DRIVING IN SPAIN

Driving is on the right hand side in Spain just like most European countries. The minimum age for driving in Spain and if your car is insured in the UK it is automatically covered third-party in Spain. All passengers are required to wear seat belts at all time. Children under the age of 12 are not allowed to sit in the front unless a rear facing child seat is fitted.

Leaded petrol is normally sold as Super or Super/97. Unleaded is recognized as Sin Plomo 98 or 95. Diesel is known as gasoleo. The petrol stations are not normal open 24-hours and some even close for lunch 2-5 and sometimes on Sundays. It pays not too let your fuel tank run down too low just in case.

Spain's Speed Limits: Motorway/Duel Carriageway: 120km/75mph Built Up Areas: 50km/31mph Other Roads: 90km/56mph

The Spanish motorway (autopista) system has seen some very big investment in recent years and they now have some of the best networks in Europe. Many of the motorways now have tolls though they are reasonably priced. It also makes the roads a little quieter though you do miss out on some wonderful scenery.

The road signs are very clear and if you do happen to miss your turn-of there is normally another exit not too far ahead so you can double back if needed.

The smaller roads have many small roundabouts instead of the traffic lights you see on most UK roads. This ensures the traffic is constantly moving. You also get to pass through some picturesque town and villages and some breathtaking views on the coastal routes.

You can purchase good road maps from any tourist shop, service station and newsagent. Taking your time is paramount as speeding is always the main cause of accidents and one of the main factors to getting lost.