Russia Travel

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Europe) Germany Greece Guam Guatemala Guyana Hawaii Himalayas Holland Honduras Hong Kong Hotels General News Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Israel Italy Japan Jordan Korea Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Lao PDR Latvia, Estonia Lebanon Libya Macau Macedonia Malaysia Maldives Malta Mauritius Mexico Middle East General Monaco Mongolia Morocco Nepal New Zealand Oman Outer Space Pakistan Palestine Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Qatar Romania Russia Saudi Arabia Scandinavia Scotland Seniors Travel Singapore Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands South Africa South America South Pacific Spa Resorts Spain Sri Lanka Switzerland Syria Tahiti Taiwan Thailand Tibet Travel Advisory Travel Industry Info Turkey Ukraine United States United States Central United States East United States North United States NorthEast United States NorthWest United States South United States SouthEast United States SouthWest United States West Uzbekistan Vietnam Wales View All Wed Dec 28, 2005 Cultural events 2006 in Kyrgyzstan The following cultural events will be organized in Kyrgyzstan. March 21 Nooruz (sometimes called Muslims New Year) - National holiday, with folklore representations; dramatized processions and horse games. - Bishkek More... Thu Dec 15, 2005 Courtyard by Marriott Reaches 100,000-Room Milestone With Opening of 218-Room Hotel in Moscow Courtyard by Marriott, Marriott International's (NYSE:MAR) moderately-priced lodging brand, reached the 100,000-room milestone today as the 218-room Courtyard by Marriott Moscow City Center opened within a 10-minute walk from the Kremlin. It is the first Courtyard by Marriott hotel in Russia. More... Tue Oct 18, 2005 Great success of the 1st MICE Workshop & Conference in Moscow MICE Mocow, the first MICE conference & workshop on the Russian market, took place one day before the well established tourism trade fair Otdykh-Leisure. 112 participants from 31 countries and more than 400 trade visitors attended MICE Moscow. The event was such a success that the Viennese organiser MSI Fairs & Exhibitions decided to organise an exhibition alongside the conference next year. MICE Moscow 2006, the International Trade Fair for Business Travel, will take place from 19 21 September simultaneously with the 12th edition of Otdykh-Leisure. More... Tue Sep 27, 2005 Russia's Middle Classes Trip Out Russias emerging middle-class is driving annual growth rates of more than 7% in outbound travel, according to a new Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) report entitled Total Tourism Russia. PATAs Strategic Intelligence Centre. (SIC) launched the executive summary of the report today at a PATA Travel Mart 2005 educational workshop entitled Russias Potential. More... Thu Aug 04, 2005 Swissotel Opens in Moscow After a year of eager anticipation from the public, Swissotel Krasnye Holmy Moscow opened on 18 July 2005. More... Wed Jan 26, 2005 Moscow International Travel Workshop offers opportunities with the Russian Travel Industry If you are looking for business from the rapidly growing Russian travel market the best way to make direct contact with Russian travel trade professionals is at the Moscow International Travel Workshop on February 10th. More... Fri Dec 17, 2004 To Russia With Grandtravel - Cosmonaut Training Center, KGB Headquarters And St. Petersburgs Hermitage Are Highlights Lunch with a Russian cosmonaut, a glimpse at the world of espionage at KGB headquarters in Moscow, shopping in Russias largest department store, a hydrofoil trip across the Bay of Finland and a tour of Catherine the Greats Winter Palace and Hermitage Museum are just a few highlights of Grandtravels new program to Russia. The 10-day White Nights and A Red Square, adventure with two summer departures, July 12-21 and August 2-11, 2005. Grandparents and grandchildren split their time between the city of the tsars, St. Petersburg, and Moscow, the capital, exploring the diversity of Russias past, present and future. More... Tue Aug 10, 2004 MICE Russia completely sold out The first edition of MICE Russia, to be held 21st September 2004 at Ararat Park Hyatt, Moscow, has not only completely sold out two months prior to the event but there is a waiting list for participation. An impressive list of players from the business travel industry will convene in Moscow for the event as demand soars above all expectations, highlighting the tremendous potential of the Russian MICE market. More... Wed Aug 04, 2004 Visit Santa on a Magical Christmas Journey to the Arctic Circle and Russia Visit Santa Claus, his elves, and his reindeer, too, at the North Pole on an exciting pre-Christmas adventure to Russia and Lapland. Children and grandchildren will never forget giving Santa their Christmas list in person at the North Pole. Shop at a Christmas market in Helsinki, and see a ballet performed at the birthplace of the Nutcracker Ballet, the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg. Join Beyond Boundaries Travel for this Magical Santa Claus Tour December 16-23, 2004. Prices start at $1549 for children, exclusive of airfare, for this 7-day/6-night delightful family adventure. More... Tue Aug 03, 2004 TUI Enters Russian Market - Joint Venture With Mostravel TUI AG, Europe's leading travel group, has entered the Russian tour operator market. TMR (TUI Mostravel Russia), a joint venture of TUI and Russian tour operator Mostravel, starts work on 1 August 2004. TUI will initially have 34 percent share. TUI can acquire a further 17 percent in a second phase from 2006, boosting its holding in TMR to a 51 percent majority. Mostravel will transfer its entire operations, business and employees, into the new company. More... 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Argentina Travel Info: General

Argentina Travel Guide - Argentina Travel Facts Home Travel Facts Argentina Travel Facts Visas: Most foreigners do not need visas and receive free renewable 90-day tourist stamps upon arrival. Time: Eastern Standard Time(EST) plus one or two hours; Argentina does not observe daylight-saving time. Weights & Measures: Distances and measures are usually metric, but rural areas may use the "legua" (league, about 5 km). Weights are measured in kilograms (1kg = 2.2 pounds). Electricity: 220V, 50Hz. Argentina uses the European two prong and the Australian slanted plugs on most wall electrical outlets. Taxes: The sales tax, known as IVA, is 21%. When reserving a hotel, that tax is sometimes not mentioned, so double-check the final price before you book. Telephones: The country code for Argentina is 54. Every region has its own area code with Buenos Aires mainly using the '11' area code, and sometimes the '15' area code for cell phones. Cellular Telephones: Many locals have mobile phones in Argentina and a few companies rent out cell phones for short-term use.If you have a tri-band world phone it will work in Buenos Aires and most parts of Argentina. Holidays observed in Argentina January 1: New Year's Day March or April: Good Friday, Easter May 1: Labour Day May 25: Anniversary of the First National Government June 20: Day of the Flag July 9: Independence Day August 17: Anniversary of the Death of General Jose de San Martin October 12: Christopher Columbus Day December 25: Christmas Day Get the most from your Argentine vacation. Let the travel professionals at AR Tourism arrange the perfect vacation for you, while saving you money and eliminating the inconvenience of handling overseas arrangements. AR Tourism - Argentina Vacation Travel Agency Argentina Regions | Patagonia | Iguazu Falls | Perito Moreno, Calafate Buenos Aires Guide | Side-Trips | Recoleta | City Center Argentina Golfing Guide | Argentina Skiing Guide Sitemap © 2005 AR Tourism, LLC FOR MORE INFO: eMail: info@allaboutar.com Introduction to Argentina Travel Info: General Information Transportation Travel Facts Safety Planning a Trip Argentina: Buenos Aires Regions in Argentina Sports Activities People & Culture Argentine Tango History of Argentina Other Stuff: About Us Links

vacation rentals. We have

Florida Vacations .com #1 Site for Florida Vacation Rentals Advertise Links Home Welcome to the #1 Site for Florida Vacations Florida Vacations is vacation rentals. We have the largest selection of florida homes for rent on the planet, all directly from property owners. No discount packages can beat the price or comfort of our vacation rentals in florida. These florida vacation rentals are perfect for the florida keys, golf vacations and orlando florida. Whether you are looking for a hot florida vacation or one of the many relaxed florida vacation spots, our villas and condos all along the 787 miles of florida beaches stretch from destin florida all the way down to the florida keys. No other site can provide you with better discount florida vacations. Gulf Coast North West Alligator Point Apalachicola Blue Mountain Beach Cape San Blas Carillon Beach Carrabelle Cedar Key Chattahoochee Crestview DeFuniak Springs Destin Dunnellon Fort Walton Beach Freeport Grayton Beach Gulf Breeze Holiday Isle Inlet Beach Laguna Beach Mexico Beach Milton Miramar Beach Monticello Navarre Navarre Beach Niceville Okaloosa Island Old Town Orange Beach Panama City Panama City Beach Pensacola Pensacola Beach Perdido Key Perry Port St Joe Rosemary Beach Sandestin Santa Rosa Beach Seacrest Beach Seagrove Beach Seaside Shell Point Sopchoppy St George Island St Marks Steinhatchee Suwannee Tallahassee WaterColor Yankeetown Central West Anna Maria Island Apollo Beach Aripeka Belleair Beach Belleair Bluffs Bradenton Citrus Springs Clearwater Clearwater Beach Crystal River Dunedin Gulfport Hernando Beach Holiday Homosassa Homosassa Springs Hudson Indian Rocks Beach Indian Shores Isla del Sol Largo Lido Key Longboat Key Madeira Beach New Port Richey Nokomis North Port North Redington Beach Oldsmar Osprey Palm Harbor Palmetto Port Richey Redington Beach Redington Shores Riverview Ruskin/Sun City Safety Harbor Sand Key Sarasota Seminole Siesta Key Spring Hill St Pete Beach St Petersburg Tampa Tarpon Springs Tierra Verde Treasure Island Venice Weeki Wachee South West Boca Grande Bonita Beach Bonita Springs Cape Coral Cape Haze Cape Sable Captiva Island Charlotte Harbor Don Pedro Island Englewood Estero Everglades City Fort Myers Fort Myers Beach Gasparilla Island Gulf Cove Isles of Capri Lehigh Acres Lemon Bay Little Gasparilla Island Manasota Key Marco Island Naples North Captiva Island North Fort Myers Palm Island Pine Island Port Charlotte Punta Gorda Rotonda Sanibel Island Central/Florida Keys Disney/Orlando Area Disney Area Kissimmee Orlando Davenport Clermont Haines City Central Florida Altamonte Springs Apopka Arcadia Astor Auburndale Avon Park Brooksville Clermont Cross Creek Dade City Davenport De Bary De Land Deltona Disney Area Eustis Floral City Fort White Gainesville Haines City High Springs Inverness Keystone Heights Kissimmee Lady Lake Lake Helen Lake Placid Lake Wales Lake Weir Lakeland Leesburg Mount Dora Ocala Okeechobee Orange Springs Orlando Plant City Sebring Summerfield Tavares Umatilla Wauchula Welaka Williston Winter Garden Winter Haven YeeHaw Junction Zephyrhills Florida Keys Big Pine Key Cudjoe Key Duck Key Grassy Key Islamorada Key Colony Beach Key Largo Key West Little Torch Key Long Key Marathon Ramrod Key Sugarloaf Key Summerland Key Tavernier Atlantic Coast North East Amelia Island Atlantic Beach Fernandina Beach Flagler Beach Green Cove Springs Jacksonville Jacksonville Beach Lake City Matanzas Neptune Beach Palatka Palm Coast Ponte Vedra Beach St Augustine St Augustine Beach Central East Bunnell Cape Canaveral Cocoa Cocoa Beach Daytona Beach Daytona Beach Shores Edgewater Fort Pierce Hutchinson Island Indialantic Indian Harbour Beach Jensen Beach Melbourne Melbourne Beach Merritt Island New Smyrna Beach Ormond Beach Ormond by the Sea Palm Bay Palm City Ponce Inlet Port St Lucie Satellite Beach Sebastian South Hutchinson Island Stuart Titusville Vero Beach South East Aventura Boca Raton Boynton Beach Coconut Creek Coral Gables Coral Springs Deerfield Beach Delray Beach Fort Lauderdale Golden Beach Hallandale Highland Beach Hobe Sound Hollywood Homestead Juno Beach Jupiter Key Biscayne Lake Worth Lauderdale-by-the-Sea Miami Miami Beach North Palm Beach Palm Beach Palm Beach Gardens Pembroke Pines Pompano Beach Singer Island Sunny Isles Beach Surfside Tequesta Wellington West Palm Beach Weston Wilton Manors We are the #1 site for florida vacations with our thousands of florida vacation rentals and florida vacation homes. Florida Vacations and Mexico Vacations are publications and trademarks of Media Insights, Inc. ©1997-2005 All Rights Reserved

south america Travel Help,

south america Travel Help | south america Travel Tips & Advice | Travellerspoint U sername: P assword: R emember Me Car Hire Travel Insurance Airport Parking UK Cheap Accommodation Hotel Bookings Travellerspoint Travel Community Forums Blogs Destinations Accommodation Travel Help Reunions Tools Links south america Travel Help, Advice & Tips Travel Help south america Travel Help Ask these Travel Helpers for information about the south america region or select a country to find a Travel Helper for that specific country. Please remember that these Travel Helpers provide information on a volunteer basis and when they take the time to help you that a thank you is highly appreciated! Argentina Bolivia Brazil Cayman Is. Chile Colombia Dominica Ecuador Guyana Paraguay Peru Surinam Uruguay Venezuela aaron chan [abearc] User Profile Log in to ask aaron about south america I have worked as a guide in South America since 1995. Feel free to ask me any questions you might have. Erica Keith [luvtravel] User Profile Log in to ask Erica about south america I am a travel agent and have sent many clients to South America. I am fluent in Spanish and am familiar with not only the tourism side of the continent, but also its customs, culture and history. Geoge Foster [georged1] User Profile Log in to ask Geoge about south america I am aformer south america tour leader (for over 5 years). I have traveled all around excepting venezuela and colombia (Wich I visited but never professionaly traveled) I still travel regularly to South America for business reasons... hope i can be of help Jackson Lima [Pluriacqua] User Profile Log in to ask Jackson about south america People planning to visit South America and need information I will always know something that can be of help to them like hotels, bus lines to wierd or far-away places mainly in Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay and border areas. Since I live on the border I have access to three countries. Would you like to go from Iguassu Falls to the Amazon by bus? Or to Patagonia, I can help with reservations, contacts and so on. jose bogado [calethai] User Profile Log in to ask jose about south america Living in Argentina. Used to work in a Tour Operator. Knowledgement of all southamerica. Joshua Feyen [findemundo] User Profile Log in to ask Joshua about south america I spend 12 months independent traveling throughout South America (NOT Brazil, Venezuela or Colombia). I speak Spanish and took several opportunities to get off the "Gringo Trail." Would like to help people interested in doing the same. Lindsay Simmonds [Loopy] User Profile Log in to ask Lindsay about south america living in bolivia since august 2004. very recent travels in la paz, lago titticaca, el choro trail, sorata to rurre by bike/boat, potosi, sucre, tarija, tupiza, trinidad, santa cruz. hablar un poco de espanol. Lucy Clitherow [Lucyc55] User Profile Log in to ask Lucy about south america I lived in South America for nearly 3 years, and worked for a travel agency. I can help especiially with Columbia, Ecuador, Costa Rica, and Brasil. Luz light [luz22] User Profile Log in to ask Luz about south america by living in buenos aires, argentina i can help you by telling you everything i know about beautiful latin america:)i d just like to be helpful, so if you have any questions, just ask me!!i ll be glad to answer them, it ll be my pleasure... have fun and be sure to enjoy your stay in south america!!!(note that i ve only been to argentina, brazil, chile, uruguay, columbia and paraguay.) marco meneses [marcomenes] User Profile Log in to ask marco about south america I am an experienced nutritionist and manager with a MPH and a Master in Training and Development with fifteen years experience working in emergency relief and strong computer and financial skills. I have worked in Somalia and Sudan (1993- 1994) supervising programs for child survival, water and sanitation, immunizations, and food for work. In Angola (1991- 1992) I trained traditional birth attendants and community health workers in nutrition and primary care and oversaw therapeutic and supplemental feeding programs. I also worked in West Africa ,Central America and Colombia with the U.N. (1985- 1991) supervising food for work programs and refugee camps management with a focus on accessing the most vulnerable populations. I speak Spanish, English and I am familiar with Portuguese and Arabic margarita van beusichem [margaritav] User Profile Log in to ask margarita about south america by giving advice, tips and suggestions Maria Jesus Reinafarje [mjreinafar] User Profile Log in to ask Maria Jesus about south america Telling you my experiences about my trips throughout this regions. Tips and more. Mikko Eerola [meerola] User Profile Log in to ask Mikko about south america I have lived in Cochabamba, Bolivia for a year in 1999-2000 and also during that time traveled in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador and Perú. My wife is Peruvian and has also lived in Ecuador. Together we are happy to share what we know with all travellers interested in the region. We can be contacted in Finnish, English or Spanish. Unfortunately we are oftentimes quite busy with work and other duties, and the response can get delayed. Sorry for that! Please let us know in your question after which date you no longer need the response. Also, please don't request information on formalities such as visas etc. since you should always ask your local embassy or consulate for up-to-date information. Murillo Diniz [murillo] User Profile Log in to ask Murillo about south america I live in São Paulo, Brazil, and love traveling around. I'd love to help anyone who wanted to meet my country or others I've been before, like Bolívia, Peru, Chile, Argentina and Paraguai, as well as others in Europe. Hope meeting someone, somewhere, sometime!!!! © 2002 - 2005 Travellerspoint Travel Community | Contact | FAQ | About | Terms | Site Map

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