So You’re Visiting Spain? Excellent Choice!
Spain is one of the most heavily-visited countries in Europe and this is no coincidence. There are *so* many reasons to see this beautiful country, from Gothic and Baroque architecture evident in many old churches and cathedrals, to natural scenery like the majestic Sierra Nevada mountain range in Andalucia. The only problem is that the many places to see can actually put a damper on your vacation; this may be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and you should manage your time so that all the major attractions are included in the trip. It may seem impossible to choose where to go, even after careful consideration. This is actually the first thing you’ll want to decide when planning to visit Spain.
Making Decisions and Finding Information
Get a binder and fill it with sheets of notebook paper. Have each family member write down what in particular they want to see. Maybe one person wants to work the Alhambra Palace in Granada into the equation, and another can’t wait to visit the beaches of the Costa del Sol. Have one page for each city, village, or area. See which places have the most number of activities that the family agrees on. For those who want cooler climate, plan on the beaches or the mountains. For warmer, balmy temps (the norm for Spain) it’s a good idea to stay in the main cities.
Send away for as much Spain travel information as possible; many places online will send free books and brochures. Some cruise lines and European tour companies offer free DVDs to get families started. Decide if you want to take a cruise or fly. This is another integral part of decision-making. If flying isn’t an option the decision is still a little difficult. There are limitless choices for cruises; it’s imperative to know your budget and have some standards in mind. It doesn’t have to be a million-dollar vacation.
The Rain in Spain . . . Can Cause Quite a Damper
Find out what the weather is like. It can pour all over the country, despite that catchy tune that says “the rain in Spain falls mainly on the plain.” Don’t pack huge fuzzy sweaters if the temps are going to be in the 90’s at the time of year you’re visiting. Even if it’s going to be hot, take a sweater or jacket for those dips throughout the night, though. Always bring rain gear, essential items, long- and short-sleeved tops, and appropriate bottoms. Extra shoes are always handy; take it from someone who has lost shoes in some very odd circumstances! These tips apply to any European country.
Money Makes Your Vacation Go ‘Round
Research where money is changed after arrival and have the amount ready that you want to change. This is one country with plenty of quality souvenirs, and not buying anything just isn’t an option. Find out how much your American dollars are worth after conversion to Spanish currency. Doing a little research before leaving will save a lot of money in the long run. Another essential planning stage is to update passports and any other personal information that will be needed upon arrival.
Se Habla Espanol? You Might Want to Start!
It never hurts to know a few words of the Spanish tongue. I like to think that “where’s the bathroom?” “where’s a good restaurant?” “where can I find a store?” and “how much does this cost?” are the four most important phrases you’ll need in the country. Beyond that, brush up as much as possible. Learn ten helpful phrases incase something unfortunate occurs and no one in the family has any idea what to do. Be prepared not to understand most of what people say, but having a little background on the language certainly won’t hurt.
Knowing When to Visit
Many of Spain’s attractions are *very* busy, meaning it’s probably best to arrive directly after opening time or just before closing. Try not to be the last tourists of the day, however; beautiful sightseeing tours such as those offered at Alhambra Palace shouldn’t be rushed. Research how much attractions will cost and have the admission ready at the gate. It helps to be quick and efficient. Try to research when the major cities in Spain are in their “high” and “low stages,” in other words, when their peak seasons are. To avoid huge crowds, try to go after the peak season but not at a time when nothing will be open.
Planning For Religious Services
Spain has always been a very religious place; the country was rooted in the Jewish, Christian, and Muslim faiths in the Middle Ages but is now famous as a bulwark of Catholicism. If you are of the Catholic faith and want to attend church in Spain, there are many different choices. Any Spanish city will have a few churches from which to choose, whether a quiet setting or a Gothic cathedral is desired. If you’re not Catholic, it may be a little harder to find a church, but of course it can be done. Check local directories and phone books. Again, online research will help tremendously.
You Spell That *How*?
Spellings and pronunciations can be tricky. The city that we know as Seville is actually spelled like “Sevilla” in Spain. Segovia is pronounced with a “b” sound instead of a “g.” “Cordoba” can also be spelled “Cordova.” If you pronounce a name and the locals let loose a giggle, don’t despair. They probably hear mispronunciations all the time. It’s helpful to know the differences. Make sure to have alternate spellings in mind when looking up your cities of choice.
