Spain, a country located in Southern Europe, is known for its beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and long history. From the stunning beaches of Costa Brava to the grandeur of the Alhambra in Granada, Spain offers many fascinating places that blend tradition and modernity. Cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville are cultural hubs with iconic architecture, extraordinary art, and a vibrant atmosphere.

In addition to its natural beauty and culture, Spain also has some practical aspects that should be known to make your trip smoother. If you're planning a trip to Spain, this guide will provide all the important information you need to know, from visa application procedures to local etiquette and cultural norms that should be respected.

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Indonesian passport holders need a Schengen visa to travel to Spain, unlike the United States and the United Kingdom, where a Schengen visa is not required. However, with this visa, you can not only enter Spain but also visit other Schengen countries. Here’s an overview of the type of Schengen visa you need and the application requirements:

With a Schengen Category C visa, you can travel to Spain for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, business, or family visits.

Steps to obtain a Schengen visa include:

Required documents for the visa application are:

When traveling abroad, including to European countries, you need to ensure that your belongings comply with Spanish regulations. Items such as illegal drugs, weapons, explosives, and products violating intellectual property rights are prohibited. Additionally, Spain restricts the import of certain items such as food, plants, and animal products to prevent disease.

Declaration of Goods and Currency Restrictions in Spain

Upon entering Spain, declare all valuable items at customs to avoid issues. If carrying items exceeding value limits or quotas, such as expensive electronics or jewelry, complete a declaration form and present it to customs officers. Customs duties are typically paid directly at the airport customs office.

Currency Limits

Similar to other Schengen countries, you are allowed to carry up to €10,000 or its equivalent in foreign currency without declaring it at customs. If you bring more than this amount, you are required to report it.

Upon arrival in Spain, you will go through several procedures:

In Spain, respecting local customs is crucial. Formal dress codes are required for events such as dining in restaurants or attending the theater, where neat attire is expected. When visiting places of worship, it is important to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.

Speaking loudly in public or using a mobile phone in restaurants is considered impolite, and respecting queues is a good practice. Generally, tipping 5-10% of the total bill in restaurants is standard, while rounding up the bill is sufficient in bars or cafes.

Spain has strict regulations regarding alcohol consumption, drug use, and public behavior. Here’s an overview:

The legal drinking age in Spain is 18. Alcohol is typically allowed in restaurants and bars, but drinking in other public areas like streets or parks is prohibited as it may disturb public comfort.

The use and possession of illegal drugs in Spain are heavily penalized, including substantial fines. The country takes a strong stance against drug-related offenses.

Spanish laws also regulate public behavior. Smoking in non-designated areas will incur fines. Additionally, littering or violating traffic regulations can lead to penalties. Actions such as speaking loudly in quiet areas or not adhering to local rules can disrupt public order and result in fines. Always adhere to local laws and respect regulations to ensure a safe and pleasant visit to Spain.

Christianity, particularly Roman Catholicism, plays a significant role in daily life and culture in Spain. Many traditions, celebrations, and national holidays are based on the religious calendar, such as Semana Santa (Holy Week) and Fiesta de la Virgen de la Paloma. Although secularization is increasing, religious values still influence social norms and traditions.

Visiting Sacred Sites

When visiting churches or other sacred places, it is important to observe proper etiquette. Avoid wearing revealing clothing such as shorts or sleeveless tops. In some churches, you may be asked to cover your shoulders or head. Refrain from speaking loudly or using your mobile phone, and follow any photography restrictions that may apply.

Customs in Interacting with Locals

Interacting with locals requires sensitivity to their customs. Avoid sensitive topics such as politics or religion unless you know the person very well. Understanding and respecting customs and religious rules will enhance your visit to Spain, making it more enjoyable and problem-free.

The official language in Spain is Spanish (Castellano). Although there are regional languages such as Catalan, Basque, and Galician used in specific areas, Spanish is the primary language for communication across the country.

Useful Basic Phrases:

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Spain, a popular travel destination, offers a wealth of charm and beauty. However, Indonesian travelers should be aware of certain safety and protection issues to ensure a secure journey.

General Safety Concerns

In major cities like Madrid and Barcelona, pickpocketing is a common issue, particularly in crowded areas such as public transport and popular tourist sites. Scams are also a concern, including fraudulent charity collections or unclear offers.

While violent crime rates are relatively low, travelers are advised to remain vigilant about their personal belongings in public places. Stay aware of your surroundings and keep valuables in a secure place.

Indonesian travelers are advised to regularly check updates from the Indonesian Embassy or Consulate in Spain. Registering with the travel registration service can provide important information and support if needed. Additionally, staying alert to your environment and securing valuable items are crucial steps to ensure safety while visiting Spain.

For Indonesian travelers planning a trip to Spain, the following practical tips and advice can help maintain safety and protection during your stay:

Pickpocketing frequently occurs in crowded locations such as public transportation, markets, and tourist attractions. Keep valuables like passports, money, and phones in a secure place, such as a lockable bag or an inaccessible pocket.

Spain has distinct customs, such as dining late into the night. Dress modestly when visiting places of worship or conservative areas to show respect for local traditions.

When using public transportation, always keep an eye on your personal belongings. Opt for reliable transport options and avoid traveling alone at night in poorly lit areas.

Register with the Indonesian Embassy in Madrid or the Indonesian Consulate General in Barcelona. This will facilitate assistance if needed and help you receive the latest information on security and emergency situations.

Ensure you have local emergency contact numbers, such as 112 for general emergencies. Additionally, store the contact details of the Indonesian Embassy and Consulate to facilitate access in case of any issues.

By following these tips, travelers can enjoy their visit to Spain with a sense of safety and comfort. Remaining vigilant and adapting to your surroundings are preventative measures when in crowded or public spaces.

Spain offers high-quality and easily accessible healthcare services for travelers. Here is some essential information regarding access to healthcare in the country.

Spain boasts an excellent healthcare system with hospitals and clinics spread throughout the country. Public hospitals, or hospitales, are generally equipped with modern medical equipment and staffed by professional medical personnel. Local clinics, or centros de salud, provide primary healthcare and consultations. While you don’t need to worry about the quality of healthcare facilities, ensure that your travel insurance covers adequate medical services.

1. Emergency Services

For emergency situations, the phone number to call is 112. This service provides quick access to ambulances and emergency medical services throughout Spain.

2. Clinics and Pharmacies

For non-emergency medical needs, private clinics and pharmacies are readily available. Many pharmacies offer initial consultation services if you need medical advice.

3. Language

Don’t worry if you struggle with Spanish. Most healthcare facilities in major cities like Madrid and Barcelona have staff who speak English. However, in more remote areas, Spanish is the primary language for communication.

Overall, accessing healthcare in Spain is relatively straightforward, with high-quality medical facilities available. Make sure your travel insurance includes emergency services and is active to help you manage any health issues that might arise during your trip.

Travelers are advised to have travel insurance that includes medical coverage. While some hospitals in Spain may accept patients without insurance, medical care can be quite expensive without adequate coverage.

Indonesian travelers planning a trip to Spain should be aware of the vaccinations and health checks required to ensure a safe and compliant journey.

Required Vaccinations

Spain does not mandate specific vaccinations for travelers from Indonesia beyond standard vaccinations such as MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) and Tetanus-Diphtheria. However, it is essential to ensure that basic vaccinations are up to date before traveling, including:

1. Hepatitis A and B

Vaccination against Hepatitis A and B is recommended, particularly if you plan to visit rural areas or have contact with the local healthcare system.

2. Influenza

Influenza vaccination can be beneficial, especially during flu season in Europe, to protect yourself from illnesses that may affect your health during your trip.

Health Checks and Additional Requirements

Prepare your vaccination records and medical information, including vaccination history and allergies, to assist in receiving care in Spain. This helps ensure proper medical supervision during treatment. If you have specific treatments, ensure you have the necessary permissions when traveling.

While Spain has a robust healthcare system, ensuring proper vaccinations and understanding the applicable health requirements will help maintain your health and make your trip comfortable.

It is advisable to use these basic phrases as they greatly aid in communicating with locals. While some people, especially in tourist areas, may speak English, making an effort to speak Spanish will be appreciated.

Spain features a diverse climate depending on the region. Coastal areas like Barcelona experience a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, damp winters. Summer temperatures can reach 30-35°C, while winter temperatures range from 8-15°C. Humidity tends to be higher, especially during the winter months.

In the inland regions, such as Madrid, the weather is more extreme. Summers can be very hot, with temperatures soaring to 35-40°C, while winters can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping to 0-5°C. Humidity in these areas is generally lower.

The northern regions, such as Bilbao, have a cooler and more humid climate with higher rainfall throughout the year. The rainy season typically lasts from October to April, with temperatures ranging from 10-20°C. The dry season, from May to September, is warmer and drier.

The best times to visit Spain are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is generally pleasant, with milder temperatures and lower rainfall.

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Despite its varied climate, Spain also faces several types of natural disasters. Here is a detailed explanation of common natural disasters in the country:

Spain is not known for high seismic activity, but certain areas, particularly in the south and east such as Granada and Valencia, are susceptible to light to moderate earthquakes. While the frequency is not as high as in countries like Japan, earthquakes can still occur.

Tsunamis are rare, but Spain, particularly the Mediterranean coastal areas, could be affected by tsunami waves triggered by underwater earthquakes in other regions. Although the intensity and frequency are low, it remains a potential risk.

Active volcanoes in the Canary Islands, such as Mount Teide in Tenerife, show the potential for volcanic activity. While major eruptions are rare, volcanic activity can impact surrounding areas with ash and gas.

Seasonal flooding is more common, especially in coastal areas and river valleys. The rainy season, particularly from October to April, increases the risk of flooding.

The people of Spain are generally well-prepared for natural disasters. Here are the emergency measures and evacuation procedures set by local and national governments, as well as some tips for preparing for such situations:

1. Preparedness Measures

The government often issues early warnings through media and public alert systems. Each region has an emergency plan that includes information on shelter locations and evacuation routes.

2. Government Handling

Agencies such as Protección Civil and the fire services are prepared to respond quickly in emergency situations. They provide services including medical assistance, shelter, and up-to-date information.

Tips for Facing Disasters:

By following these steps and preparing adequately, you can minimize risks and ensure safety during your visit to Spain. Proper preparation will help ensure that your trip remains safe and enjoyable, even in the event of a natural disaster.