Spain Vacations

We are going to visit Spain and Portugal soon. We will visit Casa de las Conchas, Old Roman Bridge, Royal Palace of Madrid, Bernabeu Stadium and many interesting places.

For long time my favorite country in Europe (now it may be Portugal, but to avoid conflict I based my self on a city at the border, so I can enjoy the best of both countries) I lived in the Canary Islands and spent a Winter in Andalusia. Food and nightlife, history and friendly people, beaches and the Camino de Santiago. Cheaper than my homeland Italy, but more expensive than Portugal.

Spanish men can be aggressive; "expect catcalling." Be mindful of your purse, bags and personal space when in crowded areas -- pickpockets work in teams to distract you. "Bring a shawl"... whenever you enter a church, shoulders must be covered. "In the day, there is absolutely nothing to worry about. At night, it gets quiet on some streets so try not to stay out late, or be deliberate in where you go".

my favorite Country in europe, everywhere a lot too see, great landscapes beautiful Citys, friendly People, from mountain to beach everything is there.

Spain is one of the most fascinating countries that I have ever been too. Of course, I'm biased given my maternal grandfather was born in A.Coruna, Galicia. The town was the launching point in 1588, of the great Spanish Armada, that sailed on to its eventual destiny with history. As many of you know, the Armada met the hated English in the English Channel, and the English won the day, forcing the Armada to retreat. As it was heading back, it hit a storm and many ships were lost, with sailors swimming to the Irish shores never to return to Spain. These lost Spanish seaman became the black Irish of popular lore.

Whether you visit Madrid, Barcelona, Sevilla, Granada, Toledo, et. al., you will be swept away by their majestic beauty, their history, and the friendliness of the Spanish people.

Spain can't be summed up in a short review like this, so I'll only talk about some of the most memorable places I saw when I traveled here: the architecture, markets, tapas bars and coffee shops of Barelona; the Salvador Dali Museum; the Spanish Moorish art and architecture down south; historic bullfighting rings; the museums and nightlife of Madrid. There's so much more to explore here - I hope to visit Galicia on my next trip.

Recovering its sparkle with renewed vigor, Mallorca is re-emerging as an exclusive destination for dramatic coastlines, romantic baby bays and parade of terracotta rooftops. Neighboring Ibiza refuses to let its guard down; now as renowned for its hedonism as its spectacular seascapes of pretty bays, hidden alcoves and sweeping sands. Cities Madrid and Barcelona are ever-evolving metropolises for Flamenco, food and array of colorful fiestas. Don’t miss the astounding restaurants in the Basque country, wilderness of the central plains and leading nouveau galleries in the north. Non-paella eaters are certain to warm to regional infusions and variations. Fussy eaters can pick their way through tapas of the freshest local ingredients. Besides, it’s good sustenance for museum indulgence, including the Guggenheim.

Sunny Spain with it's warm nights and warm people truly lives up to it's reputation. Locals are incredibly welcoming and will not only take the time to explain how to get to your next destination in detail but will often take it upon themselves to guide you there personally. With a temperate climate pleasant days turn to pleasant nights alive with rich night life that in the cities quite naturally continues into the wee hours of the morning. Delicious food is in abundance, the cities are packed with restaurants and the restaurants are always packed with people. Spain is much more affordable than the countries in to the north so it is a great destination for budget travelers and backpackers alike. The history in Spain is rich and unique and varies greatly by region.

Out of all the European countries, I've traveled most extensively in Spain. Seville is still one of the top 3 trips I've ever been on and I never stop dreaming of returning to Barcelona. Spain compared to most of Western Europe is surprisingly affordable too!

Spain is by far my favorite country in Europe. There isn't one special tourist spot draws tourists to this land, but it is just exciting and fun to wander around.