Frigiliana - Festival of the Three Cultures

Andalusia is well known for its white villages. Dotting the hillsides and tucked between olive groves, these towns are wonderful to explore and ramble through the streets. And if you're really lucky, you can find one that's having its own fair, and then you can see the Andalusian culture in all its colors. Frigiliana is one of the best known white villages on Malaga's lesser-known East side. Just north of the beach town of Nerja, Frigiliana boasts the only remaining molasses factory in Spain, and a history that is equal to that of some of the best and most famous cities in Spain.

The fact that Frigiliana is known as "the town of 3 cultures" indicates a great deal about its past. In this small town of just a few thousand people, Jews, Christians and Moors all lived in relative harmony. And the Fifth Annual Festival of 3 Cultures is a great way to see first hand how this history played out. From August 26 to the 29, concerts, street performances, gastronomic events, and much more will all make your visit to this classic white village a memorable one.

For more information or to include a visit to Frigiliana on your next visit to Spain, contact The Spanish Touch.

Festes de Gràcia - The heart of Barcelona beats loudly

For many people, the Gràcia district of Barcelona represents so much of what Barcelona is: small streets packed with local shops, plazas filled with history and people, a very small-town culture in the heart of the big city... Throw in a couple of Modernista monuments (Casa Fuster, Park Guell, Casa Calvet) and you have one of Barcelona's most unforgettable barrios. And when August rolls around, the neighborhood really turns on the charm. For the next week, the Gràcia district will be host to innumerable concerts, plays, workshops, craft fairs and an incomparable fair atmosphere: Welcome to the Festa Major de Gracia.

The celebration, moved from May to August for reasons historians are still unable to determine, dates back to the 19th century, when Gràcia was still an outlying village and not a part of the city of Barcelona. Whatever the reasons for its inception and subsequent date change, the Festa Major de Gràcia is one of the most important and spectacular festivals in the city of Barcelona.

For more information about this or other festivals, or for help planning your next trip to Spain, contact The Spanish Touch

Peñafiel - Where wine and history meet

Long recognized as the heart of the Ribera del Duero region, the town of Peñafiel, is a thousand-year-old a meeting point for the history and gastronomy of Spain. Dating back to prehistoric cultures, it was in the 10th-century that the city became a focus point for the reconquest of Spain.

Undoubtedly one of the feature attractions of the town is the 15th-century castle, built on the remains of a 9th-century fortress, and regarded as one of the best and most picturesque in all of Spain. Also worth visiting is the old Bell Tower and Church/Convent of Saint Paul. Of course, being so closely linked to the Ribera del Duero region, there is never a lack for great food and wine!

For more information or to include a visit to Peñafiel on your next trip to Spain, contact The Spanish Touch.

Going down the river on a raft in the Pyrenees

I've written before about small town Spain and the enormous satisfaction I get introducing people to some of these quaint festivals, where you really feel at one with the history, culture and people of the region. This Saturday is the "Baixada de Rais", or "Going down the river in a Raft". Dating back to the times when rafts were the most efficient and best mode of transportation on some of the rivers of Catalonia, several towns such as Coll de Nargó, which lies along the Segre River, have upheld the tradition of making wooden rafts and then heading down the river just as their countrymen did in ages past.

Starting at noon, and captained by locals who still hold to the traditions of raft-steering, the boats and men head down a tricky bit of water, dodging rocks and rapids and showcasing their talents. The people of the town are immensely proud of their heritage, and are always welcoming to visitors who come to see this show. In the evening, fireworks light up the river and old city as you enjoy a glass of wine and some tapas with the locals.

For more information about this festival or for help in arranging your next visit to Spain, contact The Spanish Touch.

Feria de Malaga - The Costa del Sol's biggest summertime party

August is traditionally the month for vacation in Spain, and what better way for the locals to enjoy their vacations then with some of the best festivals of the year! Malaga, capital of the Costa del Sol, holds one of the biggest and best known city-wide celebrations every year: the Feria de Malaga. The fair, which is held in honor of the Catholic Monarchs reconquest of the city in 1487, shows Malaga in all its tradition and splendor.

This year, from the 13 to the 22 of August the city of Malaga will once more throw open its arms and doors to all with traditional Andalusian hospitality. There is always something for everyone during  lively daytime stalls featuring impromptu flamenco shows and Andalusian bead making to the copious amounts of Malaga sweet wine available in all styles and sizes. The nighttime festival, on the outskirts of the city at the fair grounds, is a world unto itself, and is for those who want to enjoy the more nocturnal pursuits of eating, drinking and dancing.

Olive Oil Route - Southern Spain's gastronomic wonders

Imagine spending a few days surrounded by nothing but rolling hills, quaint small towns and truly magnificent people. Then add a collection of 16th and 17th century buildings, ancient medicinal springs and an exceedingly generous taste of the fruits of the land and you have a wonderful route called "La Ruta del Aceite" - The route of Olive Oil. 

Many people don't realize that Spain is the leading olive oil producer in Europe, and Andalusia is the heart of olive country. The olive oil route takes through some of the smaller towns that are particularly well known for producing outstanding olive oil, as well as other fruits like peaches, raisins and avocados. 

And it's in these small towns where you really feel like you connect with the local people, they welcome you into their towns and their culture like long lost friends. It's a truly authentic and wonderfully unique way to visit Spain. 

For more information about this or other routes, please contact The Spanish Touch.

Operation: The Great Escape

For anyone who might be visiting Spain at the moment, please bear in mind that this weekend represents the largest mobilization of Spanish vacationers all year. That's right, bigger than Christmas, or even Semana Santa or the Feria de Sevilla. August is traditionally the vacation month, and this year the statistics indicate that more Spaniards are planning on "staying home" than have done for the last couple of decades. Of course, with so many options within driving distance, I can hardly blame them. "The grass is always greener" seems to have reached its breaking point, and more and more people are wising up to the enormous potential for vacation ideas without having to leave the peninsula.

So, if you have any plans for Friday evening and most of Saturday (but especially the morning), I recommend that you take into account that the roads will be packed and maybe just take it easy until the initial wave passes. In the meantime, soak up the culture, the sun and the wonders of Spain!

If you would like help planning your next trip to Spain, contact The Spanish Touch for more information.

Santiago's special Sunday

Last Sunday, July 25, 2010, was the day of Santiago, patron saint of all Spain. For those not familiar with the Camino de Santiago, the pilgrimage through Spain to visit the magnificent cathedral at Santiago de Compestela is one of the most popular and important pilgrimages in Western Europe. People come from all over the world to walk the route, and to see the remains of the apostle James (Santiago in Spanish).

Every so often, the day becomes even more important. Like this year for example, when the date falls on a Sunday, marking a Jacobean or Jubilee year. The next one will be in 2021, so as you can imagine the scenes in and around the cathedral on Sunday were amazing. People waited in line literally for hours just to get a chance to get inside. And the whole city celebrated, with fireworks the night before and

The celebration will last all year, and the Pope himself will be visiting Santiago in November as a part of a two city tour.

Andalusian Treasures Tour

Below is the itinerary of one of our tours from this year, to give you an idea of how we can customize your tour. Because of our hands-on work with each group, The Spanish Touch's tours are all unique and designed to meet needs and desires.

Day 1  

Arrival in Malaga and transfer to the hotel. After lunch a walking tour around the city, including Picasso’s birth house and the Plaza de la Constitución, followed by a brief overview of the tour activities/question and answer period before welcome dinner. Night in Malaga.

Day 2   

Breakfast at hotel. Transfer to Seville. Day tour of Seville, including the Cathedral (and the outstanding Moorish Giralda tower), the Alcazar and the old Tobacco factory, scene of the opera Carmen. Optional Flamenco show. Night in Seville.

Day 3

Breakfast at hotel. Day trip to the city of Cordoba, ancient home of the Caliphs. Visit the Mezquita and see the old Roman bridge. Evening at leisure in Seville. Night in Seville.

Day 4  

Breakfast at hotel. Jerez day trip, including the Andalusian horse Gala and a visit to a Sherry winery. Afternoon transfer to Granada. Night in Granada.

Day 5  

Breakfast at hotel. Day tour of the city center, visiting the Cathedral, the Moorish silk market and the old Jewish quarter. An optional Tapas dinner out for a true taste of Granada’s exquisite restaurant scene. Night in Granada.

Day 6 

Breakfast at hotel. Morning tour of the Alhambra. Afternoon transfer to Malaga. Night in Malaga.  

Day 7 

Breakfast at hotel. Transfer to Malaga airport (2 people). Day at leisure in the capital of the Costa del Sol. Optional day tour to Nerja or Ronda.  Night in Malaga.

Day 8  

Transfer to Malaga airport for return flight to the USA.

  

Tour includes:

• All accommodation as per itinerary
• All transportation as per itinerary in an air-conditioned van.
• 8 meals (7 breakfast, 1 dinner)
• Guided visits as per itinerary
• Entrance fees as per itinerary

Temple of Augustus in Tarragona

Buried underneath the 12th century cathedral in the heart of what was the most important Roman city in Iberia, nowadays known as Tarragona lies the Temple to Ceaser Augustus. At the beginning of July excavations began under the Cathedral in search of the actual temple, which, given the importance of Tarragona during Roman times, could be an outstanding architectural and cultural treasure. This new research is possible now thanks to new, high-tech forms of excavations without damaging the cultural treasure above.

To visit Tarragona and see the remains of what was the Roman Empire's greatest Iberian city, contact The Spanish Touch. 

The Legend of Count Arnau comes to life!

This weekend, in the town of Sant Joan de Abadesses in Catalonia, one of the most popular and oldest legends of Catalunya will be the focal point of the annual XV Cicle de Representacions del Mite del Comte Arnau. 

The legend of Count Arnau tells of a rich Feudal lord who, among many other nefarious deeds, had an amorous affair with one of the nuns at the local abbey in Sant Joan de Abadesses. Condemned to ride forever on a black fiery steed pursued by demonic hounds, the legend of Comte Arnau has become in many ways like the legends of Washington Irving, albeit based on a historical person (he lived sometime in the early 11th century). Many people throughout the years have claimed to have seen the horse and rider galloping through the hills and valleys during the nights, and have heard the howls of the pursuing dogs. In the center of the Plaza Clavé there is a statue to the romanticized figure of the Count, who during the Catalan renaissance became a folklore hero. 


The abbey, which is still standing, is one of the most important abbeys in all of  Catalunya, both for its age (built in the 9th century) and its heritage (it was built by Catalonia's founding father, Wilfred the Hairy, for his daughter). 


Contact The Spanish Touch for more information or to visit the Abbey and even the Mataplana Castle, legendary home to the Count.  

The many faces of Spain

In light of Spain's World Cup triumph, there has been a fair amount of discussion about the different regions and all of Spain uniting under the flag of sports. To me, it was great to see people from all over the country so excited, despite differences in language, culture, history, lifestyle, etc. But it does highlight one of the truly remarkable things about the country: the variety and differences of each area make each region a unique discovery. So when people talk about wanting to visit "Spain", first you should decide which part. Visiting Madrid and the center of Spain is a completely different experience from visiting Andalucia's Moorish heritage or Galicia's rivers and town, Cantabria's rugged coastlines or Catalonia's rich and wonderful heritage.

A visit to "Spain" can be so many things it's no wonder that people always want to come back. Each region offers so much to the visitor, from art museums to monuments to gastronomic treats to spectacular scenery, there is truly much to celebrate (oh, and they won the World cup too)!

Contact The Spanish Touch for more information and a free consultation about the different possibilities for your next vacation in Spain

Discover Madrid & the Heart of Spain Tour

During the months of September and October, The Spanish Touch is offering a limited-time itinerary. This itinerary can be used as an example or taken as is for anyone who wants to maximize their time in Madrid. 


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

Day 2 - Breakfast at hotel. Morning tour of Madrid city center, including the Royal Palace, Austrias District, Plaza Mayor and the Puerta del Sol. Afternoon at leisure. Night in Madrid. (B)


Day 3:Breakfast at hotel. Morning transfer to Toledo for a private guided tour of the city of Toledo, including the Cathedral, El Greco's house and the Jewish Quarter. Toledo is a great city to wander around in, so after lunch  spend some time wandering the narrow streets before returning to Madrid.  Night in Madrid. (B)


Day 4: Breakfast at hotel. Day trip to visit El Escorial, the mosoleum-monastery built by Phillip II at the height of Spain's golden age. After the visit, go up to Segovia for a tapas lunch and to see the famous Roman Aqueduct.  Night in Madrid. (B)


Day 5: Breakfast at hotel. Morning Museum tour in Madrid, visiting the most important museums in Madrid, including El Prado and the Reina Sofia, where you can see the masterpiece works of artists such as Picasso, Dalí, El Greco, Velazquez, and many more. Also take the opportunity to visit the AtochaTrain Station, with its botanical gardens and stunning architectural design. Night in Madrid. (B)


Day 6 - Breakfast at hotel. Morning at leisure in Madrid. Afternoon trip to Avila, for a visit including the Cathedral, the route of Santa Teresa (16th century) and of course, the famous Walls. Evening farewell dinner at a classic Madrid restaurant. Night in Madrid (B,D)


Day 7 - Breakfast at hotel. Transfer to airport for return flight. (B)

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 . 
All transportation as specified in itinerary in a private car. 
8 Meals (6 breakfasts, 2 dinners) 
All entrance fees on itinerary. 

Price: Starting from $2,495 per person.

World champions!

Congratulations Spain! 1 - 0 win over a very good Netherlands team. First time champions and all of Spain is celebrating tonight.

Spain is preparing

For the first time ever Spain is in the final of the World Cup. And all of Spain is hitting the streets in celebration. If you are fortunate enough to be in Spain today, enjoy the festivities and the match!! Vamos la Roja!!

End of Summer Barcelona and Costa Brava Tour

Check out the new offer from The Spanish Touch, just in time for one last, end-of-summer getaway to make the summer of 2010 truly unforgettable! 

August 28 - September 4. Barcelona and Costa Brava: Greek, Roman and Catalan history by the Beach

August 28

Arrival at Barcelona Airport. Transfer to Hotel. Evening a brief Q&A session with your Spanish Touch guide before your welcome dinner. (Dinner)

August 29
Breakfast at hotel. A morning tour of Barcelona, including the impressive Sagrada Familia and the Ramblas district. Lunch at the Maremagnum in the Sports Harbor. In the afternoon walk through the Barri Gotic, Gothic District, the best preserved example of the Gothic period of Spain. Visit the Palau de la Musica Catalana, an amazing modernist concert hall. Enjoy the evening at leisure. (Breakfast)

August 30
Breakfast at hotel. A trip down the coast toward the beach town of Sitges for a morning at the beach. Walk along the promenade, do some shopping in one of the many boutiques, or simply take in the sun and culture at one of the beachfront cafés. After lunch, return via the Penedes region, and see why this newly-rediscovered wine region is gaining international fame. Take an optional winery tour (and tasting) or explore the lively historical center of Vilafranca del Penedes. (Breakfast)

August 31
Breakfast at hotel. A morning tour of Montjuic Mountain, at the heart of Barcelona, including visits to the Museum of Modern Art, the Olympic Stadium, and Montjuic Castle. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure, or take the optional Modernista Tour of Barcelona. (Breakfast)

September 1
Breakfast at hotel. Transfer up the Costa Brava, passing through the city of Girona. Take a morning tour of the historical center and explore the ancient streets, walk along the old city wall, and visit the 12th-century Jewish Synagogue, now a museum. After lunch in a traditional Catalan restaurant, continue to the Greco-Roman beach town of Empuries. Founded in the 7th-century BC, Empuries offers a fascinating history of the region, from the Greeks and Iberians through the Romans, Moors and the Catholic Monarchs. Night in Empuries (Breakfast, Lunch)

September 2
Breakfast at hotel. This morning take a trip to Figueres, birthplace of Salvador Dali, and home to his one-of-a-kind Theater-Museum. After lunch, visit the spectacular town of Cadaques, a shining example of the Costa Brava’s charm, and home to Dali from 1930 until his death in 1989. (Breakfast)

September 3
Breakfast at hotel. Return to Barcelona, stopping along the way at the medieval town of Besalú, a town seemingly forgotten by the march of time. Enter through the gates via the old stone bridge and witness the annual Medieval Fair, and take the chance to step back in time as you walk through the old stone streets and buildings. Upon arrival in Barcelona, join us for the farewell dinner and a last look at your time in Spain. (Breakfast, Dinner)

September 4
Breakfast at hotel. Transfer to Barcelona airport. (Breakfast)

Take advantage of our special offer and join us for just $2465 per person!

The price includes:
A bilingual Spanish Touch tour guide with 24-hour availabilty.
Transfers to and from the airport.
All hotel accommodation as specified in the itinerary.
Transportation as specified.
Meals as specified in the itinerary.
Guided tours as specified.
Entrance fees as specified

Spain's beaches

In the full summer heat many of us are dreaming of beaches.  Spain's more than 5000 miles of coastline more than fulfill the requirements, but what makes it such a wonderful place is the variety of beaches and what you find just on the other side of the sand. From La Concha beach in San Sebastian, just feet from some of Spain's best tapas bars and michelin-starred restaurants, to the quiet hidden coves of the Costa Brava to the eternal sunshine beaches of the Canary Islands, each beach tells a story. Each beach holds a piece of history, and a world of opportunities to discover after you hit the beach.

Contact The Spanish Touch for more information about which beaches offer the best for what you are looking for, and we'll be glad to help make your next beach vacation a truly once-in-a-lifetime-experience.

San Fermin - The Running of the Bulls

Today at noon local time kicked off Spain's biggest and best-known annual party, the San Fermines Festival in Pamplona, more commonly known as The Running of The Bulls. While the bull running will start tomorrow morning at 7:00 local time, the Chupinazo is the official start of the festivities. The festival's origens go back centuries but it was in the 20th century that Hemingway made it famous with The Sun Also Rises.

The festival attracts a huge amount of foreign visitors every year, so if you want to make plans to visit, it's best to start as much as a year in advance, or risk not finding any accommodation at all. The best places are the balconies along the route of the encierro, and this year The Spanish Touch wishes the best for Karen and Robert who are going to be watching the first running tomorrow morning from the balcony of their apartment.

You can watch the encierros here.

The Castle of Loarre - History and cinema

Only 30 minutes from the city of Huesca in Aragon, and less than 2 hours from the heart of Somontano wine country, the Castle of Loarre stands as a monument to the region, the people and the heritage of the region of Aragon. The Castle-Abbey complex is one of the best-preserved Romanesque fortresses in all of Europe, and the best in all of Aragon.

The castle's exact origins are unclear, but at the very least in the early XI century there are references to it. Roman coins and Iberian remains have also been found within the castle grounds. The site is made up of a Romanic monastery and the Pre-Romanic castle itself. The castle's impressive setting and excellent preservation has made it ideal for time pieces, and has been used in films such as Kingdom of Heaven.

For more information on how to include a visit to the Castle of Loarre on your next trip to Spain, please contact The Spanish Touch.

The Legends Festival of Sant Marti de Tous

History, legends and oral traditions are as much a part of Spain's culture and heritage as the lands and monuments that are found throughout it. This year, for the first time, the town of Sant Marti de Tous, in the Penedes wine region just south of Barcelona, is hosting a Legends Festival (Tous es Llegendes), where the visitor is welcome to meander the town discovering the secret nooks and crannies and the incredible stories that are everywhere. The festival is more than just about the town, as the legends incorporate the whole of Catalonia, from the witch of Girona to The White Lady of Andorra. Friday and Saturday July 2-3 will see the town come alive with the generations of history and tradition opened up to the public for the first time.

For more information about this or other festivals in Spain this summer, contact The Spanish Touch and we will be glad to help.

A drive along the Northern Coast

The final day of Arleen and Eva's tour found us driving, finally rain-free along the northern coast of Spain to the Parador of Limpias. First stop: The Chillida Museum, with it's huge park and restored farmhouse museum of San Sebastian's most recognizable 2th century artist, Eduardo Chillida.

After a leisurely stroll through the grounds (and a spectacular photo taken by Eva of the flowers), we mounted once more for the last long trip in the car. This time the weather cooperated, and watching the landscape change as we drove out of the Basque Country and into Cantabria, which is truly one of Spain's most underappreciated regions, filled with historical and cultural heritage, wonderful food and some of the best coastlines.

After checking into the wonderful Parador at Limpias, we skipped off for a tapas lunch at a local restaurant, including some wonderful Callos and Albondigas. It always amazes me that even in these small towns the tapas are unique and delicious!

In the afternoon we drove out to the Cuevas de Altamira, which was a wonderful and relaxing way to finish the tour. The last meal at the Parador was an entertaining and enjoyable affair, and the following morning Eva and Arleen were off to the airport. In all a wonderful time, even if, contrary to the well-known refrain, the rain did not stay mainly on the plain.

An extra day in San Sebastian

Due to the incredible downpours and trecherous driving conditions caused by them (the news has been talking about the flooding that is going on across northern Spain right now), Arleen and Eva decided to not chance the 6 hour trip to Leon and chose instead to spend the day relaxing in Hondarribia. A morning massage session for the ladies and tapas for lunch, and finally the rain broke. We took advantage of the (relatively) nice weather to go shopping in San Sebastian. We did stop in a wonderful tapas bar in San Sebastian, right in front of the neogothic cathedral. For dinner we had a request for Paella, and while the first two restaurants on our list were closed, we did manage to find some decent paella at La Comigo in the old city.

The following morning gave us time to run over to the Chillida Museum. Started in 1984 by Eduardo Chillida to house his sculptures. Opened in 2001, the museum is a spectacular medium to appreciate the art of San Sebastian's most famous 20th century artist.

A drive through the Pyrenees - on flowers, hills and picturesque towns

The drive from Vielha across the northern sections of Catalonia, Aragon, Navarra and Basque Country is one of the most enjoyable drives in Spain. As we left Vielha it was to see the sun peaking through the clouds that draped the majestic mountains. It's amazing how beautiful the Pyrenees really are. Our route took us through some truly eye-popping landscapes of valleys, rivers, rising mountains, wild flowers and some interesting moss formations. Stopping along the way in the towns of Ainsa and Jaca, as well as in several spots along the road (technically a highway, although at one point we drove for 40 minutes without seeing a single car behind or in front of us) to enjoy the scenery and take some pictures like the one above.

San Sebastian is beautiful - even in the pouring rain

The torrential downpours that started last night as we drove from Pamplona to Hondarribia continued today through most of the day. That did make the morning visit to San Sebastian a very wet, windy affair, but San Sebastian is such a lovely city that even the driving rain cannot ruin its charms. Esther was our wonderful guide this morning, and was exceptionally helpful getting Eva to the pharmacy and helping Arleen get her rain hat. After visiting the old city and taking a (very) quick peak at the Concha beach (the wind really kicks up there!), we stopped for lunch at Kokotza, which was originally planned for dinner. Fantastic food. The scallops and artichoke mix was stunning, as was the pork in a potato cream with fresh beans.

Afterwards we headed over to the Guggenheim, which is always a unique experience. The way the building molds to the art, or is it the other way around? And the expositions by Anish Kapoor and Rousseau were spectacular. The ride back to Hondarribia was a slower through the driving rain, but back in the confines of one of my favorite Paradors in all of Spain and a full day to reflect back on.

Vielha and a taste of Aranese

The first day of Arleen and Eva's tour brought us to Vielha. I've talked about it before, but getting there is half the fun. Driving up the national highway around resevoirs, sharply cutting cliffs, waterfalls and traces of snow high up in the peaks and crevasses above,  you really start to feel the Pyrenees well before you even get to the Parador.


Dinner in the Parador was a sumptuous affairs. With a view right out over the clearly marked valley where the town of Vielha sits, we enjoyed some of the best local fair, including a delicious Olla Aranasa (a soup/stew made with local ingredients). Eva's pork shank was enormous! And dessert was simply lovely.

For information on visiting Vielha and the Pyrenees on your next trip to Spain, contact The Spanish Touch.

The Spanish Touch goes North

Next week I will be heading north to visit some of the most scenic parts of Spain. Hopefully I will be able to take lots of pics with my guests Arleen and Eva. First stop the Pyrenees and Vielha...

Barcelona's Greek Festival

This weekend in Barcelona marks the start of the annual Festival Grec (Greek Festival). This festival, started in 1976 by a group of theater students hoping to update Barcelona's drama scene, has increased in span and popularity over the years. The festival includes a number of  productions in theaters around the city, most notable among them are the Greek Theater itself on Montjuic, the Teatre Lliure and Poloví, both also on Montjuic mountain, as well as the Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona (CCCB)and even the Library of Catalunya.

The festival runs from June 13 to the beginning of August, allowing all those summer visitors to immerse themselves in the city's vibrant drama scene. One more reason to visit Barcelona this summer!

Churros and a plate of clams in Granada

After a morning tour of the city center, we took the opportunity of being in Granada to go one of the best places I know for Churros con chocolate. Even in the late spring, there is something irresistable about those fried delicacies, and the cup of thick liquid chocolate that comes with. It really hit the spot as we people watched in the plaza, and Jay got a gift of luck (according to the Spanish) courtesy of one of the local birds.

And several successive evenings of tapas,  the Lums decided they were ready to get back to a "regular" meal. So we strolled down Los Navas past the tables outside the tapas bars on both sides of the pedestrian street to the restaurant. Of course, this being Granada, as soon as we had ordered the drinks our waiter brought out an enormous plate of clams in a garlic-butter sauce as a group tapa. Now I've been doing this for years, but I have never seen a plate of clams that large served as your free accompaniment. Never. So much for not eating tapas. And when dinner was ordered, everyone started passing their plates around for others to sample. It's amazing how easy it is to get into the Spanish style of sharing meals. The meals were excellent and the drinks as well, but that plate of clams has set a new standard for the free tapa.  

Caves of Altamira - A Palaeolithic Paradise

Defined as the "Sistine Chapel of prehistoric art", the original caves of Altamira on the Cantabrian coast will reopen to the public sometime in the near future. The cave's paintings, some 15,000 years old, were discovered in 1879 by a local botanist's daughter. A compromise has been reached between scientists and the local government that will allow a limited number of people to visit the caves under tightly controlled conditions.

The cave first opened to the public in 1917, but was closed 60 years later as the deterioration of the site grew steadily worse. Up until 2002 visits were still available on a very limited basis. Since 2001 visitors have been able to visit a colossal and exact replica of the original cave. This replica was designed by a team of experts to perfectly recreate the caves so that visitors can see without risking irreparable damage to the original cave. While in the area you can also take advantage of the museum and the surrounding area in Santillana del Mar. 

For more information or to include a visit to the caves of Altamira on your next trip to Spain, contact The Spanish Touch. 

Horses and wine in Jerez

One of the best things about touring are the unexpected adventures. The last week with the Lums was a great example. When we arrived in Jerez, we immediately made our way to the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art to watch an unforgettable display of "How Andalusian Horses Dance". As a huge horse fan, Vicky was very excited and kept a running commentary.


The show took about an hour and a half, leaving us just enough time to head over to the Sandeman's Sherry winery (with the minor inconvenience that they had decided to close off the street from the time we went into the horse show to the time we came out, making our arrival a bit more complicated).  The Sherry tour was both informative and enjoyable, and we got the chance to sample 3 of the most traditional wines produced: the dry fino, the medium dry Amontillado and the Armada Rich Cream Oloreso sherry. Vicky liked the sweet Oloreso, but Jay and Melissa were more fans of the dry fino.

After the visit, we settled into a small restaurant around the corner from the bodega called las 7 puertas (not to be confused with the more famous 7 portes in Barcelona). More reasons to love Spanish cooking: simply ask the waitress for her recommendations and you can get everything from grilled  peppers to a wonderful carrillo and pork sirloin to a very refreshing salmerojo.  Wonderful food, and a wonderful way to spend a day out on the way to Seville!

Monastery sweets and a Taste of Heaven

For those people who are looking to delve a bit more into the local foods of a region, The Spanish Touch would like to recommend the book “A Taste of Heaven: A Guide to Food and Drink Made by Monks and Nuns,” by Madeline Scherb. The book offers a view into the intimate gastronomic world which dates back centuries. In Spain, a country with its fair share of monasteries and convents, there are a number of these places just waiting for the knowledgeable visitor to sample. 

For more information or for help arranging a visit to one of these places on your next visit to Spain, contact The Spanish Touch. 

Espetos - a Malaga seafood specialty

Malaga is a great town for seafood. That is, of course, to be expected, given its location right on the Mediterranean. But it's the way in which that seafood gets to your plate that makes Malaga so special. All along the promenade you see the wood-burning grills right on the beach in front of each restaurant. And on these grills, just as natural as can be, you will find espetos. An espeto (stake in Spanish) is just that: it's a wooden stake mounted with sardines which are cooked over the fire until they reach perfection. The memory of the smell alone makes me want to eat them. It's a fairly simple practice, really, but I haven't found espetos anywhere outside of the province of Malaga, and the best are along the Malaga promenade in places like Pedregalejo and El Palo.  

A visit to Cordoba

The other day we went to Cordoba, a beautiful drive through the farmlands of Andalusia until we reached the city of Cordoba itself. We met Lola, our wonderful local guide and were off. The walk to the Mezquita took the Lums through the flowered patios as Lola told them about the flower fair and Cordoba's fair happening now (which explained the unusually high number of people in full flamenco dress). But the Mezquita was the highlight. As Roy put it, "almost too much to absorb". There is so much beauty and history in the oldest regularly used building in Spain (Mass is still held at the Cathedral in the middle of the 8th century mosque) that just to appreciate it completely takes all morning. In fact, almost everybody wants to go back through it as soon as they leave. It's a great way to start your trip's journey into the fascinating history of Spain's Al-Andalus!

Besalu - a not-so-hidden secret

While it may not be the only walled medieval village in Catalonia, Besalu probably holds the title for the most interesting. Just up the road from Barcelona, this fascinating town has been attracting tourist attention for years from Europeans coming down to the Costa Brava. However, to most Americans it remains a secret. Which is a shame on some levels, and a blessing on others. The town, more than 1200 years old, still retains the layout and character it has held since it was a key city in Catalonia's separation from the Franks over 1000 years ago. It boasts several wonderful examples of Romanesque churches, Spain's only surviving Mikvah (a tribute to the very important Jewish community which lived in relative peace until the Spanish Inquisition forced them out) and a spectacular stone bridge.

For more information about Besalu or to include a visit on your next trip to Spain, contact The Spanish Touch

El Pimpi - a genuine Malaga wine bar

In the center of Malaga, on its busiest pedestrian street (calle Granada), you will find one of the true gems of Malaga's underrated gastronomic scene: El Pimpi. Large and inviting, inside you can see rows of barrels of different sweet wines from the region. The tables inside and out on the terrace are wonderful for sipping a glass of Malaga's finest and enjoying a plate of tapas. For those looking for the traditional Spanish wine bar, El Pimpi shines brightly. If you go, go early to avoid the crowds as it fills up with locals, especially on the weekend.

Monasterio de Piedra - The Stone Monastery of Zaragoza

Dating back to 1194, the Monasterio de Piedra located just outside of the city of Zaragoza, is one of the truly spectacular sites of the region. It brings together history (the founding of the monastery during the reconquest of Spain), culture and a natural setting which is every bit as wonderful and moving as the monument. In a two hour walk around the monastery you will see waterfalls, caves, lakes and woods which offer sanctuary for anyone who loves nature. One of the most interesting facts is that the Stone Monastery is not a public setting. Shut down as a religious center in 1835, it was bought 5 years later by a private investor and is still privately owned, although it can be visited. .

For more information or to include a visit to the Monasterio de Piedra to your next visit to Spain, contact The Spanish Touch.

Girona's flower show

Now through this Sunday, May 16, Girona is hosting the 55th annual "Temps de Flors" show to celebrate the coming of Spring to the ancient Roman city. Already a beautiful city with its walled old city, Cathedral and bridges, the city is bedecked with flowers everywhere from the 11th century Cathedral cloister to the ¨Pont de Pedra" stone bridge over the Onyar River. But for me the highlight is to see the steps leading up to the Cathedral covered.

Take a trip through 2000 years of history with this spring´s floral offerings making it an unforgettable experience! For more information about the festival or for information about a private tour, contact The Spanish Touch

Museum of Knives - Albacete's steel treasures

When we think of Spain and steel, most people immediately think of the fantastic swords from Toledo, which are deserving of their fame. Nonetheless, slightly off the beaten path we can find a collection of weapons just as interesting in Albacete's Knife Museum, Museu de la Cuchellaria. Knives and Albacete have been linked together since at least the 15th century, and the history of the last 500 years as seen through the intricate and delicate blades and different styles of knives reveals a unique perspective on the history of the city and Spain.

The museum is housed in the spectacular Casa de Hortelano, a modernista-inspired house in front of the Cathedral.

For more information or for a private tour in Spain, contact The Spanish Touch.

Fish Market stands in Spain

We have talked about Spanish Markets before. But today I want you to focus your attention into the fish stands. Beautiful places. I personally like to go there a lot, because it is the best way to buy fresh fish in Spain and because I like the atmosphere (usually very noisy) and even the smell! I would like to give you some advice on how to buy fish in markets in Spain:

1. Don't go on Monday. Bad idea. The fish or seafood is not fresh! The fish and seafood usually comes to the market on Tuesday.
2. Take a look on every fish stand and observe prices and quality. If you don't know how to distinguish what fish to buy in terms of quality, you just have to watch in which stand there are more people (not foreigners, of course).
3. Stall holders can give you lots of good recipes and ways to cook each fish, so ask them! That is also important for the stallholder to prepare the fish for you to cook it later.
4. And the most important thing: have fun! Buying fish or seafood in a market in Spain is a unique experience! Don't be shy and talk with everyone.

Viehla and the Val D'aran

Tucked into a Northern Corner between Catalunya and Aragon in the Pyrenees lies the Val d'Aran (Valley of Aran). A traditional winter sports retreat, the region is also a joy to visit in the spring and summer, when the flowers and trees are bright and the weather is warmer. As a region with more than 1000 years of history and its own language (Aranese), there is plenty to visit and lots of culture to soak up.

The city of Vielha is the capital of the region, featuring one of the most picturesque Parador hotels in Spain. The region also boasts the highest spa in Europe, the Banys de Tredos. Aside from the breathtaking scenery and the cultural heritage, the local cuisine is not to be missed, with dishes such as La Olla Aranesa and local meats and freshwater fish, as well as desserts and liquors.

Patios de Cordoba - A Flower Festival Spanish Style

Starting May 5 and going through May 16, the city of Cordoba once again welcomes spring with its annual Patios de Cordoba Festival. This is an opportunity for the people of the city to show off their best in one of the most traditional and colorful festivals in Andalusia. The patios, a traditional element of Andalusian houses, become the focal point as locals brighten up every corner with flowers and ceramics. This year it is even possible to spend a night contemplating them as the city has opened up a series of accommodations. This is a unique opportunity for those who love flowers and culture, and the locals are always more than happy to welcome new visitors with traditional Spanish hospitality!

For more information about this festival or a visit to Cordoba, contact The Spanish Touch and we can help arrange your next visit.

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.