Fiesta de Lamprea - Galicia's fish festival

Finding the right fiesta in Spain is a question of being in the right place at the right time. This weekend the options were out in numbers. From the opening of the Seville Feria to Sant Jordi in Barcelona. But Galicia was not to be left out of the action. The annual Fiesta de Lamprea (Lamprey fair) was held and the organizers this year were hoping for even more than the record 25,000 visitors from last year's event.

Held in the Rias Baixas region, the festival's star is the lamprey, a strong-flavored fish which is not the first that comes to mind when you think of Spanish seafood. Nonetheless, every year thousands gather to enjoy a wide variety of traditional dishes. The festival is held every year in the end of April.

For more information on festivals in Spain or for information on which festivals you might enjoy when you visit Spain contact The Spanish Touch.

A romantic outing in Barcelona

The Spanish Touch is pleased to announce that starting in 2010 we will be offering a unique "Romantic Barcelona" day tour. This one-day package includes a visit to the city center, and an afternoon cruise on a yacht through the beautiful blue waters of the Mediterranean. Your day starts with a pickup at the hotel and includes the opportunity to watch the sunset from the sea, followed by dinner reservations in one of Barcelona's most romantic restaurants!

For more information regarding this package, contact The Spanish Touch and we will be glad to arrange your personal romantic day in Barcelona.

Spain's open arms helping stranded travelers

In light of the massive mess that has spread throughout Europe over the last week, Spain has risen to the occassion. As a southern country, Spain, like Portugal and Italy, has largely avoided the horrors of mass airport closings. And as such, cities like Madrid and Barcelona are offering travelers a way out. For many travelers, getting to Spain means completing the first (and often most difficult) step in getting back to their homes.

With the prospects of the chaos finally clearing, life might soon return to normal. But more than a few have taken advantage of Spain's most recent display of its famed hospitality and The Spanish Touch would like to take a momet to thank the Spanish again for once more rising to the occasion and helping thousands of people return home.
 

Sant Jordi Festivity (Saint George) in Catalonia Part II: The legend of Saint George

Once upon a time there was a dragon in the town of Montblanc (Tarragona), a very ferocious monster that could run, fly, swim and killed lots of animals and people of the town and around the area. People from Montblanc reached the following agreement: they would give, by drawing lots, a person every day to the dragon to calm down its hunger. The pact seemed to work for a long time until it reached the turn of the princess to be eaten by the terrible dragon. All the citizens of Montblanc were very sad for the young princess and some of them offered their lives to prevent the death of the beautiful and delicate lady. But the king was determined to sacrifice his daughter the same way other parents needed to sacrifice their children. The poor girl walked towards the lake where the dragon was living, and was prepared to die when a knight, dressed in armour and riding a white horse, stopped her on her way to be eaten. The knight was Sant Jordi and, getting off the horse, caught the dragon by its neck and gave it to the princess who brought it to the main square of Montblanc and the dragon was finally killed by all people of the town. The legend tells that dragon's blood turned into a beautiful red rose.

Sant Jordi Festival (Saint George) in Catalonia Part I

Sant Jordi is one of my favorite festivals of the year. It takes place on almost every street of the different cities and towns around Catalonia on the 23rd of April. Some people call it the Catalan Saint Valentine's Day, but it is very different. Usually men have to give a rose to their partners and women give a book, but in fact, men give roses to "the women of their lifes" and that can include their partner, mother, sister ... even a friend, and the same for the women. In Barcelona the streets fill with impromptu book stands and flower stalls, and everyone comes out to enjoy the festive and colorful atmosphere! Let me show you some pictures of the Sant Jordi Festivity to better understand what I am talking about.

Malaga film festival

This week marks the 13th annual "Festival de Cine en Español" (Spanish-language Film Festival) in Malaga. Designed to raise the profile of Spanish-speaking cinema, this year's festival takes place from April 17 - 24 in the capital of the Costa Del Sol, and origin of Spain's most prominent ex-pat, Antonio Banderas. The films are being shown in various cinemas and theaters around Malaga, including some wonderful settings such as the Teatro Cervantes, Museu Picasso and the University of Malaga. In the ever-popular Plaza de la Merced you can find the Zonazine. It promises to be a fun and exciting week in Malaga!

For more information about the Festival or things to do in Malaga, contact The Spanish Touch.

Feria de Abril - Seville's April Fair

Nowadays, all Spain celebrates the "Feria de Abril" (April Fair), but we can find its origins in Seville (Andalusia) and it is still the best city to go if you want to really enjoy and live what a real "Feria de Abril" is. Basically, the fair is a collection of stands and attractions that wants to celebrate the andalusian culture and traditions. Usually it always takes place in the same spot and a big gate indicates the entrance to the fair. The gate itself is one of the most popular attractions.

The beginning of the fair is two weeks after Easter and is marked by spectacular fireworks and the lighting of the gate and entrance to the fair ("El alumbrao"). This year the Fair will begin on April 20th and will end on April 25th.

During the "Feria de Abril" you can see all sort of Andalusian traditions such as the typical flamenco and sevillana outfits, carriages all around the premises, lots of music, good wine and food ...

Picasso: the artist most forged and stolen by organized crime

I was reading the newspaper today when I saw that title: "Picasso, the artist most forged and stolen by organized crime". I didn' t know that!

According to Noah Charney, a renowned expert in crime and works of art, stealing and forging "Picassos" started to become a fashion between 1960 and 1961. The interest of mafia started thanks to TV when it was reported that Picasso and Cézanne were the two most valued artists in the stock market. But Picasso is not the only Spanish artist targeted by the organized crime. Sadly, Salvador Dalí and Joan Miró are very popular in these circles, too.

"La Sardana", the Catalan traditional dance

I am from Barcelona and yes, the Sardana it is part of my roots, part of my culture, part of what I am ... but I must admit that I learned once how to dance it and I don't remember. In my defence I will say that I was very young when, at school, a teacher showed us. It is one of the things I have to learn before I die. Every Sunday at 12:00, next to the Cathedral of Barcelona, you can see the "dançaires" (Sardana dancers) and you can also see Sardanes on special ocasions (Saint George Day, September 11th, etc.). People from various ages, hand-in-hand, making a circle and dancing. Sounds a bit strange, doesn't it?

The origins of Sardana are unknown. One more unknown to add to the list of great mysteries in Spain ... Lots of theories but nobody knows for sure.

A night with Picasso

The Picasso Museum in Malaga offered a special evening with live music and a guided visit of the museum, Saturday April 10. The art collection of Malaga's most famous native son - born in a house just around the corner in the Plaza de la Merced on October 25, 1881 - is hosted by the 16th century Palacio de Buenavista in the city center. The museum, opened in October 2003, has paintings and drawings from the artist from his teenage years through to the early 1970s.

For more information about The Spanish Touch, tours of Malaga including the Natal House and the Picasso Museum, contact us here.

Barcelona's MNAC opens its archives

Starting from next Friday, April 16, Barcelona's MNAC (Museu Nacional de Art de Catalunya) is opening its storerooms to the public for a limited time and only with advanced purchase. The Museum, celebrating its 75 anniverary, is offering guided tours on Friday afternoons and Saturday mornings for small groups of up to 15 people. The museum is housed in a renaissance style Palace designed for the 1929 International Exposition on Montjuic. Directly in front of the palace are the Magic Fountains, also designed for the 1929 Fair.

Contact The Spanish Touch for more information on the MNAC and other sites in Montjuic (Joan Miro Museum, Olympic Stadium, Greek Theater).

Catalan gastronomy gets a Harvard Education

Starting in September, students at the world's most prestigious university will be able to study the fascinating and complex world of Catalan cuisine. Harvard University and the Fundació Alícia have worked together to bring the "Science and Cooking" project to fruition. The course, led by 6 of Catalonia's most most innovative and respected chefs will lead the course on science and cooking. Catalan cooking, led by Ferran Adria, has been at the head of the scientific revolution in the kitchen, and now Adria, along with 6 Catalan chefs(including Carme Ruscalleda, Joan Roca and Carles Rovira) will work side by side with American chefs utilizing the scientific facilities of Harvard.

While the course is open to students of Harvard, the chefs and their creations can be found in Catalonia, and The Spanish Touch can help you organize a visit to these wonderful, innovative restaurants and see firsthand the fruits of these chefs forays into the world of science and cooking.

"Las Fallas 2010", Valencia. Some pictures

Here you have some pictures of "Las Fallas 2010" in Valencia. Enjoy them!

Garnatxa Festival

It's spring time, and maybe not the time traditionally associated with wine festivals, but for the people in the Emporda region in Catalonia it's been a time to celebrate for the last 13 years. April 2 and 3, in the town of Gairguelles the region's best winemakers and local chefs celebrate with samples of the superb red, Garnatxa, and a local delicacy known as Brunyols, which is traditionally eaten at festival times such as Semana Santa. Activities include an open wine tasting competition and Sardanas dances in the evening. The Spanish Touch will be on hand to witness the celebration, and with the springtime in full bloom it promises to be a wonderful experience.

Small-town Semana Santa

Semana Santa (Easter Week) is upon us again in Spain. Long considered one of the premier festivals throughout the country, it has been (rightfully) extolled in places like Malaga, Toledo and Seville. However, it would be a mistake to limit ourselves to just the big cities. Some of the best, most moving and spectacular scenes I have seen have been in small towns and out-of-the-way places that most people tend to drive right past. In towns like Cuenca, with it's cliff-face houses and panoramic views, or Lorca in Murcia, or St. Feliu de Guixols along the Costa Brava the experience seems more personal, closer, more accessible.

For help planning your next Spanish vacation or more information regarding Semana Santa celebrations, contact us at The Spanish Touch.

Madrid's Gran Via turns 100

It is sometimes strange to think of 100 being a relatively short period of time, but when we say something in a city as steeped in history as Madrid is 100 years old, we have to fight the urge to add "only". However, when we are talking about major thoroughfares through Madrid, then perhaps we can understand how impressive 100 years is. On April 4, 1910 King Alfonso XIII swung the first stroke for what would become Madrid's most famous, most-used road: the Gran Via. More than 100 years ago the urban architects of Madrid had the foresight to see the need for a single road that would connect old Madrid with the rapidly growing city without passing through the ever/increasingly congested Puerta del Sol. In fact, the first plan was submitted in 1861, but the final project took almost 40 years to come to fruition.

The city of Madrid will be hosting a series of events, including guided tours of the street's most famous (and not-so-famous) areas, conferences and expositions.

Check out The Spanish Touch's for more information about our services in Madrid and the surrounding areas, including Toledo, Segovia, Avila and El Escorial.

The Spanish Touch welcomes the Springtime

After one of the wettest and coolest winters in recent memory, Spain welcomed Spring with open arms over the weekend. With Las Fallas saying goodbye to winter as only the Spanish can, the new season brings new and exciting possibilities for people looking for something more than just a "standard" experience. With the fruit trees and flowers in full bloom, it's a great time to take an excursion up to El Chorro to see the Camino del Reyes (pictured above), or explore the scenery of Montserrat. It is also a great time to visit the wineries and witness first-hand this year's promising crop.

The Spanish Touch is offering a 15% discount on all walking tours and select "rural tourism" routes such as visits to La Garrotxa and El Chorro.

Contact us for more information about our upcoming specials or for information regarding any of Spain's Springtime activities.

Picasso's Guernica in 3D

The 3D craze has spread its wings throughout popular culture again. With it's return to worldwide popularity through Avatar, more attention has been drawn to other genres that have been employing it for years. As people become more aware of 3Ds' possibilities, "discoveries" are made which stretch our imaginations.

A wonderful example of this is Lena Gieseke's 3D exploration of Guernica, Pablo Picasso's masterpiece. Gieseke chose to use digital infographics to allow people to contemplate the great Spanish painter's from a different perspective, and it certainly offers us that!

The original painting, inspired by the civil war and the bombing of the Basque town of the same name, is on display at Madrid's Reina Sofia Museum, is surrounded by sketches by the artist showing the progression of his ideas and painting. For many years it was not in Spain, as Picasso had stated that he did not want his work displayed while General Franco's facist regime was in power. The work is one of many on display by Picasso at the museum, which forms a part of the so-called "Golden Triangle" of museums in Madrid, with El Prado and Thyssen-Bornemisza.

Templars in Spain

Mention the Templar Knights a words like "legendary" and "mystical" often pop up in the conversation. The Templars were an extremely powerful order during the times of the crusades, and their exploits have been linked to everything from the Holy Grail to Solomon's gold. A lesser-known fact is that Catalunya and Spain was one of the most important Templar areas, as the frontier land between the Christians and the Moors. The Castle-Fortress of Miravet, in the Ebro River Delta, is considered one of the best, and best-conserved, examples of the Templar architecture in all of Spain. The best way to get to the Castle is to take the local ferry, a truly unique experience!

For more information or to arrange a tour of all or a part of The route of los Templars, which starts at Miravet and continues throughout Catalunya and Aragon, contact The Spanish Touch.

Walking with the Kings

Everyone remembers the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabella. They united the Spanish and Aragonese empires, completed the Reconquista, and commisioned Columbus' voyage across the Atlantic. This year the Spanish Touch is offering a route tracing some of most important places where the Monarchs stayed. Starting in Madrid and Toledo, the route includes visits to Ronda, Frigiliana, and Granada. Join us to learn discover some of the most interesting and curious facts about Spain's most famous king and queen, and to experience the history and culture of Spain in an 8-day tour, starting from just $1,680 per person!

For more information contact The Spanish Touch and we will be glad to give you more details on this or any of our custom and private tours in Spain.

Las Fallas 2010

One of the biggest and best celebrations in a country famous for them is upon us: Las Fallas 2010 has arrived in full effect in Valencia! For those people lucky enough to get the chance to live the Fallas first hand, it is a truly unique and exhilirating experience. Every year the streets fill up with the Ninots (giant statues) and people, and the whole city seems to be a kaleidescope of colors, sounds and lights. The beauty of Las Fallas is that every year is completely different, as the giant paper-mache floats are burned and artists spend most of the year creating new statues to burn for the next year.

This year's celebration kicked off yesterday, March 15, and continues through the 19, with each day bringing new Ninots and new celebrations.

To visit Valencia during Las Fallas, or to learn more about this or other Spanish festivals, please contact The Spanish Touch.

Malaga Airport gets its due

It's been a long time coming, but the most active airport on Spain's southern coast finally got the expansion it has needed. Long considered the gateway to the Costa del Sol (for the good and the bad that name entails), Malaga International Airport suffered from its small size and lack of infrastructure. However, with the arrival of the T3 (Terminal 3), the capacity has essentially doubled, and will allow an increase from 12 to 30 million passengers a year. King Juan Carlos opened the Terminal in an official ceremony this morning.

Malaga's airport is ideally situated for those people who want to visit not just the traditional tourist towns along the Costa del Sol, but also for those who are looking to get in touch with cities like Granada and Nerja, or to take a trip through the region of Andalucia with The Spanish Touch.

I'm not dreaming - it's a white Barcelona

It's not every day, or every year for that matter, that the city of Barcelona gets any snow at all. So yesterday was a bit of an oddity, and despite the problems with transportation and power that some areas experienced, provided the city and the region with some spectacular, albeit uncommon, panoramas. While the snow and winds were enough to keep most people inside, those who were daring enough to brave the elements got to see things which are unique and beautiful. The city dressed in white is indeed a beautiful sight: For example, the above picture of the University of Barcelona, this one of La Pedrera:

While we may not like the traffic or the cold, there is no denying that the snowfall has demonstrated that the city looks fabulous dressed in white.

For more information about the city of Barcelona or tours, please do not hesitate to contact us at The Spanish Touch.

Barcelona Marathon

This coming Sunday, March 7, a record number of people will set out through the streets of Barcelona to complete the 26-mile Barcelona Marathon. More than 12,000 runners have registered for the event, which will start and end at the Plaza Espanya at the foot of Montjuic mountain. The practical effect of this annual event is that many of the primary and secondary roads along the route will be shut off to traffic as the participants make their way through various parts of the city, passing sites such as Sagrada Familia, La Pedrera, The Cathedral, and even heading down Las Ramblas.

However, aside from the traffic problems, it will be a great day to be in the city. Event organizers have set up a number of "Animation points" along the way with events celebtrations for spectators and visitors to the city alike. Concerts and interactive events range from a Brazilian percussion bands to Columbian folk dancing to gastronomic samplings (of everything from escargot to local chocolate makers). In all there are 39 events throughout the city in celebration of the multicultural spirit of the city and the race.

For more information about events and custom tours in Barcelona, please contact The Spanish Touch.

Barcelona Restaurant Week

Following in the footsteps of cities like San Fransisco, New York, London and Madrid, Barcelona has introduced its first ever Restaurant Week 2010. From Saturday February 20 through this Sunday February 28, more than 30 of Barcelona's finest restaurants have opened their doors and their hearts, offering a set menu for 25 euros (including a 1 euro donation to the Fundacion del Corazon (Heart Foundation). The success of this week has been overwhelming, with many people taking the opportunity to visit some of the city's best restaurants such as Llucanes, Gresca, Hoffman and Els Pescadors. Restaurants offering everything from classic fish dishes to Catalan fusion cuisine with Adria disciples to Japanese to an Argentinean Steak house, the selection of establishments is a good cross-section of Barcelona's offerings.

Unfortunately, heading into the final weekend if you don't have a reservation already, better luck next time. However, given the success of its first edition, we at The Spanish Touch are certain that this will become an annual event. In the meantime, when in Spain, do not miss the opportunity to sample the wonderful cuisine, rich and so intimately a part of the country and its people.

If you have any questions or would like help in choosing restaurants during your visit, drop us a line and we'll be glad to help.

The "Fiesta de Sant Antoni"

For centuries Sant Antoni has been the traditional protector of all the working animals. The invocation of Sant Antoni is designed to produce fertility in the animals as well as the crop, and for purification. This celebration is held throughout the entire Catalan territory around January 17.

Madrid Food Festivities

What better way to shake off those winter blues than with some sumptious snacks? If grastronomical delights and creative cuisine sound like a good way to ring in the new year, Madrid is the place to be this month. The city is hosting two food fairs: the GastroFestival and the Madrid Fusion.

The GastroFestival is an exciting adventure in cooking, offering visitors to the city the chance to taste some of the best haute cuisine around in everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to some of the best tapas bars in the city. There will also be tastings of wines, olive oils, cheesses, and much more. For three short days (january 26-28) the Madrid Fusion fair will bring together top chefs from around the world to share their newest ideas and creations.

Madrid is a city which is rightly known for its outstanding restaurants, and despite its landlocked geographical situation, can offer visitors a wonderful selection of traditional Spanish foods from all over Spain. A local speciality, called Cocido, should not be missed by anyone wishing to experience the gastronomic gems of Spain´s capital city.

Contact us at The Spanish Touch for more information.

From Market to Market

Something that stands out when I think of Spain: The markets and ferias, or fairs. These markets can be indoor or open-aired. They might have fresh produce or fresh poultry. Or perhaps they are a display of local artisans' work. Maybe you're looking to pick up a pair of unique earrings for a friend back home, or you want to try some fresh squeezed OJ. Here in Barcelona, let alone Spain in general, I have found quite the array. Sometimes, it's a permanent market, like "La Boquería" on Las Ramblas. Sometimes, I've found myself wandering over by a certain plaza just to take a glimpse at what's on display on those brown tables or what's being sold under the white tents. And some of my favorite times are those surprises of walking down a street to find local vendors selling homemade chocolate, or cheese wedges, or other specialties!

Here are some pictures of markets around this city:

Fruits and veges on display at La Boquería.


Eggs of all kind inside la Mercat Santa Caterina (Saint Catherine's Market)

Christmas decorations at Fira de Santa Llucia (Saint Lucy's Fair), a seasonal fair during the month of December located outside of the main Cathedral


Browsing tee shirts, hats, scarves & more at this market set up right by Plaza Catalunya

Interested in visiting some of these hot spots? Contact The Spanish Touch to set up your next tour.

A Proper Tapas Spread

Ask any person to tell you something about Spain and chances are the word "Tapas" will probably come up in conversation. There is much to be said about these small rations of food that people pick at, usually accompanied by a beverage of your choice. They are a great way to try a little bit of everything while enjoying the afternoon/evening with friends. Plus, the menu varies all around Spain. No matter where you are, though, there seems to be something for everyone. And there seems to be the staple tapas, too. Something like "pan con tomato," or bread with tomato is a common one, along with "patatas bravas" or potatoes with a spicy Brava Sauce. However, you might order a small portion of a salad, something seafood (which might include calamari, sardines, etc.), a variety of sausage, mushrooms, and the list goes on! Usually you order a couple different types and end up sharing them with your party. But don't feel like you need to eat everything in one sitting. After tasting at one place, head on out to the next tapas bar for a different selection. Tapas Bars may seem to be a dime a dozen, but of course, there are always certain restaurants that have their specialties. A great one to check out here in Barcelona is Lonja de Tapas. They have 4 different locations right in the city. Mmmm. Is it dinner time yet?

The Spanish Touch offers Tapas Tours for those who everyone: from learning more about this Spanish experience to discovering some of the best places to satisfy your hunger to helping Tapas veterans look for a great new find or a great wine pairing!

Valencia Tour- something for everyone!

Another tour in Valencia, another day full of history, good food, and great shopping finds! Valencia, the third largest city in Spain, has a unique feel to it, but then again I feel that way about all of the cities I have visited. The Spanish Touch enjoyed a half-day tour with Barry and Donna Case, a couple who stopped in at this port city while cruising around the Mediterranean. So much to see, so much to share, so little time! So I will share with you just some of the highlights of our tour.

We had a great tour through the city, starting at the Bull Ring and Estación del Norte, the North train station ornately decorated with mosaic tiles. Such a style displays the Modernismo touch that graces various buildings around this city. We walked through the City Hall Plaza, spotted the rather large post office, and headed over to the Central Market. The market is quite the experience for all 5 senses as hundreds of stalls sell fresh fruit, fish and of course, my favorite, artisan chocolate, among other treats! We did not leave empty handed!

After admiring the 15th century silk exchange known as La Lonja, we brushed off our walking shoes once again. What would a Spanish city be without its cathedral? The Valencia cathedral (below, right) showcases Baroque, Romanesque, and Gothic style architecture, along with frescoes, a pair of Goya paintings, and what is claimed to be the Holy Grail. Wherever you come from, it's hard not to admire the craftsmanship that went into this building.

Among other treasures, we also spotted the Serrano Towers. They are hard to miss as they were once the entrance into the old Roman city. Now, they serve as a great look out point and giant piece of architecture!

Of course we stopped to eat some lunch-- paella. Valencia is the birthplace of this rice, saffron and typically seafood and/or chicken dish. As the day moved on, more and more treasures were found both on the street and inside the shops. The handmade ceramics (produced right here in the Valencia region) decorate the walls of the city, but the memory does not have to end with a photograph! Why not give into the urge to bring home a piece of Valencia's ceramic!

On the car ride back to the port, we managed to drive by the famous Opera House along with a view of the City of Arts and Sciences. (below, photo taken at previous time) ¡Qué bonita!

Thanks again to the Case family for such an enjoyable great tour!
- Justine

La Castanyada - A Spanish Halloween

As a child, I always loved Halloween. The trick-or-treating, the costumes, the fun games.... So when I first got to Spain I was surprised to find that the customs were not exactly the same. As we approach All Hallow's Eve, in this traditionally Catholic country we find the emphasis not so much on the scary costumes which people used to use to keep evil spirits away from the graveyards, but on a much more practical aspect: How to keep yourself awake and warm while standing guard. The answer throughout Spain came in the form of a simple nut. The Chestnut, to be precise. While most Americans think of Christmas Carols when they hear the word Chestnut, in Spain it brings to mind the Castañada (Castanyada in Catalan). This festival is celebrated from Malaga to Barcelona to the Atlantic Coast of Galicia, and, while the local customs vary, generally concern roasting these tasty treats over an open fire to provide nourishment and warmth through the night. This was traditionally accompanied by the occasional swallow of the year's young wines to keep spirits up. And so, throughout Spain this weekend, people will be celebrating with friends and neighbors this annual tradition, and towns and villages provide bonfires to keep spirits warm and alive as they pass the night away.

Contact The Spanish Touch for more information about these and other festivals, and we will be glad to offer you a customtour designed to introduce to the culture and people of Spain you can't get any other way!

Harvest Festivals

These last few months have been pretty packed in Spain. Starting in late August with the grape harvest and continuing through November, the country has become a hotbed for local festivals and traditional harvest-time activities. Members of The Spanish Touch have been fortunate enough to get to events such as the Alella Harvest Festival and the Catalan Wine and Cava Fair in Barcelona, but the events are everywhere throughout Spain. This weekend we will be visiting the annual CavaTast celebration in San Sadurni, and we will also be taking some clients up to a local mushroom festival where local "boletaires" (wild mushroom collectors) will show us their best offerings and share some of their expertise and experiences. Each region has its own unique way of celebrating this wonderful season, and each celebration is a great way to really get in touch with the local culture and people. If you would like help organizing your visit to Spain to incorporate one or more of these Festivals, please contact The Spanish Touch and we will be glad to help!

Fine Dining with The Spanish Touch - A Dinner to Remember

I recently had the pleasure of taking Lynn and Herb Cantor around Barcelona for a few days, and we included a trip to the three-michelin-star Sant Pau restaurant to kick things off. The first thing that stands out is the restaurant itself, on the outside a relatively unassuming building with a small parking area for the guests. However, upon entering it was clear the restaurant was anything but typical. It balanced gentle colors and a simplicity that somehow perfectly fit the environment, and I found myself relaxing and drinking in the environment before we even got our seats. It promised to be a spectacular affair.

After starting with a welcome broth, we decided on the tasting menu, a 13-course carnival of tastes and contrasts. The highlights were many, and I could not, even now, choose a favorite, because each dish was a delicacy unto itself, so the crawfish with chamomile was a completely different experience from the lloritos, a Mediterranean fish only found in these waters during the summer months, which was completely different from the pork trotters with hot sauce, celery and hazlenuts. Perhaps the course that most stands out in my memory was the cheese course: 5 cheeses matched beautifully with a contrasting flavor, be it the local Garrotxa Bauma cheese matched with rasberry, vegetables and vinagrette, or the Barousse from the Pyrenees matched with nuts or the Cocagne with pear in eau-de-vie, each person at the table had a different preference, though everyone agreed it was sumptious.

The wines of the evening were a nice opening cava made locally for the restaurant, followed by a delightful young white wine (Godello grape) from the small Valdeorras DO. It went perfectly with the appetizers and the creative dishes. The second wine was a priorat, which was also an excellent selection and complimented the meat and cheese dishes without overpowering.

A surprise of the evening was meeting the chef in person, Carme Ruscalleda! All in all, it was a dinner that far surpassed all expectations, and left us discussing its proper place among the best meals of our lives.

Until the next time, bon profit and thanks again for the food and memories!

Wine and Mushrooms Tour - this October

Hey everyone! Just wanted to let you all know about a new tour The Spanish Touch has set up for this year: Of Mushrooms and Wine. The Barcelona-based tour includes some unique opportunities to visit wine and mushroom country as well as see several of the most interesting and fun local fairs surrounding them. This year we will be visiting the Cavatast celebration in the Penedes wine region and a mushroom festival in the heart of Mushroom country. And of course we include visits to Barcelona's most famous and interesting sites, as well as a few gastronomic treasures in the city itself. It promises to be a great time, don't miss this opportunity!

For complete information, visit our website or contact us via email (info@thespanishtouch.com) or phone (1-888-480-0013).

Tour de France in Spain

This year's Tour de France is underway, and we know the main protagonist in the form of Lance Armstrong. However, it also marks the first time in more than 40 years the Tour has passed through Barcelona, and tomorrow is the big day. Thursday, July 9 marks the date that the riders will wind their way down from the beautiful city of Girona ( to the heart of Barcelona itself, passing the Arc de Triumf, the Statue of Columbus, and finishing at the Olympic Stadium at Montjuic. While the city is preparing for the riders' reception, the people in the streets are divided on the issue. For many, it represents a great opportunity for Barcelona to show its splendors, and for others it is a headache that is interrupting trains, roads and public transportation. But whatever their feelings, the city is all set and ready to receive the biggest cycling event of the year with a full complement of activities at the Poble Espanyol and at the Citadel Park.

Contact The Spanish Touch to help plan your visit to Spain.

Jazz and Wine in Barcelona with The Spanish Touch

Next weekend in Vilafranca del Penedes, the capital of the Penedes wine region about 1 hour south of Barcelona, is the ViJazz Wine and Jazz Festival. From July 3 to July 5, The Spanish Touch will be there visiting with the wineries and cava producers of the region, as well as taking in some of the best jazz and swing music of the summer in the midst of the medieval center of Vilafranca. What better way to spend a day or two of your summer vacation in Spain than joining us. Come along with us to taste some of the best wines of the region, and take advantage of the opportunity to get immersed in the culture of wine, the music and the region!

The Mediterranean Society in Spain

A slightly belated thank you to the 18 members of the Mediterranean Society who visited Spain with us at the end of last month. During the twelve-day tour they visited Tarragona, Barcelona, and the Costa Brava. It was one of the best group experiences I've had, and would like to thank each and every traveller for the opportunity to share their experiences with us. Highlights included: Tarragona's Roman heritage tour (Thanks Xavi), The Modernista day in Barcelona, Empuries, Cadaques, Besalu, and even a late-late season Calçotada! Look for the pictures soon on our website, and thanks again to the whole group for making our job so much fun!

If you would like to plan your group's Spanish vacation,contact us and we will be glad to work with you each and every step from planning the itinerary to the tour itself. Let us be your friend in Spain!

New Facebook group

Hi everyone!

I just want to share some exciting news: We are now a part of the Facebook society! Come join us and share your Spanish experience with everyone. We will also be updating the site with upcoming events in Spain to help you, including local festivals, shows, etc...

And, as always, if you need any additional help, don't hesitate to contact us directly at The Spanish Touch for more information or any other questions or comments.

Truffle hunting with The Spanish Touch

We are still in the grips of one of the coldest, strangest winters Spain has suffered in a long time, but that does not mean that there are not things going on! With the recession affecting Spain as much as the rest of the world, prices have been driven down and barriers opened up to visit places and do things that previously had been extremely difficult to get to. This year, the Spanish Touch is offering a unique opportunity to go look for the culinary "black gold" of Spain, truffles. In the beginning of March we will be taking a small group into the region of Graus, in Aragon, and will be going out with a local farmer to search for truffles. We will also be visiting the truffle fair in Graus, with events like cooking classes and a truffle market.

There are still a few openings available, and if you are interested, please visit our website or contact us at info@thespanishtouch.com for more information.

The Spanish Touch in 2009

Happy New Year to everyone!

As the holiday season winds down (which in Spain happenned yesterday with Three Kings Day) we would like to wish everyone a very happy and healthy 2009, and let you know of a few interesting developments in The Spanish Touch.

This year promises to be a good year,a year of change and hopefully we can help you celebrate that change. And speaking of celebrations, to celebrate our 5th anniversary we are offering a 10% discount on all our day tours!

We are grateful to everyone who has made our first five years so memorable, and look forward to the new challenges and faces we will see in the future, and as always, we hope to provide each and every one of you with a fantastic Spanish experience soon!


Thanks again and best of luck in 2009!!

The Spanish Touch Team
www.thespanishtouch.com

The Phylloxera Fair - celebrating the people and the wine

This weekend the Cava capital of the world will be in full dress for the annual "Festa de la Fil-loxera" town party. Complete with parades, elaborate costumes, fireworks, and the famous Catalan "Diables". This annual reminder of how the townspeople, with their vineyards under the threat and attack of the phylloxera insect, rebounded and successfully overcame the infestation to revive the wine trade. It is a dedication to the spirit and character of the people, as well as a tribute to the town's principal resource - wine.

For more information on visiting the region or wine tours in general, contact The Spanish Touch.

Technical Difficulties for The Spanish Touch

I deeply regret having to report that The Spanish Touch has been experiencing technical difficulties on our website. For most of last week the website was down, and we have not yet recovered full email access. Most emails sent during the last week were not received, and I have not been given a time frame for when to expect them again.

I am pleased to report that our website is up and running once more, and we can now receive emails. Please pardon this inconvenience and we hope to have this situation remedied soon.

Eric Hersey

Director
The Spanish Touch
Tel: 888-480-0013
Fax: 267-937-5651

Madrid and Andalusia Tour

Day 1 - Arrival in Madrid: transfer from airport to hotel. Day at leisure in Madrid. Welcome dinner in Madrid. (Madrid)

Day 2 - Morning tour of Prado Museum and surrounding area. Afternoon trip to Toledo. (Madrid)

Day 3 - Transfer to Seville. A brief overview of the city is followed by lunch and a walking tour of the city. In the evening, an optional bullfight at Seville's impressive Plaza de Toros. (Seville)

Day 4 - Day at leisure to enjoy Seville. Optional trip to Jerez, heart of sherry country, for a wine tasting at one of the spectacular wineries. Evening at leisure in Seville. (Seville)

Day 5 - Transfer to Granada, city of Moors and Catholic kings. Along the way, stop for lunch in the historic town of Antequera, just north of the spectacular El Torcal Park. (Granada)

Day 6 - Day in Granada. Visit to the Alhambra, the 12th century Moorish palace and fortress. In the evening, a dinner and flamenco show. (Granada)

Day 7 - Travel up to Madrid via Cordoba, ancient home to the Caliphs of the Moorish empire, and the majestic Mesquita. Evening farewell dinner in Madrid. (Madrid)

Day 8 - Transfer to airport, hotel or port.

The price includes:

Private guided tours as per itinerary.
A bilingual Spanish Touch tour guide with 24-hour availability.
Transfers to and from the airport.
All hotel accommodation in Madrid and Barcelona.
All transportation as specified in itinerary.
11 Meals (7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners)
All entrance fees on itinerary.

Price: Starting from $2,645 per person.
Available dates: all year.

For more information please visit our website or contact us.

All our tours can be totally personalized to better adapt them to your needs and preferences.

Paradores Tours, Spain

Many people have asked us about staying in the Parador hotels around Spain, combining luxury with affordability. Staying in a Parador is not just the treatment you would expect for a 4-star hotel, with large, comfortable room and excellent service, it is much more. Most of the hotels are strategically located throughout all of Spain, in exquisite locations and always surrounded by the best of the natural environment of the region, or else close to, and often in, historically significant places that offer a true slice of Spain. In fact, the hotels themselves are sometimes architechtural gems. Between the key locations and the beauty of the places and the hotels, from The Spanish Touch we offer tours that run throughout Spain incorporating the Parador hotels:

Northern Route: Paradors of La Seu (Catalonia), Vielha (Catalonia), Sos del Rey Católico (Zaragoza), Olite (Pamplona), Ondarribia (San Sebastian), Santillana (Cantabria), Cangas de Onís (Asturias) and Santiago de Compostela (Galicia).

Mediterranean Route: Aiguablava (Girona), Tortosa (Tarragona), El Saler (Valencia), Puerto Lumbreras (Murcia), Mojácar (Almeria) and Nerja (Málaga).

Castille and North Central Spain: Teruel (Aragon), Cuenca (Castilla la Mancha), Chinchón (Madrid), Gredos (Avila), Salamanca and León.

Andalusia and Southern Spain: Carmona (Seville), Córdoba, Ronda or Antequera (Málaga), Ayamonte (Huelva), Zafra (Badajoz).

For more information about our Paradores Tours, please visit our website or contact us.

All our tours can be totally personalized to better adapt them to your needs and preferences.

Barcelona and Costa Brava Tour

Day 1 - Arrive in Barcelona. Transfer to hotel. After lunch, take a walking tour around the area to familiarize yourself with your surroundings. An evening drink and brief overview of your itinerary at your hotel will be followed by dinner. (Dinner)

Day 2 - Breakfast at hotel. Tour the Heart of Barcelona, including La Pedrera and Casa Battlo, the Plaza Catalunya, and the world-famous Las Ramblas. After lunch, take in the famous Barrio Gotic, one of the best preserved examples of the gothic times. Perhaps stop in for an afternoon coffee and chocolate stop near Fargas, the oldest and most beloved chocolate shop in the city. Evening at leisure. (Breakfast)

 Day 3 - Breakfast at hotel. Morning tour of the Sagrada Familia and Parc Guell, the two most admired masterpieces of Gaudi. After lunch, we head up to Montjuic Palace, visit the Olympic Stadium and the Poble Espanyol, where an optional Flamenco dinner show can be taken in. And after the show, why not check out a different show: the Magic Fountains of Montjuic. (Breakfast)

Day 4 - Breakfast at hotel. Morning trip up to Montserrat Mountain, including a visit to the Monastery, and take a cable car up to the top of the mountain. After lunch, take an excursion into wine country, where you can tour a classic artisan winery and see how they make the famous Spanish Cava. Enjoy a dinner with wine in the region. (Breakfast)

Day 5 - Breakfast at hotel. Transfer up to the ancient city of Girona for a tour which includes, the Jewish Quarter, the Arab Baths, and the 11th century Cathedral. After lunch in the old city, visit the town of Figueres, birthplace of Salvador Dali. Visit Dali's one-of-a-kind Theater-Museum of Dali. In the Evening, dine in the old city charm of Girona.Night in Girona. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Day 6 - Breakfast at hotel. Morning trip up to Besalu, an classic medieval town. Continue up the Nuria Valley, nestled into the foot of the Pyrenees Mountains. Night in the Pyrenees. (Breakfast)

Day 7 - Breakfast at hotel. Take a morning trip out to the Costa Brava town of Cadaques, a splendid example of the Catalonia coast, and home to the medieval castle now known as the Casa-Museu Dali. Lunch at a seaside restaurant. Enjoy the afternoon at the beach, or pay a visit to the Centre D'art de Perrot-Moore. In the evening, head back to Barcelona. (Breakfast, Lunch)

Day 8 - Breakfast at hotel. Day at leisure in Barcelona. Why not visit the Olympic Village of Barcelona, or visit the Arc de Triumf and have a coffee in one the squares in the Gracia district. In the evening, meet for a farewell dinner. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Day 9 - Breakfast at hotel. Transfer to airport.

The price includes:

A bilingual Spanish Touch tour guide with 24-hour availability.
Transfers to and from the airport.
All hotel accommodation in Barcelona and Girona, as specified in the itinerary.
Intercity transportation as specified.
11 Meals (7 breakfast, 1 lunch, 3 dinners)
All entrance fees on itinerary.

Price: Starting from $2,864 per person
Available dates: all year.

For more information please visit our website or contact us.

All our tours can be totally personalized to better adapt them to your needs and preferences.

Barcelona and Basque Country Tour

Day 1 - Arrive in Barcelona. Transfer to hotel. Enjoy an evening stroll around the city center, and a welcome dinner where we will review your tour itinerary.

Day 2- Morning tour of Barcelona, including the Gothic neighborhood, the world-famous Las Ramblas, and the Maremagnum port area. In the afternoon, visit the Sagrada Familia church and spend some time wandering through Park Guell.

Day 3 - Morning trip to Montserrat, including a visit to the Monastery and the Santa Cova. In the afternoon, perhaps take a trip into wine country to visit a winery and enjoy some Cava, Spain´s sparkling wine.

Day 4 - This morning, head up to Girona and walk around the old Roman walls and the 11th century Cathedral. After lunch, head over to the town of La Seu D’urgell, one of the most important Catalonian towns in the Middle Ages, famous for its spectacular Romanesque churches and Cathderal. Night in La Seu D’Urgell.

Day 5 - Take a trip across to the natural park of Ordesa National Park, and enjoy the day walking the trails. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park.

Day 6 - Moving across the country, we head toward the famous town of Pamplona, where the famous Running of the Bulls takes place. Stop in one of the picturesque towns along the way for lunch. Spent the night in Pamplona.

Day 7 - Today, head up the coast toward the border town of San Sebastian, and enjoy the afternoon in this charming fishing town. Late evening arrival in Bilbao.

Day 8 - Morning tour the city of Bilbao, visiting its many fascinating sites, including the Guggenheim Museum. Afternoon at leisure or take an optional excursion to one of the Basque country’s fascinating villages.

Day 9 - Transfer to Bilbao airport for return flight to the USA.

The price includes:

A bilingual Spanish Touch tour guide with 24-hour availability.
Transfers to and from the airport.
All hotel accommodation in Barcelona, La Seu D’urgell, Pamplona and Bilbao as per itinerary.
All transportation as specified in itinerary.
Meals as per itinerary
Private guided tours as per itinerary.

Available dates: all year.
Price: Starting from $2,100 per person.

For more information please visit our website or contact us.

All our tours can be totally personalized to better adapt them to your needs and preferences.

Romanesque Route and the Pyrenees Tour

Day 1 - Transfer from Barcelona Airport or your hotel to Barcelona. Afternoon Tour of Barcelona. Night in Barcelona.

Day 2 - Full Day tour of Barcelona and Montserrat Mountain. Night in Barcelona.

Day 3 - Transfer to Pyrennes (about 3h and 30 minutes). Afternoon at leisure in Vall d´Aran. Night in Vall d´Aran.

Day 4 - Full Day Tour: Romanesque Route, visiting Boí, Taüll, Durro, Barruera and Erin La Vall. Night in Taüll.

Day 5 - Walking tour or 4x4 tour discovering the National Park of Aigüestortes and Sant Maurici Lake. Night in Taüll.

Day 6 - Full Day Tour in Andorra. Night in Andorra.

Day 7 - Transfer to the Coastal Pyrennes of Garrotxa and Empordà. Full Day Tour of Girona. Night in Girona.

Day 8 - Walking tour of Garrotxa. Night in Girona.

Day 9 - Half-day tour of Besalú. Night in Girona.

Day 10 - Morning tour of Costa Brava and transfer to Barcelona. Night in Barcelona.

Day 11 - Transfer to the airport or port.

Available dates: From April to October. Every year.

Price per person: From $1,990 (price includes tours, acomodation, transfers, entrances and transportation). Price based on a group of six (6) people.

For more information please visit our website or contact us

All our tours can be totally personalized to better adapt them to your needs and preferences.

Siam Park: The best Aqua Park of Europe

The Aqua Park "Siam Park", located in Tenerife (Canary Islands) is one of the big new features that the island offers for 2008. The Aqua Park combines the most advanced technology with the exotic mistery of the old Siam kingdom. The adventure is available for all visitors, regardless of age. Children will enjoy areas specially created for them like “La Ciudad Perdida” ("The lost city"). Visitors willing to test their speed have the “Naga Racer”, the best way to enjoy a family water tobogan race.

If you want to know more about Tenerife and the Canary Islands, please contact us.

Festival de Guitarra de Córdoba

From July 4th to 18th Córdoba is going to be a major international guitar meeting point. Flamenco guitar music, together with jazz and the modern guitar are the stars of the show. Some of the most noteworthy musical guests include Paco de Lucía, Vicente Amigo, and many others. In addition to concerts and shows, there is also a workshop program. Some of the courses available for open participation iclude: guitar-making, flamenco dancing and singing, and of course, guitar classes in the various styles present at the festival.

If you are interested in an Andalusia Tour we can also include this festival in your itinerary or others festivals and celebrations. Just contact us for more information about possible Spain and Andalusia itineraries and the Guitar Festival in Córdoba.

San Juan Festivital

Last Monday night, the 23rd of June, once more played host to a raucous, vivacious party throughout all of Spain, and especially along the coastline: the San Juan Festival. While the best way to understand this festival is to experience it live, here are some pictures to give you an idea. The night is filled with fireworks, the beaches lit up with bonfires and the party to welcome in the summer can easily last until daybreak. Along the coast, it is typical for whole families to celebrate on the beach, with friends and neighbors. When attending the dinner, it is also important not to forget to bring dessert, the "Coca de San Juan". This fruitcake-like dish is served with candied fruit, or nuts, or both. And to accompany it, remember to bring your Spanish Moscatel or Cava.

The following day, the Day of San Juan, is a National holiday, and although adults and children alike have watched and set off uncountable fireworks and firecrackers the previous night, most people take advantage of the free time to enjoy a relaxing day in the open air, in a truly Spanish welcoming of the season.

"Veranos de la Villa" Madrid Festival

From July 1 to August 24 we have a date in Madrid: the "Veranos de la Villa" Festival, which has been celebrated for the past 23 years as a way of welcoming in the summer. More than 180 shows including music, dance, theater, flamenco, cinema and circus acts will be open to the public and showing in places like Sabatini Gardens, el Teatro Español or the Conde Duque Cultural Center. Some of the most anticipated acts are Diana Krall, Gloria Gaynor and Crowded House.

Contact The Spanish Touch for more information about this summer tradition and see how we can help make your trip to Spain unforgettable!

Bike Tourism in Sabiñánigo, Aragón

On the 21st of June, in what is now an annual event, one of the most important events for cycling enthusiasts in all of Spain takes place: “La Quebrantahuesos 2008”, the bone-breaker. Cyclists from around the world will go 204 km climbing from the ports of Somport, Marie Blanc, Portalet and Puerto de Hoz. At the same time celebrations will be going on with tributes to great cycling legends, expositions, demonstrations, etc.
For those who are not as accustomed to long bike journeys, the last few years have offered an alternative, 90 km course on the same day, which also starts and ends in Sabiñánigo.

From the Spanish touch we can recommend this race not only for cycling fans but also for everyone who loves nature as well. The Alto Gállego region, situated close to the Pyrenees offers some spectacular panoramic views and will certainly leave everyone who sees it wanting more.

For more information, please contact The Spanish Touch.

Jean Leon Wine Festival, Barcelona

From June 27 to the 29th, the Second Annual Jean Leon Wine Festival will be held at the Jean Leon estate in the Penedes region of Spain. A little over an hour from the center of Barcelona, the winery was founded by the legendary owner of the La Scala restaurant in Hollywood. The estate now produces some of the best wines in the region, maintaining a quality control above and beyond the already high requirements of the Penedes D.O.

The Festival is a chance to explore the culture of the region, its gastronomy, and recognize the acheivements of the man, Jean Leon. Oh yes, and it wouldn’t be complete without an outstanding opportunity to sample the wines from Bodegas Jean Leon.

For more information or to join us at the Festival, please contact us: info@thespanishtouch.com or visit our website www.thespanishtouch.com.

Dali and Montserrat Tours

The Turcos and Hrabchaks chose a couple of beautiful days for their visits to Montserrat mountain and the Dali route. And with the added visit to the Cava winery, the two days turned out great! One of the highlights of the Cava visit was the lunch stop in the Town Square in San Sadurni D'Anoia, the capital of Cava country. It was a quiet, unassuming little place, and a nice table tucked on the terrace on a sleepy Tuesday afternoon made it a great way to recover a bit from Montserrat's hike and prepare ourselves for the wine treat that was to come. Many thanks again to Ernest from Rimarts for his willingness to work with us on short notice (They asked me on Tuesday morning if we could visit a winery that afternoon), and for his wonderful explanations and of course the great wines.

The small town of Portlligat has very little to offer a tourist except the Dali house-museum, as if that weren't enough! Every time I visit, I feel like I understand Dali a little more. As someone with little artistic background, visiting his house and his museum in Figueres is always interesting, and the Turcos and Hrabchaks made it even better by being wonderful clients, very easy to work with, and very interested in the culture and heritage of Spain.

To see pictures of the tour and view the itinerary, click here.

Spain's gastronomy comes out on top ... again

Yesterday the list of the 50 top restaurants in the world was released. And for the third year running, El Bulli, the tiny little restaurant tucked along the Mediterranean Coast north of Barcelona was top of the list. Given its fame over the last few years, maybe that's no great surprise. However, that there were two other Spanish restaurants in the top 10 certainly opened some eyes. Mugaritz and Arzak, both located in the Basque region close to San Sebastian, have been climbing up the list for the last few years. Clearly, Spain's gastronomic acheivements have not gone unnoticed by the epicurean culture.

These fantastic restaurants are just the tip of Spain's incredible gastronomic wealth. The country that gave us Paella and Gazpacho is also full of local delicacies. Anywhere you go, in every region, the food is on prominent display. From the Cocido in Madrid to the Butifarra amb mongetes in Catalonia to the codfish in Bilbao, Spanish cuisine is always inviting visitors to share in the culture. And the wines that accompany these dishes is as bountiful and diverse as the ingredients of the food.

At the Spanish Touch we can organize your private food and wine tour through some of Spain's most spectacular regions. Contact us for more information or for a free quote for your personalized tour.

Once every two hundred years or so...

Well, we've come through another whirlwind Semana Santa in Spain. The Holy week processions, many of which were cancelled due to rain, are some of the most beautiful and moving acts in all of Spanish culture...in fact, I would say they are some of the most moving in any culture. To see the pride and devotion of the men carrying these massive floats, inching slowly through the streets, is singularly unique and utterly fascinating.

However, what made this year even more intense was that the Fallas festival in Valencia coincided with Semana Santa. It was the first time in over two hundred years, and don't wait around for the next one, as it will be a long time from now. Las Fallas reached its peak on March 19, with the burning of more than 500 ninots and a grand celebration that attracts thousands of people every year.

It's never too early to start planning for next year, and The Spanish Touch will be here to help you with everything from where to stay to what to eat during this cultural phenomena.

Toledo Segway Tours

The newest way to discover one of Spain’s grandest treasures is also one of the most enjoyable: take a Segway tour of Toledo and experience the city as never before! Toledo, one of the most emblematic cities in all of Spain, is a veritable goldmine of historical, archeological and cultural treasures, the most famous of which is the Toledo Cathedral. If you’ve ever wondered where the expression “Holy Toledo!” came from, look no further than this magnificent building in the center of the city. And while you are there don’t forget to try some of the local dishes, from wild game to fresh vegetables, your table is ready and Toledo is waiting...

Visit The Spanish Touch for more information about the route and prices for the Segway tour in toledo.

Note: Segway is an advanced personal transport system, electrically powered, that imitates human balance and is designed to be able to go anywhere a person can walk.

The best wine in the World comes from … Laguardia, Rioja

El Puntido 2004, from the Viñedos de Páganos de Laguardia, has been named best wine in the world 2008 following a rigorous selection process by the magazine Wine Enthusiast.

Popularly known as the “wine capital” Laguardia belongs to a part of the region called Laguardia-Rioja Alavesa. The region has numerous wineries and is one of the obligatory stops along the celebrated “Ruta del Vino”.

For more information about the “Ruta del Vino” in Rioja and the rest of Spain, please contact The Spanish Touch.

Get ready for the Fallas Festival in Valencia, Spain! March, 2008

If you still haven’t heard about “Las Fallas”, allow me to attempt to describe it briefly: a celebration with fireworks, music, parades, and of course, ninots (giant paper maché dolls) being pulled through the streets which, at the end of the festival, are burned. It is one of the most spectacular parties in all of Spain. Lasting 20 intense days, from March 1st to March 20th, Las Fallas brings people from all over Spain to witness the festivities.

If you want to be a part of this year’s Las Fallas celebrations, contact The Spanish Touch and we will make your trip easy: From designing the itinerary so that you don’t miss the highlights of each day, transfers from the airport and hotel, hotel reservations, transportation… everything necessary for you to discover Valencia and Las Fallas and not have to worry about anything.

Check out our Barcelona and Valencia Fallas 2008 Tour which we have designed for you.

At The Spanish Touch we give you the peace of mind of knowing that your trip is in good hands.

Canary Islands, always summer!

The Canary Islands, as you might have guessed from the name, is an island group in the Atlantic, closer to Africa than mainland Europe. Belonging to Spain since the days of Ferdinand and Isabella, these islands offer an average temperature of about 72ºF year round. Visiting the Canaries is visiting a group of 7 main islands, each one distinct from the others, with its own charms and, often times, radically different landscapes. El Hierro, La Palma, La Gomera, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura and Lanzarote are the 7 main islands, and all are well connected with mainland Spain. Aside from splendid weather and miles of beaches, the islands offer 4 National Parks, more than 14 protected natural spaces and 4 Biosphere Reserves, including everything from completely volcanic (Lanzarote) to the immense beaches of Fuerteventura (known as the Isla Tranquila). A winter-time visit to the islands is the perfect escape for those of us who have to deal with a colder climate.

And while you are there, do take the opportunity to sample some of the local cuisine and the unique wines (even the volcanic region of Lanzarote is making wines, and some of them are pretty tasty at that!).

Zaragoza and the Expo 2008

Zaragoza has always been a spectacular city, not just for its architectural treasures but for the warmth and friendliness of its inhabitants. It is one of those Spanish cities which is a hidden jewel waiting to be explored. This summer visitors will have a unique opportunity to discover this great city thanks to the Expo 2008, which will take places between June 14, 2008 and September 14, 2008.

Three months under the theme “Water and Sustainable Development”, during which time you can enjoy some of the more than 3,400 open air performances, the brand/new auditorium and the Palacio de Congresos, thematic expositions in any of the more than 10 pavilions and plazas, as well as enjoy the food and culture of more than 100 countries, together with people from around the world.

Come and enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Do you want to miss it?

Contact The Spanish Touch for more information.