacho and garlic-almond soup, delicious olives, and world-famous Sherries. The rice fields of Valencia gave birth to the paella as well as a wide variety of excellent rice dishes. Spains greatest contribution to gastronomy may well be the tapas. These little portions of regional specialities are served in restaurants and bars throughout Spain and are generally accompanied by wine, beer or sangria. 2004 Tourist Office of Spain in Canada 2 Bloor West, Toronto, ON, M4W 3E2 Tel.: (416) 961-3131, Fax.: (416) 961-1992 E-mail: toronto@tourspain.es Developed by DesignByBaxter This web page last updated: Wednesday, May 25, 2005