The Women’s Travel Group is famous for unusual ‘smart’ itineraries. What Makes Spain a Different Travel Experience so that Phyllis Stoller, President of The Women’s Travel Group chose to go with the Spain Tour?
Most women take their first European trip to England, France or, Italy. Why does Spain fall into a lesser category for Americans? One obvious reason is our heritage: more often English or Italian. Madrid is too distant for a train ride to another city (like Paris to London or Amsterdam to Paris). Less known is the effect of separatist movements, and over hyped US headlines.
Spain is less over-touristed than its European capital sisters. Cruise ships have not spoiled Madrid as many believe they have Barcelona. The Basque North of San Sebastian and Bilbao opened in 2011 with the end of the Basque movement. Europeans go; Americans are late in enjoying the North.
Spain is different because of 16th century explorations. Conquistadors brought gold and silver from the New World making Madrid’s buildings more fabulous with gold domes, gates, statues. From Asia came spices; Spain’s cuisine is the best, from churros to tapas. Wines: very fine and very economic. From Asia also came collectable pottery, easy to enjoy at home. From Africa is Moorish and Jewish history. There are 2 former Jewish areas of Madrid, there is the entire city of World Heritage,Toledo from the 1300’s. There are statues and museums dedicated to Spain’s African conquests. There are street names beginning with Al, an Arabic word.
Madrid has unusual features. Take the layout of Madrid. Its famous squares are enormous, used 400 years ago for jousting, bull fights, carnivals. Its Palace doesn’t have decoration; it has more than 100 beautifully carved statues. And yes there is still a King: Felipe IV, so a real time whiff of royalty surrounds you.
The climate is milder; there are more cafes plus active street life. Shopping indoors or out is amazing: shoes, leather, gold and silver jewelry, espadrilles at $10 a pop. The Euro rules but Spain is cheaper than other Euro countries. Food is also.
Going North to Burgos, San Sebastian and Bilbao is a must. Why go to Bilbao? One cannot see the Guggenheim Museum and award winning architecture of Bilbao anywhere else. The Guggenheim is one of the most important buildings in the world yet getting to Bilbao is not easy.
Our trip includes Bilbao; we try for the top experiences on every trip; the Guggenheim is one. Travel Tips from The Women’s Travel Group. Join us on our Spain trip; full details are here.
