In Spain, the shopper can find items of high quality at a fair price, not only in the cities, but in the small towns as well. In Madrid, the Rastro Market is recommended, particularly on Sundays. Half of the market takes place in the open air and half in more permanent galleries, and it has a character all of its own. Catalonian textiles are internationally famous and there are mills throughout the region. Spanish leather goods are prized throughout the world, offering high-fashion originals at reasonable prices. Of note are the suede coats and jackets. In general, all leather goods, particularly
those from Andalucía, combine excellent craftsmanship with high-quality design. Fine, handcrafted wooden furniture is one of the outstanding products; Valencia is especially important in this field, and has a yearly international furniture fair. Alicante is an important center for toy manufacturing. Shoe manufacturing is also of an especially high quality; the production centers are in Alicante and the Balearics. Fine rugs and carpets are made in Cáceres, Granada and Murcia. The numerous excellent sherries, wines and spirits produced in Spain make good souvenirs to take home. A seven per cent VAT is added to rates for all restaurants and hotel rooms.
Shopping hours Mon-Sat 0930-1330 and 1630-2000. However, most commercial stores and malls stay open from 1000-2100/2200.
Currency Information:
Currency Euro (€) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of €500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of €2 and 1, and 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 cents.
Currency Exchange Money can be changed in any bank, and at most travel agencies, major hotels and airports.
Credit/Debit Cards and ATMs American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted. ATMs are widely available.
Traveller's Cheques International traveller’s cheques are widely accepted. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travelers are advised to take traveller’s cheques in Euros or Pounds Sterling. Traveller’s cheques should be changed at banks or exchange bureaux.
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