Things to be aware of
while in Seville
Should we be fortunate enough to have you join us in Seville, we hope in return we can do everything in our power to introduce you to our favorite city. Spain, and the entire region of Andalucía, is a wonderful location.
As such, it also possesses a few delightful inconveniences to remind you how far you may be from home. In the rough order of importance, below are a few recommendations to ensure your time in Seville is as enjoyable as possible.
A FEW THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT
General Safety
& Communication
Seville is an extremely safe city at all hours. However, for the sake of insurance against any unpleasantness, it is not recommended to leave phones, purses, sunglasses, etc, away from one’s person.
It is especially important not to place any valuable items on outdoor cafe tables while dining. The casual habit of leaving a phone on the table while eating may be seized upon by pick-pockets.
As in much of Europe, pick-pocketing in crowded tourist areas is also possible.
An obvious suggestion, but please keep track of and safeguard your passport and all valuables.
Speaking the Language
Most Spaniards in Seville you might interact with, such as those in the service industry, will have a functional purchase of English; ordering in restaurants should not be an issue.
A FEW THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT
Going Out To Eat
Spaniards are particular about eating times & they take the Sabbath seriously.
Many restaurants will not have their kitchen fully functioning outside of Spanish lunchtime (approx. 3-5 pm) and dinnertime (8-11 pm). Exceptions, of course, exist.
On Sundays, many stores, including groceries, will not be open. Hours may be different for restaurants and bars as well.
They are also not flush with breakfast options.
Start your day like a local with a coffee and a few cigarettes instead.
Almost every restaurant will place on your table a plate of olives & crackers; these are NOT free!
Should you nibble at them, they will charge you. The amount will be 2-3 Euros, but it is worth noting.
Credit Cards
In some taxis, bars, and restaurants, paying by credit card may not be convenient or possible for transactions under a certain value. Although this is becoming less of the norm, it is still recommended to obtain a few Euros in cash for general purposes at any ATM or bank around the city.
The good news: tipping is not expected in Spain.
Excellent service may be rewarded with a few Euros (typically in cash, as they may not present the option when paying with a card).
5-10% will often go a long way.
A few other important
items to note
Sangria, however delicious, is often a tourist trap of a drink.
An equally enticing and sufficiently worldly move would be to order “tinto de verano,” a glass of red wine with flavored sparkling water, often served with fruit.
Neighborhood grocery stores are everywhere in Seville.
However, a few larger groceries resembling American supermarkets are available. They are called El Corte Ingles and have all the same provisions as a large department store.