Spain has long been one of the top destinations in Europe when it comes to studying abroad, taking a working holiday or just visiting. With a warm, Mediterranean climate, incredible food and a culture that values relaxation and socialising over working their fingers to the bone, Spain has just about everything a tourist needs to have an incredible vacation.
Here are just a few reasons why you should go ahead and book a flight to Spain:
The Food
Spanish food is delicious, inexpensive and full of variety. It’s fresh, healthy, and some of the best recipes date all the way back to the Moors and Romans. Let’s not forget that most of the bars also offer tapas- small meals for free that are included with your drinks, so you can travel from bar to bar trying delicious food and meeting new people while also filling your body.
The Spanish climate is also perfect for creating incredible wines, and with so many different types available for just a few Euros per bottle, you’ll be able to eat and drink like a king.
The Architecture
The history of Spain has led to some of the most incredible monuments in the world. The Alhambra Palace in Granada is a standout, as is the Mezquita of Cordoba and the Alcazar Palace in Seville.
If you’re an Instagram junky, you’ll be pleased to see the many monasteries, convents and churches that are waiting to be visited. The Cathedrals of Seville, Malaga, Burgos, Cordoba, Leon, Barcelona and Granada have to be seen to be believed, and simply walking past them can give you a trip back into history.
The Beaches
The beaches in Spain are famous, and most Europeans consider them to be some of the best in the continent. Be warned though- they get packed in summer so be prepared for crowds or consider visiting in the shoulder season instead. Head to the Canary Islands for great diving, or Barcelona, Tarragona, Lloret de Mar and Salou on the Mediterranean Sea. This country is jam packed with amazing beaches, where you can soak up the sun, eat local food and party all night long.
The Towns
While many people visit Madrid and Barcelona, if you have time you should definitely get a little off the beaten path and visit a few of the hundreds of medieval towns scattered throughout the country. Check out Santillana del Mar (which you can find by grabbing a bus from Santander) and try the excellent restaurants. Many of these towns are made completely of stone and feel like you’re walking through a fairy tale.
The People
The Spanish are friendly, welcoming, and will generally go out of their way to help tourists. The Spanish also eat late, love children, and will usually offer food to visitors. And since every town and city has it’s own festival each year, you’ll probably get the chance to meet locals and see them celebrating, decorating and partying with their friends and family.