In our search for guest writers we were delighted to have attracted this correspondence

Letter from Andalucia

I have now lived in Andalucia, in that area know as La Axarquia (“The East” in ancient Arabic, meaning east from Malaga city), for nearly twelve years, and the Moorish legacy is as much evident in small, local details, as it is in the great cities of throughout Spain.

First, there are the place names: Alcaucin, Almayate, Benajarafe, Benalgalbon, to quote just four, whose prefixes of “Al-” and “Bena-” all indicate Arabic roots. Secondly, the design of the houses, especially town houses, with their tiled facades, crenelated chimneys and “rejas”, the ornamental but essentially functional bars on windows which were not, as insurers suppose, to keep burglars out, but to keep daughters in!

And third, and least noticed unless you own a “finca” – a smallholding – are the “asequias”, the irrigation channels which take their water from upstream rivers or springs and bring it, by carefully calculated gradients, many kilometres through olive and orange groves, thus bringing fertility to what would otherwise be a far less welcoming landscape.

These are the minutae of what the Moors left behind, and without them this would be a very different, and far less agreeable place in which to live.

Excellent letter, beautifully written. You managed to capture quite clearly the beauty of Andalucia, and crucially the Muslim heritage at it’s heart.  I only might add that while Islam was a great creator especially in terms of architecture and culture, what Granada especially signified was tolerance, because until the Christian reconquest, Muslims, Christians and Jews lived in harmony there. That spirit is something that mankind dearly needs to recapture now.

Tenerife – More to The Canary Islands than Beaches

For many people, Tenerife conjures up images of sun-seekers, beach-lovers, and late-night clubbers, but the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands also boasts an immense volcanic crater, championship golf courses, a huge water park, cultural sights, walking trails, and one of the world’s biggest annual Carnivals.

Walking in Tenerife

To grasp Tenerife’s turbulent volcanic roots, visit the Teide National Park, home to Spain’s highest peak at 7,500 metres above sea level. This currently dormant volcano lies within a protected area with an Alpine volcanic ecosystem that has earned it UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

You can walk the trails of the national park, including those snaking up Mount Teide itself, which reward you with some spectacular panoramic views. This is Spain’s most visited national park, covering more than 130 square kilometres, incorporating the weird rock formations of Los Roques de Garcia – including the famous Cinchado, an iconic red rock that has eroded into an unusual tapered shape and some rare flowers and flora including the Dragon Tree

The attraction of winter sunshine makes the Canary Islands a popular destinations for holidaymakers from all over Europe and beyond. Once you get away from the main tourist activity in the resorts of Los Christianos and neighbouring Playa de las Americas on the south west of the island, Tenerife’s other pleasures become more apparent. Car hire Tenerife is much the same as car hire Spain with plenty of choice at reasonable cost and will allow you to explore these activities on Tenerife.

Golfing in Tenerife

Tenerife’s mild climate makes golfing possible year-round, and it’s fast becoming a favourite golf holiday destination alongside places such as the Algarve in Portugal and Florida in the US. Tenerife has many courses to choose from, including five championship level golf courses open to the public, many of them with views of the sea and neighbouring islands.

Tenerife’s capital

Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the capital, offers upscale shopping along Calle del Pilar, lots of nightclubs in the Marina park area, and one of the world’s biggest annual carnivals in February each year.

The week-long carnival, declared a ‘Fiesta of International Tourist Interest’ by Spain’s Secretary of State for Tourism, is celebrated all over the island – but the biggest and best events and parades take place in Santa Cruz.

Cultural sights in Tenerife

Apart from its capital, Tenerife’s other important city is San Cristóbal de La Laguna, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The unofficial ‘cultural capital’ of the Canaries, San Cristóbal de La Laguna was the first non-fortified Spanish colonial town, and is home to broad, leafy streets and wide, open spaces, providing the model for many colonial towns in the Americas.

Tourists can explore historic churches, and see the city’s beautiful colonial homes and public buildings mainly dating from the 16th-18th century.

Local crafts

Tenerife is home to several craft traditions such as basketwork, ironwork, pottery, weaving and the making of musical instruments, some of which make great souvenirs. If you explore the island’s villages and towns you’ll spot craftspeople at work creating this vast range of local products which are then sold directly, at market, or in tourist souvenir shops.

Barcelona – Something for Everyone

What better destination than Barcelona in Spring , the Catalan capital located on the north-east coast of Spain. Low cost flights to Barcelona are easy to come by these days. Your cheap tickets to the sun await you….with a little patience and the internet, you are sure to find yours.

Why choose Barcelona?

Why is it that everyone leaves this city planning their next visit? Barcelona hosts many festivals throughout the year and the city has what everyone dreams of – sun, sea, sand and shops. It accommodates any visitor, young and old.

La Boqueria Barcelona’s Famous Market

One place that suits everyone’s tastes is La Boqueria – Barcelona’s most famous market and one of the best in Europe. La Boqueria market is located off the Rambla and it will greet you with fantastic smells which will tickle your taste buds, and an array of colours resembling a rainbow. You can visit the market at any time of the day – but perhaps it is worth visiting more than once.

Get there early on your first visit to the market and avoid the crowds. This is the best way to explore every corner and check out the best bars and restaurants. Go back another day for lunch at one of the venues which caught your attention, such as El Quim, Pintxo or Antonio’s restaurant. Pass by the market around 6 p.m. for your last visit after a day of sightseeing and pick up a bargain. All fresh fruit salads and juices go at half price before the market closes…..

Guide to Barcelona’s best fiestas 2010

Barcelona is a colourful, warm, energetic city that has been transformed in recent years into one of Europe’s favourite short break destinations, with festivals taking place throughout the year. Watch this splendid slideshow of Barcelona during feistas.

As the capital of Catalonia, the city has a proud and distinctive culture, language and cuisine, as well as a huge variety of architectural styles – from historic buildings to strikingly modern constructions, and brightly painted Gaudi designs to darkly Gothic styles. If you are planning to stay longer and see more of Spain, car hire is readily available from offices in Barcelona and airports. For more ideas about where to visit in Spain see out other articles tagged Spain here we focus on the city’s attractions and festivals.

Barcelona Sights

Amongst the city’s year-round sights are Las Ramblas, the city’s main tourist thoroughfare; the medieval maze making up the Gothic Quarter; the redeveloped Waterfront; the work of architect Antoni Gaudí (including the immense and unfinished Sagrada Família, Park Güell and Casa Milà); the Picasso Museum; and, for football fans, the FC Barcelona Museum.

Barcelona Festivals

Barcelona also hosts a number of annual fiestas, many of which are unique to Catalonia and offer an insight into its distinctive culture. Here are some highlights from throughout the year:

La Diada de Sant Jordi

23 April 2010

This is a distinctively Catalan day celebrating the city’s patron saint, Sant Jordi (Saint George).

It’s also known as el dia de la rosa (The Day of the Rose) or el dia del llibre (The Day of the Book) since men traditionally give women a rose, and women usually give men a book in tribute to Spanish novelist, poet, and playwright Cervantes, who died on this day in 1616. It’s a bit like Valentine’s Day, and from a traveller’s perspective it’s an interesting time to be around the Ramblas area, where a huge flower market springs up alongside book stalls where locals buy gifts for their loved ones. Catalonia’s national dance, the sardana, is performed throughout the day in the Plaça Sant Jaume, and a variety of street performers and musicians fill the plazas with their live entertainment.

Festival de Sonar

17-19 June 2010

Sonar is a three-day urban festival showcasing advanced music and multimedia art, including emerging artists and DJs representing the most up to date music and new media trends.

The festival takes place on 17-19 June 2010 and is split into ‘Sonar by Day’ activities (in the CCCB and MACBA venues), including technology fairs, and ‘Sonar by Night’ (Fira Gran Via M2 L’Hospitalet), including many music events. You can find out more or buy tickets at http://2010.sonar.es/ (there is an English language choice at the bottom).

Festival de Sant Joan

23 June 2010

This midsummer Solstice festival is a lot of fun, taking place on 23 June mainly around the beach. There are fireworks, bonfires and lots of partying – and you may also find restaurants serving special festival dishes such as Coca de Sant Joan.

Grec Festival de Barcelona

June-August 2010

This three month long music, dance, theatre and circus festival is one of Barcelona’s top events. Held every year between June and August at venues all over the city, the fiesta features a whole host of lively performances.

For further schedule details and tickets visit the official website

Festa Major de Gracia

Around 15 August (TBC)

This week-long annual Catalonian celebration in the second half of August sees Barcelona’s neighbourhoods compete with one another to present the most beautifully-decorated streets. Festooned with lights and elaborate coloured decorations, it’s a great time to explore the city – and there’s also live music, fireworks, all-night parties and lots of drinking.

http://www.festamajordegracia.cat/

Festes de la Merce

22 – 26 September 2010 (TBC)

Barcelona’s biggest annual festival brings together several events including human tower competitions (featuring groups of castellers), firework displays, live music, and processions featuring giant wooden figures. All the festivities are accompanied by plenty of Cava-drinking, celebrating the national drink of Catalonia.

The Allure of Alicante

Sunny and warm weather all year-round, great scenery and amazing beaches make Costa Blanca holidays very popular with tourists. Alicante in particular is well worth a detour. We guarantee that you will be charmed by its lively atmosphere and the many historic sites that adorn its streets.

Castle of Santa Barbara

One such curiosity is the castle of Santa Barbara. Located on the mountain Monte Benacantil, this large medieval fortress was built in the 10th century. The best way to enjoy the castle and its surroundings is by walking up to the top of Monte Benacantil via a steep road. The less adventurous travellers can take the lift or alternatively, drive. Once at the top of the mountain, you will be able to explore several places of interest including dungeons, canons, and a moat to name but a few. You’ll also be able to enjoy some amazing views of Alicante’s beaches.

Alicante Beaches

Alicante is home to six beaches: Playa del Postiguet, Playa del Coco, Playa de la Albufereta, Playa de la Almadraba, Cabo de las Huertas, and Playa de San Juan. The beach in San Juan is the largest one, but the length of Playa del Postiquet, its beautiful surroundings and its central location make it really popular amongst tourists and locals. Playa del Postiquet, with its beach of clean and white sand, sits in front of a promenade bordered by palm trees.

Caves of Canelobre

The Caves of Canelobre, said to be around 150 million years old, are one of Alicante’s must-see attractions, and are only a thirty minute drive away from Playa del Postique. The entrance to the caves is located on the side of a mountain at 700m above sea level, offering the intrepid tourist some amazing views of the country side. The caves were once used as an ammunitions factory, and the man made footpaths are still in use to this day.

Video about the caves of Canelobre – http://www.cuevasdecanelobre.com/video.php

With its mix of carefree days at the beach and historical sightseeing, a visit to Alicante will be the highlight of your holidays on the Spanish Costa Blanca.

Related posts: Alicante festival | Mundomar Animal Park | Terra Mitica Theme Park

Jerez Horse Fair – Feriade caballo

2-9 May 2010

One of Jerez’s biggest fiestas is the annual Feriade caballo – the Jerez Horse Fair, the most prestigious equine heritage event in Spain, which showcases the region’s finely bred horses. Jerez is well known as an equine centre, and is the home of the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art – a riding school of comparable status to Vienna’s world-famous Spanish Riding School.

Travelling to Jerez and getting around Andalucia

Only a few budget airlines fly direct to Jerez – the airport is an ex military air base – so most visitors will fly to the Andalucian city of Malaga and hire a car or take the train eastwards to Jerez.  Be warned central Jerez has narrow winding old streets that offer little parking should you choose the option of hiring a car.

Jerez Fireworks

A spectacular firework display marks the start of the festival late in the evening on Sunday 2 May, followed by 6 days of celebrations.

Lit with fairy lights at the city’s Gónzalez Hontoria Park, the colourful show features a fairground and shows celebrating many of the region’s richest cultural traditions: parades of horses and elaborate carriages, spontaneous Flamenco performances, and stalls selling delicious regional cuisine.

Visit http://www.jerez.es for further information about Jerez.

Carnivals in Alicante

Alicante is a truly Spanish Mediterranean city, with a sunny climate, leafy esplanades, outdoor cafés, a seafront promenade, and a calendar of vibrant fiestas. The city lies right at the heart of the popular Costa Blanca holiday resort region, so most visitors arrive here for its sandy beaches – but since the locals know how to throw a good party, it’s well worth timing your visit to include one of the big annual festivals.

Alicante Carnivals (Carnaval) February

Coming up in February there’s the lively 10-day Carnival, or Carnaval, held every year around Ash Wednesday. In 2010, this free fiesta takes place from 11 – 21 February, with the action centred along the city’s main thoroughfare, the Rambla. Year-round, this is a pleasant avenue for a stroll, lined with palm trees, ice cream shops and outdoor cafés. But during the Carnival the Rambla is a real feast for the eyes, with decorated floats, dancing, and marching bands. One of the highlights is Saturday’s Sábado Ramblero, an elaborate carnival costume parade which takes over the street like a grand masquerade ball.

Burial of the Sardine

On Ash Wednesday itself there’s the ‘Burial of the Sardine’, a bizarre event which involves various Carnival fraternities marching through the city in a Funeral Wake to ‘incinerate’ the sardine.

Las Fallas Valencia – March

If you are visiting this Spanish region later in March it is well worth having car hire Spain arranged to drive to and stay in nearby Vallencia which holds a festival Las Fallas which promises fireworks galore!

Every day at 2pm firecrackers rip through the Plaza del Ayuntamiento in an noisy event called la Mascletá. This concert of gunpowder is very popular and involves different neighbourhood groups competing for the most impressive volley, ending with the terremoto, (literally means “earthquake”) as hundreds of masclets exploting simultaneously. While this may not be for the frail or faint-fainthearted, you understand how hearted, the Valencians got their valiant name.

Alicante Fire Festival (Hogueras de San Juan) June

If you’re planning ahead for a trip later in the year, Alicante is probably even more famous for its annual Fire or Bonfire Festival, known in Spanish as Hogueras de San Juan (Bonfires of St. John). As the name suggests, this spectacular, fire-filled fiesta involves bonfires and fireworks galore. A palm-shaped firework is launched into the sky to mark the beginning of the festival on 20 June, and celebrations continue until 24 June. The fiesta’s highlight is the collection of huge papier-maché and wooden sculptures, similar to the artworks created for Valencia’s Las Fallas festival, which are put on display around the centre – before they are finally burnt to the ground. Eventually the fires die down, but the partying carries on for several days and nights afterwards, along the narrow alleyways of El Barrio and right down to the beaches. Finally, there’s a competition to choose the next Belleza del Fuego (Beauty of the Fire), who is crowned the festival’s ‘Queen’ along with six Ladies of Honour. Other Posts with ideas for visiting Alicante and Costa Blanca

• Tera Mitica Theme Park
• Elche
• Mundomar

Experience Semana Santa in Malaga

Spain is world-famous for its lively fiestas, and Easter Week or Semana Santa celebrations are amongst the biggest, particularly in Malaga and other towns and cities in the southern region of Andalucia.

Previously in the  we looked at ideas for family holidays on the  Costa del Sol holidays in Spain series of 2009. Thanks to its position on the hectic Spanish south coast, a package tour mecca, Malaga is often unfairly overlooked by cultural travellers – yet it packs in some very interesting sights.

Easter Week Malaga

This year’s Easter week runs from 26 March to 4 April 2010, and with cheap flights available from the UK to Malaga, and the Spring sun already shining, it’s a great excuse for a trip abroad.

Although Semana Santa is a religious festival, the splendour of the fiesta’s processional floats can be appreciated by anyone.

Whereas in many Andalucian towns and cities the festival can take on a quiet, subdued tone, in Malaga the festivities are far more upbeat and happy, with spontaneous bursts of Flamenco songs and cheering when the best floats pass by. Read more about Malaga Flamenco.

From Palm Sunday through to Easter Sunday there are daily processions through the city, featuring elaborately-decorated pasos (religious floats) that sway along the streets, accompanied by bands playing distinctive religious music.

The pasos, some of them weighing a considerable 5,000 kilos, are painstakingly carried along the streets by bearers. Some of the older floats were carved in the 16th and 17th centuries, and all of them are beautifully decorated and carry life-sized figures depicting scenes from the bible.

Thousands of robed penitents light the way with their candles, and the air is filled with the aroma of incense and flowers.

Semana Santa is very important to the Andalucians, but also draws tourists from all over the world. Whether or not you’re religious, it’s hard not to find yourself swept up by the spectacle of these atmospheric candlelit processions, and the evocative sounds, scents and ceremony involved.

Other Malaga attractions

The city’s Moorish history can be seen in the old Alcazaba fortress, which dates back to 1065 and houses an Archaeological Museum. The pleasant seafront promenade, Paseo del Parque, leads to the harbour and ends at Calle Larios, the city’s main commercial thoroughfare. You can admire Baroque architecture at the city’s cathedral, known as La Manquita (‘One Armed Woman’) because of its missing East bell tower. And for art-lovers there’s the famous Picasso Museum, and the Centro de Arte Contemporáneo.

Once you’ve had your fill of culture and history, Malaga also has plenty of good clothes and souvenir shops, bars, and restaurants with outdoor seating where you can recharge your batteries ready for some more Semana Santa celebrations.

Malaga Airport Flights to Malaga

Málaga Airport is the third largest international airport in Spain, with excellent links to UK regional airports. A number of low-cost airlines offer flights to Malaga from many regional airports, and you can hire a car from the airport if you’re planning to explore beyond the city.

Car Hire Malaga

If you hire a car in Malaga, you can explore the smaller traditional towns and villages found inland from the busy coast, to get a taste of more local Semana Santa festivities.

If you’re planning a trip to Andalucia during this busy festival period, make sure you book accommodation, car hire and any other crucial travel services well in advance because demand is high.