Shops and Services in Costa Blanca, Spain
- Travel tip: The emergency number in Spain is three digit code: 112.
- Fact: The E111 is now being phased out, so plan ahead and replace yours with the new European Health Insurance Card.
Shop till you drop without breaking the bank
The Costa Blanca is brimful of everything Spanish and even many things British. All towns of every variety have enough shops and services for your day-to-day needs, while the larger ones have more variety. Alicante, being the largest and most cosmopolitan city on the Costa Blanca, is loaded with fine boutiques, massive shopping centres and serious services.
Most villages and cities have weekly outdoor markets which are great (and cheap) places to pick up the finest wares from the land. Items to look for include quality ceramics from Agost, rugs from Crevillente, bags and baskets from Gata de Gorgos, and lovely leather shoes from Elda and Elche.
You'll discover that prices are very reasonable, alcohol and cigarettes in particular are a fraction of what they cost in the UK.
Staying Healthy
Spain's healthcare system is one of Europe's best. Most Spaniards can expect to see their GP within one day of booking.
Like the NHS, healthcare is free to all citizens. So visitors that bring their European Health Insurance Card or E111 can be assured of fast, free attention whenever it’s needed.
For minor complaints, Spanish pharmacies (Farmacias) are excellent and many medicines that require a prescription at home can be bought over the counter here. Look out for the flashing green cross outside the store.
For more serious health issues, there are quality hospitals dotted along the Costa Blanca in most large towns.
Just jumping out of the fast lane in the UK for a laid back life in Spain will do wonders for your health. Why not consider making Spain your home? After all, how many chances do you get to enjoy life?
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