General information for your stay in Malaga
| The Costa del Sol is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, it's miles of beautiful sandy beaches and fantastic weather which have kept tourists flocking back year after year to resorts like Torremolinos, Benalmadena, Fuengirola and Marbella. The Costa del Sol caters for young and old alike, offering a host of entertainment choices for the native and visitor alike.
The coast boasts one of the highest concentrations of world class golf courses, to the extent that it is often dubbed "The Costa del Golf". For families there are theme parks, including water parks, go-karting, safari parks and many beautiful public gardens. For younger visitors the main areas of attraction are Benalmadena's Puerto Marina & '24 hour square' and Marbella's Puerto Banus. Both are very trendy and chic, but be warned the bars and clubs don't get busy until near midnight and stay open till dawn.
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TOURIST TIPS
Banks: Banks are open from 8.30 to 14.00 from Monday to Friday during the summer months.
Shopping: Normal trading hours are Monday to Saturday from 9.00 to 13.30 and 17.00 to 20.00; however, in the city center and shopping malls, many shops stay open all day from 10.00 to 21.00, or even later in some tourist spots.
VAT: There is a variable value added tax (VAT) of 7% to 16% applied to most items and services, but most prices you see will include it. When it is not included, this should be clearly indicated.
Credit Cards, Currency and Exchange: All major international credit cards are accepted. Foreign currency and traveler’s checks can be exchanged in Spain at banks and foreign exchange offices. Cash-point machines accepting major international credit cards and charge cards are available at most banks. The Spanish currency is the Euro.
Climate: Malaga enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, sunny winters and warm summers. Temperatures during the summer months of July and August can be quite hot during the day, with temperatures of 30 to 40 degrees Celsius (86-104 degrees Fahrenheit).
Language: Spanish is the main language spoken in Malaga. English is also fairly widely spoken. Tourist information, menus, etc. are nearly always available in English, French and German.
Taxis: Taxis in Malaga may be ordered by phone, picked up at authorized taxi stands or flagged down in the street. Always check that the meter is running. Taxis must usually be paid in cash though some accept credit cards.
Tipping: In restaurants, hotels, taxis, hairdressers and so on, a gratuity is not included in the price. Although optional, tips are readily accepted and a general guideline is between 5% and 10% of the bill, depending on the quality of the service. Hotel and airport porters will take, depending on the luggage you have, 1 to 3 Euros.
Public Transport and Car Rental: Malaga has a good, comprehensive public transport network, with special ten-trip and one, two or three-day tickets valid on bus, metro and local trains. Taxis are abundant and reasonably priced. Free parking is very limited in the city center and car parks are expensive, so car rental is only really recommended for excursions outside the city. Parking in Malaga City centre is problematic. Spaces are scarce and it isn't very clear which areas are permitted for parking and at what times. If you are going to park in the city centre beware of vagrants that ask for money to watch your car. Almost all are unofficial: They won't watch your car, they'll simply leave to prey on the next person. Tourists best defence is to feign ignorance and inability to understand the request.
Liability and Insurance: The Workshop organizers cannot accept liability for personal injuries, loss or damage to property belonging to Workshop participants (or their accompanying persons), either during or as a result of the Workshop. Please check the validity of your own insurance.
General Safety Advice for Visitors: Malaga is a safe city, with almost no violent crime, and tourists and visitors can stroll around and sightsee at ease. However, as in any big city, some basic safety precautions should be observed:
- Watch your luggage, especially handbags, cameras, video cameras etc.
- If you travel by car and have to leave your luggage in the vehicle, it is better to use surveilled car parks, and never leave objects within sight.
- When walking around typical tourist spots be especially vigilant of handbags and wallets.
Electrical Power: A 2-pin round adapter is necessary for electrical appliances. The electric current used is 220 volts/50hz. For those bringing 110 volts/60hz appliances, be sure to use an appropriate transformer.
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