Spain Travel Guide

Spain has become an extremely popular tourist destination due to its great variety of activities for tourists to enjoy. As well as having bustling cities such as Madrid and Barcelona, the country also has excellent beach resorts around the coast.

General Information

The main language within the country is Spanish which is spoken all over. However there are a few regional languages such as Basque, Catalan, Valencian and Galacian to be aware of when visiting these areas.

The main religion within Spain is Roman Catholicism and the influence can be seen when travelling throughout Spain. There are many crosses upon hills, small white churches as well as impressive churches and Cathedrals within city centres. Despite many Spaniards not taking part in the religion as much as in the past, the country still pride themselves on their great religious buildings which are now extremely popular with tourists.

Spanish Culture

A traditional aspect of Spanish culture are the bullfighting events, they still exist (yet have decreased in popularity) and draw in a lot of tourist attention. The sport sees toreros performing formal and professional moves in an attempt to castrate a bull’s movements. The close proximity between the human and the animal create a thrilling yet dangerous sport to watch. At present day the gore has been reduced and has a lot less risk and danger than in the past. Another famous celebration which centres around this Spanish tradition in the Pamplona Bull Run in San Fermin which sees a bull running through the streets of the town.

Another aspect of Spanish culture is the music and dance of Flamenco. This has a range of influences such as Andalusian, Gypsy and Moorish. The tradition is for musicians to never gain training, instead learning from their community, however present Spain offers professional guidance for guitarists and dancers. Flamenco can occur in informal gatherings of family, friends and communities where the dancing is very organic and punchy. The music is similarly as raw and takes the form of a jamming session. Flamenco can also take place at a Pena Flamenca which is a designated meeting place for the artists. There are also tabloas up and down the country where performers have there own companies and establishments. Due to Flamencos’ popularity, it has now also taken to the formal theatre where many people can enjoy set performances at set times.

Spanish Cuisine

One of the most popular dishes in Spain is Paella; a rice and seafood dish which is produced mainly along the coastal areas where the fish can be freshly caught and prepared on the day of the meal. This meal fits in with the friendly atmosphere of Spain as the dish is one to share amongst your companions.  Other popular foods to try are the potato omelette, chorizo sausage alongside the wide range of cheeses and bread which the Spanish pride themselves on.

Map of Spain