Introductions are not even needed when talking about Spain. Its glory can be traced back to 1492, when Spain started expanding its power by capturing countries and spreading Christianity. Spain’s impact is left on how the countries from America and Asia have a Hispanic touch to their cultures, and 500 million people speak the Spanish language.
Spain is considered a large country on the western side of the European continent. It occupies about 505,990 square kilometers of land area cradling 46 million of the country’s population. The country has two autonomous cities and 17 autonomous communities run by the head of the state, which is the King of Spain.
The country’s economy consistently grows and competes with the other neighboring European countries. Statistics showed a massive improvement in the country’s economy when the ruling returned to democratic governance in 1975. Today, it is made even more prosperous by many tourists visiting Spain, exports of refined petroleum to the US, and businesses related to textile, apparel, and clothing.
Spain’s Year-Round Climate
Spain’s climate can be different depending on which area of the country you’re visiting. Its size, proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and North Africa, and mountainous topography highly affect its climate. If you stay in Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria, and el Pais Vasco, these places encounter oceanic temperatures where the summers can be warm and winters are mild.
Mountain climate is experienced in areas near Pyrenees, Cantabrian Range, Leon Mountains, the Iberian System, and those parts surrounded by mountain ranges. Here, low temperature causes snow, and summers are cool. On the other hand, a big part of Spain experiences a Mediterranean climate like Alicante and Murcia.
If you are considering the budget, the best time to visit Spain is from December to March. Crowds can be lighter if you go in early autumn, from September to October. If crowds and festivals drive you, the high season is June to August.
Touring Around Spain
You can tour around Spain’s historic places and famous restaurants by three major transport modes. The main modes of transports are thru government-owned taxi service, via bus and railroads. Spain’s transport system is regarded as one of Europe’s best since it is comfortable and affordable. You can also catch Uber if traveling shorter distances.
On the other hand, Spain also has fast-speed trains connecting the regions to Madrid’s capital. It can be the best way to get around the country since it covers broader routes and operates day and night.
Spain as the Powerhouse of Breathtaking Sites
Spain is home to about 48 heritage sites proclaimed by UNESCO. These spots, along with numerous tourist destinations in the country, play a significant role in Spain’s economy and reputation worldwide. In 2019, Spain ended the year with 83 million visitors who explored the country. Each year, Spain welcomes an average of 50 million tourists.
Among the treasured cities of Spain that have natural and cultural spots can be found in Ávila, Alcalá de Henares, Baeza, Cáceres, Córdoba, Cuenca, Ibiza, Mérida, Salamanca, San Cristóbal de la Laguna, Segovia, Tarragona and Úbeda.
Visiting Spain won’t be complete without setting foot in Spain’s iconic Sagrada Família in Barcelona. This architecture is one of Spain’s treasured pride. What makes the basilica iconic is its long years of construction. It was built in 1882 by Antoni Gaudí, and the building was delayed after his death. It is set to finish by 2021.
Among other spots you should not miss are the Seville Cathedral and Alcazar, Plaza de España and Parque de María Luisa, Plaza Mayor, and Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias. Spain also has beautiful beaches to walk by when you get tired of busy crowds and throbbing city lights.
Spain’s Trademark Dishes
The best place to try Paella is where it originated. Spain is distinct through its flavorful and healthy cuisines, and Paella Valenciana is a great starter to devour Spain’s traditional dishes. Paella Valenciana is an essential dish of the country’s culture as it was created through Spain’s rice culture 1200 years ago. Paella is the saffron-colored rice dish gracing Spanish festivals and celebrations and Spain’s national dish.
For a filling feast, you must include the following dishes when you visit.
- Patatas bravas – are deep-fried potatoes served in a spicy garlic sauce made of olive oil, flour for texture, spices, and broth.
- Gazpacho – is a tomato soup that originated from Andalusia. What’s interesting with this soup is it is served cold to ease the summer heat.
- Jamón Iberico – or Spanish cured ham is made of traditionally dried and salted black pig meat. There are various kinds of this cured ham per region.
- Tortilla Española – is Spain’s version of omelet eaten at any time of day. It is made of spices, chorizo, spinach, potatoes fried in olive oil.
