The British people’s love affair with cheap holidays to Spain continues to grow with no sign of slowing down. Travel site Skyscanner recorded Spain as the most searched location by UK holidaymakers during January 2010. And this year The Times Online put Spain as number one in a list of the top 10 most impressive holiday destinations.
So, what is it about Spain that keeps us Brits going back for more? Put simply: a fine balance of climate, culture and cuisine have given the country an edge over its European cousins.
One thing is for sure, Spain’s close proximity and low air fares make it appealing to a lot of English families looking for an affordable package deal. Spanish holidays are easy to find if you look online and with forward planning, the earlier you book, the better the offers available.
A number of Spanish resorts have proved popular in recent years and despite what you might think, Spain is more than just beaches. If you are looking for a walking holiday then northern Spain could cater to your needs. What’s more, lovers of cultural holidays can benefit from cheap flights to Seville.
The great thing about Spain is its diversity; and it’s perhaps because of this that so many British people choose to holiday in Spain. Tenerife, a particular favourite, is known for its water sport attractions; including the latest, Siam Park, which claims to be the most thrilling water park in the whole of Europe.
The Costa Adeje Gran Hotel, located in the Canary Islands, is a popular choice for package deals. With great food and drinks included if you opt for an all inclusive deal, many English tourists enjoy soaking up the sun in this tranquil part of Spain.
Refined British art lovers have also travelled out in droves to Barcelona, a city famous for its tapas, fiestas and Gaudi’s stunning art work. La Rambla is where you can find most holidaymakers, strolling down this boulevard amongst artists, dancers and human statues.
Eating in Barcelona is a true delight and visitors to the city can nibble on pintxos, platters of small dishes served on bread.
According to tradition, diners must pick at food with toothpicks and at the end of the evening what they pay will depend on how many toothpicks have been used.
For those of you who have always dreamed of experiencing Europe by train, make sure you ride on one of Spain’s many railway lines. You can go from Madrid to Seville in a couple of hours and a trip there will leave you feeling revitalised. Travelling by train can be a great way to interact with other tourists and exchange stories and is also a good way to take in the sights and sounds of various Spanish cities.
The allure of Spain has always attracted English visitors and although it is geographically close, Spain feels a world apart with its exotic charm and beautiful sandy beaches, not to mention the siestas!
Britain’s long enduring love of all things Spanish is set to last into 2012, bringing some much needed money to the Eurozone. As the ever-changing British climate brings the usual unreliable weather, guarantee some summer heat by booking a cheap deal to Spain. Say ‘hasta la vista’ to England and ‘hola’ to Spanish fiestas, cocktails by the sea and artwork by the great Spanish masters.
