When planning a trip to Salou, Practical Information is the first thing that you should look for. The following tips will not only make your stay in Salou more enjoyable but will also help you to save both time and money.

10 Different Types of Spanish

A common misunderstanding about Spain is that Spanish is the official national language. In reality, there are 10 different types of Spanish (Galician, Basque, Catalan, Castilian, Aranese, Asturian, Aragonese, Leonese, Extremaduran and Falan). Castilian is the official language of Spain and the one that is spoken throughout Latin American countries. However, each province and certain autonomous Spanish states have their own official language. In the case of the province of Catalonia, where Salou is located, the official language is Catalan. Catalan is very different from Castilian and this language resembles a mix of Portuguese, French and Spanish.

Not all locals speak Castilian, so don't feel offended if a Spaniard ignores you if you're trying to talk to him or her in Castilian. He or she might not understand you because you're speaking to him or her in a foreign language. However, a good rule of thumb is to try to communicate with locals in Castilian rather than English.

Saving Money with Hostelling International

When traveling anywhere around Spain (or Europe), it is a good idea to apply for a membership at the local office of Hostelling International in your country of origin. Having a membership with Hostelling International will allow you to receive discounts and participate in special offers in hostels, restaurants, bars, night clubs, museums, tour packages, train tickets, and some retailers. It is important that you apply for a Hostelling International membership before you arrive in Spain, because applications in Spain are restricted to qualifying nationals or foreign exchange students only.

With your membership, you will qualify for a special rate at the Hostel Tarragona, located just 10 kilometers (6 miles) away from downtown Salou. Hostel Tarragona's address is Lluis Companys 5 in Tarragona and you can make reservations at +34-977-240195. This hostel is within 15 km (about 9 miles) from the Reus Airport (IATA airport code: REU). If you plan to stay at this hostel, make sure to ask the front desk for the latest booklet that lists all participating businesses of the Hostelling International program.

Driving Around Spain

Besides applying for a Hostelling International membership before you leave your country of origin, it's also good idea to apply for an international driver's permit. Having this special driver permit will make it easier and faster to go through the car rental and the insurance buying processes in Salou (and all of Spain).