Spinning Through Spain

Numbers to Know

Whether only biking through Spain or taking a European bike tour, here are a few helpful phone numbers to know.

The country code for Spain is 34. Remember, to make a call to any foreign country you must dial the country code (CC) then area code and phone number. Other helpful phone numbers for Spain include:

• Emergency Number - Outside Basque: 006
• Emergency Number - Basque: 088
• Directory Assistance: 1003
• Operator Assistance: 025
• Toll Free Numbers in Spain begin with "900" NOT "800".
• United States Embassy. If you lose a passport or have other serious problems then contact the US Embassy at 91-587-22-00.

See the Sights in Spain

You don’t want to come home after an European bike tour through Spain without experiencing the best the country has to offer. Here are our picks:

The Alhambra. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this Moorish palace is one of the most recognized examples of the Islamic influence in Spanish history. Plan plenty of time to visit these vast grounds and purchase tickets well in advance, especially if planning a tour of Spain in summer.

Drink Sangria. The Spanish claim you can discern a tourist because they will be drinking Sangria at the bar, but touristy or not, authentic Sangria must be experienced firsthand. One of the main differences is the Casera (a Spanish soda brand) which isn't available in the states. Treat yourself to a special delight with authentic Sangria during your DuVine tour.

Take a Tapas Tour. Tapas are akin to snacks. In the States, a bar might serve peanuts but in Spain each bar has its own specialty dish and method of serving. Easy to eat and designed to invigorate conversation (as well as maximize alcohol consumption); tapas are great snacks that lend an original flavor to neighborhood bars throughout Spain. Try one - you'll like it!

Shopping in Spain

Bike tours in Spain are a great way to see the countryside and experience the finest of old world charm

Bike tours in Spain are the perfect way to see the countryside and experience the finest of old world charm. And it's only natural to do a little shopping to commemorate the occasion, but with taxes in excess of 30%, stay informed with these consumer tips:

• Spain has an internal sales tax known as the IVA that fluctuates between 7% and 33% depending on the type of item. Basic necessities including food and wine are taxed at the lowest rate of 7% while luxury items such as jewelry, tobacco or liquors are taxed at the highest rate of 33%.
• Keep all of your receipts for customs. When leaving Spain you are allowed to bring back $800 worth of merchandise duty free; for the next $1,000 worth of merchandise you will pay 4%. If mailing back items the duty free limit is $200.
• Tax Refund! If you purchase items valued at more than 90 Euros, you will be entitled to a tax refund after filling out a special form. Be sure to ask about it!
• No fresh fruits or vegetables. As is typical when returning to the States most fresh fruits, vegetables or plants are strictly forbidden.
• Drugstores. Spain has an interesting law that requires drugstores to rotate their hours. There is always a drugstore open somewhere in the city (at any time of the day or night), so there is never a need to worry should you need to buy aspirin, toiletries or other small items.
• ATM Finder. If you are out and about but find yourself a little low on cash, an easy way to locate the nearest ATM is to look at the back of your bank card, find out what service provider your bank uses, and then call the appropriate number below:
  • Cirrus: 800/424-7787
  • PLUS: 800/843-7587
• El Rastro. The final destination of any Spanish shopping experience should include El Rastro de Madrid. This open air market is open every Sunday and is frequented by foreigners and natives alike.

Spain - Overview

Whether planning a bicycle tour in Rioja wine country or stopping in Spain as part of a European bike tour, here are a few tips to keep in mind.

When to travel. Spring and fall are the most popular times to visit Spain. The summers in Spain are hot but provide an ideal opportunity to bike Spain without the crowds.

Entry Requirements. To enter Spain you will only need a valid passport. No special vaccination certificates are required.

Customs. You can bring home up to $800 worth of merchandise duty free every 30 days. Be sure to keep receipts for all items you purchase while in Spain.

What to pack. If biking Spain in the summer months, plan for the heat but be sure to bring a light jacket for visiting the mountain regions. A waterproof jacket and warm clothes are advised in addition to long pants or a skirt for visiting churches or other historic sites. Note: visitors may be turned away from churches if wearing only shorts.

Language. Castilian Spanish.

Health Risks. Spain is considered a very safe and healthy travel destination with no major health risks reported.

Money Matters. The Euro is the currency exchange of Spain. All major credit cards are accepted. ATMs are common and currency exchange facilities are available in most airports/hotels.

Time. Spain is +1 GMT. Madrid is 6 hours ahead of EST.

Driving. Drive on the right side of the road when in Spain.

Spanish Accomodations

Hotel Rating System: In Spain hotel accommodations are granted a rating designation by the Spanish government, with five stars indicating truly luxurious accommodations and one star representing affordable accommodations. These different types of accommodations include:

• Pensions: Modest rooms with meals—you can typically select from full board or half board, depending upon the number of meals included each day.
• Hostels: These are affordable hotels that do not provide services. Look for a small letter "s" followed by a capital letter "H" (sH) to indicate a hostel.
• Youth Hostels. Not to be confused with "hostels", there are approximately 140 youth hostels in Spain.
• Paradors & Albergues. These state-owned accommodations are one of the most unique ways to enjoy traditional Spanish architecture. The Spanish government has updated and remodeled castles, monasteries and other fine examples of Spanish historical buildings into hotels.

Sweet Treats and Spanish Delights

See how many of these specialties you can try while on your DuVine bike tour through Spain.

Membrillo. Found only in Spain, Membrillo is a type of paste made from boiled quince; it is sliced and served as a dessert or on bread.

Yemas. Made from egg yolk with a hint of lemon, these bright yellow balls are a specialty of the tiny town of Avila. Did you know? Each town throughout Spain has a unique sweet treat of its very own.

Violeta. Madrid is known for this somewhat dramatic candy flavored with violet petals.

Marzipan. Unlike marzipan you may have tried in the States, traditional marzipan is protected by Spanish law. This hard marzipan is the specialty of Toledo, Spain and is considered by many to be the ultimate sweet treat in Spain.

Gazpacho. This traditional cold tomato soup is the perfect complement to a DuVine bike tour through Spain. Not too heavy –yet satisfying and tasty—Gazpacho is healthy and invigorating.

Paella. Perhaps Spain’s most famous dish (and with good reason!); Paella encompasses the "true taste of Spain" with its blend of seafood, spices, wine and herbs.

Jamon Serrano. This Spanish version of ham is a favorite among natives and tourists alike. Highly seasoned, you will want to bring one (or two) home with you.

Traditional Spanish Song and Dance

Nothing compliments our bicycle tours in Spain like the traditional music and dance of Spain. From Flamencos to Fiestas, here are a few sights and sounds you won't want to miss when biking Spain.

Flamenco. This authentic Spanish art form is typically divided into three forms; El Cante (the song), El Baile (the dance) and La Guitarra (the guitar). Many places present Flamenco shows in Spain but for a true delight, keep an eye out for the most well known Flamenco artists including Paco de Lucia, Jose Merce' or Joaquin Cortes.

If you enjoy Flamenco don’t miss the Feria de Abril in Sevilla. This week-long celebration features flamenco music and dress lasting all night long for the entire week. During the day there are giant buffets of traditional Spanish cuisine, equestrian shows, music and much more. This is a spring festival you won't want to miss!

Speaking of festivals...When it comes to enjoying themselves the Spanish have a long and illustrious history, with a full range of fiestas to choose from. Other popular fiestas include:

Las Fallas. A celebration of fire, this five day fiesta builds and then sets fire to ninots (elaborate, fun dolls and puppets) throughout the city. Unlike anything you have ever encountered, the Las Fallas is a festival not to be missed.

San Fermin. The traditional "Running of the Bulls" takes place annually from July 6th to the 14th for 204 hours. Although the hospitality and fun often overshadow the religious significance of the festivities, San Fermin originated as a religious tribute to the cult of the bull and Bacchus, the god of wine.