Travel, drink and eat well in Spain!

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Y Viva España! Spain, vibrant, intense, and full of contrasts, beckons with its incredible diversity, enticing visitors to explore its entirety. Quickly enamored by its mild climate, sun-drenched days, diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and distinctive rhythm, Spain captivates with its unique flair. Are you prepared to immerse yourself in a country brimming with character? ¡Vamos!

One Country, Full of Adventures

Spain, a land of contrasts, boasts exuberant forests, sprawling deserts, majestic mountains, and miles of coastline, alongside bustling cities and serene villages. Its rich tapestry bears the imprint of countless civilizations, including the Iberians, Celts, Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Visigoths, and Moors. It's no wonder that Spain served as the backdrop for many iconic scenes in the Game of Thrones series, epitomizing the diverse landscapes and cultures depicted in the books and show.

Comprising 17 regions, each known as an autonomous community, Spain offers a myriad of travel possibilities.

Let's embark on a journey along the Atlantic coast, affectionately dubbed "Green Spain" due to its lush, verdant landscapes nourished by ample rainfall. Here, rugged hills and untamed scenery meet the deep blue expanse of the sea.

Galicia:

The enigmatic allure of Galicia beckons with its medieval villages, legendary sanctuaries, and the iconic city of Santiago de Compostela, the ultimate destination for pilgrims traversing the Camino de Santiago.

Asturias:

In Asturias, indulge in the maritime charm of Gijón and the regal ambiance of Oviedo, while the Picos de Europa National Park captivates with its jagged peaks, offering a haven for hikers and climbers amidst the Covadonga glacial lakes.

Cantabria:

Cantabria enchants with its pristine beaches, ancient cave paintings of Altamira, and the coastal allure of Santander, boasting a picturesque bay, the stately Magdalena Palace, vibrant fishing districts, and an awe-inspiring cathedral.

Basque Country:

Last but not least, let's explore the Basque Country (Euskadi in Basque), nestled between mountains and sea. Here, discover untamed beaches, the cutting-edge city of Bilbao, once an industrial hub, and San Sebastian, famed for its picturesque La Concha bay and Belle Époque architecture. Further inland lies Vitoria-Gasteiz, with its medieval quarter resembling an almond shape, exuding tranquility.

Navarre:

Now, venture deeper into the heart of the country. In Navarre, at the foothills of the Pyrenees, Pamplona awaits with its majestic cathedral and 16th-century fortifications. Nearby, the Bardenas Reales captivate with their breathtaking semi-desert landscape, while the Palacio Real d'Olite stands as a testament to Navarre's medieval grandeur.

La Rioja:

Don't overlook La Rioja, celebrated for its wines and outdoor pursuits, with the medieval capital of Logroño inviting exploration.

Castilla-Léon :

Moving on to the expansive region of Castilla-León, embark on a journey of discovery. Marvel at the Gothic splendor of Burgos Cathedral and delve into prehistoric wonders at the Atapuerca paleontological site nearby. Traverse Valladolid to admire its Renaissance treasures, including sites tied to the historic debate on Spanish colonization. In Salamanca, a vibrant university town, immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Romanesque churches and ornate Plateresque facades. Avila beckons with its imposing medieval walls stretching over 2.5 kilometers, while Segovia enthralls with its iconic Roman aqueduct, Alcázar fortress, and regal palaces.

Extremadura:

Venture off the beaten path to Extremadura! Discover the impeccably preserved medieval and Renaissance charm of Cáceres, and explore the remnants of Mérida's illustrious Roman past, including its theater, amphitheater, and aqueduct. Amidst the historic city of Badajoz, founded in the 9th century, stands the formidable Alcazaba fortress—a poignant reminder of the region's tumultuous history, including the tragic events of the Spanish Civil War, a conflict that ravaged the nation for three years, claiming over a million lives and ushering in General Franco's dictatorial regime, which endured until 1975.

Castilla-La Mancha:

In Castilla-La Mancha, embark on a journey through the footsteps and misadventures of Don Quixote, the iconic hero of Cervantes' novel. Marvel at the magnificent windmills dotting the landscape around Consuegra, immortalized in literary lore. Wander through the labyrinthine streets of Toledo, where echoes of the past resonate within its ancient cathedral, mosque, and synagogues—a testament to centuries of religious coexistence. In Cuenca, be spellbound by the gravity-defying houses seemingly suspended in mid-air. And within the Las Tablas de Daimiel National Park, immerse yourself in the ethereal beauty of this romantically wild wetland, teeming with diverse birdlife.

Aragon:

In the Pyrenean realm of Aragon, ski enthusiasts are treated to exceptional resorts like Candanchú and Formiga, while nature enthusiasts revel in the awe-inspiring cirques, valleys, and gorges of the Ordesa and Monte Perdido National Parks. Aragon's rich Mudejar heritage is exemplified in its architectural marvels, particularly in Teruel, adorned with resplendent brick and azulejo towers, and Zaragoza, home to the majestic Aljafería Palace. The vibrant city of Zaragoza also boasts the magnificent Basilica del Pilar, a baroque masterpiece steeped in history.

Community of Madrid:

Concluding this section, let's explore the Madrid region, nestled at the heart of the country and the sprawling Meseta plateau, home to the vibrant capital! Madrid, authentic and lively, beckons with its dynamic ambiance, world-class museums, regal palace, and iconic Plaza Mayor. Puerta del Sol, a bustling pedestrian square, bears witness to historic events, from the uprising against Napoleonic forces in 1808 immortalized in Goya's painting "Dos de Mayo," to the protests against economic injustices by the Indignados movement in 2011. Just a short drive from the capital lies the imposing monastery-palace of El Escorial, a testament to grandeur commissioned by Philip II in the late 16th century.

Catalonia:

Heading back to the coast, this time along the eastern Mediterranean shores, we encounter Catalonia, a region brimming with allure. Revel in the beauty of its pristine beaches along the Costa Dorada and Costa Brava, explore charming coastal towns like Tossa de Mar and Sitges, and marvel at architectural wonders such as the monasteries of Poblet and the Romanesque churches dotting the landscape. Barcelona, the vibrant capital, captivates with its bustling streets, historic Gothic quarter, and the visionary works of Antoni Gaudí, including the iconic Sagrada Familia basilica, the whimsical Parc Güell, and the striking Casa Milà and Casa Batlló.

Valencian Community:

In the Valencia region, delight in a 120-kilometer coastline adorned with sandy beaches, secluded coves, and picturesque coastal towns such as Peñíscola and Benicarló. The city of Valencia itself enchants with its juxtaposition of historic landmarks and futuristic architecture. Further south, the Costa Blanca beckons with its Mediterranean landscapes, while the port city of Alicante, nestled beneath the imposing Santa Bárbara Castle, exudes charm.

Region of Murcia:

Nestled between the coastline, agricultural plains, and mountains lies the hidden gem of Murcia. Discover the enchanting bay of the Mar Menor, wander through the historic streets of Murcia founded in 831 by the Emir of Cordoba, marvel at the ancient theater of Cartagena, explore the desert landscapes of Abanilla, and behold the majestic castle of Caravaca de la Cruz.

Andalousia:

Finally, let's turn our gaze to Andalusia, Spain's crown jewel. Bridging the Atlantic and Mediterranean, Andalusia's architectural splendors are the stuff of dreams. For over seven centuries, this region flourished under the influence of Arab and Berber dynasties, forging a rich cultural tapestry that endures to this day. In Granada, lose yourself in the ethereal beauty of the Alhambra palace, wander through the verdant Generalife gardens, and explore the labyrinthine streets of the Albaicin quarter. Cordoba beckons with its historic center and the awe-inspiring mosque-cathedral adorned with a forest of white and red arcades. In Seville, bask in the romance of its narrow streets, marvel at the soaring Giralda tower, and explore the majestic Alcázar, a masterpiece of Mudejar architecture. Throughout Andalusia, discover the enchanting cities of Cadiz, Ronda, Jerez de la Frontera, Baeza, and Úbeda, each steeped in history and adorned with architectural marvels.

Balearic Islands:

Complementing these mainland wonders are Spain's two island regions. The Balearic Islands, nestled in the Mediterranean, captivate with their pristine beaches, charming villages, and vibrant nightlife, epitomized by the allure of Ibiza. Palma, the capital, boasts a stunning Gothic cathedral and the exquisite Almudaina Moorish royal palace. Off the coast of Western Sahara, the Atlantic Canaries enchant with their volcanic landscapes and diverse ecosystems, offering a world of exploration on each island. Lastly, let's not overlook the autonomous cities of Ceuta and Melilla, perched on Morocco's northern coast, offering yet another captivating facet of Spain's diverse landscape.

A Land of Art, Culture and Tradition

Spain is synonymous with vibrant festivals and spirited celebrations that animate its streets year-round. From the grand processions of Holy Week to the electrifying férias featuring the iconic running of the bulls, and the colorful festivities honoring local patron saints, to the exuberant carnivals—there's never a dull moment wherever you wander.

Beyond the festivities, Spain's richness lies in its meticulously preserved folk traditions. Prepare to be enthralled by the exhilarating pelota matches in the Basque Country, where players skillfully wield rackets or elongated baskets to strike a ball against a wall. The soul-stirring performances of flamenco artists in Andalusia evoke profound emotions, promising an unforgettable experience. For those intrigued by tradition, a visit to one of Spain's historic bullrings offers insight into the ancient spectacle of bullfighting, a tradition dating back to the 13th century. Alternatively, witness the breathtaking "recortes," acrobatic displays where bullfighters elegantly evade the charging bulls with daring jumps and splits—a testament to human bravery in the face of nature's fury.

Spain's cultural tapestry is also adorned with illustrious figures in art, particularly painting. From the luminaries of the Golden Age—Vélasquez, Zurbarán, Murillo, and El Greco—to the modern masters like Goya, Picasso, Miró, and Dalí, their legacy resonates globally. Their masterpieces adorn esteemed institutions worldwide, with Spain boasting premier venues such as the Prado Museum in Madrid, housing an unparalleled collection of Spanish painting spanning from the 11th to the 17th century, including Vélasquez's masterpiece "Las Meninas." The Centro de Arte Reina Sofía National Museum showcases Picasso's monumental "Guernica," alongside works spanning the late 19th century to the present day. Picasso's legacy is further celebrated with dedicated museums in Barcelona and Málaga, his birthplace in Andalusia. Málaga also hosts a branch of the Centre Pompidou, adding to the city's cultural allure.

Additionally, we highly recommend the Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza in Madrid, where you can immerse yourself in the main periods and schools of Western art from the 12th to the 20th century. Delight in masterpieces by Caravaggio, Dürer, Holbein, Rubens, Degas, Manet, Grosz, Beckmann, Hopper, and Bacon, among others, as you journey through the rich tapestry of artistic expression.

Let's not overlook the iconic Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, with its mesmerizing allure and distinctive titanium plates. This architectural marvel provides the perfect backdrop for a stunning collection of modern and contemporary art, featuring works by Koons, Serra, Bourgeois, Rauschenberg, and Rothko, among others—an immersive experience for art enthusiasts.

Explore the surreal world of Salvador Dalí at the Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueras, or delve into the legacy of El Greco at the El Greco Museum in Toledo. Discover the Sorolla Museum in Madrid, housed in the artist's former residence, celebrating his mastery of light and color. Experience the avant-garde vision of Joan Miró at the Joan Miró Foundation on Montjuïc hill in Barcelona, or delve into the captivating world of Francisco Goya at the Goya Museum in Zaragoza.

Immerse yourself in the diverse cultural landscape of Spain with visits to institutions like the Fine Arts Museum in Seville, the Sephardic Museum in Toledo, the National Archaeological Museum in Madrid, and the Art Museum of Catalonia in Barcelona. Experience the cutting-edge architecture and innovation at the City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia, or explore the rich heritage of Spanish customs and traditions at the Museum of Popular Arts and Customs in Seville.

For the quintessential Spanish cinematic experience, indulge in the surrealistic films of Luis Buñuel, such as "The Andalusian Dog," or lose yourself in the vibrant storytelling of Pedro Almodóvar, renowned for films like "High Heels," "Tie Me Up," and "Volver." Experience the cultural zeitgeist of the Movida movement through Almodóvar's lens, a key period of artistic expression during Spain's democratic transition. And don't miss the contemporary brilliance of Rodrigo Sorogoyen, a rising star in Spanish cinema, with films like "El Reino" and "As Bestas," shaping the landscape of cinema today.

In Spain, art, cinema, and culture intertwine to offer a rich and diverse tapestry of experiences, inviting exploration and appreciation of the country's vibrant heritage.

A Thousand and One Recipes

Spanish cuisine celebrates generosity and flavor, rooted in wholesome ingredients like olive oil, vegetables, and seasonal produce—a testament to healthy and delectable eating.

Spanish dishes reflect the country's diverse culinary influences, from vibrant tomatoes and peppers to succulent zucchinis and hearty potatoes. The legacy of its tumultuous history, marked by various occupations and its expansive colonial empire, is evident in the array of ingredients and flavors found in Spanish cuisine. Spices, almonds, vanilla, citrus fruits, and other exotic ingredients made their way into Spanish kitchens, enriching traditional recipes and creating a culinary tapestry unlike any other.

You can savor Spanish cuisine in a multitude of settings, each offering its own unique charm. Whether it's a tasca, where you can casually nibble at the counter, a cozy taberna serving up hearty fare, or a bustling méson offering affordable and authentic dishes, there's something to suit every palate. Seafood lovers can indulge in the delights of a marisquería, while those seeking a sit-down dining experience can opt for a classic restaurante. And of course, no culinary journey through Spain would be complete without a visit to a tapas bar, where you can sample an array of hot or cold appetizers, known as pintxos in the Basque Country, served on toast or in earthenware casseroles—a perfect accompaniment to your aperitif.

Spanish dining offers various serving sizes to cater to every appetite (or simply for the pleasure of tasting everything). Whether you opt for una tapa, a small portion perfect for sampling, una ración, a full plate, or una media ración, half a plate, there's no shortage of delicious options to explore and enjoy.

While paella, gazpacho, and tortilla may be household names, Spanish cuisine offers a treasure trove of lesser-known yet equally tantalizing dishes from every corner of the country.

In Andalusia, indulge in the velvety richness of salmorejo, a thicker cousin of gazpacho, served with delectable chunks of cured ham. Catalonia beckons with escalivada, a smoky vegetable salad of peppers, eggplants, and onions, seasoned with fragrant olive oil. Venture into the heart of Spain and savor the comforting flavors of pisto, a rustic ratatouille of eggplants, zucchinis, and tomatoes, often accompanied by a hearty fried egg. Or partake in the festive tradition of calçotadas, where sweet onions are roasted over an open fire and enjoyed with a savory dipping sauce. Don't miss out on the tantalizing pimientos rellenos, peppers stuffed with a delectable array of meats, fish, seafood, or rice.

Beyond paella, Spanish cuisine boasts a diverse array of rice-based dishes. Dive into the maritime delight of arroz a banda, brimming with the flavors of fresh fish. Indulge in the rustic charm of arroz con costra, a rice dish baked to golden perfection with a delightful crust. Or savor the earthy goodness of arroz empedrado, featuring a medley of dried beans, cod, and garlic.

No culinary journey through Spain would be complete without a taste of its iconic appetizers. Savor the briny richness of olives, the savory perfection of Iberian ham, the smoky allure of chorizo, and the creamy indulgence of manchego cheese.

For those with a sweet tooth, Spain offers a plethora of delectable treats. Dip crispy churros and airy buñuelos into a cup of thick, velvety hot chocolate. Indulge in the comforting warmth of torrijas, cinnamon-scented French toast. Delight in the delicate sweetness of leche frita, fried dough squares dusted with sugar. Or luxuriate in the creamy richness of natillas and arroz con leche, traditional Spanish custards and rice pudding.

Quench your thirst with refreshing libations like horchata, a cooling barley-based drink, or granita, a tantalizing crushed ice concoction infused with lemon, orange, or coffee. Or opt for a classic café con leche or caña, the quintessential Spanish draft beer served with a frothy head in a chilled glass. For a taste of summer, sip on a tinto de verano, a refreshing cocktail of red wine, Spanish lemonade, and citrus slices.

Spanning from the traditional to the avant-garde, Spanish cuisine is a testament to culinary creativity and innovation. From the legendary Ferran Adrià to the innovative Dabiz Muños and Jordi Cruz, Spain's chefs continue to push the boundaries of gastronomy, captivating palates and inspiring imaginations worldwide.

On the Spanish Wine Trail

Spain's viticultural heritage spans vast expanses, earning it the title of the world's largest vineyard by surface area, with half dedicated to the production of white wine. With roots tracing back to the Greeks and Phoenicians, vine-growing is ingrained in Spain's cultural DNA. While historically focused on local consumption, the industry experienced a transformative boom in the late 20th century, particularly between 1985 and 1990, coinciding with Spain's entry into the European Union. This period witnessed the convergence of large estates and artisanal producers, paving the way for Spain's wines to enter global markets.

Today, Spain's wine-growing regions are as diverse as they are abundant, encompassing Galicia, the Basque Country, Castilla y León, Navarre, Rioja, Catalonia, Aragon, Valencia, Murcia, Madrid, Castilla la Mancha, Andalusia, Extremadura, the Balearic Islands, and the Canary Islands. The resurgence of Spanish winemaking in recent decades has brought forth a new wave of talent, with a growing number of producers embracing sustainable and organic practices while rediscovering ancient grape varieties.

The result is a veritable cornucopia of indigenous grape varieties, numbering over 350. Among white grapes, prominent varieties include macabeu, parellada, xarel-lo, albariño, albillo, godello, pedro ximénez, garnacha blanca, palomino, and airen. In the realm of red grapes, tempranillo takes center stage, accompanied by monastrell, garnacha tinto, caiño tinto, cariñena, espadeiro, graciano, sousón, picapoll negro, mouratón, manto negro, merenzao, and mencia, each lending its own distinctive character to Spain's diverse winemaking landscape.

The Spanish Rhythm

In Spain, time unfolds according to a distinct rhythm, inviting you to synchronize your internal clock with a different timetable. Lunch commences at the leisurely hour of 2 pm, aperitifs beckon at 8 pm (accompanied by a glass of natural wine of course), and dinner is savored around 9:30 pm...

Embracing this rhythm is a delightfully disconnecting experience. There's a certain pleasure in knowing that the days will linger longer, allowing you to savor each moment at a leisurely pace.

Central to this concept of time is the siesta—a cherished tradition that transcends mere naptime to become an art form in Spain. Even if you're not accustomed to drifting off within minutes, indulging in this midday rest or simply taking a moment to unwind alongside others can be profoundly rejuvenating.

It's during these tranquil interludes that you'll fully appreciate the conviviality that blossoms in Spain after dusk. Step into a bodega for a drink, mingle with locals, and immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance—complete with hanging hams, communal plates, lively chatter, and contagious cheer. Spaniards revel in celebration, and festivities seldom commence before the stroke of midnight, inviting you to embrace the local rhythm and join in the merriment.

You'll find it surprisingly easy to harmonize with this elastic sense of time and relaxed way of life—marked by spontaneity and a zest for the present moment.