Practical guide to planning a holiday in Spain

Planning a holiday. Can you think of something more stimulating?

Not very many, right?

The whole process is a great boost and just what we need to get out of the rut. 

The anticipation and excitement of exploring possible destinations is exhilarating.

Actually, planning a holiday in advance is not only fun, but also essential. 

Having a detailed itinerary allows you to make the most of every moment and every place. 

Naturally, plans may change along the way, but it’s always best to know your options.

It doesn’t matter if you are traveling with your family, with friends, as a couple or as a solo traveler.

By organizing your plans, you ensure that you make the most of your valuable holiday time.

5 Helpful tips when planning a holiday to Europe

You are planning a holiday in Europe for the first time, Congratulations!

Your flights are booked and you are clocking up the days until you head off on your dream holiday.

You feel the thrill building…and perhaps the pre-trip anxiety is keeping you awake at night.

You are traveling to Europe!

However, don’t put away your to-do list yet.

There are 5 important things you must check before your trip.

Have a valid passport 

When traveling to Europe, to enter the EEC, you must have a passport valid for at least six months after the date of departure from the Shcengen territory.

Believe it or not, forgetting this important document is one of the main reasons we arrive late at the airport or miss flights.

So please, before loading your hand luggage with a bunch of clothes you probably won’t wear, keep your valid passport in a safe place. 

Get a travel insurance

One of those things you don’t realize you need…until you need it.

You may need to cancel or reschedule your trip, and you certainly don’t want to pay outrageous cancellation fees.

Most health insurance does not cover treatment abroad, in this case travel insurance can save you a lot of money from unexpected medical costs.

In addition to health cover, situations such as lost passports, canceled flights, stolen laptops or lost prescriptions, for example, can ruin your trip.

The right insurance can make the difference between a minor inconvenience and a nightmare scenario.

My advice is to include insurance cover when planning a holiday. 

You may not use it, but it’s better to have it, just in case.

Do you need a Visa when traveling to Europe? 

In this case NEVER leave visas to the last minute.

Paperwork can take longer than expected, and I doubt you want to be sent back on the next flight as soon as you land.

So the sooner you get your visa, the better. 

You must research your destination and be 100% sure you’ve got everything you need.

Contact Consulates, check with visa agencies and make sure you are prepared well in advance. 

Make the most out of your money 

First of all, make sure your Credit Card has an electronic chip, because in most European shops stripe-only cards are not accepted.

Tell  your bank that you are traveling to Europe and they will issue one for you.

Second, letting your credit card issuing bank know about your foreign travel plans when planning a holiday will help ensure that your charges are not declined at your destination. 

Otherwise, they can deactivate your card when you try to use it abroad.

If this happens you can always make an international call, and most of the time fix it online, but it is not ideal. 

Third, try very hard NOT to exchange your money!

Currency exchange agencies usually charge a high fee.

Instead, it’s better to use an ATM or get a travel card with a 0% commission for foreign transactions.

If it makes any difference? Count on it!

Have a copy of all your documents 

I suggest you print a couple of copies for yourself, and leave a set at home.

You can also save all the information in your email or Google Docs.

A backup copy of your passport, itinerary, travel insurance policy, emergency numbers and travel confirmations, is always a good idea.

Doesn´t matter if you are planning a holiday overseas or just a whirlwind getaway. 

Keep safe and enjoy the experience.

Planning a holiday to Granada

“If you were to visit just one city in Spain, it should be Granada”.

        Ernest Hemingway

Granada is a city with endless possibilities.

In fact, whether you are organizing a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Granada will always captivate you.

Are you planning a holiday to Granada and don’t want to miss anything?

Then have a look at the quick links below with all the information needed to plan a memorable trip to Granada.

8 Practical tips to best enjoy your trip to Granada

From entry requirements to visit Granada and Spain, health and safety, must-see places or  hotel recommendations.

I have included in this list the 8 most practical tips that will help you plan a safe and most enjoyable holiday ever. 

10 must know facts about Granada

There is so much know and do in this magical city so let’s plan ahead.

Read this post before heading out into the enchanting streets of Granada.

And do not forget to download the Essential guide to make the most out of your trip.

Should I hire a tour guide or should I explore Granada on my own?

Granada  is a safe destination, full of history, art and entertainment worth planning a holiday at least once in a lifetime.

You can easily walk through the winding cobbled streets, also access the main tourist spots and find yourself a nice restaurant to enjoy your dinner.

But, if you are looking to delve into Granada’s culture and history while strolling through its streets that takes you back to ancient times.  

Moreover, if you want to taste the most authentic recipes that treasure tradition, enliven the soul and enjoy a unique local experience.

As well as let yourself be carried away by the passion of truely Andalusian art.

Then you definitely need a Tourist Guide. 

Contact me and let’s enjoy the most beautiful spots of Granada together!