Topic: Spain

Spain is a country of varying cultures and terrain and is divided up into fifty provinces, some with their own language, such as the Basque country and Catalonia. Southern Spain is close to the African coast. Popular holiday locations of the Balearic and Canary Islands are also part of Spain.

Madrid

The country’s capital with its wide avenues and renowned galleries, shops and restaurants, Madrid is a must to visit. Visit the Almudana Cathedral, Royal Palace and Prado Museum. Try a paella in cobbled downtown Victoria Street, have a cocktail in one of the many bars that Hemingway allegedly frequented, or sip a glass of cava in the magnificent Plaza Major. From Atocha Railway Station, with its art nouveau façade and sub-tropical plants, take a day return ticket to Segovia for its stunning views from the ramparts.

Barcelona

Barcelona, Catalonia, is a buzzing city with many shops, bars and restaurants. It is famed for the 1.2-kilometre-long la Rambla that is always full of life. It leads down to the port and the beach. Visit Gaudi’s sagrada familia and Park Güell that displays many of his statues.

Tapas

All travellers to Spain want to experience tapa, an enticing menu of small bites with a variety of fish, meat and vegetables. It is fun to go from bar to bar and, of course, wash it down with a glass of Spanish wine.

Carnival

Hardly surprising in a Catholic country but the Carnival is celeprated throughout Spain. Some of the biggest and most vibrant festivals are the Sitges Carnival and the Santa Cruz Carnival.