Last updated: 07 November 2012
Security and health
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) provides advice for business travellers and tourists going to Spain. This is regularly updated, and should be checked before planning travel.
It is strongly recommended that Australian travellers take out comprehensive travel insurance that will cover any overseas medical costs, before their departure. They should confirm that their insurance covers them for the whole time they will be away and check what circumstances and activities are not included in their policy.
It is also recommended for Australian travellers to register, before travelling, on the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade website, in case of an emergency.
Security
Spain has a fairly low rate of violent crime. However, petty crime (pick-pocketing, car break-ins) is rife, especially in areas that attract a lot of tourists. Thieves often work in small groups and will usually attempt to distract their victims by squirting mustard on their clothing, asking for directions on the street, offering to assist people experiencing car troubles or making a scene over seat allocations in trains.
Travellers are advised to be especially alert in crowded tourist areas, restaurants and on public transport and railway stations. You should not leave your belongings unattended on the floor and you should carry an extra copy of your itinerary and business contacts with you.
Civil disorder is also rare in Spain, although the ETA terrorist group is active throughout Spain. While this may be of concern to visitors, ETA tends to target mainly police, military and government contacts.