Spain

Types of trips: Historical and Cultural, Sight-seeing, Art, Adventure, Hiking, Entertainment, Sport, Outdoor Activities

Best known for: Hot and dry climate, Bull fighting, Pamplona bull run, La Tomatina, Football, Flamenco dancing, Spanish Guitar music, Paella, Football

Why Go?: This rich and vibrant country is characterised by its three defining features, the beaches, culture and amazing architecture. Then there is the scenery and amazing weather, which in the south and the islands is good all year round. This country offers many new and exciting opportunities for children from the UK.

Fact File

Population: 47,000,000

Capital: Madrid

Language(s): Spanish (Basque, Catalan, Galician, Occitan)

Ties to the UK?: Popular holiday destination

Landscape: Coastal beaches, Dry plains, Mountains, Lakes 

Climate/Seasons: Hot and Dry

When to Go: Summer is a great time to travel to Spain but bear in mind it is likely to be very hot particularly in the south, you may therefore choose to go during the rest of the year when the weather is still very pleasant but not as hot.

Reasons to Visit: Great weather and great beaches, big cities with lots to do, opportunities not available in the UK

How to Get There: Flying is probably the easiest way to get to Spain which only a few hours on the plane however it is more than possible to go by coach but be prepared for a long journey, particularly if you're going to the south of the country

Places to Go: Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Granada, Valencia

Famous People: Fernando Alonso, Pablo Picasso, Penelope Cruz, Severiano Ballesteros, Manuel de Falla

Natural Wonders/Wildlife: Somiedo Natural Park, As Caterdrais

History: War of Spanish Independence, 

Architecture: Alcantara Bridge, Santiago de Compostela Catherdral, Alhambra Palace, Royal Palace Madrid

Culture: Bull fighting, Large festivals; Pamplona Bull run, La Tomatina (Tomato festival)

Sport: Football, Motor racing, Tennis, Sailing

Events: Carnival, Las Fallas, Semana Santa

Watch Out For: Sunburn, pickpockets in big cities

Medical Issues: No mandatory vaccinations required