Spain

From sizzling cuisine and riotous fiestas to cutting-edge contemporary art, age-old museums and a palpitating beach culture, Spain sure packs a punch. It’s feisty, sexy and extremely hot – almost like a sensual flamenco dancer who captivates with her mesmerising moves. Whether you are a culture vulture, history buff or beach bum, it’s almost inevitable that with Spain, it’ll be love at first sight.

Spain is a country as diverse as it is eclectic: futuristic buildings stand alongside ancient Roman cathedrals, while traditional flamenco tablaos abut stylish boutique hotels. In a country with this much historical background, the marriage of distinctive cultures is evident from its flurry of Romanesque churches, baroque buildings, Moorish fortresses and Renaissance palaces.

As versatile as a chameleon, Spain’s multifaceted personality is further highlighted by different corners of the country: from the golden sun-kissed shores of Costa del Sol to the snow-lathered peaks of the Pyrénées; from the futuristic architecture of Valencia to the medieval towns of Catalonia; from the expansive boulevards of cosmopolitan Madrid to the rural countryside of Galicia.

In the food department, Spanish cuisine has kicked up a storm worldwide, and it’s easy to see why. Whether you’re hopping from bar to bar to sample tasty tapas, or splurging on an exquisite gourmet meal, Spanish cuisine promises to stir up your soul. Home to the highest number of Michelin-starred restaurants in the world, Spain is the birthplace of nouveau cuisine and naturally the epicentre of the culinary world. Treat yourself to a fine-dining experience in Barcelona, sample pintxos (miniature bread-based tapas) from bar to bar in Bilbao, tuck into rich traditional stews in the countryside of Asturias or snack on tapas in a lively market of Seville – the variety of Spanish gastronomy is simply endless.

Nightlife in Spain buzzes, with a raging party scene that goes on till the wee hours, the after party continuing through the day. Night owls will not be disappointed in Madrid and Barcelona, where you’ll find the best jazz bars, techno clubs and hip-hop joints in the country. Foam parties and rave festivals are massively popular with the clubbing set, on the island of Ibiza.

Eternal sunshine and endless stretches of golden beaches are certainly part of the sultry charm of this country, but Spain’s allure clearly stretches beyond the coastline. In the north, the mountainous national parks of Asturias offer scenic hiking in alpine environments, while the craggy coastline of Galicia surprises with isolated bays and picturesque fishing villages. Head west to find your way through the Roman ruins of Extremadura, or weave your way eastwards to marvel at the architectural wonders of Valencia and Tarragona. Down South, a plethora of ancient monuments, wonderful cities and traditional arts await in Andalucía. Take your time to explore, because Spain will surprise you.