What You Need to Know When Travelling to Gibraltar for the First Time

At one time purportedly home to the mythical Pillars of Hercules, Gibraltar is an extremely popular tourist destination. This British enclave is also unique in the fact that it is essentially one of the only remaining overseas territories still related to the United Kingdom. If you plan to visit Gibraltar, there are several practical suggestions to remember. Let's take a look at a handful of recommendations so that your upcoming holiday does not encounter any "hiccups" along the way.

Will You Require a Passport?

This has become a common question since Brexit was completed. The good news is that the answer is also simple. All citizens of the United Kingdom (and from other locations outside the European Economic Community) will require a valid passport if they hope to enter Gibraltar. The only exception involves EU nationals who currently hold a national identity card. Either way, visitors will be obliged to show these documents to border control before being allowed through.

Arriving by Sea

Gibraltar is a popular maritime community, and like many, you might instead choose to work with a boat rental service to sail through the iconic straits. If you wish to go ashore, you will need to complete a document known as a Vessel Pre-Arrival Notification form. This essentially streamlines the overall check-in process. The form itself can be obtained through the official HM Customs Gibraltar website. This is also a useful resource if you have any other questions relating to a visit.

Will You Need to Exchange Currencies?

Those travelling from the United Kingdom will normally not have to concern themselves with any currency exchange rates. Gibraltar uses the Gibraltar pound, and its value is pegged directly to the British pound. However, anyone arriving from outside the United Kingdom should keep a close eye on rates (such as the relationship between the Euro and the pound). Most experts likewise state that currency exchange kiosks located within major transportation hubs should be avoided. These often charge exorbitantly high commissions.

When is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Gibraltar?

The climate of Gibraltar is generally warm and dry throughout the year thanks to its presence within the lower latitudes. Having said this, it should be stressed that summers here can be quite hot (sometimes exceeding 40ºC). If you suffer from any illnesses that may be aggravated by high temperatures, it might be a better idea to plan a holiday in the early autumn or the late spring. This could also result in lower overall travel costs.

Similar to any planned holiday in an unfamiliar location, it is just as prudent to perform additional online research. Joining virtual forums dedicated to Gibraltar tourism is also a wise choice, as you will be able to obtain information from others with more previous experience. Whether arriving for business or pleasure, Gibraltar is indeed a unique location that should leave a lasting impression.