Spirited Spain

Posted on Tuesday, November 22, 2011

For city lovers, Spain tours offers plenty of choices, but the best place to start is in the country’s capital, Madrid. The city is an art lover’s dream with some of the most highly regarded museums in the world. The Prado has the world’s foremost collection of original Spanish paintings while the Thyssen Bornemisza’s 13th century to late 20th century European works include outstanding pieces from the Old Masters and Impressionists. And the Reina Sofía’s modern art collection ranges from Cubism to Abstract and beyond. After your visit to the museums, Madrid’s location makes it a perfect gateway to smaller cities like Toledo, Segovia, Avila and Cuenca.

Barcelona also has a fascinating artistic heritage. The city was home to many famous artists like Dalí, Gaudí, Miró and, for a time, Picasso. But where Barcelona really shines is its architecture and history, with Roman ruins, a medieval Gothic Quarter and some of the world’s most beautiful Modernist buildings. Around all these beautiful structures, Barcelona’s streets teem with energy. Take a moment to stroll down the famous Ramblas, bustling with street entertainers, mimes and flower sellers. The vibrant Catalonian capital also offers fabulous dining from Michelin-rated restaurants to the plethora of food stalls at La Boquería, the historic food market in operation since 1836.

Thanks to native son Santiago Calatrava’s futuristic $2.8 billion City of Arts & Sciences, Spain’s third-largest city, Valencia, has blossomed into a fashionable new destination. Calatrava’s fascinating complex includes a science museum, planetarium, aquarium and performing arts center and has permanently put this charming Mediterranean port city on the tourist map.

If country life is more your speed, Spain has many options. Regions like Extremadura and Castile-La Mancha are dotted with picturesque villages. For science buffs, Asturias features fascinating Jurassic-era archaeological sites. And regions like Rioja and Navarre are filling up with trendy new wineries offering tastes of local vintages.

If history is your thing, Andalusia will astound you. The area has been called the “soul” of Spain because of its rich mix of religious heritage – Christian, Moorish and Jewish – that has played a monumental role in making Spain the country it is today. Andalusia’s man-made beauty is best represented in the sampling of religious architecture found in the region. Cordoba’s Mezquita Mosque is as ornate as it is enormous. Granada’s Moorish palace, Alhambra, is a formidable fortress looming over the city that is softened and beautified by the Generalife gardens that surround it. And the Moorish fortress Alcázar in Seville, a World Heritage Site, has been guarding the city since the 14th century. Architecture isn’t the only area in which Andalusia has blazed trails in its history, however. It is also the birthplace of two iconic Spanish favorites – flamenco and tapas – and the region’s cities and towns offer many delightful places to enjoy both.

About Madrid

Posted on Monday, October 10, 2011

Andalucía is the second largest of the Spanish regions and is situated in the south of Spain overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.  Seville, Jerez, Caldiz, Granada, Alambra, and Cordoba are all in this region.

It's mild climate all year around and the cultural blend of its architecture make this region a unique corner of Spain to visit.  Monumental cities, enchanting villages, superb golfing and vacation resorts paired with great cuisine and the passionate Flamenco shows and you're in for a wonderful experience.

A Day in Seville

Posted on Saturday, October 01, 2011

As the capital of Andalucia, the providence of Seville provides a number of things to see and do. It sits in Southern Spain and offers historical sites of interest, fantastic shopping adventures and the most inviting restaurants to sample. Before you make your itinerary for a day in Seville, keep these options available.

Cathedral of Seville

The lovely and ancient Cathedral of Seville dates back to 1196. Once known as the largest place of worship in the world, it attracts thousands of visitors each year. This church is recognized for its historical significance, La Giralda Tower and famous burial site, the tomb of explorer Christopher Columbus. The belfry La Giralda Tower features amazing views of Seville.

Other sites of interest inside the cathedral include Christian carvings, treasures and unique architectural designs. A well-known healing fountain is located just outside the church.

Gastronomy

No day in Seville is complete without visiting one of the Spanish eateries frequenting the providence. Some establishments provide traditional Andalucian offerings of paella and tapas. Others offer both regional and international seafood dishes and grilled meats.

Shopping

The Santa Cruz region is where you will find great shops. The winding streets take you around the best venues for authentic wares and clothing. Calle Sierpes is the place to find everything from clothing to plants. This popular street is great for weekend shopping trips.

Entertainments

Entertainment is found in the form of bars, theaters and cafes. The small cafes can help you unwind and relax after a day of sightseeing. You can sample tapas and different coffee varieties as you people watch.

The bars and theaters provide all sorts of entertainment. Great tasting regional drinks, music and dancing are good things to occupy your nights. You might visit Triana’s Calle Betis, an area known for its numerous discos and bars.

Museums and Art

The museums in Seville are worthy of any visit. Spending a day at the Museum of Art and Popular Costume or the Alcazar Palace can take you back in time. An archaeological museum in Maria Luisa Park focuses on Rome, the Stone Age and other times in Spain’s history.

Spending a day in Seville can be an exciting and interesting experience. With so much to see and do, you can always spend the next day catching up.

Parador de Leon, Spain

Posted on Thursday, September 22, 2011

The Castilla Leon area, is another autonomous region of Spain. Parador de Leon, in Plaza San Marcos, is a sprawling palace fit for royalty and certainly upscale travelers. It is reputed to be the best example of Spanish Renaissance architecture and appointments throughout. Furnishings are in excellent condition and are replicas of the period, along with massive, carved doors and hardware. Bathrooms have been totally renovated, however. The grounds and gardens are beautifully appointed and maintained.

Parador de Leon, Spain

Posted on Thursday, September 22, 2011

The Castilla Leon area, is another autonomous region of Spain. Parador de Leon, in Plaza San Marcos, is a sprawling palace fit for royalty and certainly upscale travelers. It is reputed to be the best example of Spanish Renaissance architecture and appointments throughout. Furnishings are in excellent condition and are replicas of the period, along with massive, carved doors and hardware. Bathrooms have been totally renovated, however. The grounds and gardens are beautifully appointed and maintained.