UNEXPECTED SPAIN: BEYOND MADRID AND BARCELONA

December 2007
Every year, millions of tourists arrive in Spain to experience Madrid’s museums, tapas, and nightlife, and Barcelona’s cathedrals and beaches. But there’s even more to a vacation in Spain than sightseeing in these two major cities.

Extend the boundaries of your vacation destination and you’ll be expanding your opportunities for an incredible trip. Take a tour to another exciting region in this beautiful country. Spend a few days and you won’t want to say adios…

Love exploring the great outdoors? The Canary Islands offer an easy escape from a snowy winter. Close to North Africa, these seven gems offer sun-drenched beaches, tiny fishing villages, quaint hilltop hamlets and plenty of ways to spend your day. See the world’s largest collection of penguins and parrots at Loro Park, sharpen your sailing skills on an adventure cruise to Los Lobos, tour the rugged terrain of Gran Canaria on your own jeep, saddle up for a camel ride along the volcano route at Timanfaya National or go wine tasting in La Geria.  No matter how you choose to spend your day, you’re guaranteed to get a dose of Spanish culture.

If your idea of a great vacation is lounging on the beach by day and partying all night, head to the bustling region of Costa del Sol. Thanks to more than 160 kilometers of sandy shores, there’s plenty of blanket space for everyone—not to mention, beach bars, showers and other amenities. Need a little more activity to keep you entertained? Tour La Carihuela, a historic neighborhood that used to be an old Fisherman’s village, tee up at the Marbella Club Golf Resort--one of the area’s 40+ quality golf courses, dine at a traditional Spanish restaurant or practice for your American Idol audition at El Open Arms Karaoke Bar. Bring your camera along for surprise celeb-spotting or follow the paparazzi who are there on the same mission.

If you’re looking for a dose of art, history and architecture, look no further than Valencia, set in the center of the Spanish Mediterranean coastline. Valencia boasts Arab ruins as well as modern churches and palaces. Tour the Mercat district, the center of commercial life featuring the Gothic building of La Lonja. Other worthwhile stops include the Institute of Modern Art, the Gulliver Children’s Park and the leisure and culture complex. The beaches of Las Arenas and La Malvarrosa provide the ultimate form of relaxation.

While the rich and famous may be flocking to Costa del Sol, the city of Seville--set on the Guadalquivir river—is where other types of celebrities were born. Famous locals include painters such as Velázquez, Murillo and Valdés Leal, sculptors like Martínez Montañés, and the legendary Don Juan. Stop by any local eatery to try the hundreds of variations of tapas which were said to have been created here. The Sevillians actually make a meal of them, moving from bar to bar and trying one dish at a time.

For a dramatic change of scenery, head to Granada—nestled at the foot of the breathtaking Sierra Nevada mountain range. Save some time for skiing or check out some of the most interesting historical sights and architectural finds. Where to start: at the Monasterio de la Cartuja, a historical church with a lavish baroque interior, colored marble and a collection of paintings by Juan Sánchez de Cotán.

Don’t miss these opportunities to experience a totally different side of Spain. You’ll be glad you did!