Gibraltar is a tiny colony with a population of around 30,000 which has been under British administration since the 1713 Treaty of Utrecht, following the War of Spanish Succession. The town takes its name from the famous Rock of Gibraltar, which was once considered by the Greeks the northernmost Pillar of Hercules and a marker for the edge of the ancient world. Today it is a popular location for financial services and internet-based gaming businesses, while its lively population of Barbary macaques and underground labyrinth of tunnels attract many visitors from mainland Spain.
The locals speak English and Spanish, sometimes both at the same time, though public signposts are mostly in English. The influence of British, Spanish, Genoese and North African cultures are all felt in what has become a truly international town. Historically, the British military accounted for nearly 60 percent of the economy but that is now as low as seven percent as a service-based infrastructure has thrived. It’s economic health does, however, depend on ongoing relations with Spain, which has long laid claim to the island and closed the border during Franco’s regime.
You should have plenty of time to explore the island and it can all be covered on foot. The view from the top of the rock, accessible by cable-car, is spectacular while dolphins can be spotted diving and playing off the shore. Watch the changing of the guard at the Convent for a little piece of imperial Britain, or take a tour of the old city walls. The golden stalagmites in St Michael’s cave, among others, should not be missed. When you’re done you can sit and picnic by the sea and watch the world go by.
Getting there
Easyjet, Monarch and Iberia all fly daily from London Gatwick. There is a weekly ferry from Tangier. If driving, it is easier to park in La Linea and walk then try and take a car across the border. Regular buses also serve La Linea but not Gibraltar.
Getting around
Gibraltar can easily be covered on foot. There are several local bus lines and a cable car to the top of the rock.
Local information
Language: English, Spanish.
Time: UTC+1
Climate: Mediterranean. Hot, dry summers and warm, wet winters. Temperature: Max 28°C (July), Min 9°C (January). Rainfall: Max 150mm (December), Min 0mm (July)
Currency: Gibraltar Pound (GIP)
Business etiquette: Greet with a firm handshake. Dress conservatively. English is mostly used for business, though Spanish is used when dealing with Spain. Communication is direct and punctuality is important.
Tipping: 10 percent is standard.
Duty free: Reasonable quantities of tobacco products, alcoholic beverages and perfume for personal use.
Safety: Crime is low. Be aware of schemes selling ‘tickets’ to get into Gibraltar; these are not required.
Laws: Low tolerance for drunk and disorderly behaviour.
Healthcare: Vaccination for tetanus required. Excellent medical facilities available. UK citizens, or European citizens with an EHIC card, are entitled to free healthcare. Non-EU may be charged and should have health insurance.
Socket type: Type C, Type G
