Special Travel Feature - Viva la Espana: Our Journey Through Spain!

NotesFromTheWorld.com has teamed up with our friends at the National Tourist Office of Spain to take you on a journey through their majestic and delightful country. We expect to dispatch our reporters to Spain in the future to bring you our own unique perspective as part of our ongoing commitment to bringing you the very best "Adventures in The World of Travel and Entertainment!" Special thanks to he National Tourist Office of Spain for these words and images. Now, isn't it time to call your travel agent?

...Nicholas Snow, Founder/Publisher - The NotesFromTheWorld.com Family of Web Sites

Barcelona

Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, is a cosmopolitan Mediterranean city that incorporates in its urban street pattern Roman remains, medieval districts and the most beautiful examples of Modernism and 20th century avant-garde art. Not for nothing were the emblematic buildings of Catalan architects Antoni Gaudí and Luis Doménech i Montaner declared to be World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. Of Roman origin, Barcelona's long history and economic dynamism have provided it with an impressive cultural heritage, shown in the conservation of its rich historic and artistic heritage and in the encouragement of the newest artistic trends. Its long cultural agenda will lead the visitor through museums, exhibitions, outdoor sculptures... and an extensive calendar of music, theatre, and dance.

Popular culture also has a presence in this city, which does not forget deeply-rooted traditions, such as the Mercè Festival, or the holiday celebrations in the districts of Gràcia, Sants, or Poblenou, all excellent opportunities to get to know the more festive side of Barcelona.

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Tradition and modernity are also responsible for shaping its innovative and imaginative cuisine, which is based on organically grown produce, fresh fish, sausages and olive oil. Home-made pastries, and sparkling wines will round off a merely superficial approach to Barcelona's culinary culture. To take a stroll through the streets of Barcelona is to be surprised at every step. Pedestrian streets in the old districts, green spaces, and a splendid waterfront filled with modern structures all reflect the city's aim of integration. Barcelona has managed to exalt its past without forgetting its commitment to the future. The city has some extraordinary infrastructures dedicated to hosting seminars, symposiums and international competitions. Its exceptional communications network, its Mediterranean climate and its great number of tourist attractions make of Barcelona an important business city. Business facilities, as well as conference and exhibition centres, can accommodate the widest variety of initiatives.

The visitor, whether on business or pleasure, will enjoy Barcelona's Mediterranean character, which can be clearly felt on the Costa del Garraf as well as the Maresme coast. In addition, the city has beautiful urban beaches, marinas, and seafront golf courses. Nature lovers will not need to travel far to be able to hike through the hills that are part of the coastal mountain range and the Catalan Pyrenees.

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Madrid

Madrid, Spain's capital, is a cosmopolitan city. Its position as a centre for economics, finance, administration and services combines the most modern infrastructure with an important cultural and artistic heritage, the legacy of centuries of fascinating history. Madrid is strategically located at the geographical centre of the Iberian peninsula, 646 meters above sea level. Its old town is exemplary among major European cities, and blends harmoniously with the most modern and convenient of urban infrastructure. Madrid offers a broad range of accommodation and services along with the most advanced audiovisual and communication technology. All this, combined with the momentum of a society that is dynamic and open, and at the same time warm and welcoming, has turned this metropolis into one of the western world's great capitals.

The Madrid area has been settled since the Lower Paleolithic age, but it was not until 1561 that King Philip II made it the capital of his mighty empire. The historic old town, also known as "Madrid de los Austrias" (referring to the Hapsburg empire) is a living example of the city's 16th and 17th century heyday, as is its impressive Plaza Mayor (square), which was opened in 1620 and remains one of Spain's most popular and typical spots. Near to the Plaza Mayor is the so-called "aristocratic centre" of Madrid, home to the stunning Royal Palace, a 17th century monument that combines Baroque and Classical styles. Next to the palace you can find the Plaza de Oriente (square), the Opera House and the modern Almudena Cathedral, consecrated in 1993 by Pope John Paul II. This ensemble of monuments is completed by the Puerta del Sol, a square flanked by select shops, and the "Paseo del Arte", so called for its unique museums, palaces and gardens, not forgetting the unmistakable Bank of Spain building, the Palacio de las Telecomunicaciones (currently home to the Spanish Post Office) and the Cibeles and Neptuno fountains. Art and culture are central to Madrid life.

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The city has 73 museums that cover all fields of human knowledge. Of these, the most important are the Prado Museum, one of the world's greatest art galleries, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum with more than 800 paintings, sculptures and tapestries that go from the earliest Dutch masters to the most avant-garde trends, and the Reina Sofía National Art Centre, which is dedicated to Spanish contemporary art, with works by Picasso, Joan Miró, Salvador Dalí and Juan Gris among others.

Visitors and residents alike can enjoy the sun, go for walks, go rowing or feed the squirrels in Madrid's large, impeccable parks and gardens. The Retiro Park, once playground of Spanish Monarchs, the Casa de Campo and the Juan Carlos I Park among others make Madrid one of Europe's greenest capitals. Madrid is also one of Europe's most attractive business centres. Its international airport receives more than one thousand flights weekly from all over the world and it has two main conference centres, as well as the modern Campo de las Naciones exhibition centre and a capacity to hold more than 80,000 people in other varied conference and meeting facilities.

If there is one thing, however, that characterizes Madrid, it is the deep, contagious passion for life reflected in its friendly, welcoming people. Madrid boasts concerts, exhibitions, ballets, select theatre productions, and the latest cinematographic releases. You can sample a wide variety of the finest Spanish and international cuisine or be enchanted by its bars and taverns. These are just some of Madrid's leisure alternatives, alongside tempting shopping in the most traditional establishments and world-famous outlets stocking the finest international brands.

Madrid's happening nightlife is another major attraction. Its pubs, bars, discos and flamenco clubs have a tremendous atmosphere, while by day there are traditional verbenas (open-air dances), popular festivals or the San Isidro bullfighting festival - rated as the world's most important.

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Málaga

Inhabited for more than 2,000 years by different Mediterranean civilizations, Málaga is today a city which combines tradition and modernity. Stretching below the watchful eye of the Castle of Gibralfaro is a lively and bustling city crammed with beautiful corners, such as the Alameda Principal or the promenade of La Farola, in which it is possible to discover neighbourhoods of a rich Andalusian flavour, such as El Perchel or La Trinidad. A city whose streets are filled, year after year, with the popular fervour of its residents during Holy Week, declared to be of international tourist interest. In addition, its position as capital of the Costa del Sol makes it one of the most important tourist destinations in Spain, thanks to its mild climate, its beaches and the excellent golf courses available.

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Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans... the major Mediterranean civilizations more than two thousand years ago found in Málaga an exceptional site to establish trade routes, thanks to the strategic position of its port. The Citadel (8th-11th centuries) is, as well as one of the city's symbols, one of the largest Arab fortresses in Andalusia. The Archaeological Museum is located in this building, which contains valuable pieces from the Phoenician and Roman periods. The Castle of Gibralfaro (14th century), joined to the Citadel by a stretch of wall, gives the best views of the city, which opens out onto the sea with the port and the promenade of La Farola, one of the major leisure areas in the city.

At the foot of Gibralfaro is the Roman Theatre, the bullring (known as "La Malagueta") and the historic quarter of the city. In the centre stands the Cathedral (16th-18th centuries), also known as “la Manquita” because of its unfinished right tower. This temple, beautifully executed in the Renaissance style, preserves an interesting series of chapels which contain fine examples of Andalusian images. In the old town, other prominent churches are Santiago (15th-18th centuries), with a beautiful Mudejar tower, los Mártires, Sagrado Corazón and Santo Cristo de la Salud. Historic Málaga offers countless spots and corners full of local colour. The façade of the City Hall, from the early 20th century, can be admired, as can the Merced square, dominated by the Monument to Torrijos and where the house in which the famous painter Pablo Ruiz Picasso was born is situated.

A tour of the historic quarter must take in the busy Pasaje de Chinitas, calle Granada, with the Fine Arts Museum, or calle Larios, the old town's main thoroughfare. Málaga provincial capital also has extensive green areas, such as the Park, the Alameda Principal, the gardens of Puerta Oscura and Pedro Luis Alonso. But a visit to the centre of the city is not all we recommend. It is also worth taking in and getting a taste of the flavour of everyday life in the different adjacent neighbourhoods, such as El Perchel, El Ejido or La Trinidad.

Gastronomy, festivals and surrounding area

A good time to visit Málaga is during Holy Week. This festival, declared in Málaga to be of International Tourist Interest, stands out because of its tremendous floats and the popular fervour it arouses in each neighbourhood. One of the best options for accomodation in Málaga is the Parador de Málaga Gibralfaro, located next to the Castle. It is a good idea, however, to book well ahead at this time of year. The surrounding area of Málaga invites you to tour a province marked by sharp contrasts between the towns inland and those on the coast.The Costa del Sol is dotted with towns of considerable tourist tradition, such as Benalmádena, Torremolinos, Fuengirola, Marbella or Estepona. It is also possible on this stretch of coast to enjoy hotel establishments such as the Parador de Málaga Golf or its sister establishment in Nerja. Golf lovers have an extra incentive to visit Málaga, since it has some thirty courses scattered around the entire province, some of which are ranked among the best in Europe. There are several natural spaces in the provinces's interior, such as Alcornocales-Sierra del Aljibe Nature Reserve, the Montes de Málaga Nature Reserve or the Sierra de las Nieves Nature Reserve. The paradors of Ronda and Antequera stand out among the hotels available in the province's interior. Products from the sea and inland give rise to a rich and varied gastronomy. On the coast, the most famous dish is “pescaíto frito” (fried fish), although also typical, among others, are seafood rice, monkfish with potatoes and noodle casserole.

Soups occupy an important place in Málaga's cuisine, with specialities such as "gazpachuelo" (soup made from potatoes and mayonnaise) and "gazpacho malagueño" or "ajoblanco" (a kind of cold soup with almonds, oil, garlic and grapes). These dishes can be accompanied by the wines with Designation of Origin Málaga status.

For dessert, the choice includes sweet potato (roasted or covered in syrup), oil pancakes or raisins from Axarquía.

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Camino de Santiago

Discover Santiago de Compostela, the capital of the Region of Galicia. Millions of people from all over the world come to this city every year, many of them reaching the end of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. This is not the only reason to come, however. Here you can discover the main reasons to visit Santiago. World Heritage. Its old town is hard to beat. The historic centre is set around the cathedral. This part of the city has the UNESCO World Heritage designation. Here you will find monuments that are real artistic gems of different architectural styles. Buildings with centuries of history that give the city a unique appearance. The final destination on the Camino de Santiago.

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The Galician capital is synonymous with the Camino, an ancient pilgrimage route, born in the 9th century, that has linked the city with the rest of Europe ever since. Every year many thousands of pilgrims set out on foot, by bike, or even on horseback, to live this experience that combines adventure and spirituality. The final goal is the Cathedral in Santiago, one of the sacred cities of Christendom. This is, without a doubt, an unusual, unforgettable way to travel through Spain. Where gastronomy is an art. In Santiago, gastronomy is an active part of the culture of the city. There is a spectacular array of restaurants, bars and taverns, with prices to suit every budget - quality is what they all have in common. Here you will eat well - and plenty. Try our regional products, especially seafood, fish and beef. These are flavours you will want to try again.

Its university atmosphere. Fun, happy and jovial. Santiago's university atmosphere is infectious with joy and vitality. The 33,000 students who attend the university each year give the city a special atmosphere. Be sure not to miss the nightlife in Santiago, when its pubs, bars and clubs open their doors. The city never sleeps. The areas of the city where people go out are evidence of this, with an array of nightspots and terrace bars for all tastes.

Nature. Art and culture, but nature too. Santiago has many parks and gardens. An intense green pervades everything, not only within the city, but also in its surrounding area, where mountains and forests with luxuriant vegetation await. They are the perfect setting for a range of sports such as hiking, fishing and golf.

A packed cultural programme. Santiago is not a cultural destination only on account of its heritage and monuments, but also thanks to its impressive year-round programme of events: music, conferences, theatre, film, concerts, exhibitions, festivals... Entertainment and art are always to be found, in the city's museums and at a host of other venues too.

Its festive character. Feel the festive spirit of the capital of Galicia. Traditional celebrations where custom and folklore play an essential role. Music, colour, dance and games fill the streets and squares on the most emblematic dates. Above all, however, the Fiestas in honour of the Apostle Santiago stand apart. They are in the month of July and have the International Tourist Interest designation.

Gateway to Galicia. Come to Santiago and make the most of your visit to discover Galicia, a fascinating region in the north of Spain you will want to come back to. Here you will find beaches, magical forests, unusual traditions, charming villages... There are a whole range of varied routes and trails to follow. Come and discover them for yourself.

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Valencia

Few cities are, like Valencia, able to combine so harmoniously remains from remote periods, as far away as 138 B.C., with the most modern, avant-garde buildings to be erected in the new millennium. Valencia equals commerce, culture, cinema, theatre, museums, music, business. It is a place for international and avant-garde design and one of the most attractive cities in Europe when it comes to fairs and conventions. Thanks to its location, Valencia has been the Spanish gateway to the Mediterranean, with the special charm that seaport cities have. The fine sand and crystal waters, the vastness of the open sea, and the proximity of the coastal mountain range lend the Valencian coast a unique appeal.

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There are outstanding beaches and dunes at Canet d’En Berenguer, where the coastline becomes leisurely and residential, as it does to the north of the Valencian capital, where small tourist town (La Pobla de Farnals, Alboraya, and El Puig) have emerged where only a few years ago fruit and vegetables were grown. In addition, still within the city of Valencia, the beaches of La Malvarrosa and Levante offer a wide variety of places to dine and enjoy a quiet evening by the sea. To the south, nature becomes predominant at Saler Beach and in the L’Albufera Nature Reserve, where the sun can be enjoyed in unique surroundings. The beaches of Cullera, Gandía and Oliva combine beautiful landscapes with a number of sporting and recreational facilities. Interesting routes await you inland, such as the one defined by the course of the Turia River, or charming towns like Buñol, Requena and Xátiva.

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