Lonely Planet Spain (Travel Guide)

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If you know anything about Spanish history, you should recognize the name “ Isabella of Castile“. Between leading the Reconquista and financing Christopher Columbus’ voyage to the “New World”, she might be the most well-known Spanish monarch of all time. In The Queen’s Vow, we meet Isabella as a teenager and follow her throughout her reign. We see her marry Fernando, Prince of Aragon, and watch as they begin to forge the country of Spain. It’s hard to understand Isabella’s point of view in modern times, and Gortner does a fantastic job of humanizing this historical figure. Guernica by Dave Boling However, there’s more to this destination than meets the eye. While it might be known for its night-time craziness, it does have a quieter side. To watch the sun set and relax to some ambient beats, head to Café Mambo. If the nightlife doesn’t see you keeping vampire hours, you can top up your tan on San Antonio’s beach. Loaded with water sports, it’s a great spot to revive your partied-out system. However, if you’d rather chill out in peace and quiet, you’ll find the beach of Cala Gracio a twenty-minute walk from the resort.

For Whom the Bell Tollswas published in 1940 and is one of Ernest Hemingway‘s most recognized novels. The story follows a young man named Robert Jordan as he volunteers as a dynamiter in the Spanish Civil War. He fights on the side of the Spanish Republic against the Fascist forces of Francisco Franco. As Hemingway worked as a journalist during the war, he used this experience to make the novel as realistic as possible. Following Robert Jordan over the course of a mission to destroy a bridge, Hemingway sends the reader an important message: war is brutal and affects everyone. If you don’t know much about the Spanish Civil War, this book may be a good place to start. Don Quixote by Cervantes It’s no secret that the beach is the place to be in Playa del Ingles. Its popular with holidaymakers and the long stretch of soft, golden sand shelves gently into the warm sea and has all the comforts you could need for a great day at the beach. Facilities include disability access points, showers and kiosks selling ice-cold refreshments. Whether you’re after a relaxing afternoon on the sun loungers or a thrilling water sportadventure, the beach has it all. Sporting activities include jet skis, sailing, windsurfingand banana boats, to name a few. The extra bit of fun is that he’s a journalist, and as such, he provides a non-Spanish lens to view Spanish culture and its most defining moments in history, cultural contributions to the world, and traditions most undeniably Spanish. Whether it’s about how the Spanish Civil war discourse still opens up old wounds, if true flamenco still exists and where to find it, should a man be allowed to witness his wife giving birth, and what time we should eat lunch, Tremelet gives an honest, almost yearning at times (he discusses how he’ll never be a Spaniard but his kids, born in Spain will be) view into what it means to be Spanish. judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court judges appointed by the monarch from candidates proposed by the General Council of the Judiciary Power, a 20-member governing board chaired by the monarch that includes presidential appointees, lawyers, and jurists confirmed by the National Assembly; judges can serve until age 70; Constitutional Court judges nominated by the National Assembly, executive branch, and the General Council of the Judiciary, and appointed by the monarch for 9-year terms It’s important to note that this is a meandering novel that takes its time unraveling. It’s a meditative, slow-paced, and immersive Galician experience. If you’re into fast paced novels, you might not enjoy this one. But if you’re a reader that likes savoring a nuanced, reflective story, don’t miss this book.

Military and Security

Senate - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - PP 120, PSOE 72, ERC 7, PNV 4, other 5; composition (as of mid-2022) - men 161, women 104; percent of women 39.3% You may associate Spain with a history of intolerance. However, Menocal shines a light on a period where Muslims, Jews, and Christians lived in peace in the country. In particular, she focuses on portraying Al-Andalus or Muslim Spain, with a dose of nostalgia. Especially if you plan to travel to Andalusia, you’ll enjoy reading this book before experiencing the blended culture of this region. Best Spain travel books The Last Jew provides a gripping account of the experience of living as a Jew in Spain during the Inquisition. After seeing his father and brother die, Yonah Toledano decides to maintain his religion in their honor. Thus, he sets off on a journey throughout the country, always attempting to stay one step ahead of the Inquisition. He takes on whatever work he can find, never staying too long in one place. As Yonah traverses Spain, the reader is introduced to a variety of individuals, all demonstrating what life was like during this epoch. The Last Queen by C.W. Gortner In Zafón’s series finale, we’re introduced to a new heroine: Alicia Gris, an investigator for the secret police in Madrid. After taking on a case involving the disappearance of Spain’s Minister of Culture, Alicia crosses paths with the Sempere family in Barcelona. Together, they uncover a dangerous conspiracy tied to the Franco regime–however, her search for the truth may ultimately cost her her life. If you don’t have time to read all four books in the Cemetery of Forgotten Books series, readers generally agree that The Shadow of the Wind and The Labyrinth of the Spirits are the favorites. Cathedral of the Sea byIldefonso Falcones La Tomatina: You’ll be seeing red during Buñol’s annual tomato frenzy, La Tomatina, in late August.

From the whitewashed buildings of Mojácar to the traditional culture of Roquetas de Mar, holidays to Costa de Almeria are great for peaceful breaks in idyllic settings. You can head out on scenic walks in the hills or stroll along golden beaches. Bars and restaurants can be found in the eco-resort of El Toyo, where you can fill your Costa de Almeria holidays with new Spanish flavours. Penelope Casas is considered one of the experts in Spanish cuisine. She has published several Spanish cookbooks and has also written articles about food and travel for the New York Times, Conde Nast Traveler, and Food & Wine.You could make a splash together at the famous Siam Park. Build sandcastles on the pristine soft sands of Playa de Alcudia. And if you're seeking a day of sightseeing, hop aboard the Cap Salou Tourist Train. Your little ones will love discovering the hidden corners of this spectacular city. Traveling to Spain soon or simply want to learn a bit more about the country? The following 15 books about Spain go into its history, culture, and cuisine. And they might take you into a magical world full of mystery :-)

The Return – Victoria Hislop An excellent novel written at the time of Spanish Civil War. Set in Granada and Andalusia. One of the favourite beach resort destinations in Tenerife, you’re sure to fall in love the moment you set foot on the wonderful sandy waterfronts. Each one is Blue Flag-rated and a fantastic example of the natural beauty of Tenerife. Costa Adeje’s beaches have the silkiest sand brought in from the Sahara Desert, perfect for you to relax all day beside the sea. The shallow water makes it ideal for toe-dippers and paddlers, or more adventurous types can head out for some serious water-based fun. A choice of three beaches makes Playa Blanca a great place for a holiday in the sun. There’s one that’s perfect for paddling, another that’s ideal for watersports, plus one that’s right next to the centre of the resort. And if you’re into idyllic, empty beaches, make sure you visit the remote Papagayo National Park.In The Last Queen, Gortner tells the story of a rather enigmatic figure in Spanish history: Juana of Castile. Although she is relatively unknown outside of Spain, sadly, in her own country’s history, Juana is remembered for her “madness”. Gortner chooses to dispute these claims of her mental illness. Instead, he paints her as an intelligent and brave woman who was used as a pawn for political purposes. In the end, her strengths caused her to become an easy target for powerful men who wanted to take her throne. The Queen’s Vow: A Novel of Isabella of Castile byC.W. Gortner

Visa / health: British citizens don’t need a visa for Spain holidays but you do need a valid passport. Visitthe UK government's Spanish travel advice for up-to-date visa and health recommendations. There are so many incredible destinations to explore with a holiday to Spain. You could relax on the powdery white sands of Marbella, soak up the party atmosphere in Ibiza, venture through the coves of Costa Brava or seek out the volcanic landscapes of the Canary Islands. So whether you want to flop on the beach, hit the world-famous after-dark scene, or set off on an adventure, Spain holidays are for you. In this selection there is something for everyone. Civil war stories, romantic novels, cooking books and humorous expat tales. It´s not a definitive list. There are hundreds of titles out there. These are some of my personal favourites and books that may not be as well known too.

Terrorism

You can always find a reason to want to visit the home of paella and the paso doble. Holidays to Spain can offer something for everyone, with stunning beaches, beautiful countryside, cities filled with history and superb cuisine. If you’re heading to this European hotspot, then before you go, let us share with you our travel advice for Spain. Costa Dorada holidays boast pristine sands, pretty ports, towering mountain trails, pine forests, the region's largest wetlands and medieval villages. Salou is great for kids. With shallow waters, playgrounds and historic towns. And family holidays to Costa Brava aren't complete without a visit to PortAventura, one of the biggest theme parks in Europe, with themed rides and brilliant entertainment. As slow travelers, there’s nothing more experience enhancing than reading up on your next destination. As avid lovers of Spain (we lived in Madrid for several years), we never tire of reading a wide variety of Spain books.