|
|
|
Spain
Safety and security
Spain shares with the rest of the world an increased threat of international terrorist incidents. Like other countries in the Schengen area, Spain's open borders with its Western European neighbors allow the possibility of terrorist groups entering and exiting the country with anonymity.
In the deadliest terrorist attack in recent European history, on March 11, 2004, Islamic extremists bombed four commuter trains entering Madrid , causing 191 deaths and over 1,400 injuries.
The Basque terrorist group ETA (Euskadi ta Askatasuna - Basque Homeland and Liberty) officially announced on June 5, 2007, the breakdown of a 14-month ceasefire. ETA has historically avoided, albeit unsuccessfully, targeting foreigners, directing their attacks against the police, military, local politicians, and Spanish government targets as well as attempts to disrupt transportation and daily life. In addition, bombs have been used as part of criminal extortion of businesses, particularly in the Basque region. However, the risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time” in event of an ETA action is a concern for foreign visitors and tourists.
Be aware that public demonstrations, particularly in the Basque Country, can spark violent incidents despite Spanish authorities being well-equipped and trained.
|
Crime
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is particularly common in tourist areas and on public transport in large Spanish cities, especially Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia and Seville. The perpetrators are often highly skilled at stealing valuables, including passports and money, without attracting the owner's attention. Thieves often work in gangs and use various ploys to distract the attention of tourists. For example, a criminal may use large maps or offers of assistance to distract a traveller's attention, while an accomplice steals the traveller's belongings. Thieves have posed as plain clothes police officers and, while pretending to enquire after identification, have stolen money and credit cards from tourists' wallets. Tourists are sometimes intimidated into providing the pin number for their ATM card.
Although crimes occur at all times of day and night and to people of all ages, older tourists and Asian Americans seem to be particularly at risk.
Thefts have reportedly increased in Madrid. Known high-risk locations are the Puerta del Sol area and surrounding streets, Gran Vìa, Plaza Mayor, near the Prado Museum, the Atocha train station and on the subway. In Barcelona, thefts occur most frequently on Las Ramblas (often in Internet cafes), in Plaza Real and surrounding streets of the old city, and at the Sants train and bus station. Hotel room theft is also commonplace, averaging about 25 percent of reported thefts in the city.
Theft from vehicles is also common. Good Samaritan" scams are unfortunately common, where a passing car or helpful” stranger will attempt to divert the drivers attention by indicating there is a flat tire or mechanical problem. When the driver stops to check the vehicle, the Good Samaritan” will appear to help the driver and passengers while the accomplice steals from the unlocked car. Drivers should be cautious about accepting help from anyone other than a uniformed Spanish police officer or Civil Guard. Items high in value like luggage, cameras, laptop computers, or briefcases are often stolen from cars. Travelers are advised not to leave valuables in parked cars, and to keep doors locked, windows rolled up and valuables out of sight when driving.
While the incidence of sexual assault is statistically very low, attacks do occur. Spanish authorities have warned of availability of so-called "date-rape" drugs and other drugs, including "GBH" and liquid ecstasy.
|
Local laws and customs
There is a requirement to carry some form of ID with you at all times.
In Spain, possession of even a small quantity of drugs can cause significant problems, such as arrest and detention. Being found in possession of large quantities will probably result in prosecution and a custodial sentence upon conviction.
It is illegal to photograph military installations in Spain.
In the cities of Madrid and Barcelona, in the Balearics and Canary Islands, the consumption of alcohol in the street, other than in authorized outdoor cafes and bars, has been banned by various municipal or regional authorities. Travellers must respect this law. Fines are imposed for failure to comply.
|
Local travel
All major cities have metered taxis. Any extra charges must be posted in the vehicle. Beware of taxi drivers who try to overcharge by not switching on the meter, including illegal taxis operating at the airport. Rail service is reliable but varies in quality and speed. A high-speed train links Madrid to Seville. Intercity buses are usually comfortable and inexpensive.
Drivers should be alert when driving at night in urban areas, due to the possibility of encountering drivers or pedestrians under the influence of alcohol. Night driving in isolated rural areas can be dangerous, because of farm animals and poorly marked roads. Rural traffic is generally heavier in July and August as well as during the Christmas and Easter seasons. Traffic regulations in effect in Spain include the prohibition on the use of a mobile phone without a hands-free device while driving a car.
It is a legal requirement for all motorists travelling to or transiting through Spain to carry two red warning triangles to be placed in front of and behind the vehicle in case of accident or breakdown. Drivers must also carry a reflective jacket to be worn when leaving a vehicle that is stranded or involved in a highway accident.
|
Medical care
The standard of medical facilities in Spain is high. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure.
|
|
|
|
General informations