Spain is a country rich in heritage, dripping with fine wines and awash with a unique culinary experience that draws people from far and wide. On top of that, you’ll find some of the most beautiful and peaceful corners of the world in this country, some of which are located in thriving cities such as Barcelona and Madrid, while others are hidden deep in the countryside, awaiting your discovery. This guide aims to expose you to the highlights of this great nation, taking you on a brief tour of the best of Spain, and directing you towards some of the most unforgettable experiences you can enjoy while there.
- Food and Drink
Why not start with the cuisine. Famously robust and incredibly flavorsome, you’ll not find many countries on earth with such a celebrated and unique set of flavors. From tapas through to the full dish of paella that you must sample during your time in Spain, you’ll not spend a day without something shocking and delighting your tastebuds in equal measure.
Speaking of measures, you should enjoy more than a thimbleful of wine while you’re exploring Spain. It’s a country steeped in the traditions of wine production, with some absolutely world-class grapes for you to enjoy on long evenings sitting outside cafes that lie adjacent to vibrant, bustling streets.
- Cultural Riches
Spain has a rich and long history of intriguing battles, imperial conquest, and royal scandals. More than that, it’s enjoyed the visiting presence of the ‘Moors’ from northern Africa who, for some time, occupied the southern part of Spain. They left some remarkable buildings and little pockets of exciting and new cuisine for your exploratory pleasures.
Then there are the big cities – places with untold vaults of culture that you’ll not have to prise open to understand a little clearer the long and decorated history of this great nation. In Barcelona, marvel at the Gaudi architectural delights, with the La Sagrada Familiar Basilica his most impressive structure. There’s Picasso’s works to enjoy too, as well as some simply outstanding municipal buildings in the nation’s capital, Madrid.
- Places to Stay
There are literally thousands of options for your stay in Spain, ranging from five-star hotels right down to the little hostels and guesthouses that provide a bed for the night to the intrepid traveler who heads into the countryside from the cities to experience a more rural and laid-back side to the country.
Perhaps the finest way to stay in Spain is in a private villa, however. You should look for yourself, searching for Villa Holidays in Spain to find your perfect place to rest your head after a day’s exploration. By taking a villa, you’ll be able to enjoy luxury and privacy, especially important for both families and groups of friends who’d like to enjoy each other’s company away from the crowds.
- The People
Spanish people are described as many things: eccentric, passionate, sensual, loud, rowdy or even romantic. But what they certainly are is very hospitable and kind, with a fondness of new people who respect their culture and enjoy their food and wines. Your trip will not be complete if you don’t hang out with a restaurant owner or barman, or make a Spanish friend while exploring the country.
You’ll also notice the freedom with which the Spanish people generally conduct themselves. They are known to wear their hearts on their sleeves in a charming and admirable way, and as such, you’ll find yourself beguiled by a country that does not hold back. It’ll be a major highlight of your trip.
- Local Events
Spain has it all when it comes to events, from international DJs playing in each and every one of its cities on each and every weekend, all the way through to little local festivals that celebrate regional cultures and local dialects. If you can stomach bull-fighting, you should certainly see one of these remarkably brave events. Due to new regulations, the bulls are not killed at the majority of these spectacles.
Then there’s the Pamplona bull-running, an event with such a level of international fame as to be one of the world’s hotspots of culture. The event takes place in the winding and narrow streets of Pamplona, where brave runners dash away from charging bulls. There have been casualties in the past. There’s also the annual tomato-throwing festival and a festival in which huge human pyramids are created, battling for supremacy in city squares.
Spain is as diverse as it is exciting and armed with these tips you’re sure to make the most of your time in one of the world’s most incredible destinations.
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