We at bazaar are absolutely addicted to Spain. Being at the top of our annual leave destinations, we usually hit up the usual suspects of Ibiza, Madrid and Barcelona and rarely visit lesser-known locations. So naturally, when our friends at the Spanish Embassy came to us with alternatives, we jumped right in! It’s only a matter of time till we hop onto a plane and jet off to one of the many alternative destinations listed below. If only the boss would greenlight our super-early and super-extended leaves… One can only hope!
Winter is coming
The Castle of Santa Florentina in Canet de Mar (near Barcelona) was restored in the late nineteenth century, transforming an ancient fortress into a comfortable chateau fit for a king. Now it is available for different kinds of private events. It is strategically located between two airports and the French border, close to the beach and the mountains. Every season it hosts a classical music festival, like many other towns in the area. But could you guess which world famous TV series has been shooting new episodes this year in Santa Florentina?
It’s almost winter, so check out www.castelldesantaflorentina.es for more!
Blowin’ in the wind
For the more daring, there is a different way to go sightseeing in Spain: hanging from a balloon. Several companies offer this option, for city tours or just to roam the skies above the country. Spain.info introduces “Spain with the wind”, starting from Madrid and visiting monumental sites nearby such as Segovia, Aranjuez or Toledo. It will be a unique experience, plus you won’t have to queue for museum tickets!
For more, check out www.spain.info and www.aerotours.com.
Ascari Racing
With more than 5 kilometers of curves and slopes, this circuit is the longest of its kind in Spain. The Ascari racing track is an impressive track where you can experience raw speed without limits… but always with maximum safety.
Nothing is more fascinating than a racing track. Check out www.ascari.net to find out how you can zoom through Spain’s longest track!
Island B’n’B
A fabulous five-bedroom villa smack in the middle of a desert island just for you, its bright and spacious interiors have been fully equipped by internationally renowned designers. You can rent the villa for a perfect holiday, complete with separate accommodation for service staff, a private heliport and a small marina. If it gets too lonely, jump on a boat and Ibiza is just 5 minutes away!
Private islands are the dream! Make it a reality and check out www.island-tagomago.com.
You are the champion
Practice your favorite sports with internationally renowned sportspersons and share their passion for what they do. Feel the emotion of a top football game between some of the most prestigious teams in the world. You can even live an unforgettably glamorous weekend of Formula 1 and MotoGP.
Because there’s nothing better than an experience. Check out www.joyaexperience.com for more.
Al Andalus Espresso
As you sip your coffee in this palace on wheels, the landscape passing by is never the same. The Al Andalus is a vintage train with luxuriously furnished suites and saloons. And to facilitate a good night’s rest, it will remain parked at a station during the night. This season, the Al Andalus introduces a wider range of routes and a carefully balanced program that lets you choose to go on the scheduled excursion or to explore on your own: Granada, Córdoba, Seville… Or maybe just stay on board and enjoy the live entertainment and excellent cuisine. There is a party every night in the lounge!
Ride the luxury train! Book your trip through www.renfe.com/trenesturisticos/eng/alandalus.html.
Up in the woods
Two of the four cabins in the Zuhaitz-etxeak complex are hanging from the trees 17 meters above ground in the municipality of Zeanuri, south of Biscay. One of them is a suite with a 360-degree terrace for panoramic views of the green surroundings. You can sit with your family and friends, or wait for the deer to visit you. Everything is bio here: a hymn to the lush environment and the wild woods.
Water hazard
Keeping your golf balls dry is certainly a challenge if your are playing aboard the classic Southern Cross, a schooner built in 1960 and briefly owned by the British Royal Family. But don’t worry, the balls are biodegradable and they won’t hurt the environment of the wonderful Costa de Barcelona. And while you improve your swing, you can enjoy a gourmet luncheon!
Golf is ours for the taking! Check out www.webarcelona.com to master your swing.
Andalusian Horse Whisperers
“How the Andalusian Horses Dance” is an equestrian ballet accompanied by quintessential Spanish music and 18th century style costumes, all put together and choreographed using movements based upon Classical Dressage, Doma Vaquera (country-style riding) and other equestrian traditions. Private exhibitions can be arranged.
They had us at “equestrian ballet!” Go to www.realescuela.org for more.
Fins are fun!
After an introductory training on monitoring techniques, during this unusual three-day sailboat tour of the Catalan Coast you will be able to distinguish the sounds and signs of cetaceans like whales and dolphins. An unforgettable experience of contact with nature in the Mediterranean!
Get up close and personal with the marine world’s greatest mammals! For more, go to www.travelecoology.com.
What are you waiting for? Apply for your visa now and start planning your next adventure! Go to www.vfsglobal.com/spain/kuwait for application forms and more! All images have been kindly provided courtesy of the Embassy of Spain in Kuwait.
