| ail of bullfighting, flamenco and sangria, Spain is a | | | | 2080. Today, the project is funded from tourism. |
| country blessed with rich history and culture. Add | | | | The Plaza Major in Madrid is the capital’s |
| beautiful beaches and warm climate, and | | | | most historic landmark. This old town square is |
| it’s evident why Spain is the world’s | | | | the perfect place to sit and relax, drink your |
| second most visited country. | | | | coffee, and watch the world go by. Tourists and |
| The demise of Franco opened Spain to a curious | | | | locals congregate each day to absorb the |
| world. A booming tourist industry allowed the | | | | ambience and exchange thoughts. |
| country to grow, revealing its history and way of | | | | However, there is more to this place than meets |
| life to an interested planet. | | | | the eye. In days gone by, kings have been |
| Each town revels in its individual brand of | | | | crowned here and trials of the inquisition held. |
| architecture, none more so than Barcelona, | | | | Other events such as bullfighting have also taken |
| bearing the architectural signature of Antonio | | | | prominence. Despite its age, meticulous attention |
| Gaudi. The Hostal Dos Reis Catolicos in Santiago | | | | has kept the square beautifully preserved. |
| de Compostela is believed to be the | | | | Sun worshippers with little cultural interest can find |
| world’s oldest hotel. Buildings in the far | | | | solace on the Costa del Sol. A haven for beach |
| south of Spain retain a distinct Moroccan influence, | | | | lovers, the long golden sands provide ample |
| a consequence of invasions from ancient past. | | | | opportunity for that bronze tan. |
| Northern Spain seems to have been inspired by | | | | Located off the west coast of Morocco, the |
| Celtic Britain, even borrowing the Scottish | | | | Canary Islands are the ideal destination for beach |
| bagpipes as instrument of choice. | | | | holidays. Born of volcanic activity, plant life and |
| Spain’s emotional love affair with the art | | | | vegetation thrive in the rich soil, providing safe |
| world is captured in its many fine museums. | | | | refuge for local wildlife. Golden sands contrast the |
| Works of the country’s favourite sons, | | | | black volcanic rock, while the cool Atlantic breeze |
| including the surreal compositions of Dali, and the | | | | retains a comfortable temperature. |
| enigmatic genius of Picasso are displayed with | | | | The Balearic Islands, southeast of Barcelona are |
| honour. | | | | another suntrap, a lure for those who enjoy a hot |
| Attracting over 2 million visitors a year, La | | | | sun and long nights. Indeed, the island of Ibiza is |
| Sagrada Familia in Barcelona is Gaudi’s | | | | the party capital of Europe. |
| most celebrated masterpiece. Under construction | | | | For those of a more cultured persuasion, the |
| since 1882, this magnificent cathedral is not | | | | Prado Museum in Madrid houses some of the |
| expected to be completed until around the year | | | | greatest works throughout Europe. |