Spain
With one foot very firmly in Europe but one historical eye looking to nearby Africa, Spain offers a travel experience that is a wonderful blend of cultures and influences.
And, whatever you’re after Spain can provide it at great volume. Architecturally, you can choose from the many fantastical works of Gaudi in Barcelona, or head south to experience some of the highpoints of Islamic architecture anywhere in the world – while Cordoba and its Mezquita are impressive, the sublime Alhambra in Granada (among other attractions) is not to be missed. For artistic pleasures, Spain boasts some of the finest collections in the world, with the Prado in Madrid (one of 3 world class museums in Madrid) and the Guggenheim in Bilbao (where just the building itself is worth a visit, possibly more so than the art). Add in some amazing hiking options, including the Camino de Santiago, and there are options galore to keep you occupied.
If you’re feeling less inclined to explore and be active, Spain equally rewards those seeking indulgence. The celebratory party atmosphere of Spain is next level, whether represented in the nightlife of all its main centres or festivals like Pamplona’s Running of the Bulls. And, nowhere is this atmosphere more evident than in Spain’s celebrated coastal areas – whether you choose the Costa Brava, the Costa Blanca or the coastline of Northern Spain around San Sebastian, you’ll find amazing and idyllic locales to while away a few days. For the more exotic hedonistic escape, the islands of Mallorca and Ibiza in the Mediterranean offer all of this on an even more indulgent scale.
But, where Spain really shines and brings this altogether is with its gastronomic delights. Spain is justifiably famous for Tapas, which is the staple of any night out, or just afternoon snacking in a bar. Add in paella, gazpacho, the ubiquitous Spanish omelette and the dessert/breakfast favourite of churros, and you’ve got all bases covered….and that’s before you even get to the wine, which is grown around the country in this most hospitable of grape growing climates.
Whatever you choose, there are so many options North to South and East to West, with all corners of the country offering something out of the ordinary that will keep you coming back for more.
Image by kavalenkava, Shutterstock
And, whatever you’re after Spain can provide it at great volume. Architecturally, you can choose from the many fantastical works of Gaudi in Barcelona, or head south to experience some of the highpoints of Islamic architecture anywhere in the world – while Cordoba and its Mezquita are impressive, the sublime Alhambra in Granada (among other attractions) is not to be missed. For artistic pleasures, Spain boasts some of the finest collections in the world, with the Prado in Madrid (one of 3 world class museums in Madrid) and the Guggenheim in Bilbao (where just the building itself is worth a visit, possibly more so than the art). Add in some amazing hiking options, including the Camino de Santiago, and there are options galore to keep you occupied.
If you’re feeling less inclined to explore and be active, Spain equally rewards those seeking indulgence. The celebratory party atmosphere of Spain is next level, whether represented in the nightlife of all its main centres or festivals like Pamplona’s Running of the Bulls. And, nowhere is this atmosphere more evident than in Spain’s celebrated coastal areas – whether you choose the Costa Brava, the Costa Blanca or the coastline of Northern Spain around San Sebastian, you’ll find amazing and idyllic locales to while away a few days. For the more exotic hedonistic escape, the islands of Mallorca and Ibiza in the Mediterranean offer all of this on an even more indulgent scale.
But, where Spain really shines and brings this altogether is with its gastronomic delights. Spain is justifiably famous for Tapas, which is the staple of any night out, or just afternoon snacking in a bar. Add in paella, gazpacho, the ubiquitous Spanish omelette and the dessert/breakfast favourite of churros, and you’ve got all bases covered….and that’s before you even get to the wine, which is grown around the country in this most hospitable of grape growing climates.
Whatever you choose, there are so many options North to South and East to West, with all corners of the country offering something out of the ordinary that will keep you coming back for more.
Image by kavalenkava, Shutterstock