THE MEETING PLACE OF CONTINENTS Gibraltar's history and environment are as captivating as its people; its formation millions of years before and the myths surrounding its dominant presence, to the territory's status today as a prominent tourism and business destination. The Rock of Gibraltar sits at the southernmost tip of Europe with a land frontier to Spain on its northern front. It rests at the crossroads of the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. The stretch of water that separates Gibraltar from north Africa is called the Strait of Gibraltar and throughout history has played a strategic part in battles fought and won to control the western Mediterranean seaways. Intrinsically linked with the sea, Gibraltar is one of the busiest Ports of Call in the Mediterranean. The sub-tropical climate is warm and welcoming throughout the year. The local people smile their welcome with friendly charm borne from a blend of many cultures united in a unique community. Gibraltar is a member of the European Union by virtue of Britain's membership. However, Gibraltar is outside the Customs Union so travellers from EU member states can still enjoy duty free purchases now banned to travellers within the EU. You will need a passport to enter Gibraltar unless you are an EU citizen with a valid national identity card. Tax Free Shopping Main Street, with its adjoining lanes and byways offers a large selection of goods, transforming this area of Gibraltar into what has often been called the shopping centre of the Western Mediterranean. The range of gifts is quite enormous whether it be watches, jewellery, delicate glassware, priceless porcelain, electronics, perfumes or spirits. Gibraltar has the most cosmopolitan variety of goods at the most competitive tax reduced prices in Europe. The currency is Gibraltar pounds, at par with sterling. If you do require to change any other currency into pounds, a large number of Banks and Bureaux de Change are available. Shops normally open between 10.00 a.m. and 7.30 p.m. during weekdays and half days on Saturdays. Many, but not all, are closed on Sundays.