Organize your stay Minorca
Money Minorca
Spain was part of the "first train" of the euro changeover. Pesetas bowed to the single currency. As the Balearic Islands (Spain) are part of the Euro zone, you can make withdrawals and payments by bank card (Visa, MasterCard, etc.) just as you would in France. There's no need to carry large amounts of cash. All card payments are free of charge, and withdrawals are subject to the same conditions as in France (i.e. they are free of charge for most bank cards). What's more, ATMs and payment terminals are just as secure as in France, and most payments are validated by pin code.
Budget & Tips Minorca
To give you a rough idea of the budget you'll need to allow for, count on €50 to €80 for a double room in the "good and cheap" category, €80 to €150 in the "comfort or charm" category and from €150 for the luxury category. Generally speaking, you'll need to pay a certain price to enjoy a quiet stay away from the hordes of tourists, as it's the big hotel chains that charge the most attractive prices, unfortunately in charmless, concrete resorts. For meals, expect to pay at least €12/15, around €25/30 in a standard restaurant and from €40 in a more chic establishment.
Passport and visas Minorca
For those who don't know, a valid identity card is all you need to travel to Spain. Don't forget your driving license for car and motorcycle rentals.
Driver's license Minorca
French, Belgian, Swiss and Canadian driving licenses are accepted for a period not exceeding six months; otherwise, you'll need an international license (generally valid for one to three years). If you wish to rent a car in Spain, you must be at least 21 years old, with at least one year's driving experience, and in possession of a credit card.
Health Minorca
When you travel to Menorca, and therefore to Spain, you are in the European Union, so the health risks are no greater than they are here. There is no malaria in Spain. Nonetheless, it's always a good idea to have some protection against mosquito bites and other insects, if only to avoid sleep disturbances and itching.
Mandatory vaccination Minorca
No vaccinations are required to enter Spain. You can, however, check that your vaccinations are up to date.
Security Minorca
Menorca is a particularly peaceful island, where crime is almost non-existent. Just don't leave any valuables lying around in your car, and keep an eye on your belongings when you go to the beach (and even then!), and you'll be fine!
Time difference Minorca
There is no time difference between France and the Balearic Islands: Spain and France share the same meridian.
Spoken languages Minorca
Catalan and Castilian are spoken in the Balearic Islands, and both languages are co-official in the region. Incidentally, you'll have no trouble making yourself understood in hotels, restaurants and stores if you speak a little English (French is less widely spoken). On the island, however, the population continues to speak Minorcan, a dialect close to Catalan (Menorca is, in fact, the Balearic island where the mother tongue is most widely spoken).
For a trip to Menorca, the use of Castilian, however approximate or even gibberish, is recommended if you wish to venture inland. There are a number of ways to learn some of the basics of the language, and self-study can be offered on a variety of media: CDs, DVDs, workbooks or even directly on the Internet. Note, however, that Catalan (and the closely related Minorcan) is linguistically closer to French than to Castilian. So, if you feel like it, get started!
Communication Minorca
The network covers major cities and seaside resorts very well, but you'll have more trouble in small, remote towns and on some pristine beaches. There are no longer any surcharges for calls made within the European Union. Calls and messages to French numbers will cost you the same as in France, and you can surf the Internet as you do at home.
However, calls and messages to Spanish numbers may still incur extra charges. Check with your operator. Most cafés, restaurants and hotels have wifi access.
Electricity and measurements Minorca
As in France, sockets supply 220 volts. Your appliances will operate normally without adapters. Spaniards use the international system of units and therefore speak in meters, kilometers, tons..
Luggage Minorca
In winter, the weather is mild and clement, but don't forget to bring a warm coat and gloves to ward off falling temperatures after dark. From May to October, don't forget your swimsuit and, above all, a hat to protect you from the sun. In May, don't forget an umbrella, as showers are frequent.
