Spain Travel Tips and Insider Guides

            The landscape changes constantly in Spain. Each region and town has its own personality, and the locals will proudly outdo themselves to prove it. Many of Spain’s most famous attractions are location-specific, such as bull-fighting and flamenco dancing in the Andalusia region, but great food and wine can be found across the country. Here are some tips to help guide you through Spain, one of the most diverse countries in Europe.

            Spain is located on the Iberian Peninsula and borders, France, Andorra, and Portugal. Spain is eight miles from Morocco, and the Straight of Gibraltar separates the two countries. Spain’s famous islands include the Canary Islands and the Balearic Islands.

            The Andalusia region in southern Spain is likely the most visited region. It is full of Moorish architectural delights, including the Alhambra Palace in Granada, and the La Mezquita Cathedral in Cordoba. Pablo Picasso was born in Andalusia.

            Valenciana is one region east of Andalusia. Valencia City is full of baroque architecture and the coast is home to exceptionally popular beaches. The beaches are beautiful but packed in August.

            The Catalonia region is best known for its capital city of Barcelona. Catalonia composes the northeastern corner of Spain and borders Valenciana. If one word could describe Barcelona, it would be bright, from the architecture and outdoor markets to the food and people.

            The Basque Country, which runs through northern Spain, is known for beaches, bacalao (salted cod), and its unique folk history. The San Sebastian seaside resort and the city of Bilbao, which is home to the Guggenheim Museum, are must-sees.

            Galicia comprises the northwestern corner of Spain. Portugal borders it to the south. Galicia's rocky seashore is some of the most beautiful in Spain, and it isn't nearly as crowded as the southern Spanish coast. The Historic Park of the Navia River is just one of several locations that combine hiking with ancient ruins.

            The Autonomous Community of Madrid is located in the very center of Spain. The city of Madrid is the largest in Spain, and home to many of the country’s most important museums. The Golden Museum Triangle is comprised of three museums and many of Goya's painting are found here. The National Archeology Museum sheds light on the history of the Iberian Peninsula with Greek, Roman, Visigoth, and Moorish artifacts. Author Miguel de Cervantes, who wrote Don Quixote, is believed to be from the nearby town of Alcalá de Henares.

            As of September 2011, U.S. travelers visiting Spain do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Make sure not to stay longer than 90 days, as Spain is known to strongly enforce this law. Spain is part of the EU, and the official currency is the Euro. English is common among people in the tourism industry and youth. Spain's unique regions are fiercely proud, and it helps to known a handful of local words, as local dialects and languages seem to change every few kilometers.