Travel

Renting a Car in Spain: A Comprehensive Guide for Expats

As an expat in Spain, navigating the country's vast and beautiful landscapes can be greatly enhanced by renting a car. Here’s a detailed guide to help you understand the process, costs, and tips for renting a car in Spain.

Requirements and Documentation

To rent a car in Spain, you will need a full EU driving license or an international driving license. Most rental companies insist that the license has been held for at least 12 months. Additionally, a deposit is typically required, which must be paid by a credit card. Debit cards, including prepaid credit cards, are generally not accepted[1][4].

Safe Driving on Snowy Roads: Essential Tips for Expats in Spain

As the winter season sets in, driving conditions in Spain can become increasingly hazardous, especially for those unfamiliar with navigating snowy and icy roads. Here are some crucial tips to help expats in Spain drive safely during the winter months.

Preparing Your Vehicle

Before venturing out, it is paramount to ensure your vehicle is winter-ready. This includes getting your car inspected to confirm it is safe for winter driving. Switching to winter tires can significantly reduce the risk of accidents, as they provide better traction on snowy and icy surfaces[1][2][3].

Discovering the Best Seafood in Santander: A Guide for Expats

As the festive season comes to a close, many expats in Spain are looking to indulge in the rich culinary delights that the country has to offer. For those residing in or visiting the charming coastal city of Santander, the search for the perfect seafood experience is a must. Here’s a detailed guide on where to find the best seafood in Santander, ensuring that your dining experiences are nothing short of exceptional.

Christmas in Tenerife: A Festive and Unforgettable Experience

As the holiday season approaches, Tenerife is transforming into a vibrant and magical destination, offering a plethora of activities and events that cater to all tastes and preferences. Here’s a detailed look at what makes Christmas in Tenerife an unforgettable experience.

Festive Atmosphere and Decorations

Tenerife's towns are being beautifully decorated for the Christmas season, with Santa Cruz de Tenerife standing out for its grand festive display. The city has installed over 2.2 million LED bulbs, 59,165 meters of garlands, 1,638 decorative motifs, 120 arches, and illuminated 327 streets, creating a dazzling spectacle that will be on display from November 29 until January 6[1].

The Most Lucrative Speed Cameras in Spain: A Guide for Expats

As the holiday season wraps up and the roads in Spain see a surge in traffic, it's crucial for expats and locals alike to be aware of the most active speed cameras across the country. Recent data from Spain’s Directorate General of Traffic (DGT) has revealed the top speed cameras that have been issuing the highest number of fines.

The Top Earner: Madrid's M-40

The most lucrative speed camera in Spain is located in the Madrid area, specifically at kilometre point 20.2 of the M-40, near Mercamadrid. This speed trap has caught out an astonishing 118,149 motorists in 2023 alone, averaging a sanction every four and a half minutes. Since 2017, this camera has issued the most speeding tickets in the country, making it a hotspot for traffic enforcement.