Spain — Beachcomber Pete Travel Adventures

Ibiza, Spain

Ibiza, Spain is an island on the Mediterranean sea and is located just 79 km away from the coast of Valencia, Spain. Of the Balearic Islands, Ibiza is the third largest and is one of the most popular destinations for young tourists, especially those who are looking to enjoy both the day and night life.

The largest cities in Ibiza are Ibiza Town, Santa Eularia des Riu and Sant Antoni de Portmany. Ibiza Town is one of the most well known and is especially popular because of the different opportunities it provides for music lovers. Some of the most popular and famous producers and DJs come to the island to play in the clubs, and often times they use it as an opportunity to try out new music. For those who aren't into the standard club music, Ibiza Rocks is a concert series that was introduced to the island in 2005 and has become a highlight for summer tourists.

Although Ibiza is most known for its summer club parties, the island's government is working to make it a more diverse and cultured environment, so that international tourists of all walks of life can find something of interest in Ibiza.

Besides the night clubs, Ibiza has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean. The crystal blue waters are both inviting and refreshing. Tourists can also charter boats in order to explore the perimeter of the island, or they can go diving, learn to kite-surf, or simply enjoy the different sights the island has to offer.

Ibiza has some breathtaking sights, including both man-made and natural ones. Individuals who venture away from the beach can see beautiful churches, monuments, and caves. There are even Hippy Markets in most of the cities that allow visitors to purchase some of the most popular items on the island, including handmade jewelry and clothing. Las Salinas Salt Flats is another popular tourist attraction. These salt fields have been in use for over 2000 years and are the perfect location for capturing sunset photos.

Tourists of all ages can find something to do in Ibiza. Between the restaurants, hotels, resorts, and villas, there is something for everyone.

Filed Under: Balearic Islands, featured, Ibiza, Spain

Formentera, Spain

As the smallest of the Balearic Islands, Formentera, Spain is the perfect destination for a private getaway in the heart of the Mediterranean. Getting to the island is extremely easy. Boats regularly travel between Formentera and the Spanish mainland. The island has a multitude of unscathed white beaches that provide excellent views of sunsets for families and romantic couples. On top of this, the waters surrounding Formentera are perfectly transparent, allowing for some of the best snorkeling in the world.

Formentera is infused with a local culture that visitors cannot help but to get wrapped up in. The island’s size, nineteen kilometers long, helps enhance this feeling of centrality and locality since visitors can easily traverse the entire stretch of the island within a day. Most of the island is easily accessible with roads, and cars are rentable in the port, it is more convenient to rent a moped to speed along the coastline. Doing such adds to the experience of visiting Formentera. The smell of the pristine, beautiful sea dazes travelers while the wind blows through their hair. Cliffs that drop to the sea enhance the scenery. These provide unrivaled views witnessed anywhere else in the Mediterranean world.

Many small villages line Formentera’s coastline, all of which are excellent opportunities for exploration. The people of the island are friendly, happy to have visitors from afar, and their accommodating spirit makes any length of stay on the island one that will not be easily forgotten. Adding to the sense of adventure on the island is the language. While Spanish is spoken widely, as the island is administered by Spain, a unique dialect of Catalan is the main language. Hearing it spoken in markets, shops, and restaurants across the island will entrance travelers. Do not be worry about feeling disheartened by language, though. Other major languages are spoken widely across the island, including English, German, French, and Italian, all coming from Formentera’s proximity to these language centers in the Mediterranean. This unique blend of cultures has made cuisine on Formentera wonderful, and there are many small restaurants to try out during a stay on the island.

Any stay in Formentera is bound to be safe since the island has a very small crime rate. Safety is a main concern when traveling to any foreign country. Formentera is an island that will capture any traveler’s heart with its unspoiled beaches, language, people, and food.

Filed Under: Balearic Islands, featured, Formentera, Spain

Balearic Islands, Spain

An archipelago of Spain, the Balearic Islands are located in the western Mediterranean. Comprised of four large islands — the Mallorca, Menorca, Formentera, and Ibiza — the archipelago forms a province with a shared capital city, Palma de Mallorca. Numerous smaller islands such as Sa Dragonera, Es Conills, Es Vedrà, Sa Conillera, L'Aire, Na Redona, S'Espalmador, S'Espardell, Ses Bledes, Santa Eulària, Plana, Foradada, Tagomago and Colom also make up the Balearic Islands and draw tourists.

During the months of January and February, the Balearic Islands are awash with flowers as the 7 million almond trees that grace the islands bloom. Tourists from around the world flock to the islands to marvel at the trees' flowers which range in shades of white to pink. Visitors can enjoy the locally grown almonds toasted or as part of local cuisines. Almond beauty products also abound at the local perfumeries.

The moderate climate of the Balearic Islands draws family cruise holidays year round. The islands feature about 300 days of sunshine per year. Visitors can enjoy lounging on one of the many golden beaches or take in the culture of the region. The islands are dotted with fishing villages that feature quaint shops.

History buffs may want to tour the island of Ibiza. The island was declared a World Heritage site by the UNESCO. It has several archeological sites such as the historic centre of Eivissa Phoenician, the site of Sa Caleta and the necropolis of Puig des Molins. Ibiza also has a reputation for a thriving nightlife with numerous clubs and ample dancing opportunities.

Mallorica is the largest of the Balearic Islands and is home to the capital city Palma de Mallorca. Visitors can tour several of the island's water parks or try their hand at a bit of gambling at the Casino, located near Magalluf. Outdoor enthusiasts may want to explore the island's mountain range, Serra de Traumunta, or try a but of scuba diving.

Menorca has the reputation of having some of the best white sand beaches along the Mediterranean. Numerous pine shrouded coves also exist around the island. Archeological ruins, fishing villages and small towns that feature medieval architecture all draw tourists to the island.

The island of Formentera appeals to sailing, diving and water sport enthusiasts. The island also boasts numerous bars and restaurants.

With so many islands to choose from, tourists to the Balearic Islands will find a wealth of attractions, accommodations and resorts.

Filed Under: Balearic Islands, featured, Mallorca, Menorca

Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Mallorca is one of the Balearic Islands located off of the Spanish coast south of Barcelona. Palma de Mallorca, Spain is both Mallorca’s largest city and the capital of the Balearic Islands. It is one of the favourite tourist destinations in Europe, known for its mixture of old world historical charm and new world conveniences, and a world-class beachfront. The city is easily accessed by plane and is a common port for cruise ships.

Palma has a long and varied history. It was founded by the Romans, sacked by the Vandals, conquered by the Byzantine Empire, occupied by the Muslims and the Moors, and claimed by James I of Aragon. The city was an important port for each of these empires, and teetered between piracy and formal trade throughout its history. The islands were divided from Spain in 1833 but soon suffered economically from competition with other maritime islands. It was not until the tourist trade accelerated in the 1950s that Palma began to rebound from its slump.

Cathedral de Mallorca, Palma de Mallorca, Spain

For travellers interested in the historical sites, start with Cathedral de Mallorca, the enormous Gothic cathedral built on the site of a former mosque. It took nearly four hundred years for the cathedral to be completed. Behind the cathedral is the area of the city known as The Old City. Wander the narrow streets and admire the diverse architecture reminiscent of both Barcelona and Florence. Find a charming souvenir in one of the quaint little shops. Located in The Old City, the only remaining Arabic site in Palma is the Banys Arabs, a sauna-style bath dating back to the tenth century.

Palma has its own bull arena, which is open to sightseers when events are not on. The Museo de Arte Espanol Contemporaneo offers pieces from various Spanish contemporary artists including Picasso and Dali. Children will love both the Aqualand water park and the Marineland aquarium.

The beaches are the main attraction for tourists, featuring white sandy beaches and crystal clear water. The Can Pere Antoni beach also has one of the nicest cycling paths in the city. Most beaches offer boat rentals. Stroll along the palm tree-lined promenade along the seafront.

Palma de Mallorca has so much to offer with its beaches, high-end and boutique shopping, vibrant nightlife, rich cultural history, historical buildings, and Mediterranean cuisine. Make sure you take full advantage of the Mediterranean island lifestyle while you are there.

Filed Under: Balearic Islands, featured, Mallorca, Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Albacete, Spain

Albacete, Spain was a small Moorish village until retaken by Spanish Christians in 1241. The town supported Charles V during the Revolt of the Comuneros. Due to its strategic location between the capital of Madrid, Valencia and the country’s east coast, Albacete makes for a good stopping point or day trip from your Valencia apartments.

Albacete became a stopover on several cross-country railroads in the mid-1800s. During the following decades, Albacete supported the crown and the republic. As a result, the town served as the headquarters and training site for foreign individuals, known as the International Brigades, who came to fight against Fascist Franco. Albacete has a reputation as a manufacturing center for knives, scissors and fine daggers. It’s this reputation that resulted in Eurocopter opening a manufacturing facility here in 2007. The town has one of Spain’s largest industrial parks and is striving to become the logistics center for the southeastern part of the country.

Visitors will experience hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters when touring the city’s many cultural landmarks. The focal point is the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist. Because it took over four hundred years to construct, the building displays many architectural styles. While the main chapel is Gothic, the building has Baroque and Neogothic influences as well as Renaissance columns. Guests can view the art works on display in what was a 16th century monastery or tour the exhibits of the Albacete Museum. You can walk down Tejares Street which is lined with many traditional homes or visit the Montel Fields archeological excavations. If you’re fortunate to be here in September, you can enjoy the festival that honors the town’s patron saint, the Virgin of the Plains.

Eco-tourists can use Albacete as a starting point on a journey to the source of the Mundo River, the Sierra de Alcaraz or hike through Lagundas de Ruidera Nature Reserve. You will also enjoy the oak groves and cultivated fields of the Jucar Valley.

After a day of sightseeing and before heading back to your apartments in Valencia, make sure you visit the area around Ancha Street and see shops dedicated to the region’s cutlery, knives and swords, or stop by the Lodares Passage shopping mall and experience its modernist flair. When you’ve finished shopping, you can stroll through Fiesta del Arbol Park or relax under the shade trees of Abelardo Sanchez Park.

The best way to conclude your stay is to spend time in the Plaza de Altozano. Here you will find cafes and restaurants where you can sample the fine local cuisine.

Filed Under: Albacete, featured, Spain

Museo del Prado Madrid, Spain

You have seen all the major sites that Madrid has to offer, now it's time to take it slow and enjoy the history the city has to offer. One of the nice things about taking a apartments in Madrid is you find you are not rushed. A perfect way to learn the history of Madrid and Spain is to visit one of the many museums the city has to offer. Travelers will find Madrids most famous musem is Museo del Prado.

Madrid Museo del Prado with Velazquez statue, Madrid, Spain

Other European museums may be better known, but Madrid's Museo del Prado has one of the most spectacular collections of European art anywhere in the world. The Prado displays nearly 1,300 works of its more than 20,000 pieces of art, which date between the 12th and 19th centuries.

The core of the museum's works is the royal collection built up by a number of Spanish monarchs. As one would expect, its collection of Spanish art is unparalleled. You can view nearly 50 paintings done by Velázquez, including "Las Meninas," his most recognizable and storied piece. There are more than 140 paintings by Goya, ranging from his royal commissions to his scenes of rebellion to his Black Paintings, painted directly on walls that have been transplanted to the Prado. You can also see his famous pair, "La Maja Desnuda" and "La Maja Vestida."

The Spanish collection is filled out with masterpieces from El Greco, Murillo, Fortuny, and Ribera. It also has a significant collection of Spanish drawings, spanning from the Medieval period through the Modern Age. Goya is also well-represented here in over 500 of his drawings.

Masters from other European countries are also on display. You'll find a large collection of Titian's works, as well as other Italians like Tintoretto, Tiepolo, Botticelli, Fra Angelico, and Mantegna. Works of particular note are Fra Angelico's "The Annunciation" and Titian's "Venus and Adonis." Amid the many works presenting scenes from both the Old and New Testaments, are Flemish master Hieronymus Bosch's startling "Garden of Earthly Delights" and "Seven Deadly Sins." The considerably less ghoulish Flemish painter Rubens is also at the Prado with lovely pieces like "Three Graces" and "Garden of Love."

In addition to European paintings, the Prado is also home to a wide variety of sculpture from ancient Greece and Rome to 18th century Europe. The "Virgin of the Battles" is an enamel-on-copper piece from the Limoges workshop and made in the 13th century. There is also a collection of decorative arts that includes, among other types of decorative items, ceramics and porcelains from France, Spain, and China.

The museum is open every day of the week, opening at 10 a.m. Most days it closes at 8 p.m., except Sundays and holidays when it closes at 7 p.m. It's only closed three days a year, on Christmas, New Year's Day, and May 1. A general admission ticket is 12 €, and 19.50 € if you want an official guide. You can buy your tickets online.

Spend a relaxing day visiting Madrids most famous museum, then before heading back to you Madrid apartments continue the relaxing day with a nice dinner in one of the many outdoor reasturants the city has to offer.

Filed Under: Europe, featured, Madrid, Spain

Costa del Sol, Spain

For those searching for a vacation that encompasses beautiful views of nature, vivacious cultural hotspots, and a taste of life in the "Old World," there is no better place to look than Spain. Steeped in exciting history, amazing mountain and coastal views, and ancient traditions that have stemmed into the modern world, every part of Spain offers visitors a new way to truly "viva la vida" – live life to the fullest.

One of the most beautiful, up-and-coming parts of Spain is the incredible Costa del Sol, a long stretch of coastal villages sitting along the Mediterranean Sea. What originally started out as a few quiet fishing villages has emerged into one of the most prominent international vacation spots in Europe. With fantastic beaches stretching for miles overlooked by mountain villages with panoramic views, the Costa del Sol is truly a vacationer's dream.

In addition to amazing sights and white-sand beaches, the Costa del Sol offers a variety of cultural and artistic venues. The Museo Picasso in Málaga is devoted solely to the artwork of Spain's most famous artist, Pablo Picasso. The museum is set in a magnificent 16th century palace. In the city of Marabella, visitors can spend a day exploring the "Old Quarter." Designed during the Arabic era, this unique section of the city still models its original layout. Though quite unconventional, it gives visitors a feel for what life was like growing up in this small village. The quarter also features beautiful plazas and an ancient castle. Those fascinated by culture and history can also spend a leisurely afternoon in the ancient city of Ronda in the mountains of Málaga. This historic town has been delcared a cultural asset of Spain and holds not only culture and history, but breathtaking views of the valleys below.

For anyone wanting the true Spanish experience, Costa del Sol offers a number of exciting bullrings, such as the historic Plazas de los Toros in the towns of Antequera and Mijas, as well as fabulous venues for flamenco performances in almost every city along the coast. Concerts are offered nightly in the Teatro Lírico Andaluz and La Viñuela Hotel. Futbol games occur in abundance in Málaga and Marbella, and golf and water sports are available in almost every village along the shoreline.

No visit to Spain is complete without samling the local cuisine. The area is home to dozens of centuries-old wineries that are open for touring and tasting. Tasty tapas and delicious soups feature fresh-caught seafood and delightful Spanish spices, as well as some Moroccan flavor. Local desserts include the classic Andalucian almond biscuit and traditional Spanish flan. The flavors of Costa del Sol are sure to be appetizing to any palette.

Whether your vacation interests lie in exploring history, experiencing culture, or just relaxing on the beach, Costa del Sol, Spain, is an ideal holiday location. Come see all that this lovely corner of the world has to offer. You may find that you never want to leave!

Filed Under: Andalusia, Costa del Sol, Europe, featured, Spain

Menorca, Spain

Menorca, Spain is also known as the "Island of Pleasant Breeze." It is the second largest of the Balearic Islands. The island is home to many beautiful beaches that are typically less crowded than those of nearby islands. At 3 km, Son Bou is the longest beach in Menorca and is known for it's calm waters.

When you first arrive in Menorca, you may want head to the Placa Alfons III to visit the town's tourist information center. The information center is housed in a windmill that is a very popular tourist attraction in itself. You may also want to check out the island's harbors; tours are offered daily.

Among many others, some places to visit in Menorca are it's impressive churches, Es Freginal Park, the Xoriguer Gin Distillery, and the Museu de Minorca. Es Freginal park is often home to cultural events and musical performances, but even when there is nothing going on here, it makes a great place to relax and picnic. Xoriquer Gin Distillery was built in the 18th century, but if you stop here during your trip to Menorca, you are still able to purchase alcohol that it produces. For the history buff, the Museu de Minorca showcases the earliest history of the island. For those not as interested in history, it also has paintings from more recent times.

Keep in mind that the island's waters are perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving, but if you prefer to stay above the water, Menorca's waters are also great for fishing. Cycling and hiking are also popular leisure activities on the island. These can provide exercise while allowing you to experience Menorca's beautiful scenery. The highest point on the island, Monte Toro, gives you an unbeatable view of the island.

By day, you can enjoy some of Menorca's most popular restaurants, such as the Windmill Restaurant, Es Cranc, La Ribera and Son Granot. By night, you can grab a drink at a local bar or nightclub. Menorca's nightlife is relatively low key, but Menorca is still home to some noteworthy spots. Be sure to check out Sa Sinia, a bar located in Carrier de Sant Jordi. One unique nightclub that you should be sure to visit is located in a cave. It is called Cova d'en Xoroi. Wherever you end up, be sure not to stay out too late because you need your rest.

There are many more things you must do on your trip to Menorca!

Filed Under: Balearic Islands, Europe, featured, Menorca, Spain

Mallorca, Spain

The beautiful Spanish island of Mallorca is a popular tourist destination. Largest of the Balearic Islands located in the Mediterranean Sea, travelers can enjoy the beautiful beaches surrounding the entire island. The most popular cities for tourists is Palma, Mallorca's capital. The second most popular city is Inca, loved for its wine cellars. Another well-visited Mallorca city is Manacor. Visitors flock to Manacor for its pearl factories and products made from olive tree wood.

The picturesque island treats guests to exquisite and sunny beaches, museums, gardens and more. Visitors have several options when it comes to musems. One popular local museum is the Museu de Mallorca, which houses Baroque and medieval paintings. Visitors can browse contemporary art from Spanish artists at the Museu d'Art Espanyol Contemporani. Visit Museu Krekovic, a musem dedicated to artwork by Kristian Krekovic as well as Spanish and Latin American artists.

Taking guided tours is a popular option for many Mallorca travelers. One favorite guided tour is a tour of the island's finest wineries. Tourists get to taste wines, tour facilities and even learn about the grapes and the wine production. Another enjoyable day excursion popular among Mallorca tourists is a tour of an olive farm on the island. The tour allows visitors to view the traditional oil mill to see how olive oil is produced, and of course sampling is included! Another tour that Mallorca visitors love is the Balearic Island sailing trip. This trip takes visitors in groups of four or more on a private sailing trip from Mallorca to Menorca, the smaller island in the region.

It's no surprise that tourists flock to the island's 70 or so beaches. Magaluf is one of the most popular beaches. Many tourists come to this 900-meter-long beach for banana-riding and nightlife. Tourists love coming to Playa de Palma for walking and bicycling along the beach and popping in the bars, restaurants and beach shops. Beach Arenal is another destination that tourists love because of the beautiful view of the sunset that it provdies and for its nightlife. This beach is perfect for individuals that like to party all night. The bars and nightlife venues stay open nice and late for this crowd.

Filed Under: Balearic Islands, Europe, featured, Mallorca, Spain

Balearic Islands

An archipelago of Spain, the Balearic Islands are located in the western Mediterranean. Comprised of four large islands — the Majorca, Minorca, Formentera, and Ibiza — the archipelago forms a province with a shared capital city, Palma. Numerous smaller islands such as Sa Dragonera, Es Conills, Es Vedrà, Sa Conillera, L'Aire, Na Redona, S'Espalmador, S'Espardell, Ses Bledes, Santa Eulària, Plana, Foradada, Tagomago and Colom also make up the Balearic Islands and draw tourists.

The moderate climate of the Balearic Islands draws tourists year round. The islands feature about 300 days of sunshine per year. Visitors can enjoy lounging on one of the many golden beaches or take in the culture of the region. The islands are dotted with fishing villages that feature quaint shops.

History buffs may want to tour the island of Ibiza. The island was declared a World Heritage site by the UNESCO. It has several archeological sites such as the historic centre of Eivissa Phoenician, the site of Sa Caleta and the necropolis of Puig des Molins. Ibiza also has a reputation for a thriving nightlife with numerous clubs and ample dancing opportunities.

Majorica is the largest of the Balearic Islands and is home to the capital city Palma. Visitors can tour several of the island's water parks or try their hand at a bit of gambling at the Casino, located near Magalluf. Outdoor enthusiasts may want to explore the island's mountain range, Serra de Traumunta, or try a but of scuba diving.

Minorca has the reputation of having some of the best white sand beaches along the Mediterranean. Numerous pine shrouded coves also exist around the island. Archeological ruins, fishing villages and small towns that feature medieval architecture all draw tourists to the island.

The island of Formentera appeals to sailing, diving and water sport enthusiasts. The island also boasts numerous bars and restaurants.

With so many islands to choose from, tourists to the Balearic Islands will find a wealth of attractions, accommodations and resorts.

Filed Under: Balearic Islands, Europe, featured, Spain