I hope this title caught your attention because it was in Spanish and most of you know I don't speak a LICK of Español. I totally had to google the title. Beyond that though, Spain is a beautiful country, and if you ever get the chance to visit grab it with both hands. Before you travel through, it can help to know a little about the areas and cultures you are going to experience before you get there. With that in mind check out my easy guide below on how to enjoy Spain, or as the Spanish would say Cómo disfrutar en España! I had to google that again but I'm really trying here, friends.
Plan the places you will visit ahead of time
Spain is a vast country, and unless you are planning on spending months, or longer there, you won't get to see everything in one trip. Which means you should probably plan to go again and that you will need to carefully plan out the locations that you aim to visit. This isn't an easy task because there are so many places that are popular with travelers like Barcelona, Tenerife, Alicante, Madrid, and Ibiza.
Many first time visitors to España visit Barcelona which is the capital of the Catalonia region. (In Spain there are a number of autonomous regions that make up the wider country, and the differences between them can be quite stark. Some even speak different languages which is why I'm not brushing up on my Spanish too much.) While in Barcelona you can visit the stunning Gaudi designed Sagrada Família cathedral and the iconic Casa Milà apartment block.
However, if you are looking for more of a beach vacation than a city break, then the Island of Tenerife off the southern coast of Spain is also a good choice. There you can sunbathe on volcanic black sand beaches, check out the Teide Volcano, and even visit the Loro Waterpark that is home to dolphins and penguins. There are some decent topless beaches there if that's your calling. If not, just be aware of your surroundings.
Look for bargains
Traveling to Spain can be EXPENSIVE. Like, super expensive, especially if you are getting your flight direct from the US. Obviously, if I'm writing this then I have some sort of cheat code around that. Use the tactics I mention in my post here, such as traveling on a working holiday or finding the cheapest flights online. Otherwise, you could end up going all that way and not having any cash to spend on all the fun when you arrive!
Learn the lingo
It is also well worth your time to learn SOME Spanish language before your trip. I highly encourage learning more but I'm also not breaking my back over it because quite a few people speak at least some English. However, you can immerse yourself much better in the culture and have more fun if you can communicate with them in their native tongue. I think there is a little higher level of respect for you and the natives if you at least try to learn their language.
To brush up on your Spanish speaking skills you can use an app, take a class online, or click here for some more information on how to do this. Then you will be able to bond with the locals in no time, instead of just being restricted to hanging out with the group you are traveling with to Spain. Locals have more fun anyways.
Prepare yourself for the treat of tapas
Spain has some wonderful culinary traditions that you just have to experience to have a good time there. Particularly, tapas, small dishes of food that are served in bars along with your drinks order are very popular. Try the Tortilla Española:, and eating the delicious Gambas al Ajillo served with traditional Spanish sherry will definitely ensure you have a good time on your Spanish Trip!
I'm sure your town has someplace that serves tapas but in no way would it compare to Spain. Be prepared to stay a while, socialize, and not be in a hurry to get the bill. It is a very relaxed setting with no rush.
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