Costa Dorada (Spain)

Costa Dorada is located in the southern part of Catalonia, in Spain. Costa Dorada literally means "the golden coast". This region of Spain has over hundred miles of golden hued shingle sandy beaches. The waters of Costa Dorada are very friendly and are a safe base for all water oriented pursuits. The beaches of Costa Dorada are sprinkled with apartments, bars, cafes and restaurants.

Shopping

The shopping cloister runs parallel to the walkway and the beach, where shoppers can buy right from fancy articles to valuable souvenirs. A little fair is held every day in most of the villages of Costa Dorada, where tourists can buy moderately priced household articles.

Restaurants

There are scores of restaurants in Costa Dorada that dish-up both local and global cuisines. Here, fish is the chief ingredient in most of the delicacies. Can Bosch is the most frequented restaurant in Costa Dorada both by the locals as well as the tourists. Can Bosch serves typical Catalonian dishes as well as tasty munchies that satisfy the palate. Casa Gallau is another restaurant that serves its guests with varieties of fresh fish dishes and other sea foods. Other suggested restaurants include Casa Gatell, Albatros and Restaurant Merlot.

Night Life

Costa Dorada presents an active nightlife to the travellers. There are an ample number of discotheques, music bars and cafes in Costa Dorada, which help tourists enjoy themselves to the core. Costa Dorada celebrates festivals all through the year that bring a riot of colours and fun to the streets and add to the nightlife experience.

Attractions

Port Aventura, a giant theme park has large slides, roller coaster rides, water rides and sea Odyssey underwater adventure that makes tourists enjoy. Tarragona, the main city of Costa Dorada has many historical sites and museums, which display articles dating back to centuries and are worth a visit.

Activities

Swimming, sunbathing, fishing, hiking and shopping are some of the activities that tourists can enjoy while at Costa Dorada. There are separate baby pools and safe swimming zones for children.

Negatives

Touts on the beaches can be compelling and aggressive, so it is advised to deal with them very carefully.

Customs

From 1 January 2006, smoking in public places is forbidden and stiff fine will be imposed on those found smoking in restricted areas.

Communications

The international access code for Spain is +34. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code. Pay phones are blue or green and coins or phone cards can be used. Phone cards are available at post offices, tobacco shops, and newsagents. GSM is operated through 900/1800 and covers the entire country by three telecom operators. Internet is accessible at internet cafes in most towns and resorts.

Duty Free

There are no restrictions levied on carrying tobacco and alcohol between most of the 15 original countries of the EU, provided that the goods are brought for personal use. Duty is not charged on tobacco and liquor up to a certain extent. Poultry products from Asia are strictly prohibited.

Contacts

Currency

Official currency of Spain is the Euro. Credit cards and travellers cheques are accepted at most establishments. ATMs, which are found almost everywhere, are generally the easiest and most economical way of obtaining money. Though money can be exchanged at Bureaux de Change and major hotels, it is advised to get them exchanged at banks, as they offer the best rates.

Time Info

Local time is GMT +1 hour. During summer (between the last Sunday in March and the Saturday before the last Sunday in October), local time is GMT +2 hour.

Electricity

220 or 225 volts, 50Hz. The European two-pin plug is standard.

Language

The official language is Spanish, but English is widely understood in main tourist areas. Galician, Catalan, and Basque are spoken in the some areas.

Health Risks

Although Bird Flu was detected in July 2006 in a dead bird, travellers should take precaution while consuming poultry products making sure it's well cooked. Contact with birds should be avoided. There are no certificates required for vaccines. UK tourists should take a European Health Insurance Card to avail free health check at State hospitals in case of emergency. An all inclusive health insurance is recommended.

Tipping

It is customary to tip 5-10% for most services rendered. 15% tip at restaurants is the norm, although bills are inclusive of service charges. 10-15% of the bill amount is paid as tips to drivers of metered taxis.

Safety

Although visitors are at no particular danger and can enjoy a trouble free holiday, there is a possible risk of international terrorism. Petty crime like theft is common on the streets and tourists are advised to carry their belongings like money, passport and credit cards and travel documents with care. It is advisable to be cautious of strangers offering or asking for help of any sort.