Beautiful scenery, stunning food and a guaranteed 300 plus days of sunshine each year, what more could you ask for in a holiday destination? Despite being hit hard by the 2008 financial crisis, Spain has bounced back. In fact, it’s now the world’s third most popular holiday destination, passed only by France and the US. Spain is awesome whether you are going for a long weekend or a fortnight-long family holiday. This country truly has it all: miles of long sandy beaches, art galleries and museums to explore, not to mention mountain biking and water sports opportunities for the more adventurous. If you still aren’t convinced, check out these five fabulous reasons.
It’s Cheap
The post-Brexit pound may be a lot weaker against the Euro, but Spain remains one of the best value European holiday destinations. According to a recent survey, eating out and grocery shopping is around 30 per cent cheaper in Spain. Holidaymakers can expect to pay between 12 to 15 euros for a ‘Menu del dia’ (literally menu of the day) consisting of three courses, often with a glass of wine included in the price. A cup of coffee is around three euros. If you are traveling on a serious budget, check out the Costa del Sol or Canary Islands of Menorca and Mallorca – offering a range of low-budget self-catered options. Travelers with a more generous budget may even consider the delights of Madrid, Barcelona or San Sebastian, for a truly cultural experience. With such a variety of restaurants, bars and activities on offer across Spain, you are guaranteed an amazing holiday no matter your budget.
It’s Great for Culture Vultures
No matter where you holiday in Spain, you can expect to come across monuments and churches from this country’s varied past. Remnants from the country’s more recent dictatorship are evident across each and every small town. However, if you look around you, Spain has an obvious Northern African influence. This is due to the country being invaded by the Moors, from North Africa, several centuries ago. The towns of Granada and Seville are an ideal place to start your trip, if you are keen to explore the architecture from this period. Art lovers will be wowed by the numerous galleries in Madrid – the Prado Museum is a good place to start, and requires a full day’s visit. Dynamic and diverse Barcelona, home to the world-famous Sagrada Familia, is ideal for a culture-packed weekend away. While literature lovers should head to La Coruna, famous due to the novel Don Quixote. Even if you only want to dip into some of the culture on offer in Spain, there’s more than enough for you to explore and enjoy.
Sun, Sun, Sun
It’s true; Spain is the ideal destination for sun worshippers. If you are after guaranteed sun during your break then consider the Costa del Sol. This region of Spain is home to numerous coastal resorts, set in around 100 miles of coastline. Towns along the Costa del Sol have accommodation options available for all lifestyles, tastes and budgets. This region offers a guaranteed 300 plus days of blue skies, with plenty of opportunity for you to hit the beach or even try a few rounds of golf at one of the region’s many courses. Pretty Torremolinos and Fuengirola have buzzing nightlife and a range of restaurant options. While pretty, slightly quieter, Nerja is ideal if you are looking to relax for a few days. Don’t miss the glitz and glamor of Marbella if you are on a truly luxurious break. If you are chasing the sun, then this region is a must on your holiday.
Beach Time
With over 5,000 miles of coastline, Spain is ideal for sun bathing and water sports enthusiasts alike. The Balearic Island of Ibiza boasts stunning beaches and an incredible party scene, while the Costa del Sol is ideal for families or if you are traveling with smaller children, thanks to the range of amenities and beaches on offer. The slightly less popular region of the Costa Blanca is paradise for surfers and windsurfers. Both of these regions are easy to reach, with flights from low-cost carriers departing daily. Spain truly has beaches and resort options for everyone.
Amazing Food
If you thought Spain was just famous for its Tapas (small sharing dishes) then think again! If you are looking to spend some time on the coast, then grilled fish and squid and mussels will be on the menu. The much-loved national dish, paella, a mix of rice, seafood and meat or game depending on where you eat it, is a staple on most restaurant menus across the country. Food in the Basque region, along the French border, consists of hearty soups and stews – often with game or rabbit as a staple. Barcelona offers a range of options for eating out – with everything from sushi to more traditional menus. Tapas in Spain is sure to be entirely different to anything you have tried at home, and work out as a more economical option. Each plate can cost anything from one to ten euros depending on your choices. So, if you are traveling with fussy or difficult eaters, Spain caters for all tastes.
If you are after a holiday that offers the best of cultural activities and beach time, then Spain should be top of your list. Easy to reach, with flights available at a reasonable cost, it’s now even easier to make the most of the Spanish sun. Unlike neighboring France, Spain offers travelers a range of accommodation options that won’t break the bank. Not to mention a huge variety of restaurants and dishes, so you can eat out even if you are sticking to a strict budget. So, rather than jetting off further afield on your next break, make sure that sunny Spain remains at the top of your holiday wish list. This good-value and varied country is sure to have a villa, hotel or apartment that will delight and inspire you, while sun worshippers and party lovers are guaranteed blue skies and hot weather to help top up their tans. So, if you are traveling with children, or more elderly relatives, Spain is truly an amazing holiday destination for each and every member of your family.
