We’re bringing you a piece of the country’s beauty and strength to remind you of why we’ve all come to love it
A vibrant history, relaxed atmosphere, top-class artists, amazing food… People love Spain for different reasons and even though it’s not easy to visit right now due to the global pandemic, let’s remind ourselves why it’s so easy to fall in love with it.
A round of la fiesta for everyone!
With the sun and sangria flowing in their veins, the people know how to appreciate every day. Perhaps it’s the warm weather — well, at least warmer than in most of Europe — but while on your late-evening stroll in Malaga, Barcelona, or wherever really, you’ll catch a glimpse of groups only just getting together to enjoy a good drink, freshly prepared boquerónes (deep-fried anchovies), or espetos de sardinas (sardine skewers) before heading out to a club to dance the night off.
Others on the other hand might prefer a spot of the national dance flamenco, nowadays enjoyed all around the world, even as far as Japan. The whole community gets together to dance, sing, play the guitar, or “simply” clap their hands or snap fingers. Even if you don’t know how to dance it yourself, it’s fun to watch!
The people in Spain also know how to slow down and relax — again thanks to the warm weather — with a siesta being traditionally associated with their customs.
The art is more than Picasso and Gaudí
Artists like Picasso and Gaudí are likely to come to mind first, and for a good reason. Gaudí’s distinct architectural style is weaved into one of the beloved Catalan cities, Barcelona, that’s fun to explore at your own pace. Inspired by nature, his often-colorful work twists and turns throughout the city, making it a living museum on its own.
The good news for most art lovers is that some museums in Spain have made their exhibits available online. For example, Museo del Prado houses the artworks of Goya, Velázquez, and international artists, such as Rubens, with thousands of exhibits available for a virtual tour. Having opened in Madrid in 1819, it’s become one of the most important museums in the country with the finest collections of European art from the 12th through to the 20th century.
The fans of the quirky artistic mind of Dalí can view some of the work from the Dalí Theatre and Museum thanks to an online 3D tour. Located in his hometown of Figueres, the artist designed this museum personally and it became his last resting place.
The exquisite pickings of local cuisine
Even if you have yet to make your trip to the Iberian peninsula, perhaps you’ve tasted some of the great Spanish wine available in shops across the globe. The country has more vineyards by area than any other country in the world. Reflecting the diversity of the country itself, each vineyard holds its own unique variety of grapes, soil, and climate. Despite Spain having as many as 600 grape types, the majority of the country’s production is based on only 20 grape types.
Spanish food is as tasty and wholesome as it comes. Churros dunked in chocolate for breakfast, paella at lunchtime, and a smaller dinner like a bowl of fresh salad or tapas shared with friends. There’s no rush, though, with the last meal of the day usually taking place at 9ish in the evening, the Spanish take it easy, because enjoying quality moments with loved ones counts for more than a couple extra hours of sleep.
From beaches through valleys to mountains
Spain’s dramatic landscape is bound to take your breath away. From the high ends of the Pyrenees Mountains in the north to the sea-level white sandy beaches of the islands like Tenerife and Ibiza — the land is just as varied as the people, with every region having its specific traits.
The terrain can be hardy, with kilometers of a brown steppe dotted by an occasional castle ruin on the horizon. You can slowly dip your toes in its vastness or throw yourself into the midsummer’s scorch, give it all you have but also take all it’s giving. They say the true beauty of Spain comes through its people so why not listen to the stories their land has to offer?
Do you adore Spain as much as we do? Read more inspiration about Spain and other countries on Kiwi.com Stories.
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic around the globe, we advise you to check the current rules and restrictions before booking your trip and traveling abroad. You can find information on an official website of the EU or your local government’s sources.
