Spain

Spain is a beautiful laid back country of siestas and tapas, scenic beauty, sparkling beaches, rich history and culture. No matter what interests you, you will find something for you in Spain. And, unlike most of the continent of Europe, the weather on the eastern and southern coast is mild even in winter.

Each region of the country has a little something different to offer. The major cities in those regions have distinct personalities. For example, Barcelona is one of the most popular cities. It is beautiful blend of the old with the new in it’s unique architecture, influenced by the works of Antoni Gaudi. His colorful imprint can be seen at the Parc Guell, and the Sagrada Familia. And to get a perfect introduction to Barcelona life, just stroll down their most famous street, Las Ramblas, taking in the palatial buildings, shops, cafes, and street vendors.

Madrid is the capital of Spain, a major city in central Spain. It is more majestic than Barcelona and touts world class museums, a vibrant nightlife and stunning architecture. Some of the must see places include the Prado Museum, the Royal Palace of Madrid and the Playa del Sol (the most popular meeting place in the city).

Another region very popular with the British and northern Europeans is Costa del Sol. Located on the southern coast of Spain, it is known for its warm weather, sprawling beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Two of the top beaches are Playa de la Malagueta and Play del Cristo.

The star of the southern region of Andalusia is the city of Seville. It’s rich history ties to the discovery of the New World as exemplified by the towers created to house the gold the explorers brought back with them. That is just a part of Seville’s rich history. The city boasts stunning architecture and a lively culture. The Alcazar of Seville, the Cathedral and the Plaza de Plaza de España are just a few of the top attractions there.

Hugging the Med on the eastern coastline is Valencia. With 300 sunny days a year, it is fast becoming a favorite Spanish destination. It has been chosen best city in which to live by over 5 nationalities of expatriates. It’s a city designed for enjoying outdoor life. Bike lanes cover the city from end to end allowing you to ride through gardens, rolling farmland, along the river and by the beaches. It has 2000 years of history, yet has created a very modern area with the City of Arts and Sciences—truly a place of contrasts.

Finally, Spain’s northwest region, Galicia touts the famous Santiago de Compostela, which is Christendom’s third most important pilgrimage. It is believed that the remains of St. James lie in the Cathedral there.

In addition to the sights, Spain has a rich culture with many festivals that occur annually, and have been for centuries. Their Flamenco dancing, tapas tours, delicious cuisine and fabulous wines enrich the Spanish experience.