CALETA HOTEL
Catalan Bay, Gibraltar.
One of the Mediterranean's most famous hotels overlooking the east side of the Rock by the sea near Catalan Bay fishing village. One hundred and sixty rooms. Hotel also has its own health & beauty club - see website for details of all facilities.
Tel: 00 350 - 20076501. Fax: 00 350 - 20071050/20042143.
THE ROCK HOTEL,
Europa Road, Gibraltar.
A four star 'colonial' style of hotel perched high above Gibraltar Bay with magnificent views of the bay, the Spanish coastline and Morocco's Rif Mountains. RAC White Ribbon Award winner.
Tel: 00 350 - 20073000. Fax: 00 350 -20073513
Traditionally, British ex-pats living in nearby Spain have flocked to Gibraltar to bank and to shop for those tastes of home such as Cheddar cheese and tea bags. The latter are now freely available in Spain but the ex-pats still flock to the Rock for a different shopping experience. Many of the big British High Street names are here such as Aftershock, Marks & Spencer, Morrisons, BHS, Mothercare and Dorothy Perkins.
The majority of the shops are on or around Main Street. This has been transformed in recent years into a beautiful pedestrianised shopping area. The newly refurbished Casemates Square at the end of Main Street is now bustling with shops, restaurants and bars.
Amongst the shops of Main Street you'll find numerous money exchange centres. The vast majority offer a very good rate of exchange and charge no commission on cash exchanges. However, do be careful to check before you change your money. At least one exchange near the Piazza does charge commission – so be warned.
Amongst the famous British and international shop names you'll find many local shops. Look out for Chinese linens, designer sunglasses, the latest CDs, electrical equipment, audio-visual gadgets, cigarettes, cigars, spirits, jewellery, watches, porcelain, perfumes and designer wear.
Take home with you a piece of Gibraltar Crystal. You'll find them in Casemates Square. You can see glass being made and visit the display centre. You'll also find a wide display of glass on offer to cater for every taste and pocket.
Shops in Gibraltar tend to follow British rather than Spanish opening hours. The majority of shops open from 09.00 to 18.00 Monday to Friday although some remain open a bit later. On Saturday most shops close at 13.30. The shops are closed on Sundays unless a cruise ship is in port.
