1 January: New Year's Day
6 January: Epiphany
19 March: San Jose
1 May: Labour Day
15 August: The Assumption of the Virgin Mary
12 October: Hispanic Day
1 November: All Saints
6 December: Constitution Day
8 December: Conception of the Blessed Virgin
25 December: Christmas Day
Other holidays include White Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Sunday and Whit Sunday [Read more]

In Madrid men greet each other with a handshake (and sometimes a clap on the shoulder). As in many Mediterranean countries, it's also common for men to greet each other with an abrazo (hug). Women greet each other in the same way, accompanied by a kiss on the cheek. Men and women simply shake hands when they meet. Spaniards tend to push and shove when queueing for taxis, telephones etc. Tourists, on the other hand, are generally treated with respect. It's rude to yawn and stretch in front of others. Spaniards frequently gesture with their hands, arms and head. Most Western gestures are familiar in Spain. [Read more]

The universal emergency number in Spain is 112. The operator who answers will speak Spanish. Speak slowly and clearly to him in English and the required emergency assistance will be sent to the location. Tip when reporting an offence to the police call 902/102112. Your complaint will be sent to the police station nearest to where the crime took place, and you will have two days to drop by the station and sign the report. [Read more]