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So what events, places or celebrations would I miss about Spain were the aliens to land tomorrow and beam me up to a planet where fiestas are unheard of, where a siesta comes in the form of a device like something from the Woody Allen film ‘Sleeper’ and where paella is considered to be a food only suitable for creatures who require plenty of salt to survive. A friend asked me the following question recently. What are my unmissable bits of Spain? Those i would go back to see for a repeat performance.

Read the entire post » My unmissable Spain

I had my doubts that the chain smoking Spanish would be prepared to stand outside bars and cafes when the smoking ban was implemented two years ago. But i was wrong. In Spain, as in so many countries today, you can see customers stood outside in all weathers keeping up to their cigarette smoking habit. And, as a result, cafe culture on the streets has taken off. There are now more and more outside seating areas. The irony, of course, is that those who used to sit outside to avoid the smoke may now opt to go inside in order to… avoid the smoke! But is there a better way to soak up Spanish life than sitting outside a cafe or bar and watching the world go by? No. 

Read the entire post » Cafe culture in Spain – take it outside!

The stunning region of the Costa Brava in Catalonia has been voted as one of the world’s Best Travel Destinations 2012. The awards which were presented in the National Geographic Traveler Magazine, chose 20 destinations, which they claim all hold promise for improving mind, body and spirit. 

Read the entire post » Costa Brava amongst the ‘Best of the World Destinations 2012’

On my travels around Spain you are struck by how vast the country is. By how varied it is. And by how, when you take into account how big the country is, just how underpopulated Spain is. But in among those people are some very interesting characters. You see travelling through Spain is not simply about seeing the sights. Taking photographs of monuments such as the La Sagrada Familia (still a work in progress) or the Alhambra Palace in Granada (in essence a reform that just happens to be the biggest tourist attraction in Spain). It is about the people you meet en route.

Read the entire post » People I’ve met in Spain – part 1

I love the fact that I don’t pay for bottled water in Spain. I just fill up at the natural springs and drink what is, at many times of the year, snow melt. There are many ways the waters of Spain can refresh you. People swear by its restorative powers. Some even claim it has cured them of long term health problems.

Read the entire post » In Spain? Then take the water

A British made television series that saw the chef Rick Stein travel around Spain has revitalised interest in Spanish food. An enthusiastic Stein was on a voyage of discovery, trying to see if Spanish food had improved since he first ate in the country as a child. He decided it has come on in leaps and bounds. And he’s not wrong. I’ve been known to set off on my own culinary tour of Spain and I have been fortunate enough to taste some of the best food on offer in the country. And unlucky enough to eat some of the worst. 

Read the entire post » Culinary Spain – the north south divide

Often things are best neglected, and for the first time visitor to Girona or ancient Gerunda , in the province of the same name, this indeed proves true. Like an elegant old lady, her make-up now faded and lines visible, she is definitely worth a visit. Whether you have come for a visit to the Cathedral, to wander the medieval streets, or just for lunch, remember to stop and explore.

Read the entire post » Grand old Lady of Girona

It was unlucky for me that i visited the northern Costa Brava location called Roses during a period of very strong winds. But it mattered little. This is a delightful destination that, whatever the weather, is blooming lovely. And that is where the puns end. Possibly!

Read the entire post » Roses grows on you

When touring Spain you cannot help but come across pretty villages and towns. It goes with the territory. I never expected to find so many when i arrived in the northern part of the Costa Brava. I think the ‘three P’ villages of Palafrugell, Pals, Peratallada are a delight. Then there is the town Begur. Which is so so beautiful it positively beggars belief. 

Read the entire post » Believe in Begur