Spain Travel Info

Nothing can quite compare with the exotic flavors of Spain. Spain forms the crossroads of Africa and Europe—a unique melting pot of ideas, customs and artistic expression. Fantastical architecture abounds in Spain from Gaudi to Gehry, the movement of their work echoing the twirl of flamenco dancers. One thing is for sure, a journey to Spain will awaken all of your senses.
Spain Fast Facts

* Capital: Madrid
* Population: 40 million
* Language: Castilian Spanish
* Currency: Euro (EUR)
* Time Zone: EST plus 6 hours
* Electricity: 220V, 50Hz

Spain Hotels

History of Spain

One of the oldest inhabited areas in the world, Spain is full of archeological artifacts that date back many thousands of years. The Basques, Europe’s oldest surviving group, are also the first identifiable people on the peninsula. The Romans entered the Iberian Peninsula in the second century B.C., laying the groundwork for Spain’s present-day language, religion and laws.

The best parties

1 .- Carnival

In February, the carnival takes over Spain. It is the feast that fills the Spanish streets before Lent and Easter. The Canary Islands, Cadiz and the Mediterranean are the places where we must go in disguise, drinking, singing and dancing. Get ready, because there is already little.

2 .- Las Fallas

Spring arrives, and March is fire in Valencia. Wonderful wooden sculptures, paper mache and plaster, the ninots, exposed in the streets to be burned. Do not miss it. Firecrackers, fireworks, party, decorated streets, a real mess of joy.

3 .- Easter

Just after Easter comes failure. It is celebrated everywhere, but we do recommend to the south of Spain, and Valladolid Zamora or to see the processions. A dazzling feast for both religious and non-believers. Impressive steps or thrones, silence, bolts, a devotion that tears the veil of night.

4 .- Noche de San Juan

On June 24 marks the Day of San Juan. That night, the pagan festival takes on all the beaches of the Spanish Mediterranean. It is the only night of the year where you can sleep on public beaches of Barcelona, for example. Bonfires are lit, people sing and dance around them, and fireworks fill the horizon and cover.

5 .- San Fermin in Pamplona

I do not know if we can say that the San Fermin festival is the best known of Spain. It is a week in which the streets of Pamplona do not sleep day or night. The noise and bustle are relentless. People sleep on the streets, in tents in parks. The txupinazo opens a festival marked by the famous Running of the Bulls. A real racket that you must visit.

During the sixteenth century, Spain became the most powerful nation in Europe, due to the immense wealth derived from its presence in the Americas. But a series of costly wars, culminating in the defeat of the “Invincible Armada” by the British, led to Spain’s downfall. The Spanish Civil War in 1936 precipitated four decades of nationalist rule under General Franco. Social changes brought about by economic prosperity (and the general’s death) finally ushered in a transition to democracy in 1977.

Madrid, Spain
Bienvenido a Madrid! This ebullient city is positively bursting at the seams with world-class cultural arts, grand historical architecture, and exhilarating nightlife. So, wander through its triumvirate of exceptional museums, chat with locals over sangria and tapas, take in the incredible sights, dance until dawn…Madrid’s vitality and warmth will have you coming back to Spain for more.

Spain Weather

Spain coastal areas experience hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. If you go inward or upward, however, expect some cooler temperatures. As you travel through Spain, be sure to pack a comfortable raincoat in your tote and bring a light jacket in spring and autumn. Winter’s weather requires lots of layers and a heavier coat.
Spain City Highlights

Barcelona, Spain
Combine ancient tradition with the exuberance of a progressive seaport city and you’ve got the most-visited destination in Spain! From medieval fortresses and cathedrals to Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia and whimsical Parc Guëll, the appeal is quickly apparent. So, dive right in for the experience of a lifetime…Barcelona’s colorful architecture, brilliant cultural performances, and charming people await!