Before you arrive...
A few tips for new and experienced travellers.
Getting to L'Estartit
Flying into Barcelona Airport (BCN). We recommend renting a car, which is easily accessible just outside the baggage claim area. We recommend a compact car, as getting out of the rental lot alone is tight, and many streets in the small towns are very narrow. Renting a car allows you to venture out of L’estartit and explore a lot more in the surrounding area.
If you choose not to rent a car, you can take a train to Girona (from the airport to the transfer station in Barcelona, then to the transfer station in Girona) to L’Estartit. Off-season, you may need to stop in Torroella de Montgri, which is only a few kilometers from L’estartit, and you can find a bus or taxi for the last few kilometers.
Departure times for both train and bus options vary by season. One good site is Rome2Rio.com. Be aware of holiday and weekend changes, as well as your scheduled arrival time.
Renting a Car
and Driving in Spain
Do Not Speed in Spain. There are radar cameras everywhere, and they will capture you. Trust me, I know.
If you rent a a car, change the menu language into English before you leave so you can ask for help if needed.
For our American friends, consider the options for a manual (stick) or automatic transmission, and reserve accordingly if you prefer an automatic. Manuals are often the default rental in Europe.
Consider reviewing Spanish street signs in advance. Road and Traffic Signs in Spain - What You Need to Know
Plugs
Plugs - Barcelona uses Type C and F, two round parallel plugs (the difference between C and F would be like a two-prong and three-prong (grounded) plug in the US). Keep in mind that some plugs are simply adapters or converters, which adapt an American plug to a “Spanish” plug. Most low-powered plugs can be converted this way. However, some devices require a transformer, also known as a voltage converter. Barcelona’s primary voltage is 230V at a frequency of 50Hz.
Most modern devices, such as phones and laptops, are designed to be compatible with multiple systems. However, it’s always a good idea to check the plug for specific voltage information. An appliance that is dual voltage rated will typically display something like ‘INPUT: 110-240V’. A single-voltage rated appliance will usually display just the voltage, such as 110V, for example. If you have dual-voltage appliances, you won’t need a transformer/voltage converter. If it’s not rated as such, we suggest purchasing at least one transformer. Consider items such as CPAP machines, phones, laptops, and curling irons. The house already has a hair dryer and an iron, so there's no need to bring them.
Those Bidets
Bidets can be a really quick wash option over a full shower. If you aren't familiar with them, this is a good intro video.