| A cocktail of bullfighting, flamenco and sangria, Spain | | | | The Plaza Major in Madrid is the capital's most historic |
| is a country blessed with rich history and culture. Add | | | | landmark. This old town square is the perfect place |
| beautiful beaches and warm climate, and it's evident | | | | to sit and relax, drink your coffee, and watch the |
| why Spain is the world's second most visited country. | | | | world go by. Tourists and locals congregate each day |
| The demise of Franco opened Spain to a curious | | | | to absorb the ambience and exchange thoughts. |
| world. A booming tourist industry allowed the country | | | | However, there is more to this place than meets the |
| to grow, revealing its history and way of life to an | | | | eye. In days gone by, kings have been crowned here |
| interested planet. | | | | and trials of the inquisition held. Other events such as |
| Each town revels in its individual brand of | | | | bullfighting have also taken prominence. Despite its |
| architecture, none more so than Barcelona, bearing | | | | age, meticulous attention has kept the square |
| the architectural signature of Antonio Gaudi. The | | | | beautifully preserved. |
| Hostal Dos Reis Catolicos in Santiago de Compostela | | | | Sun worshippers with little cultural interest can find |
| is believed to be the world's oldest hotel. Buildings in | | | | solace on the Costa del Sol. A haven for beach |
| the far south of Spain retain a distinct Moroccan | | | | lovers, the long golden sands provide ample |
| influence, a consequence of invasions from ancient | | | | opportunity for that bronze tan. |
| past. | | | | Located off the west coast of Morocco, the Canary |
| Northern Spain seems to have been inspired by Celtic | | | | Islands are the ideal destination for beach holidays. |
| Britain, even borrowing the Scottish bagpipes as | | | | Born of volcanic activity, plant life and vegetation |
| instrument of choice. | | | | thrive in the rich soil, providing safe refuge for local |
| Spain's emotional love affair with the art world is | | | | wildlife. Golden sands contrast the black volcanic rock, |
| captured in its many fine museums. Works of the | | | | while the cool Atlantic breeze retains a comfortable |
| country's favourite sons, including the surreal | | | | temperature. |
| compositions of Dali, and the enigmatic genius of | | | | The Balearic Islands, southeast of Barcelona are |
| Picasso are displayed with honour. | | | | another suntrap, a lure for those who enjoy a hot |
| Attracting over 2 million visitors a year, La Sagrada | | | | sun and long nights. Indeed, the island of Ibiza is the |
| Familia in Barcelona is Gaudi's most celebrated | | | | party capital of Europe. |
| masterpiece. Under construction since 1882, this | | | | For those of a more cultured persuasion, the Prado |
| magnificent cathedral is not expected to be | | | | Museum in Madrid houses some of the greatest |
| completed until around the year 2080. Today, the | | | | works throughout Europe. Since construction in 1819, |
| project is funded from tourism. | | | | millions have passed through and revelled in its glory. |