There are many things to think about when you travel to Spain. Whether you're going for a considerable amount of time or just for a short holiday, it is wise to find out about the water and water safety of your destination. By finding out what water is safe to drink, and how to get the right price when buying bottled water, you can ensure your vacation is as hassle free as possible.
Visitors to the country will be pleased to know that the drinking water is potable in many areas, although many travellers do choose to buy bottled water instead because they are unaccustomed to the taste or constitution of Spanish water.
However, nationals such as the Madrileños rarely buy bottled water, and are actually very proud of the natural water sources that feed their city, which come from deep, pure, underground reserves that have been untouched for millennia.
Other cities, such as Granada, have exceptional water as well, which comes down from the snow-capped mountains, far away from the pollution of city life. Not only is the water fit for consumption here, but some say it is extremely refreshing too.
While it still okay for tourists to drink tap water from many of the major cities and tourist resorts, if you're travelling in remote areas, it is best to play it safe and drink bottled water. There are two main types available - con gas is fizzy water and sin gas is still water. If you purchase your water from the local superstores, it can cost as little as half a euro. Watch out for market stall prices though, as they can rise to around two euros.
If you're stuck as to which bottled water to choose, then it might be helpful to know that one of the most popular non-carbonated bottled drinks in Spain is Solares. Nearly all restaurants and hotels have it, so it shouldn't be too hard for you to get a hold of. However, you should be aware that some establishments will charge just as much for a bottle of water as they do for the regional wine, due to the high demand.
As a safety precaution, all holidaymakers should bring along an antibiotic and an anti-diarrhoeal drug to be started promptly if significant toilet or stomach problems occur. Problems such as these are a rare thing in the major Spanish cities, but the relevant medications are a good safety measure for those travelling to the more isolated, coastal towns, where water sources can vary greatly.
Madrid is perhaps one of the safest places to drink water in Spain, although you honestly can't go wrong in any of the major cities. Taste varies, with some praising the clear, cool waters, and others preferring the option of mineral waters instead. But whatever water you choose to drink - bottled or tap - you can be assured that you'll need it to quench your thirst when you go exploring this wonderful country, day and night.
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links to the left to find out all you need to know for your visit to Madrid.
