Palma de Mallorca
Palma de Mallorca, most commonly known simply as Palma is the largest city and port of the island of Mallorca, and is also the capital city of the Balearic Islands off the coast of Spain. A much smaller center than many of the other cities in Spain, Palma offers all the historical aspects of the larger cities in a much more relaxed environment. As with any seaside resort area, Palma is famous for its beaches and waterfront leisure and recreational areas.
The Cathedral of Palma, Sa Seu, is a remarkable representation of a Gothic type of structure. It is well worth the day off from relaxing on the beach to tour this impressive structure and the view of the city and the waterfront from the Cathedral is spectacular. There are other numerous examples of Roman, Arabian and Gothic architecture in the various palaces, museums, religious buildings and even mansions and houses in the area. (more…)
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May 5, 2008
Valencia
Valencia is a city as well as a province located on the eastern coast of Spain. As one of the three primary cities and commerce locations in the country of Spain, Valencia is both a cultural as well as a business hub. The city itself was first founded in 137 BC and has withstood a great many changes throughout its history.
The weather in Valencia is beautiful most of the year with lots of sun and moderate rain levels to keep the area rich and green with vegetation and flowers. The beaches are very popular tourist attractions and bring in visitors from around the world to simply relax and enjoy the sun or participate in the various water activities such as fishing and sailing. In addition the beaches are surrounded by world class restaurants, shopping and art galleries and museums, making a day at the beach a wonderful experience for everyone. (more…)
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May 3, 2008
Cordoba
Located in southern Spain in the region of Andalucia, Cordoba is a city with an interesting mix of many different cultures and people. Historically the city has been home to Jewish people, Muslims and Christians and there is a strong representation of these religions and cultures throughout the churches, synagogues and temples located throughout the city. Currently the city of Cordoba is considered a World Historical Site and has an amazing array of attractions for those tourists interested in both the historical and modern aspects of the city.
La Mezquita, the third largest mosque in the world, is located in the city of Cordoba. The mosque, as well as the various additional buildings, cupolas and gardens that were added throughout the centuries, makes a fascinating day trip. Tours of La Mezquita as well as the Cathedral and La Juderia, or the Jewish Quarter, allow visitors to examine buildings dating back to the first settlement of the area. The fully modern bus and train system in both the city of Cordoba and throughout the province provides lots of opportunities for day trips to other smaller cities. As with most Spanish cities, there are a number of festivals, carnivals and markets to explore throughout the countryside and throughout the summer months there is always something to do and see. (more…)
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May 1, 2008
Customs in Spain
There are many customs and celebrations enjoyed in Spain. However, life stands still on public holidays for most of the regions in Spain, which is something that visitors need to keep in mind. Usually the shops are closed, the transportation system becomes non-existent and events are closed. Most Sunday shopping, especially in Madrid, is open only on the first Sunday of each month. The stores like El Corte Ingles and FNAC may be open on holidays but not on Sundays and Worker’s Day, May 1.
The public holidays that are celebrated in Spain are New Year’s Day (January 1), Epiphany (January 6), Semana Santa (Easter week), Worker’s Day (May 1), Assumption of the Virgin (August 15), National Day (October 12), All Saints (November 1), Constitution Day (December 6), Immaculate Conception (December 8), and Navidad (December 24). Christmas day is not as important as Christmas Eve and many shops are open in the morning on December 25th. (more…)