Cartagena Spain

Posted on Thursday, September 22, 2011

During the 16th and the 17th centuries, when Spain held sway over the rest of Euope and the New World, much of its naval power was projected from the port of Catagena. Many of the coastal fortifications from the era still exist, although instead of guarding the city, they provide splendid views of the harbor.

La Coruña Spain

Posted on Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Spain Travel

Posted on Wednesday, June 15, 2011

The cultural scene in Spain's major cities emits an incredible sense of energy, confidence, and attitude. Cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, Cordoba and Bilbao are home to some of the most innovative and daring architecture, world-class art collections, plays, concerts, exhibitions, upscale and trendy shops, a wealth of restaurants and a nightlife that extends into the early morning hours. Yet these cities, and even some of the smallest towns in Spain, can boast a rich monumental heritage of Romanesque architecture, medieval towns and Renaissance castles, Moorish palaces and mosques and Gothic cathedrals - making Spain one of the premier cultural centers of Europe.

Madrid & Barcelona Vacation: Monograms

Posted on Sunday, May 01, 2011

Madrid & Barcelona:  Monograms allows you the chance to discover Spain independently, at your own pace & in your own style. Combine ancient tradition with the exuberance of a progressive seaport city & you’ve got the most visited destination in Spain, Barcelona! From medieval fortresses & cathedrals to Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia & the exciting Las Ramblas area. Simply dive right in as colorful architecture, brilliant cultural performances & charming people await. Then travel westward to Madrid, a city bursting at the seams with world-class arts, grand historical architecture & exhilarating nightlife. Wander through its museums, enjoy tapas, sangria & dance until dawn as Madrid’s vitality & warmth show you why Spain is one of the most popular destinations in the world. Monogram vacations also offer the assistance of a local host who provides authentic service and support, helping travelers feel more at ease while in Spain. Prices from $1,639 pp

Everything you Need to Know About Seville, Spain

Posted on Tuesday, July 06, 2010

Seville – the breathtakingly romantic regional capital of Spain’s Andalucia, is an enchanting city steeped in Moorish heritage. From alluring Mudejar architecture to the tantalizing tapas bars, flamenco dancers and fabulous festivals, it’s impossible not to be seduced by sunny Seville’s exuberant charms.

The obvious start to sightseeing is the towering Giralda, the symbol of Seville. Journey through the city and you’ll encounter chic, whitewashed houses, scenic landscapes dotted with orange trees and a plentiful supply of restaurants and bars. Much like the immortalized legend of Don Juan, Seville is captivating and ever so suave.

Sights:

Alcàzar – This amazing fortress – a maze of courtyards, walled gardens and tiled arbours was first erected in 911AD. Don’t miss the stucco friezes adorning the hallway walls.
Casa de Pilatos – A 16th century palace which was once home to the dukes of Mednaceli and now houses statues by Goya Carreño, Batalloli, and Pacheco. 
Catedral de Sevilla and Giralda – This striking Gothic church is the third largest church in Europe. Inside you can see Columbus' tomb, works by Murillo, Zurbarán and Goya.
Museo provincial de Bellas Artes – This 1612 former convent is now a magnificent art museum housing one of the world's best collections of Spanish art, particularly from the medieval and Renaissance eras.

Shopping:

Find everything from flamenco dresses and fans to hand-embroidered shawls, Spanish guitars and ceramics in the city’s the old centre and Triana.

For fashion head straight to Nervión where you will find department stores and chain clothing stores packed with stylish items.

Remember to pay a visit to the lively street market El Jueves that specializes in books, second-hand clothes, curiosities, art, antiques and furniture.

Cuisine:

Sevillanos like their food. Typical dishes are simple and tasty and can be sampled cheaply in the city’s numerous tapas bars. Most bars will have their own house specialities, but here are a few dishes you can usually expect to see on the menu:

Huevas - fish-eggs with mayonnaise Vinaigrette
Pavias de Pescado - marinated fish fried in olive-oil
Caracoles - snails in a garlic sauce
Jamon- cured ham,
Olives

Other traditional dishes include:
Gazpacho - a cold soup made of made of tomato, cucumber, paprika, garlic, olive-oil and vinegar served with bread.
Pescait frito - fish covered in flour and fried in olive oil.
Huevos a la Flamenca- fried egg in a tomato and Chorizo sauce
Cocido Andaluz - chick-pea and vegetable hot pot.
Rabo de Toro – an oxtail ragout