For a pdf-version of the practical information click here.
Banks and bureaux de change
Banks are normally open from 08:30 to 14:00 on weekdays. They are closed on Saturdays and Sundays. A number of cash machines are available throughout the city and the plentiful Bureaux de Change counters are open on week-ends. Indicative exchange rate (as of May 2008): 1.00 EUR =1.55 US$
Climate and clothing
The average temperature in October in Barcelona is 19°C (66°F). Clothing should be suitable for a changeable climate. A raincoat or umbrella for occasional showers may be useful. The Mediterranean brings cooling sea breezes to the city and moisture to the atmosphere.
Credit cards
Most hotels, restaurants and shops accept major credit cards (VISA, MasterCard, American Express) and a piece of identification (passport, ID, driver’s license) is required upon signature. However, it is also recommended that visitors carry small amounts of cash at all times. Dinners type card are not accepted in most of the places.
Currency
The currency in Spain is the EURO (€). A currency calculator can be found online at www.xe.com
Electricity
Spain has a 220-volt AC, 50Hz electrical current and uses two-pin continental plugs. Visitors from certain countries need an adaptor for electric appliances, and an adaptor and transformer to use their 110/125V appliances.
Emergencies and Medical Care
To contact the police, fire department, or hospital in an emergency, dial 112. Emergency medical care is supplied by the municipal authorities, and hotel/congress venue staff members can direct guests to local emergency centres, hospitals, or dental clinics. Emergency treatment at Spanish public hospitals is free. Fees for non-emergency medical services are usually payable in cash, and are reasonable by international standards.
Gratuities
Service charges are automatically added to the hotel and restaurant bill, shops and taxis in Spain, so no further tipping is required. Tipping for an outstanding service is a matter of choice, but is not expected.
Language
The native tongues in Barcelona are Catalan and Spanish, but English is often spoken.
Newspapers
International newspapers can be purchased in certain kiosks.
Pharmacies
Prescription and non-prescription medicine is generally obtainable from pharmacies on Mondays to Saturdays between 9:00 and 20:00. A 24-hour pharmacy service is provided on a rota basis. A surcharge is payable on medicine purchased outside normal opening hours.
Postal services
Normal opening hours are Monday to Friday from 08:30 to 20:30, on Saturday from 09:30 to 13:30 and closed on Sunday.
The closest post office to the Congress venue is operating weekdays from 09:00 to 22:00 and on Saturday from 09:00 to 14:00. Avenida Diagonal, 1-3 (Centro Comercial Diagonal Mar), ES-08019 Barcelona
Tel: ++34 93 356 0509; Fax: ++34 93 356 0509