Calling Spain from the US: Essential Tips

When traveling to Spain from the US, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of how to make international calls to avoid frustration and hidden charges. Whether you need to call friends and family back home or make arrangements for your travels while in Spain, understanding how to call Spain from the US can make all the difference. In this article, we’ll explore some essential tips to help you make the most out of your international calls to Spain.

Understanding the International Dialing Code

The first step to making international calls to Spain is to understand the international dialing code. The international dialing code for Spain is +34. When dialing from the US, you need to dial 011, the US exit code, followed by +34, the country code for Spain, and then the local number. For example, if you want to call a Spanish mobile number, you would dial 011 + 34 + mobile number.

It’s important to note that the Spanish phone system uses a different number format than the US. Spanish phone numbers are nine digits long, and there are no area codes. Therefore, when dialing a Spanish number from the US, you need to add a prefix of 9 before the local phone number. For example, if you want to call a Spanish landline number, you would dial 011 + 34 + 9 + local number.

Tips for Dialing Spanish Landlines and Mobiles

When dialing a Spanish landline, you need to make sure that you’re using the right prefix. The prefix for Spanish landlines varies depending on the region. The most common prefixes are 91 for Madrid, 93 for Barcelona, and 95 for Seville. You can find a complete list of Spanish landline prefixes online.

When it comes to dialing Spanish mobiles, it’s essential to know the carrier of the person you’re calling. Different carriers have different prefixes, and if you get the prefix wrong, you may end up calling the wrong person or not connecting at all. For example, the prefix for Movistar mobiles is 6, while the prefix for Vodafone mobiles is 7.

It’s also important to keep in mind that Spain has a siesta period, which is a time of the day when most people take a break from work. The siesta period is typically from 2 pm to 5 pm, and during this time, it may be challenging to reach people, especially in smaller towns.

Avoiding Hidden Charges When Making International Calls

Making international calls can be expensive, and hidden charges can quickly add up. To avoid hidden charges when making international calls to Spain, it’s essential to choose the right phone plan. Many US carriers offer international roaming plans that include international calls and texts. If you plan to make a lot of calls while in Spain, purchasing an international SIM card may be a better option. International SIM cards can be purchased online, and they offer lower rates than most US carriers.

Another way to avoid hidden charges is to use a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) service. VoIP services use the internet to make calls, which means that you can make free or low-cost calls to Spain from your smartphone or computer. Some popular VoIP services include Skype, WhatsApp, and FaceTime.

Recommended Apps and Services for International Calls

There are several apps and services that can make international calls to Spain more accessible and affordable. One of the most popular apps for making international calls is Skype. Skype allows you to make calls to landlines and mobiles, and you can purchase credit in advance to avoid unexpected charges.

WhatsApp is another popular app that allows you to make voice and video calls to other WhatsApp users for free. If you’re calling a non-WhatsApp user, the app offers low-cost international calling rates.

If you’re looking for a more traditional phone service, Google Voice is an excellent option. Google Voice allows you to make free calls within the US and Canada and low-cost international calls to Spain and other countries. The service also offers voicemail transcription and call screening features.

Final Thoughts: Making the Most of Your International Calls

Making international calls to Spain from the US can be a breeze with the right knowledge and tools. Make sure you understand the international dialing code, use the right prefixes for landlines and mobiles, and choose a phone plan or service that suits your needs. With the right preparations, you can stay connected with friends and family back home or make arrangements for your travels while in Spain without breaking the bank.