Unveiling the Charms of the Canary Islands and Beyond Many visitors travel from Belfast and Dublin to
Unveiling the Charms of the Canary Islands and Beyond
Many visitors travel from Belfast and Dublin to beautiful Spain, both the mainland and the Canaries.
Spain is a country steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty, and it continues to enthral travellers worldwide.
From the iconic landmarks of Madrid and Barcelona to the stunning beaches of the Costa del Sol, Spain offers a diverse range of experiences for every type of traveller.
In this article, I will explore the allure of Spain, with a particular focus on the enchanting Canary Islands, while drawing on travel information from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) and other reliable sources.
Getting into Spain
Check your passport and travel documents before you travel
Passport validity
Passport validityIf you are planning to travel to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements.
Your passport must be:
- issued less than ten years before the date you enter the country (check the ‘date of issue)
- valid for at least three months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)
You must check your passport meets these requirements before you travel. If your passport was issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added to its expiry date.
Contact the embassy of the country you are visiting if you think that your passport does not meet both of these requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
Visas
You can travel to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel as a tourist, to visit family or friends, to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events, or for short-term studies or training.
If you are travelling to Spain and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries within the previous 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.
To stay longer, to work or study, for business travel or for other reasons, you will need to meet the Spanish government’s entry requirements. You should check with the Spanish consulate in the UK prior to travel regarding what type of visa and/or work permit you may need.
If you are travelling to Spain for work, read the guidance on visas and permits.
If you are unable to return to the UK before the expiry of your visa/permit or visa-free limit, you should contact your local authority for immigration advice. You can also call 060 from a Spanish phone line.
If you are visiting Spain and need to extend your visa-free stay for exceptional reasons, such as a medical emergency, you must apply to the immigration authorities (Extranjería)
If you stay in Spain with a residence permit or long-stay visa, this does not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit.
Passport stamping
Check your passport is stamped if you enter or exit the Schengen area through Spain as a visitor.
Border guards will use passport stamps to check you’re complying with the 90-day visa-free limit for short stays in the Schengen area. If relevant entry or exit stamps are not in your passport, border guards will presume that you have overstayed your visa-free limit.
You can show evidence of when and where you entered or exited the Schengen area, and ask the border guards to add this date and location in your passport. Examples of acceptable evidence include boarding passes and tickets.
E-gates
You should use the desks staffed by border officers. If you are 18 and over, and airport staff instruct you to do this, you may be able to use e-gates if these are operating.
If you use an e-gate, make sure you get your passport stamped by a border officer.
Additional documents required by tourists
UK nationals entering the Schengen zone as tourists may need to provide additional documents at the border. As well as a valid return or onward ticket, it is possible that travellers to Spain may also be asked to:
- Show you have enough money for your stay. More information is available from the Spanish Ministry of Interior (in Spanish).
- Show proof of accommodation for your stay, for example, a hotel booking confirmation, proof of address if visiting your own property (e.g. second home), or an invitation from your host or proof of their address if staying with a third party, friends or family. The Spanish government has clarified that the “Carta de invitation” is one of the options available to prove that you have accommodation if staying with friends or family.
More information is available from the Spanish Ministry of Interior.
The Canary Islands:
A Tropical Paradise: Nestled off the northwest coast of Africa, the Canary Islands are a group of volcanic islands that offer an idyllic escape for sun-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. With year-round sunshine, pristine beaches, and breathtaking landscapes, the Canary Islands have become a popular destination for travellers seeking relaxation and adventure.
Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, is home to Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide. Nature lovers can explore Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at its lunar-like landscapes. Lanzarote entices visitors with its unique volcanic terrain, the Timanfaya National Park, and the stunning Jameos del Agua caves. Gran Canaria boasts golden beaches, towering dunes, and picturesque coastal towns like Puerto de Mogán.
Culture and Traditions: Spanish culture is deeply rooted in its history and is celebrated through vibrant festivals, music, dance, and culinary experiences. The country’s diverse regions have distinct traditions, immersing travellers in local customs.
The Canary Islands have a unique cultural blend influenced by African, Latin American, and European heritage. The vibrant Carnaval de Santa Cruz de Tenerife, second only to Rio de Janeiro’s carnival, highlights the island’s social calendar. Traditional folk music, such as the lively Canarian “Timple,” and colourful costumes are integral to local cultural identity.
Allowances From the Canary Islands into Northern Ireland
Allowances From the Canary Islands into Northern Ireland200 cigarettes or 200 tobacco heat sticks or 100 cigarillos or 50 cigars, or 250g of tobacco
18 litres of wine
42 litres of beer
4 litres of spirits or liqueurs over 22% or 9 litres of fortified or sparkling wine or alcoholic beverages less than 22%
£390 worth of other goods
Full details can be found on the HM Revenues & Customs website.
Allowances From the Canary Islands into Southern Ireland
The allowances are largely the same, but please check here
Popular Tourist Areas:
Barcelona, Spain’s cosmopolitan capital of Catalonia, beckons visitors with its stunning architecture, most notably the surreal creations of Antoni Gaudí, including the iconic Sagrada Familia and Park Güell. The city’s bustling markets, vibrant nightlife, and world-class cuisine make it an alluring destination.
Madrid, the vibrant heart of Spain, offers a blend of historic landmarks, renowned art museums, and a thriving culinary scene. The Prado Museum, home to Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco masterpieces, is a must-visit for art enthusiasts. The lively squares of Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol are perfect for soaking up the city’s atmosphere.
The Costa del Sol enchants visitors on the southern coast with its stunning beaches, glamorous resorts, and picturesque white-washed villages like Marbella and Nerja. Seville, Valencia, and Granada are also beloved for their rich history, architectural gems, and cultural attractions.
Travel Information and Safety: When planning your trip to Spain, it is essential to consult travel information from reliable sources such as the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO). The FCO provides up-to-date advice on safety, security, and health considerations and any travel restrictions or entry requirements.
It is recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance, ensure your passport is valid, and take necessary precautions to safeguard your personal belongings. Additionally, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with local customs and laws to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience.
Spain, with its captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, promises an unforgettable journey for travellers. From the captivating cities of Madrid and Barcelona to the tropical paradise of the Canary Islands, there is something for everyone in this diverse and enchanting country. By following travel information from reliable sources, you can explore Spain with peace of mind and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.