Tag: Spanish

Forget Barcelona! This Stunning Spanish Beach Town Is Where Locals Escape The Crowds

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It’s been well-documented some Barcelonians are giving the cold shoulder to tourists at this point, but Spain is just too good to pass up!

Like many awesome destinations across the globe, crowds can be a nuisance, but many in Barcelona act like they’re in an exclusive club.

The reality is they know the allure of their amazing city, but some prefer to keep it all themselves as hordes of travelers have invaded their city.

Well, Barcelonians aren’t going to be a fan of mine as I reveal their secret getaway to escape their own crowds.

Spoiler alert: it’s Tarragona – a gorgeous beach city a little over an hour away by train from the busy streets of Barcelona.

Better yet, tourists will be welcomed here with open arms by locals.

Direct Flight Or Day Trip: This City Has Been Overlooked Far Too Long!

Side note: How does Europe have so many airports?!

Seriously!

It’s like every nook and cranny is so much easier to reach than the States. Rant over…

While it may be tempting to fly to Barcelona with seemingly endless flight options, you can travel to a lesser-known airport instead.

Those who do choose to come from Barcelona have multiple options too – the most popular being via train, followed by busses.

Renfe offers straight shots as low as $9. The same goes for Alsa’s buses with tickets slightly lower.

But those wanting to avoid Barcelona entirely can fly into Reus Airport (REU) with connecting flights all cross Europe, such as notable cities like Paris, Dublin, London, and Brussels.

This can potentially save you a decent amount of time rather than hopping a bus or train from Barcelona since the airport is only 20 minutes away from Tarragona.

Plus, many flights are “budget airlines,” which can save you a lot on airfare, meaning you’ll have more to spend in this slice of paradise!

Why Barcelonians Love This Place

To be fair, it’s not only Barcelona pulling out the welcome mat from under tourists’ feet.

Amsterdam, Venice, and Athens, among others, have been a bit moody when it comes to welcoming visitors.

What these cities fail to realize is there’s still going to be large amounts of people even if one foreigner never visited.

Barcelona has a population just shy of 2 million people, which isn’t chump change. 2 million people anyway is a large amount, so to solely blame issues just on tourists seems a bit dramatic on the surface.

Any way you slice it, however, Tarragona has been the secret escape from the hustle and bustle of Barcelona as a less-crowded blue water vacation spot surprisingly packed with intriguing historical sites.

The Colosseum is cool and all but what about former gladiator fighting grounds hugging the scenic coastline?

That’s right, there’s a well-preserved Roman theater backdropped by the vast Balearic Sea.

Tarragona is steeped in history, and it shows in the best of ways exploring the quaint city center.

Make sure to stop by Catedral Tarragona, a national monument dating back to the 12th century. But nowadays, it’s most popular for live music and wine tastings.

Ahh, the joys of Spain.

While Barcelonians certainly know how incomparable Spain’s food and wine scene are, other tourists should definitely arrive hungry and hydrated!

Tip: Don’t skip the Central Market of Tarragona dating back to 195 for fresh, savory local cuisine.

Crowd-Free Soft Sand Beaches

Tarragona boasts beautiful coastlines, becoming even more alluring once you realize how much space you have as this picturesque city has long been just a local’s secret.

There are 3 primary beaches to visit here, and you can’t go wrong with any of them. The pretty soft sand rivals many other popular coastlines.

The easiest to reach is Playa del Miracle right in town, or else you can head to Platja Arrabassada or Paltja Savinosa.

The latter being hyped the most for its pristine delicate sand and clear waters. Just be aware you may see more than you bargained for as nudity is welcomed here.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

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August 28, 2024
Why These Lesser Known Spanish Islands Are Breaking All Tourism Records Right Now

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The Canary Islands broke all previous tourism records last year, welcoming an incredible 14.1 million visitors.

And it’s easy to see why. From beautiful beaches to breathtaking landscapes, this delightful archipelago is loaded with charm.

Despite this, very few U.S. travelers choose to visit the Canary Islands.

Here’s why these lesser-known Spanish islands are breaking all tourism records right now:

Year-Round Sunshine

The Canary Islands are an island chain made up of 7 islands: Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro. Gran Canaria is the largest island and only 4 of these tend to attract tourists. They are Gran Canaria, Tenerife, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura.

The two most popular islands in 2023 were Gran Canaria and Tenerife.

Though they are officially part of Spain, the Canary Islands are actually located just off the coast of Northern Africa. At their closest point, the Canary Islands are just 100 kilometers (62 miles) from mainland Africa.

This means that they have the best year-round climate of any European vacation spot. The Canary Islands experience over 3,000 hours of sunshine a year, and it rarely rains on any of the islands.

The coldest month of the year is February, but average daily temperatures are still around 20°C (68 F), and during the hottest month of August, average daily temperatures are around 28°C (82.4 F).

That means if you’re looking for a winter sun vacation, then the Canary Islands are a great choice.

Diverse Landscapes

The Canary Islands are close to each other, and it’s easy to travel between them either by internal flight or inter-island ferry. The ferry is usually the most convenient and affordable option, especially if you hire a car to get around.

For example, the ferry ride from Fuerteventura to Lanzarote takes less than an hour and costs just 18 euros ($20) per person.

Despite this close proximity, each Canary Island has its own personalities and landscapes. This means you can visit them over and over and have a vastly different vacation experience each time.

You can enjoy lush, verdant forests or huge Sahara-style desert landscapes. Fuerteventura and Gran Canaria are classed as semi-deserts, and the sand dunes here are spread out for miles.

The Canary Islands are most famous for their volcanic landscapes which are often punctuated by lunar-like craters. For the best volcanic views visit Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote. This is an extraordinarily beautiful national park thanks to its rugged terrain, incredible volcanic views, and absence of plant life.

But each of the Canary Islands has its own volcanoes and these attract hikers, cyclists, and nature lovers from around the world.

World-Class Beaches

You will find both golden sand and black sand beaches in the Canary Islands, thanks to their rich volcanic base. But each has its charms, and the islands are famed for their world-class beaches.

Some of the best beaches in the Canary Islands include Playa de Papagayo in Lanzarote and the more famous Playa de Maspalomas to the south of Gran Canaria. It’s worth noting that this is a clothing-optional beach.

Perhaps the most unique beach in the Canaries is Playa el Mejillon on Fuerteventura, which is better known by its nickname of Popcorn Beach. Instead of being covered in sand, this beach is covered in white algae fossils that look just like small pieces of puffy, delicious popcorn.

When you’ve had enough of sunbathing and enjoying the beautiful views you can head into the water.

The Canary Islands are a mecca for watersports enthusiasts. From March to September, they boast some of the world’s best conditions for windsurfing. Tenerife is the best island if this is your sport. During the winter months surfers visit the islands for their powerful waves and massive swells.

Corralejo in Fuerteventura is often referred to as the Hawaii of Europe, thanks to the quality of its surf. As a result the whole town has an incredible, laid-back surf vibe that makes for an excellent vacation spot.

Canarian Culture

It would be impossible to talk about the Canary Islands without discussing Canarian culture. The people living on the islands are incredibly warm and welcoming to visitors. They’re also proud of their heritage and keen to share this.

The Belmaco Archaeological Park on Las Palmas is the best place to learn about the first settlers on the islands more than 2,000 years ago. If you prefer architectural charms then the historical town centre of La Laguna in Tenerife has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for its culture and beauty.

Given the small size of the islands, they also boast a surprisingly large number of fascinating museums. These are small but perfectly formed and are each dedicated to singular elements of life in the Canaries.

But perhaps the best way to learn about life in the Canaries is to spend time with the Canarian people. Eat in local restaurants, visit local markets, and immerse yourself in the life of the people here.

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January 24, 2024
Why This Historic Spanish City Is The Next Big Digital Nomad Destination
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Spain is one of Europe’s most popular tourism destinations, and with good reason. The country boasts vibrant cities, captivating coastlines, and warm, sunny weather for most of the year.

With the launch of Spain’s digital nomad visa this year, travelers will be keen to discover which places in Spain are the best to live, work, and explore.

While the bright lights of Barcelona may be appealing, there’s another historically fascinating city making a strong claim to become a new favorite among digital nomads.

Seville is the fourth largest city in Spain and the capital of the Andalusia region. It’s also somewhat of a cultural melting pot, blending history and traditions from Spain and North Africa.

This vibrant and modern destination was recently named as one of the European Capitals of Smart Tourism for 2023 thanks to several technology-based innovations launched by city planners.

These innovations paired with Seville’s charming architecture and lively culture make it an ideal place to live and work as a digital nomad.

It’s also one of the sunniest cities in Europe, with more than 2,800 hours of sunlight each year.

A Technological Trailblazer

Seville is using technology to help tourists have a more enjoyable and stress-free visit.

For example, the city has introduced more public transport options that use renewable energy in a bid to reduce traffic and improve air quality.

Seville also has a Tourism Intelligence System project that analyses crowds and people movements to prevent the most popular areas becoming too crowded. This has helped protect and preserve attractions.

City planners also recently introduced the Sevilla Accessible App, which allows visitors with mobility issues to plan routes that allow them to explore with freedom and using transport that suits their needs.

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What Are The Best Things To See In Seville?

One of the must-see attractions is the Alcazar Real de Sevilla. This palace complex is still used by the Spanish royal family and has an architecture style known as Mudejar, showcasing the region’s North African influences.

The Plaza de España is another highlight. This famous square is actually circular in shape and is covered with 48 colorful mosaics that represented the 48 provinces the country had at the time of the square’s construction in 1928.

For modern art lovers, a trip to Las Setas de Sevilla, or Metropol Parasol can’t be missed. One of the world’s largest wooden structures, this timber canopy also houses an archeological museum in the basement and walkways with impressive views on its upper.

Another highlight is the Torre del Oro, a striking tower built in Moorish style that was part of the walls that once enclosed the city in ancient times.

Green Space To Take A Break From Work

Seville is known as one of the hottest cities in Europe, so it’s nice to know it’s also home to plenty of parks and green space to enjoy a stroll or relaxing afternoon under the shade of a tree.

Parque de Maria Luisa lies just south of the Plaza de España and will enchant you with its pretty buildings and pavilions as well as tranquil fountains and tree-lined avenues.

For a quieter experience, the Alamillo Park in the north of Seville runs alongside the river Guadalquivir and features smooth paved walking routes, an ancient aqueduct, and a nature observatory.

Across the river from the Plaza de España lies Parque de los Principes, a smaller park that lacks nothing in prettiness and features a small lake you can cross on a bridge.

About The Spanish Digital Nomad Visa

Spain’s digital nomad visa was introduced this year as part of the country’s StartUp Act. Here are some key things you should know about it:
- The visa is open to anyone from a country outside of the European Economic Area.
- You must prove your monthly income is double the Spanish minimum wage.
- You must have been working remotely for at least one year.
- You must not have been a resident in Spain in the last five years.
- Spouses and partners can come too – but that involves an increase in provable income.
- You can also work for a company in Spain, but that income must not exceed 20% of your total income.
- The visa is valid for one year but can be extended into a temporary residency permit valid for three years once you’ve arrived in Spain.
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August 1, 2023
Why This Charming Spanish City Has Been Rated A Traveler Favorite This Year

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With a country packed so full of culture, beauty, and delicious food, choosing where to visit in Spain can be quite the undertaking.

Barcelona will always be a top choice for tourists, and Madrid is not far behind, and therefore it’s common for other fantastic locations to get overlooked.

One such city that is often not included on a travel itinerary is the 2,000-year-old city of Valencia, located on Spain’s eastern coast in the center of the Gulf of Valencia.

As Spain’s third largest city, Valencia is not a typical Spanish city — with its own language, unique cuisine, and a blend of ancient and futuristic buildings. Some say that Valencia is not the typical idyllic Spanish town that certain travelers are looking for, yet its uniqueness is part of its charm.

Recently rated as the top coastal destination in Europe, Valencia has a lot to offer travelers looking for something a bit different. It won the top spot on the coastal cities list, especially for being peaceful and quiet, being a great value, and having many attractions as well as a beach.

@miortravel Our favourite spots in 📍 Valencia #Explore #Viral #Visit #Spain #Valencia #Visitspain #Spaintiktok #Travel #Traveltiktok #Love #Esp #España #Viajes #Beautifulplaces #Trending #Fy #Fyp #fypシ ♬ LLYLM – ROSALÍA

The city is still quite unknown to most American travelers, often losing ground to Barcelona and Madrid. But more international tourists are starting to realize that Valencia has all the architecture, culture, and food of the bigger cities, with a much lower price tag.

Here’s Why Valencia Has Been Rated A Traveler Favorite This Year:

Old Meets New

As one of Spain’s oldest cities, exploring the Old Town is a must-do when visiting. Valencia’s old town is compact enough to enjoy walking around without getting lost in the maze-like streets, lined with vibrantly hued buildings and narrow cobbled alleys.

Check out the colorful street art that the city is known for, enjoy some al fresco food and drinks, and people-watch in the many plazas.

With architectural styles such as Art Nouveau, Gothic, Moorish, Roman, and more, there is quite a melting pot of styles to enjoy as you walk around.

You can’t miss seeing La Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, La Lonja de la Seda, or the 13th-century Valencia Cathedral.

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Did Someone Say Food?

While offered throughout many places in Spain, Valencia is known for their menu del dias. Usually available midday between 1-4 pm, most consist of a meal deal with a drink, bread, starter, entree, and dessert, all offered for a set price. Valencia is known by travelers as having a cheaper menu del dias than other major Spanish cities.

As the birthplace of Paella, Valencia is also known for its homegrown rice, a source of pride, as its unique taste is a result of the minerals in the water.

You can also easily spend a day eating your way through the popular central market, tasting local specialties from all over the region.

@amberb0s Things to do in Valencia – ultimate guide #fyp #valencia #travel ♬ Slow Motion – AMARIA BB

Keep Busy

Visit Valencia in the middle of March for the crazy spectacle of parades and fireworks known as Las Fallas, and enjoy the party atmosphere with the locals.

Or get outside and check out the nearly 10 km-long Turia Park, a must-visit if you like walking or running outdoors; some even cite it as one of the best city parks they have ever seen.

It also should go without saying that by choosing to enjoy Valencia for a holiday as compared to Madrid or Barcelona, you will be saving money. Some estimate that Valencia is nearly $40 a day cheaper than Barcelona, so take those savings and plan your next trip to another underrated destination!

Attention Beach Lovers

Valencia sees over 300 days of sunshine a year, which is perfect since there are over 12 miles of beach to enjoy near the city.

Las Areanas, La Patacoa, and La Malvarrosa are all the ones you can find closest to the Old Town, offering over 2 miles of the seafront to enjoy, with no end of bars and restaurants to watch the sea roll in after a full day of lounging under an umbrella.

Valencia Awaits

While Valencia might be known as being the more livable and practical of Spain’s major cities, that’s not to say it is lacking in charm.

Come here for a sunny and fun time, take in the history of the area, enjoy the landmarks and the food, and don’t forget to give the beaches a chance as well.

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July 28, 2023
Top 5 Sayings You Need To Know In Spanish Before Going To Mexico
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Traveling to a country where English is not the official language can intimidate many tourists. A language barrier can often complicate what should be a relaxing experience. That is why it is best to prepare yourself with a few common words and phrases in your destination’s language to avoid travel language anxiety. And although most tourist-centric areas in Mexico will pose no problems for travelers, it’s still helpful to know some basic phrases to better connect and communicate with locals.

25% of Americans traveling abroad go to Mexico each year. Most of those visitors are not fluent in Spanish. If it is your first time traveling to Mexico and you only speak English, you’ll find that knowing a few critical sayings in Spanish can make your vacation much more enjoyable.

Along with learning some key phrases, visitors should also familiarize themselves with other cultural elements that differ from their home country. For instance, learn the current conversion rate for the Mexican Peso, research whether your phone service will cover usage in Mexico or if you’ll need a tourist sim card. Be aware of common scams, local laws, and current travel advisories.

Visiting Mexico doesn’t mean you need to learn the entirety of the Spanish language. You can choose to learn a selection of helpful words or a few essential phrases to help you get by when you encounter a situation where there is no shared language. We’ve broken down the most useful sayings you should consider learning in Spanish before your next Mexican vacation.

Learn Your Manners

Mexican locals are well used to tourists with little or no Spanish. While most tourist areas will cater to English speakers, a little bit of Spanish politeness goes a long way. Top friendly phrases are:

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- Hello – Hola
- Goodbye – Adios
- Please – Por favor
- Thank you/no thank you – Gracias/ No, gracias
- Nice to meet you – Mucho gusto
- Excuse me – disculpe
Know How To Ask For Help

Whether you need help in an emergency or with something less vital, like directions, carrying luggage, or finding something in a store, knowing how to ask for help is important. The Spanish word for help is ayuda, but it is used differently in different situations.
- Can you help me? – ¿Me puede ayudar? Use this phrase for non-vital help requests.
- Help me! – ¡Ayúdeme! Use this in a dire or emergency situation.
Find Out The Essentials

While you should familiarize yourself with how to get around your destination and the location of important places, it is helpful to know how to ask for these places as well.
- Where is…? ¿Dónde está…? Airport/aeropuerto, pharmacy/farmacia, bathroom/baño, bank/banco, hospital/hospital, hotel/hotel
Know How To Order Your Favorites

You’ll likely find yourself eating out at restaurants. While many restaurants offer an English menu, you should learn how to order your favorite items in Spanish. It is also a good idea to know how to communicate any dining restrictions or allergies in Spanish too.
- I would like to order…. – Me gustaría… (common favorites are beer/cerveza, wine/vino, water/agua, coffee/café)
- I’m allergic – Soy alergica/alergico (common allergens are: dairy/lácteos, nuts/nueces, eggs/huevos, wheat/trigo, shellfish/mariscos)
- I don’t eat meat – No como carne
Basic Cost Question

You don’t want to find yourself alarmed at how much you’ve spent on vacation once you get home. It is wise to ask the price of items before you take out your wallet. It is especially important to determine taxi fare, the cost of tourist boats, and other negotiable or unmarked prices before agreeing to pay.
- How much does this cost? – ¿Cuánto cuesta?
Bonus Phrases In Spanish

Perhaps it is most important to learn how to convey that you don’t speak Spanish. Asking someone if they speak English can open up the doors to better communication in certain situations.
- Do you speak English? ¿habla Inglés?
- I don’t speak Spanish – No hablo espanol
- I don’t understand – No entiendo
Additional Spanish Language Tools

There are many tools available to help you learn a new language. Apps like Duolingo and Babbel have become popular and entertaining ways to learn the basics of a foreign language. Google Translate is also a helpful way to navigate communication barriers. Finally, if learning a few simple things in Spanish is not your thing, try visiting a country where English is the primary language.

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December 30, 2022