Paris and Madrid Travel Tour 553

Paris

Language

• The official language of Paris is French. While many locals speak English, learning a few basic French phrases will be helpful and appreciated.

Time Zone

• Paris is 8 hours ahead of our Salt Lake City mountain time.

Electricity

• Paris uses Type C and E outlets with a standard voltage of 230V. Bring an adapter if your electronics use a different plug type.

Climate

• The climate in Paris varies by season. For example, February sees temperatures ranging from a high of 46°F (8°C) to a low of 37°F (3°C). Be sure to pack accordingly for both rain and cooler weather.

Health

• Medical insurance is recommended but not required for traveling to Paris. Consider getting travel insurance that covers health emergencies.

Currency

• The official currency in Paris is the Euro (€). The exchange rate varies, but as of now, $1 USD is approximately equal to 0.94 Euros.

Transportation

• Paris has an extensive public transportation system, including the Metro, buses, and trams, making it easy to navigate the city. Consider purchasing a Paris Visite pass for unlimited travel on public transport.

Safety

• While Paris is generally safe, be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas. Pickpocketing can occur, especially near major attractions like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre.

Local Cuisine

• Don’t miss trying local delicacies such as escargot, coq au vin, and various cheeses. Many cafés and bistros offer affordable lunch menus, so you can experience traditional French cuisine without breaking the bank.

Cultural Etiquette

• When entering shops or restaurants, it’s customary to greet the staff with “bonjour” (hello) or “bonsoir” (good evening). It's considered polite to say “merci” (thank you) when leaving.

Tipping

• Tipping in Paris is not obligatory, as service charges are included in your bill. However, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated for good service.

Spain

Language

• The official language of Spain is Spanish (Castilian), but regional languages such as Catalan, Galician, and Basque are spoken in specific areas.

Time Zone

• Spain operates on Central European Time (CET), which is 8 hours ahead of Salt Lake City Mountain Time. Keep in mind that Spain observes Daylight Saving Time, so the time difference may vary slightly during certain months.

Electricity

• The power plug sockets used in Spain are Type C and Type F, with a standard voltage of 230V. Be sure to bring a universal adapter if your devices use a different plug type.

Climate

• Spain enjoys a varied climate. The Mediterranean coast (Barcelona, Valencia) has hot summers and mild winters, while inland areas (Madrid) experience more extreme temperatures, with very hot summers and cold winters. The north (Basque Country, Galicia) is cooler and wetter. Always check the weather for your destination and time of travel.

Health

• No vaccinations are required to enter Spain, but it’s recommended to have travel health insurance to cover medical expenses during your stay. The healthcare system in Spain is excellent, and pharmacies are widely available. https://www.travelexinsurance.com/homepage?location=44-0110&go=bp

Tips

• Tipping is appreciated but not required in Spain. In restaurants, it's common to leave a small tip of 5-10% if service was good. In cafes and taxis, rounding up the bill is common.

Currency

• The official currency in Spain is the Euro (EUR). 1 US dollar is approximately equal to 0.94 Euros. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s useful to carry some cash, especially in smaller towns and markets.

Transportation

• Spain has a well-developed transportation system, including trains, buses, taxis, and metro services in major cities like Madrid and Barcelona. The high-speed AVE trains are great for traveling between cities. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Cabify are also available.

Dress Code

• Spain is generally casual, but dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites. In summer, light and breathable clothing is recommended, while in winter, you'll need warmer layers, especially in northern and inland areas.

Safety

• Spain is considered a safe country for travelers. However, be aware of pickpockets in tourist areas, especially in cities like Barcelona and Madrid. Always keep an eye on your belongings, particularly in crowded places and on public transport.

Local Etiquette

• In Spain, greetings involve a handshake or a light kiss on both cheeks (between women, or between men and women). Spaniards tend to dine late, with lunch usually around 2:00 PM and dinner often served after 9:00 PM. When entering shops or restaurants, a friendly "Hola" is appreciated.

National Holidays

• Spain has many national and regional holidays. Notable ones include Semana Santa (Holy Week) in April, La Tomatina (August), and Fiesta Nacional de España (October 12th). Be aware that some holidays may affect business hours and transportation.