Synonymous with paella, flamenco dance, and sangria ‘on tap’, Spain’s traditional European charm is home to cultural parallels with neighboring Western Europe, France, and Italy. Both the mainland and her islands of the Canaries and Balearics have been continuously one of the top destinations for British citizens to holiday to. With year-round sunshine and masses of beach resorts, it’s no surprise that its popularity hasn’t faltered. But it’s now also growing in popularity with solo and group travellers from further afield, with key cosmopolitan districts like Barcelona and Madrid attracting thousands of visitors annually.
Here are five emerging Spain travel trends
Exploring the historical sites in the cities
Spanning various periods of history, Spain is no novice to historical sites and artifacts enticing travellers to its cities. The country’s Gothic past continues to remain apparent throughout its key districts – signifying the evolution of architecture from this period to that constructed today.
Barcelona’s Sagrada Família was the late Antoni Gaudí’s project to align the natural elements and forms of the original structure. It’s today a modern-day spectacle of colour (inside), the Christian religion, and peace. The basilica is open to public internal visit, where self-reflection can be done on the pews, as you marvel at the wonder above.
Just outside the capital city, Madrid is a symbol of Spain’s historic power and authority. El Escorial is a royal palace, which was built in 1563. Today it serves as a museum to signify the country’s past. Known for its symmetrical architecture and colossal granite walls, it’s a reflection of the ideals of order and clarity at the time of Spain’s power.
Girona Cathedral categorizes Spain’s Gothic heritage and displays the architectural style of this past. Similar to the external detail on Sagrada Famíilar, the cathedral’s façade is notable for the highly intricate details of the sculptures outside. Today, it acts as it was purposed, as a religious center but also as a testament to the artistic achievements of its time and the evolution of Gothic architecture in Catalonia.
Food and wine tours in Spain
The Spanish culinary scene isn’t one to be forgotten. With its traditions of paella and sangria galore, tasting your way through Spain is sure to impress. Experience the distinction between the most glamorous districts with culinary travel packages, ensuring no course is missed! With an expert on all things culinary in Spain, you’re sure to get the most out of your trip and discover the hidden gems of various districts on the mainland. From market stalls to Michelin stars, a pre-planned food tour provides the true variety of Spanish cuisine.
In contrast, plan your package to also visit the more isolated country regions around the most bustling locations. Nestled among local Spanish living, experience Cava tastings at vineyards and discover the secrets of the perfect Spanish omelet recipe. Gain the authenticity of Spanish flamenco paired with tapas and socialising, before getting up to learn the moves yourself! Experience the true meaning of Spanish culture today, thanks to its culinary influences.
Arts, culture, and history in Spain
Aside from its Gothic heritage, Spain is renowned for its contributions to visual arts, cultural and music festivals, and ancient history. Being the birthplace of famous artists like Picasso still influences its cities and islands today, with museums dedicated to his work being common places of visit for enthusiasts. The artist’s techniques are studied around the world, promoting Spain’s creative innovation to help him challenge artistic norms, hence his status today.
Traditionally vibrant, Spanish culture hosts a multitude of festivals and markets. Influenced by its historic Christian reconquest in the thirteenth century, Holy Week hosts the colourful Semana Santa festival, which sees each region in Spain having its unique rituals and traditions to celebrate. Seville hosts one of the most iconic celebrations, with processions spanning across the streets and attracting many global visitors.
Exploring the Spanish Islands
Spanish Islands like the Balearics promote their own unique culture and way of life. Particularly Ibiza and Formentera became popular with hippie culture in the twentieth century, thanks to its relaxed atmosphere and the natural beauty of sunsets aligned with human spirituality and tight-knit communities. This has, in turn, shaped tourism in Ibiza today, with the hippie movement of relaxed electronic music adapting, to form the synonymous nightlife known on the island today. Among beach, inland, and secluded resorts, luxury villa holidays in Ibiza are highly popular, with home-from-home hubs to appreciate the ‘White Aisle’.
Like the mainland, the islands have a rich culture influenced by Spain’s past and eras. Sant Joan festival in Menorca, which sees the church host processions through the island to honor their patron state. Meanwhile, the Canary Islands remain tourist hubs for UK residents to gain year-round sun in a range of environments, from volcanic in Lanzarote, the dunes of Gran Canaria, and the rolling hills of Tenerife.
All under the same Spanish government, but each with unique flare and appeal, the Spanish islands remain trending in the travel industry.
Sailing in Spain
The crystal waters of the Atlantic in the northwest and the Mediterranean in the southeast provide a diverse array of coastal landscapes and sea life. With the coast covering six thousand kilometers of dramatic clifftops and pristine seaside resorts, there is a sail for every type of traveller to enjoy. Even the city districts of Barcelona, Palma, Valencia, and Malaga can be sailed into – allowing the experience of sealife combined with the busy city lifestyle.
The north coast that borders the Bay of Biscay offers historic smaller-scale cities like San Sebastián, or Bilbao, comprising of traditional Spanish eateries alongside other European influence. For fishing enthusiasts among sailers, there are many natural fishing villages on this coastline, offering a picturesque environment for catching.
Summary
Spain has remained a hub for British holidaymakers for generations, but the diverse country can offer any kind of travel, from colourful shopper cities to tranquil beaches away from the traditional tourist areas. With the island groups and the mainland all having their own style, it’s no wonder the destination continues to be a trending one.
The article Five emerging Spain travel trends first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.
