Passports / Visas
A valid passport is required to travel abroad; please check your passport's expiration date. U.S. and European Union residents do not require a visa in order to enter Spain or Gibraltar (U.K. territory). Citizens of other countries will need to acquire a visa from the Spanish and British consulates in their countries of residence prior to the trip. Processing of visa applications can take weeks, so plan accordingly.

Climate
Southern Spain is typically quite hot during the summer months, with temperatures reaching between 85-100 degrees F during the daytime. Sunscreen is highly recommended, along with a brimmed hat or cap. Rain is rare in the summer. Temperatures are moderate (60-70 degrees F) in the Spring and Fall. Travelers should pack light cotton clothes that conform to basic Islamic modesty, along with a light sweater or jacket for cool evenings.

Time
Spain is 6 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time and 9 hours ahead of Pacific Standard Time in the United States.

Money / Currency
The basic unit of Spanish currency is the Euro, which replaced the Spanish peseta (abbreviated pta.) several years ago. Currently, one U.S. dollar is equivalent to about .68 Euros, whereas five years ago it was worth about .93 Euros. Unfortunately, the spending power of the dollar has declined.

It is best to convert some currency at the Madrid airport upon arrival. Banks are also good places to convert currency, and their rates vary slightly but are usually acceptable. Avoid converting currency at a hotel, where rates are not competitive.

Traveler's Checks are useful, but largely unnecessary nowadays. ATM machines are plentiful in Spain; they may offer good exchange rates, but check with your bank regarding any foreign ATM transaction fees before considering this option. When you use your ATM card with your pin, you will receive Euros from the machine, and you can withdraw as much or as little as you need, up to the daily limit.

VISA and Mastercard are accepted at many restaurants and shops. American Express and Diner's Club may also be used at many places.

Tipping: In Spain the government requires restaurants and hotels to include their service charges (usually 15%). However, you should leave a modest tip for waiters and maids. The following are some guidelines: hotel porters should receive .50 Euros per bag, maids should be given 1 Euro per day, taxi drivers may be tipped 10% of the fare displayed on the meter.

Phone / E-mail
You may purchase an international phone card in the United States or other home country before departing on your trip. You can also purchase international phone cards in Spain from any convenience store or kiosk. These cards may be used to phone family and friends back in the U.S. or elsewhere. Avoid making phone calls from your hotel room, as surcharges are exorbitant. You may also wish to bring a GSM cell phone and purchase a local SIM card to make and receive calls.

To dial Spain from another country, first dial the international long distance code (011), then the country code (34), followed by the 9-digit number. To make an international call from Spain, dial 07, followed by the country code, the area code, and the telephone number.

For internet access and e-mail, there are many cyber-cafes in Spain. Expect to pay about $3.00-$5.00 per hour of usage. Prior to embarking on the trip, participants may wish to establish a web-based e-mail account (Hotmail, Yahoo, etc.), photo-sharing account, or blog page to facilitate easy communication with family and friends.

What to Pack (recommended checklist):

Health Insurance / Medical Facilities
All participants on the program should be covered by a health insurance policy or purchase traveler's health insurance. Please note that IslamiCity cannot be responsible for any medical or healthcare needs and costs. Medical facilities are generally quite good in Spain, and free or fee-for-service clinics are accessible. Pharmacies are abundant in the major cities. In case of emergency, the number to call is 006.

Electricity
In Spain, most hotels have 220 volts AC (50 cycles). You will need an adapter if you only have 110 volt electrical appliances. Most laptops and video camera battery chargers have a converter built in and can be used without the need for an external voltage adapter. You will however still need to use the correct plug adapter to connect your device to the wall outlet. Please note that IslamiCity cannot be liable for any loss or theft of electronic devices or other valuables that you choose to bring with you.

Safety Tips
Violent crime is very rare in Spain, but pickpockets and purse snatchers may be found in crowded or touristy areas. It is best to go out and explore in small groups during free time, rather than alone. You can reach the Tour Director by cell phone in case of any emergency.