Population
40,217,413 Inhabitants (2003 estimate).
Time Zone Balearic islands:
GMT + 1 hour (in summer GMT + 2) Language
There are two official languages: Castilian Spanish and Catalan. Thanks to the well-established tourist industry here in the Balearics ENGLISH and GERMAN are also spoken in many bars, restaurants and shops.

Telephones
To phone Majorca from outside Spain, dial: 00 34 971...The International code for the UK from Spain is 00 44, drop the first 0 (zero) from the area code and add the required number.

Green Card
Look out for the Green Card (10 euros) this year. Buy the Card and get discounts on admission fees for water parks, cultural centres and leisure facilities across the island. Funds raised will go towards environmental projects and sustainable development.

Currency
The EURO is the official currency in the Balearics. Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents, and coins of 1 and 2 Euros.
Notes: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 y 500. Beware: Any amount over 6,011 Euros that enters or leaves Spain must be declared.
Most business wont accept 500€ notes.


Climate and Clothing
Mallorca enjoys fabulous weather during the summer but the winter months are cooler.
Be prepared... Spring - Summer: Light clothing is best, particularly in summer.
Evenings can be cooler so pack one or two sweaters.

Autumn - Winter: You will need a jacket or coat.
We do enjoy sunny days with good temperatures but you'll need more than a T-shirt!

Tipping
You should tip in bars, restaurants and hotels.10-15% of the bill is the normal amount.

Opening Times
Business hours are from 09:00 to 14:00 hrs & again from 17:00 to 20:00 hrs..
Larger supermarkets, shopping centres and department stores open from 09:30 to 21:30.
Bars and clubs are usually open all week until 03:00 or 4:00 hrs & later at weekends.

Post Office
The main Post Office in Palma (C/. Constitución) opens from 8.30am - 8pm Mon-Fri. Cost of a stamp for post within the EU is 0,52 euros.

Banks
Open Mon-Sat from 08:30 - 14:00. (Summer months open Mon-Fri).
Take your passport when exchanging travellers' cheques, cash etc.

If you have a VISA or MASTERCARD (credit or debit card) you can withdraw Euros easily from cashpoint machines (English language available).

Traveller's cheques
Traveller's cheques are acceptable at most hotels, restaurants and shops when presented with a valid passport.

Measurements
The metric system is used for all units of weight, measurement and distance.

Electricity
Electricity is usually 220 V.
Petrol
Petrol Stations sell petrol as Normal (92 octane), Super 97, Unleaded (95 or 98 octane) and Diesel.

Family Pets
If you're visiting the Balearics with your family pets make sure that your chosen accommodation knows and is happy.
Also, you must have the appropriate certificate. NB: Pets are not generally allowed into bars and restaurants.