Spanish Travel News | Local Attractions & Holiday Guide

The 18th annual Jazz Canarias Festival returns to Lanzarote on the 3rd and 4th of July, with free concerts featuring artists such as Mezzoforte and the Diego Barber Quartet. This international festival takes place across five of the seven islands in the archipelago.  And is being organised by the Canary Islands Government who are keen to encourage tourists who are enjoying their holidays in Lanzarote to attend.

As 2009 is the fiftieth anniversary of Miles Davis’ legendary recording ‘Kind of Blue’, one of the leading concerts will see these tracks revisited by Jimmy Cobb’s So What band, in Tenerife and Gran Canaria on 10th and 11th July respectively.

The first Lanzarote concert takes place on Friday 3rd July in Teguise and features the Icelandic group Mezzoforte. Formed in 1977 by four friends, the band has developed its own style of jazz funk fusion and continues to perform and write music today.

Their best known album ‘Garden Party’ was released in 1983 to much acclaim throughout Europe and since then they have notched up eleven albums in total.
Musically the band acknowledges its influences range from Miles Davis to Earth, Wind and Fire and Weather Report, with newer tracks reflecting a more mature sound. 

Ozou, on the other hand, are relative newcomers to the jazz scene. The duo, who met in a Parisian bar, combine the vocal talents of Tatiana Heintz and the guitar playing of Gilbert Trefzger. Tatiana had previously worked with artists such as Mick Jagger and Keziah Jones, whilst Gilbert has collaborated with Nitin Sawhney and Jamaican vocalist Roy Ellis. They will be accompanied by percussionist Andrew Borger.

Mezzoforte and Ozou will be appearing from 21.00 in the historical centre of Teguise. On Saturday 4th July, the second free concert will be held at the San Bartolomé Municipal Theatre. This concert features the Diego Barber Quartet and the Patricia Kraus Quartet.

Diego Barber was in fact born in Lanzarote, where he began his studies in music. His training in classical guitar continued in Madrid and Salamanca, where he attained his degree. Although his studies and earliest forays into public performance have been in classical guitar, since his arrival in New York he has begun composing jazz for the guitar. His first disc, entitled ‘Calima’, has received critical acclaim and he will be performing this work in Lanzarote – fittingly, as Barber has clearly been inspired by the calima sand storms that the island occasionally experiences.

Patricia Kraus is a soprano singer who has developed her own eclectic style of music, which blends electronics, rhythm and vocals. In 2008 she toured, performing a range of blues, soul and jazz tracks, accompanied by pianist Gherardo Catanzaro, who will be appearing with her in Lanzarote. The concert begins at 21.00.

Spain is a mix of the old and the new; it is a place where rapid change is taking place in many ways. High-speed railways now cross its once remote terrains and there are tram networks in the larger towns and cities. Travelling around the country is now easier than ever before and tourism is a very important part of Spain’s economy.

In this country, you will experience a certain detachment and will feel almost a suspension of time with its multiple facets of modernity and tradition. It is a place where Arab watchtowers lord over magnificent landscapes while world-class museums and art galleries can be found in the cities.

Seville is a place that actually exudes that aura. A hybrid of contrasts at every turn, Seville is a blend of Moorish and Christian influences. Though Seville is known as a quintessential Spanish city, it vibrates with the modernity that is sweeping the whole country. All you have to do is have your passport stamped with the Spanish visa (required for non-EU countries) and get yourself ready to enjoy the city for all seasons.

Calle Betis and Plaza Alfalfa are the places for party people. Parque de Maria Luisa, on the other hand, is a stark contrast and offers an opportunity to absorb the quaint atmosphere of the place. This place is a good alternative or a follow up destination after a hard night of partying. For the culture vultures, Seville offers numerous museums and monuments that reflect the glories of the Seville of the past. One can drink in the sights of the upbeat city of Seville with its terracotta skyline and enjoy the feel of its cobbled alleyways.

Seville is a city that prides itself for being a place that can be described in extreme opposites. Romantic yet wild; flamboyant yet reserved.

Granada’s Alhambra Palace

One of the most historic sites in all of Spain is the Alhambra Palace. This palace, which is found in the city of Granada, is a historic site that was vital to the North African Moors. It is also noted for its impressive architecture and design.

This fortress was built in the middle part of the fourteenth century as a home for Moors that were rulers of Spain at that time. When it was first built it housed Muslim artists that wanted to escape from Christian parts of Spain where Muslims were losing power. The Alhambra palace was lost by the Moors and fell into Christian hands in 1492 but it is still standing to this day as a stunning historical site.

One of the parts of this palace that makes it so impressive is the way it was designed. There are thirteen towers scattered around the entire compound. Some of these were used as spots where guards would look for threats but others were used as places for people to relax. The design that was used was one that featured a variety of rooms that served different purposes including courtyards, gardens, a mosque and even a bath.

The architecture of the entire area is also unique. Arches and columns are used prominently through the Alhambra Palace not only for their amazing looks but also for how well they function as supports for the building. Water basins that were built were also designed with the ability for the water to reflect light in shimmering pools. Many detailed mosaics that were designed by the Moors and are scattered throughout the palace.

This is a very unique palace that is one of the most historic sites in all of Spain and indeed, Europe. Its impressive architecture and its value to the history of the country make it a very interesting and enthralling place to visit.

Just off the port in Andalucía, Southern Spain lies Malaga, the capital city of the Costa del Sol in Spain. The city is on the Mediterranean coastline and is a prime spot for beach loving tourists.

The city enjoys a wonderful climate all year but the best time to come and enjoy the place is in August. Malaga boasts excellent surroundings that are suitable for any kind of activity including hiking, bike riding and golf; but its famous beaches and marinas are what the tourists primarily come for.

La Misericordia Beach offers sailing, wind-surfing, and kite-flying on its wide shoreline. For those who love fishing and having picnics on the beach, then the Banos Del Carmen Beach is the right place for you. A favourite of the locals, La Caleta is an ideal spot for families and for people who want to mingle with the locals. If you want to enjoy wind-surfing, snorkelling, diving, or sailing, El Candado Beach is highly recommended. El Palo Beach is another great place for fishing.

As for marinas, Malaga offers you three of the world’s most famous: Puerto Banus, Marbella is the commercial centre of Europe with its latest fashion, array of water-based activities, and a bustling nightlife. Puerto Marina, Benalmadena is a cluster of artificial islands with leisure facilities. It is also famous for its Torrequebrada Golf Course. For spectacular yacht-viewing, Puerto Deportivo de Estepona is the place to be. Not only famous for its yachts, the marina also boasts of good bars, restaurants, and boutiques.

Malaga is accessible by air, rail or even by bus. Tourists who opt to travel by air must comply with the visa requirements, especially those who are not from EU countries.

From the cruise ship, one can easily spot a fortress-like settlement peacefully nestled high above the sea on a little island off the coast of Spain. This place is called Mahon, Spain’s little island capital that prides itself for having one of the largest natural harbours in the world.

Mahon has a mix of British colonialist and Spanish-style architecture that is predominantly evident in its narrow streets and squares. From the streets, one can also explore the coast dotted with catamarans and glass-bottomed boats that ply the ocean for the enjoyment of holidaymakers. In Ciudadella, the former island capital, one can explore the elegant mansions, palaces and cathedrals; remnants of the glorious existence of Mahon in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Architecture is not the only highlight of Mahon; the place is also home to island specialties like the ensaimada, a spiral-shaped pastry covered with cream and sugar. There is also the sobrasada, a spreadable sausage that looks like a chorizo. Tumbet is like a blend of the classic lasagne and potato gratin with its layers of potato, courgette, eggplant, and tomato sauce. The British have left an indelible mark on the Mahon cuisine with its legacy of gin distilled Mahon-style.

For the sun worshippers, Mahon is home to Cala Turqueta, Cala Mitjana, Cala Trébaluge, which is near the Cala Galdana. These beaches are idyllic spots with white sand coves.

Fort Marlborough is an indisputable mark of British colonisation. It is an underground fortress built by the British in the 18th century.

Mahon enjoys a Mediterranean climate year round. Temperatures are relatively average even in the highest of summers and lowest of winters.

If you’re planning to spend your holiday in Spain, and you’re from outside the EU, please keep in mind that you will likely need a tourist visa.

Whilst not everyone is planning a holiday abroad this year, Lanzarote will still see over one million visitors during 2009. With many of these holidaymakers arriving from the UK and Ireland. Who can now find out more about what the island has to offer in the latest edition of Lanzarote Guidebook – the free, in depth Lanzarote tourist information guide.

Created by long term residents, Lanzarote Guidebook aims to provide visitors with up to date and useful information about their holiday destination. Including handy hints about what to do and where to go.

With 96 pages, the guide covers every aspect of the holiday experience, from beaches to excursions, using attractive visuals to illustrate many of the best places to visit. All of which can be easily downloaded for free from www.lanzaroteguidebook.com.

The island’s towns and villages are all covered, with sections dedicated to each of the resorts. And with maps included. The comprehensive coverage also focuses on some of the island’s unique attractions, such as the Timanfaya National Park and the Jardin de Cactus.

Readers can find out more about the work and life of César Manrique, who almost single-handedly helped to preserve the island as the unspoilt gem it is today. Whilst covering island-based events as well, such as the upcoming Jazz Canarias Festival and local fiestas.

For the more active holidaymaker, the excursions section provides information about things to do, from a day’s fishing to catamaran sailing and kayak tours. And with a round up of the best beaches to visit, sun-worshippers can get the most out of the island’s sandy shores.

The handy essentials section offers helpful tips to ensure that visitors are well-informed and waste as little of their holiday time as possible. Such as bank opening hours, emergency phone numbers and road etiquette.
 
Available in A6 format, Lanzarote Guidebook is easy to carry in a pocket or handbag, making it an indispensable part of the holiday. It is distributed in hotels, hire cars and private holiday villas in Lanzarote.

For those who want more in-depth information about the island, visit the Lanzarote Guidebook website for monthly What’s On guides and news items. Not to mention a wide range of Lanzarote villas and apartments to browse for those looking to book their next visit.

La Coruña is the second largest seaport city in Spain. As one of the more popular cruise destinations in the country, La Coruña prides itself on having one of the longest seaside promenades in Europe. As cruise ships approach the port, they are welcomed by the 104 metre-high Hercules Tower, the only working Roman lighthouse in the world. They will dock in front of the Galerias de la Marina – elegant multi-storied buildings, which are laced with exquisitely glazed ‘solanas’ (balconies). These buildings date back to the early 1800’s.

Upon arrival in La Coruña, you can take a leisurely walk and behold the Old Town’s charming monuments, religious buildings, and gardens. You can also set your course towards the city’s Old Quarter, where great architectural and historical marvels abound – just perfect for an enthusiastic roving trip.

The city has several must-see sites. One of them is the cathedral. It is one of the great cathedrals in the world. This Baroque masterwork shelters its original 1100’s façade inside it. Another great site to visit is the Parador Hostal dos Reis Católicos. Located in the same square as the cathedral, this hotel is regarded as the oldest in the world. Built in the 1500’s, it was originally called Hospital Real. Another worthy place to visit is the Conevento de San Martiño Pinario – another enthralling Baroque-styled masterpiece.

La Coruña is also well known as the gateway to the mediaeval Santiago de Compostela. Your holiday here wouldn’t be complete unless you visited this nearby cathedral city, which is just a day’s trip away. Located at its heart is the shrine of St. James (Santiago). This shrine is the end-destination of the centuries-old Way of St. James (Camino de Santiago) pilgrim route. This pilgrim route attracts thousands of believers from around the world.

If you’re planning to spend your holiday in Spain, and you’re from outside the EU, please keep in mind that you will most likely need a tourist visa.

Cádiz is one of the oldest cities in the West. It was founded by the Phoenicians in around 1100 BCE. Situated in the south-western part of Andalucia, Spain, it is a favourite cruise destination because of the port’s close proximity to the Old Town.

The city’s shoreline has pleasant palm trees; white-fronted houses, and look-out towers. Just a few minutes away from the docks’ moorings are the prominent towers of the Baroque Cathedral.

Cadiz only has a few tourist sites; its charm lies in the rustic appeal of its Old Town. A leisurely walk around the streets and a stroll along the seafront is a great way to explore this beautiful place. In the Old Town, you can also pay a visit to the centuries-old Cathedral and the Museo de Cadiz.

Cadiz also serves as the gateway to the well-known Moorish city of Seville, and Jerez de la Fontera. Jerez, which is just about 30 minutes away from Cadiz, is famous as the home of sherry. A trip to a ‘bodega’ is a must, of course. Horse lovers in turn would surely want to visit the Royal Equestrian School there.

Seville, which is a bit farther from Cadiz compared to Jerez, can be reached via an hour-and-a-half long coach ride. Seville is one of the greatest cities in Europe. Some of Spain’s greatest monuments, the Real Alcazar and the Giralda Tower of the Cathedral, can be found there.

Holidaymakers can also pay a visit to the nearby Doñana National Park. Colourful birds and scenery abound there, as it is one of Europe’s last great forests.

If you’re planning to spend your holiday in Spain, and you’re from outside the EU, please keep in mind that you will be likely to need a tourist visa.

Known as the third largest metropolitan area in Spain, the city of Valencia is also commonly referred to as the ‘New Barcelona’. It is one of today’s hottest tourist and cruise destinations in Spain. This is due to a large regeneration project of its marina (port area), which is worth about €1.5 billion, to host the world’s most celebrated yachting event — the America’s Cup, back in 2007. This investment placed Valencia on the global map, as one of the world’s best yachting centres.

The city of Valencia is also widely known for ‘La Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias’ (The City of Arts and Sciences). An architectural masterpiece, the facility houses a diverse range of visitor attractions. Inside it is ‘L’Oceanografic’ – a modern marine park, the largest of its kind in Europe. It features an exciting shark tunnel, a delightful dolphinarium, and gigantic aquaria.

Similar to other popular cruise and tourist destinations in the Mediterranean, Spain’s third largest metropolis also features an interesting Old Town. And when night arrives, this section of the city hosts ‘la marcha’ – a throbbing and exhilarating nightlife. The Old Town is also dotted with small boutiques and shops, such as ‘El Atril’, at the Plaza Merced. Here, you can find some centuries-old bullfighting posters and other nice Spanish antiques.

If shopping is your thing, then you shouldn’t miss the ‘Mercado Central’, or Central Market. Built in the early 20th century as a monument to the ‘modernista’ movement, over a thousand stalls are housed in this picturesque hall.

If you are planning to spend your holiday in Valencia, and you’re from outside the EU, please keep in mind that you are likely to need a tourist visa.

One of the favourite cruise destinations in the Mediterranean, Santa Cruz de Tenerife is one of the busiest and largest of the Canary Islands in Spain. The northern and southern parts of the island are quite different; weather- and character-wise. The southern part has a dry, hot, and arid climate. Modern resorts such as the Playa de las Américas are located there. The northern part has a wetter and cooler climate. Old and very fine colonial towns, including the capital, Santa Cruz, and spectacular lush valleys can be visited there. The northern and southern parts are divided by Mount Teide; crowning the centre of the island, it is the highest peak in Spain (3,718m).

Cruise ships will dock at Santa Cruz’s port, but most of the island’s more well-known spots and sights are located on the northern part of the island. If you want to go for a quick stroll or to do some shopping, Santa Cruz has some museums, an art gallery, a vibrant market, and some duty-free shops. Here you can find various goods like electrical gadgets, jewellery, cameras, perfume, liquor, and tobacco – including the well-known Canarian cigars.

Puerto de la Cruz, one the island’s highlights, offers a lot of variety for holidaymakers. The structures here are mostly of colonial design. There is also a relaxing Botanical Garden, and a wonderfully landscaped lido. Loro Parque is also located within the Puerto. It is one of the most delightful parks in Europe, with colourful parrots, orcas, sea lions and dolphins – complete with sea-animal shows.

If you’re planning a fine and relaxing getaway, Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a highly recommended destination. And, if you want to explore the whole island while you’re there, it is recommended that you go there in summer, so sunshine and warm weather are guaranteed.

Check to see if a visa is required before you travel.