Spain at a Glance: The Best of the Old and the New

If you are ready to pack your bags and head out on an adventure that will liven up your very soul then might I suggest a place that still lives vibrantly in the past but is also modernized for convenience. Spain is the one place on earth that you can have the best of both worlds... besides Italy of course.

If it is a trip to historic regions and remarkable structures you desire then you are definitely going to love the castles of old. Ancient ruins have left behind masterpieces for all to enjoy. There are far too many to name here but if it is treasures of this magnitude you seek there are a few sights to see that should be at the top of the list.

Belmonte's castle is a 15^th century is a simply wonderful configuration. This site is one of the best preserved and was built by Juan Pacheco. The ceilings are carved beautifully and are still renowned the world over as a work of art. The secluded church is entrancing with its gothic choir stalls and skillfully created decorations.

The Calatrava la Nueva castle is an absolutely brilliant Spain attraction. Sitting alone atop a hill is truly a mesmerizing highlight. This medieval palace was founded in 1217 by the very first military/religious knights of Spain. Although it has been abandoned since 1802 due to earthquake damage, it still tops the list of prime places of interest.

The cathedrals and monasteries are vast and are even more elaborate and better preserved than most of the castles in Spain. They are adorned with great works of art, sculptures and religious masterpieces than almost anywhere on earth. The sights a traveler can see are works of sheer genius that will leave you both humble and speechless, yet refreshed and inspired all at the same time.

Discovering the Modern Pulse of Spain

The islands have to be one of the best ways to really appreciate life in Spain. The Coves d' Arta in Mallorca is breathtakingly stunning but so are many areas of the Balearic Islands. If fun in the sun is what you crave that soak up the rays here on the coast.

There are many great places to stay in Spain that is alive with the hustle and bustle of people, like Barcelona for example. If you are looking for more of a refined area I suggest going to some of the hotels that are actually medieval castles and mansions that have been converted. Villas and rental homes are also a magnificent way to spend your vacation. But this decision is based upon your needs and how long you'll be staying so be sure to shop around. Here's a point of interest everyone will appreciate, Spanish law protects the traveler by making sure that prices are posted so not to confuse the tourists... so, take advantage of this information while you're there.

The best bars and restaurants have got to be in Madrid and Barcelona. They have the most unique blend of 'gothic meets modern' décor than I have ever seen. Enjoying the atmosphere means trying new delights and those that Spain has to offer are exceptionally tasteful.

So, if you are off to Spain, be sure to get a list together of all that may interest you before you start on your adventure... but be warned, there are so many things to see and do in this enchanting land that you not want to leave. Bon voyage!