visit gibraltar
DESCRIPTION
ÂTRANSCRIPT
VISITGIBRALTAR
A breath of fresh airAction-packed holidays
City of contrastsExciting mixture of old and new
Mediterranean flavoursTaste Gibraltar
Big skies, open seasBreathtaking scenery
Dream weddingsFollow in the footsteps
facebook.com/visitgibraltar @visit_gibraltar
GibraltarTourist Board Information OfficeCasemates Square, Gibraltar, GX11 1AATel: +350 20045000Fax: +350 20045865Email: [email protected] www.visitgibraltar.gi
LondonGibraltar House, 150 Strand, London, WC2R 1JATel: +44 (0)20 7836 0777 Fax: +44 (0)20 7240 6612 Email: [email protected]
Design by she
ardh
udson.com
visitgibraltar.gi facebook.com/visitgibraltar @visit_gibraltar
Disclaimer: The Gibraltar Tourist Board does not accept responsibility for any changes in or unavailability of the services listed.
Contents
02 A Legacy Evolves
04 Gibraltar Naturally
06 At Sea
08 Live Gibraltar
10 Love Me Do
12 A World of Flavour
14 A True Pound’ s Worth
16 Your Home From Home
17 Practical Information
ow us :facebook.com/visitgibraltar
@visit_gibraltar
1
visitgibraltar.gi
‘… the ry ima anenms li, ched n the Atlantic andthe Medraan’. William Makepeace Thackeray
Gibraltar
Port
ugal
Morocco
Spain
...only a couple of hours away/ visitgibraltar.gi
VISITGIBRALTAR
Gibraltar's appeal as a travel destination continuesto grow, drawing an international audience from allcorners of the globe. Arriving by land, sea and air,visitors are drawn to a unique location that sits atthe crossroads of Europe and Africa.
The Rock's activities are as diverse as they areplentiful, ranging from dolphin watching, to awardwinning fishing and exploring historical trails.
Gibraltar's temperate climate makes it an attractiveall year round choice, which is enhanced by localevents and customs that offer a flavour of theGibraltarian warmth, that is reassuringly familiar.We look forward to welcoming you to our corner of the Mediterranean.
The Hon. Neil F. Costa M.P.Minister for Tourism, Public Transport & the Port
To arrive into Gibraltar is to beawestruck by the sheer majesty ofthe Jurassic limestone Rock thatdominates the horizon. The Rockhas attracted visitors, some friend,some foe, throughout its colourfulhistory, all drawn to its uniquecharm and character, which still thrive today in the Gibraltarian people.
Strategically situated on the southern tip of theIberian Peninsula, the British Overseas Territory isalmost entirely surrounded by water other than thenarrow isthmus which links it to mainland Spain.Gibraltar is less than seven square kilometres on the outside, but inside lies a myriad of caves andtunnels that stretch for almost fifty kilometres.Herein lie some of Gibraltar’s biggest mysteries and secrets.
Discover the Rock’s beauty and natural heritage, its architecture and wildlife. Historical trails will helpyou wile away the days and shopping in Main Street,perhaps one of the most famous streets in Europe,will tempt you with some of the best bargainsaround, thanks to the Rock’s Pound Sterling currency and VAT free status.
Gibraltar’s unique position, at the crossroads ofEurope and Africa, make it an ideal location toexplore neighbouring terrain. Just a 90–minute ferryride takes you to Morocco with its exotic souks, andthe neighbouring coastline of Spain offers access tosome of the world’s finest golf courses.
We look forward to welcoming you soon.
Welcome
2
visitgibraltar.gi
3
A Legacy EvolvesGibraltar’s legendary tale is filled with battles and sieges that weave civilisations and cultures through the ages. This historical legacy lives on today and can be enjoyed in its numerous attractions.
At 426 metres high, the iconic Rockof Gibraltar is honeycombed withover 30 miles of tunnelling, createdby man at different chapters in its story.
Its pre-historic caves were home tothe birth of modern man, and manypeople believe the female skulldiscovered in Gorham’s Cave in1848 should have been claimed as an historic find, making today’sNeanderthal man, Gibraltar woman.
Arriving visitors are greeted by theawe-inspiring spectacle of theTower of Homage and Gate House,looming up from within the Rock.This spectacular Medievalfortification dates from the secondMoorish occupation in the early14th century.
Gibraltar’s survival story is nevermore poignant than during theGreat Siege of 1779-83, which isretold in Mozart’s composition‘Bardengesang auf Gibraltar, OCalpe’. The Great Siege Tunnelsremain a must see for any visitor to the Rock.
Gibraltar has been at the heart of Britain’s history for centuries.Success at the Battle of Trafalgarwas first reported to the world inGibraltar’s daily newspaper theGibraltar Chronicle. Tragically, thebattle cost the life of Lord Nelson.He was brought ashore at RosiaBay, preserved in a casket ofbrandy, before his body wasreturned to England.
During the 19th century Gibraltarflourished as a strategic tradingport on the route to India. MainStreet shoppers will note familybusinesses, many of which dateback to this time.
With the onset of WWII, WinstonChurchill instructed that Gibraltar’scomplex tunnel system be onceagain expanded to create a fortresswithin a fortress. It is from herethat Eisenhower masterminded theNorth African landings.
The Rock’s testament to time is reflected in its people, theGibraltarians. Warm and friendly by nature Gibraltar’s hospitality isrenown and keeps visitors returningyear after year.
Wit Chch iucd that Gia’scomplex tu stem ce again exnd to ea a whin a .
facebook.com/visitgibraltar @visit_gibraltar
4visitgibraltar.gi
5
Gibraltar NaturallyGibraltar offers visitors views of unparalleled beauty both on land and atsea. Wildlife flourishes on the Rock’s porous limestone and its flora andfauna are world renowned and of conservational importance.
Gibraltar candytuft grows nowhereelse in Europe and is recognisableby its pink clusters of flowers. Fornature lovers they are abundantduring April on the eastside of the Rock. Most of the westside iscovered with light woodland wherewild olive and honeysuckle can befound in abundance.
Gibraltar’s Upper Rock bringstogether walkers from all over theworld, with the most famous of the myriad of the paths being theMediterranean Steps. Located onthe eastern face of the Rock, itstarts at an altitude of 180 metresand finishes at 426 metres atO’Hara’s Battery, the highest pointon the Rock.
Over 270 species of birds havebeen recorded on the Rock over the past few years, and famousresidents include the BarbaryPartridge, and the Peregrine Falcon.Gibraltar lies on the migratory routebetween Europe and Africa andevery Spring and Winter the skiesplay host to everything from eagles and vultures to storks and songbirds.
Gibraltar’s most famous residents,the Barbary Macaques are a speciesof tailless monkey. Originally fromNorth Africa their presence datesback to the days of the Britishgarrison. Imported from Morocco by Winston Churchill in 1944 when their numbers had dwindledthey have become part of Gibraltar’s legend.
The Alameda Gardens, designed in 1816, is an ideal spot to sit and relax. Its pretty amphitheatrestages a number of productionseach year.
St Michael’s Cave has fascinatedvisitors since Roman times. Itscathedral cave has long believed to be bottomless, giving way to alegend that Gibraltar is linked toAfrica by a subterranean tunnel.
Gibraltar’s waters are teeming with sea life and living in the Bay of Gibraltar there are no fewer than three species of dolphin:common, bottlenose and striped.
Ta a r wd .
facebook.com/visitgibraltar @visit_gibraltar
6
visitgibraltar.gi
7
At SeaKnown as the mythical Pillars of Hercules, and bathed almost entirely bythe Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea, the Rock has been a haven forseafarers for over 1000 years. The Bay of Gibraltar is intrinsic to life onthe Rock.
Beneath its waters, Gibraltar’shistorical legacy continues with a spectacular underwater world of more than 30 wrecks and reefs.Dive opportunities include theremains of ships from Napoleonictimes and WWII.
With a warm climate, a shelteredbay and open seas, Gibraltar is afisherman’s paradise. Its deep seafishing provides a thrill difficult tomatch and well-equipped boatsoffer an opportunity for big gamecatches such as bluefin tuna,broadbill swordfish and variousspecies of shark depending on theseason. The North Mole’s watersplummet down to 30 metres,making it ideal for game fishingvarieties such as bream, bass and eel.
Gibraltar’s two marinas, OceanVillage and Queensway Quay offergreat ambiance and dining outfacilities. For those who enjoy theirsport on, rather than under, thewater there is an abundance of activity such as windsurfing, sailing, jet skiing, and the popular dolphin tours.
A wide selection of sailing coursesare on offer, from competent crew to the most advanced RYAqualifications. It is possible toarrive into Gibraltar as a sailingnovice and leave a confidentseafarer in only a couple of weeks.
Gibraltar’s lighthouse at EuropaPoint is the only remaininglighthouse operated outside of the UK by Trinity House. As a leading Port of Call in theMediterranean, Gibraltar is visitedby cruise ships from around theglobe. A number of tours andshopping excursions are availableto visitors on arrival into Port.
A fishman’s ade.
facebook.com/visitgibraltar @visit_gibraltar
8
visitgibraltar.gi
9
Live GibraltarGibraltar is a vibrant city with a range of leisure pursuits to suit all tastes and budgets. The busy bustling café society of Casemates Squaretransforms into lively nightlife with live entertainment and music fromyoung resident bands.
The town centre is best enjoyed on foot. Its typical Georgian andVictorian architecture isinterspersed with Portuguese,Genoese and Moorish influences, a reminder of Gibraltar’s colourfuland chequered past, giving it someof the most interesting architecturein the Mediterranean area.
Modern Gibraltar is reflected in thefinancial district of Europort and thenew Ocean Village Marina with itsluxury yachts and apartmentbuildings. The King’s BastionLeisure Centre, refurbished from anold battlement, is an ideal locationfor all the family to enjoy. Within itshistoric walls it houses a full sizeice rink, bowling alley, restaurant,nightclub and multiplex cinema.
Culture and heritage come together on National Day whenthe Rock celebrates its past. On that day Gibraltarians dress in red and white, the nationalcolours, and there are street partiesand celebrations in abundance. Theday’s festivities are dramaticallyrounded off with a firework displayand open air concert.
For art lovers, local art is on displayat the Fine Arts Society Gallery inCasemates Square, close to theGibraltar Crystal Factory. TheGibraltar Philharmonic Society runs a season of concerts featuringinternational artists. Concerts areheld around Gibraltar at venuessuch as St Michael’s Cave and the Open Air Theatre in theAlameda Gardens.
Pageantry is always on show inGibraltar. The official daily changingof the guard takes place outsidethe Governor’s home at theConvent in the centre of MainStreet. During the summer months, History Alive, Gibraltar’s Re-enactment Society parade thestreets dressed in period uniformsfrom the 1700s reminiscent ofGibraltar’s past as a garrison town.
For those who want to live the highlife, the International Gala Casino in Ocean Village is open until theearly hours and neighbouringSavannah’s lounge bar andrestaurant hosts international DJsthroughout the summer months.
Cue and haco teth.
facebook.com/visitgibraltar @visit_gibraltar
10
visitgibraltar.gi
11
Love Me DoGibraltar’s warm climate and natural dramaticsettings have led to a significant rise in coupleschoosing to wed and honeymoon on the Rock.Gibraltar earned its status in the romantic stakesin the 1950s and 60s following a string of highprofile weddings. It s
the lenrymria John
Le to YoOno that t theRk buing.
Sean Connery, who as James Bondnot only lived twice, chose tomarry twice in Gibraltar, firstly toDiane Cilento and in later years to his current wife Micheline Boglio Roquebrune. But it was the legendary marriage of JohnLennon to Yoko Ono that set theRock buzzing. He later wrote aboutit in the Beatles number one hit The Ballad of John and Yoko.
Under local law, visitors to Gibraltar can marry withoutstatutory residential requirementsand couples are able to completenecessary paper work in advance of their trip. The law also permitsthe ceremony to be conducted at a number of approved locationsoutside of the Registry office.
Couples can choose from thecomfort of several of Gibraltar’slarger hotels, to the spectacularsetting of the ‘Dell’, an Italianatehidden garden, constructed in the
19th Century within the AlamedaGardens. What could be morespectacular than arriving at thesummit of the Rock itself by cablecar to exchange vows surroundedby breathtaking scenery? Yourwedding album will be a livingfairytale with treasured memoriesfor years to come.
With a history of integratedcultures, there are a number ofancient churches and cathedrals,four synagogues dating back to the1800s, Hindu temples and mosquesthat couples can also select fortheir religious vows.
Wedding planners and specialistservice providers from limousinehire, to photography, hairspecialists and dressmakers are at hand to help make your special day truly memorable. Furtherinformation can be found on our website, www.visitgibraltar.gi
facebook.com/visitgibraltar @visit_gibraltar
12
visitgibraltar.gi
13
A World of FlavourVisitors to Gibraltar will be struck by the vibrancy and colour of locallife. The Rock’s lush green vegetation is set against the cobalt blue of the Bay of Gibraltar and the pastel shades of the colonial and medievalarchitecture of the town centre. It is against this backdrop that so manycultures live harmoniously, and a wide range of internationally inspireddishes can be found.
Local specialist dishes includeCalentita, a local delicacy madefrom chickpea flour; Pinchitos,kebabs made of spiced lamb orchicken cooked over hot coals;Torta de Acelgas, a spinach tart; and Pan Dulce, a specialist breadtraditionally eaten at Christmas.
Gibraltar’s true flavour comestogether once a year at the‘Calentita’ food festival which takesplace each Spring in CasematesSquare. The festival is a display of the destination’s diversity andlocal customs. As well as localdishes, stalls include a range ofIndian foods, German sausages,Sicilian, Nepalese, Sri Lankan andMoroccan cuisine.
Gibraltar’s Main Street andCasemates Square are at the centreof its Mediterranean café societywith traditional coffee houses suchas the House of Sacarello datingback to the 1800s. At night,Casemates Square transforms intoa vibrant night scene with livelybars and restaurants filled until the early hours.
With the sea a strong part of itslegacy, fish is a popular staple ofGibraltarian cuisine. There are manyspecialist Mediterranean and fishrestaurants, such as La Mamela seton Catalan Bay. A further variety ofinternational cuisines can be foundalong Gibraltar’s stylish marinas.For a more formal setting, two of Gibraltar’s hotels in-houserestaurants have been awardedrosette dining awards.
Wh the a a strg t s
legacy, fish a pul staple Giaian cui.
facebook.com/visitgibraltar @visit_gibraltar
14
visitgibraltar.gi
15
Gibraltar welcomes millions of tourists every year and whether they arearriving to sample the fine cuisine, its natural beauty or its sportingpursuits many of them will head to Main Street, the centre of Gibraltar’scommercial district and the scene of some of the best value shopping onthe Mediterranean.
Gibraltar has a history ofshopkeepers and traders that dates back to the 1800s when the Rock flourished as a tradingport boosted by its strategic,geographic location. During thisperiod the modern identity of the Gibraltarian people evolvedthrough a mixed population of Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Jewish and Moorish communities.
Gibraltar remains home to manydescendant families whoestablished their businesses during this period. Names such as Stagnetto, Gache, Seruya, Cohenand Massias are traditional familybusinesses and their shops are still visible in Gibraltar’s busyshopping centre.
Gibraltar is a VAT free jurisdictionso goods sold in Gibraltar offer thebest value and the currency is theGibraltar Pound, equivalent toSterling, so there is no costlycurrency conversion for visitorsfrom the United Kingdom.
Along with the more traditionalshops, visitors to Main Street will recognise international highstreet brands and chains. These sit alongside handicraft andsouvenir shops.
Best buys include cosmetics andperfumery, jewellery, tobacco andspirits, designer glass frames,specialist linens and electronics.
For souvenirs and a taste of locallife, head to Casemates Squarewhere you’ll find local artisan shopsand the Gibraltar Crystal Factory,where you can watch the glassblowers at work.
Inaugurated in 1929, the GibraltarPublic Market just outsideCasemates Square, is a traditionalindoor market with a range of fish, fruit, vegetables and localdelicacies. It’s a great place topeople watch and get into the local spirit.
A TruePound’s Worth
r uns and a t lal le, head toCemas Sque.
facebook.com/visitgibraltar @visit_gibraltar
16
visitgibraltar.gi
Your Home From HomeThere is a welcoming familiarity for visitors toGibraltar. Its compact size means transfer times tothe town centre are never more than 15 minutes andits British heritage gives it a feeling of ‘home fromhome’ but with an exotic twist.
Hotels
Bristol Hotel ***This hotel, with its attractive walledgarden and swimming pool, is centrallysituated close to the Museum. Many of the bedrooms enjoy a splendid view ofthe Bay of Gibraltar.8/10 Cathedral Square, Gibraltar Tel: +350 20076800Fax: +350 20077613Email: [email protected]
The Caleta Hotel AA****The four star Caleta Hotel, Health, Beauty& Conference Centres, in a spectacularlocation on the eastern side of the Rock,awarded two AA rosettes for fine dining.Italian food at its best.Catalan Bay, Gibraltar Tel: +350 20076501 Fax: +350 20042143Email: [email protected]
The Cannon Hotel *Situated near the city centre, and ideal for leisure breaks. The main shopping area and most of Gibraltar’s historic sitesand places of interest are within easywalking distance.9 Cannon Lane, GibraltarTel: +350 20051711Fax: +350 20051789Email: [email protected] www.cannonhotel.gi
The O’Callaghan Eliott HotelAA****Tucked away in the heart of the citycentre, only minutes walk from bustlingMain Street, the stylish and newlyrejuvenated O’Callaghan Eliott Hotel offers every comfort and facility for the perfect holiday.2 Governor’s Parade, Gibraltar Tel: +350 20070500 Fax: +350 20070243Email: [email protected]
Queen’s Hotel *** The Queen’s Hotel is situated just outsidethe historic city walls of Gibraltar, andcommands views of unparalleled beauty of the Rock itself.1 Boyd Street, Gibraltar Tel: + 350 20074000 Fax: +350 20040030Email: [email protected]
The Rock Hotel AA****The world famous Rock Hotel is perchedmajestically above the city, and enjoyssplendid views of the Bay of Gibraltar. The attractive sea water pool is set insecluded gardens where light meals areavailable throughout the day.3 Europa Road, GibraltarTel: +350 20073000 Fax: +350 20073513 Email: [email protected] www.rockhotelgibraltar.com
Hostel
Emile Youth HostelOn Gibraltar’s historic city walls, a one−minute walk from the popularCasemates Square and Main Street. Easy access to all places of interest.Montagu Bastion, Line Wall Road, Gibraltar Tel +350 20051106 Fax: +350 20051106 Mobile: +350 57686000Email: [email protected]
How to bookTour Operators
Classic CollectionTel: 0800 008 7288 Fax: 01903 214 [email protected]
Cresta HolidaysTel: 0844 879 8036 www.crestaholidays.co.uk
My Gibraltar Tel: 020 8518 4181 Fax: 020 8554 [email protected]
SuperbreakTel: 0871 221 3344 [email protected]
Airlines
bmibabyTel: 0905 828 2828 www.bmibaby.com
British AirwaysTel: 0844 493 0787 www.ba.com
easyJetTel: 08431045000 www.easyjet.com
MonarchTel: 08719 40 50 40 www.monarch.co.uk
We have a range of self-cateringaccommodation options available onour website at www.visitgibraltar.gi.For further information call us on 020 7836 0777 or [email protected].
17
facebook.com/visitgibraltar @visit_gibraltar
Practical InformationHotel Grading
The Gibraltar Tourist Board’s OfficialHotel Grading Scheme is managed inpartnership with the AutomobileAssociation (AA) of the UK.
The Scheme uses a star classificationsystem for hotels, ranging from Oneto Five stars. In addition the AAawards Rosettes, from One to Five, to those hotels where the restaurantsserve food of an excellent andoutstanding quality. More informationis available on the AA’s website atwww.theaa.com or in the AA’s annualHotel Guide.
The properties taking part in theScheme in Gibraltar are inspectedannually by the AA and aredistinguished in the listings by the AA logo and gold stars next to the property name.
The Scheme is a voluntary one andthose properties not participatinghave volunteered their ownclassification, which is distinguishedby black stars next to the property name.
Language
The official language is Englishalthough Spanish is widely spoken.
Health
No specific vaccinations are requiredfor Gibraltar. Those needingemergency medical attention inGibraltar are entitled to free NHStreatment on production of a UKPassport or a European HealthInsurance Card.
Getting There
Regular flights from the UK toGibraltar are operated by bmibaby,British Airways, Monarch Airlines andeasyJet. Flight time is approximatelytwo hours and 45 minutes. Gibraltaris also easily accessed by thosewishing to fly to Malaga and Jerezairports and both can be reached byroad in approximately one hour and30 minutes. The land frontier betweenGibraltar and Spain is open 24 hoursa day, seven days a week both forvehicles and pedestrians. There is no limit on the number of frontiercrossings you can make.
Entry Requirements
A full valid passport or EU identitycard in the case of EU nationals.Other passport holders may need a visa to enter Gibraltar. Furtherinformation available from Tel: +350 20051726Fax: +350 20042706Email: [email protected] Tel: +350 20073026Email: [email protected]
Telephones
Gibraltar’s international dialling code is + 350.
Getting Around
Local bus services and taxis operatethroughout Gibraltar.
Currency
The legal tender in Gibraltar isGibraltar Government notes andcoinage, although United Kingdom
Sterling is equally welcome. There is a full range of international and UK banks. Credit cards, travellers’cheques and Euros are widelyaccepted. Gibraltar notes cannot be used in the UK.
Voltage
240v – the same as in the UK (3 pin plugs).
Weather
Gibraltar has an average of 320 daysof sunshine a year with temperaturesrising well above 30c in the summerand going down to approximately 12c in the winter.
The climate of Gibraltar isMediterranean. A warm, dry summeralternating with a mild, wet winter.
For further information, please contact
Gibraltar Tourist BoardGibraltar House150 StrandLondonWC2R 1JATel: 020 7836 0777Fax: 020 7240 6612Email: [email protected]
Gibraltar Tourist BoardInformation OfficeCasemates SquareGibraltar, GX11 1AATel: +350 20045000Fax: +350 20045865Email: [email protected] www.visitgibraltar.gi
Erything d to knowe co!
VISITGIBRALTAR
A breath of fresh airAction-packed holidays
City of contrastsExciting mixture of old and new
Mediterranean flavoursTaste Gibraltar
Big skies, open seasBreathtaking scenery
Dream weddingsFollow in the footsteps
facebook.com/visitgibraltar @visit_gibraltar
GibraltarTourist Board Information OfficeCasemates Square, Gibraltar, GX11 1AATel: +350 20045000Fax: +350 20045865Email: [email protected] www.visitgibraltar.gi
LondonGibraltar House, 150 Strand, London, WC2R 1JATel: +44 (0)20 7836 0777 Fax: +44 (0)20 7240 6612 Email: [email protected]
Design by she
ardh
udson.com
visitgibraltar.gi facebook.com/visitgibraltar @visit_gibraltar
Disclaimer: The Gibraltar Tourist Board does not accept responsibility for any changes in or unavailability of the services listed.