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November 29, 2010

Turron from Alicante

Not only sweet toothed people may have heard of Turrón, a Spanish sweet traditionally made and eaten around Christmas. But did you already know that the best Turron is from Alicante?

800px-Turr%C3%B3n_%28Casa_Mira%29_by_Tamorlan_CC3.jpgSo if you are planning a Spain holiday soon, you should spend it in an Alicante hotel to try the delicious Turron! For those who do not know what it is: Turron is a sweet made usually from honay, sugar, egg white and almonds. But there are a lot of different versions you will encounter during your Spain holiday, e.g. with hazelnuts, chocolate or candied fruits.

Turron from Alicante is verifiably made since the 16th century, with the two most famous cities for that being Alicante itself and Jijona, or also called Xixona. The difference between the two kinds of Turrón lies in the consistency; Turron from Alicante is hard with whole pieces of almonds, Turron from Jijona additionally contains oil and the almonds are fabricated to a creamy dough, which makes them softer and stickier.

800px-Turr%C3%B3n_de_Jijona_%28Mallorquina%29_by_Tamorlan_CC3.jpgTurron is also called Torró in Valencia and Alicante and is a delicious treat, so famous and traditional that it is now under Protected Geographical Status. Should you spend your Spain holiday in one of the hotels in Alicante, you can bring some Turron from Alicante to your family and friends!

800px-Flan_de_turron_by_Javier_Lastras_CC2.jpgAlthough Turron is usually cut into long pieces, there are other forms as well, depending on the decoration. Another popular form is a circle, similar to a cake or a pizza the Turron is cut in pieces and shared. As traditional Christmas specialty Turron from Alicante is popular with young and old, so don't miss a piece if something is offered to you in your Alicante hotel.

But also outside of your Alicante hotel you can discover a lot of this sweet, if you are on a discovery tour during your Spain holiday. The local manufacture is a sight and a must see during a stay in the city. But not only Turron from Alicante is good for sightseeing, there are a lot of other sights in Alicante (read here my article about family holidays in Alicante).

What are you waiting for? Plan your Spain holiday and try the delicious Turron from Alicante!

November 25, 2010

Valencia Holidays in Spain

The Costa Blanca in Spain offers a lot of sights and popular holiday destinations, thanks to the sun and the mild weather throughout the year. Because of this reason, Valencia holidays in Spain are a good choice to enjoy the weather and spend a comfortable holiday time at the coast of Spain!

If you want to spend your Valencia holidays in Spain in one of the hotels in Valencia or in an apartment in Valencia, the city offers something for every taste; art and culture as well as relaxation and adventure.

 

Pla%C3%A7a_de_l%27ajuntament_%28val%C3%A8ncia%29_by_Espencat.jpgThe city of Valencia has its own airport, which makes it an easily accessible holiday destination for holidays at the Costa Blanca. The airport of Valencia is also called Manises and is one of the most important in Spain, approached by Ryanair, Vueling, Easyjet, Transavia, Wondair and Air Nostrum. The location of the Valencia airport only a few kilometers from the city centre also make good connections possible.

Valencia is the capital of the same named autonomous community of Valencia and at the same time third biggest city of Spain, regarded as "second Barcelona". The city has a rich history, which was exposed to different influences since its foundation ca. 200 BC, and what is still visible today, resulting in a lot of sights in Valencia. Vacationers in Spain being fond of architecture will discover a lot of treasures in Valencia.

Some of the sights in Valencia are classified as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, like the antique Silk Exchange La Lonja de la Seda, one of the most important sectors of Valencia in the past.

450px-Val%C3%A8ncia_seu_cimborri_by_Felivet.jpgAnother example for early Valencian gothic and also one of the most impressing sights is the Cathedral of Valencia, also called Seu in the city. The Valencia Cathedral dates from the 13.-15. century, but over the years there have always been further works and additions. Today the cathedral stands proudly in the Barrio Carmen, where also a lot of hotels are situated. If you want to be close to the Cathedral of Valencia, one of the Hotels in Valencia in Spain the Carmen quarter is recommended.

Offerings for culture, art, history and nightlife in Valencia are plenty. Most of them take place in and around one of the most famous sights of Valencia, which is part of the 12 treasures of Spain: The City of Arts and Sciences, or also Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias.

Directly located at the Costa Blanca and therefore always worth a visit during a holiday, this architectural masterpiece offers everything the heart wants. This complex in Valencia was started in 1996 and finished two years later, and the City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia contains important museums, a large Imax cinema, a planetary, opera house and theatre.

Art and culture, whether opera or concert, are held in this beautiful recreation complex. Because of this, a Valencia holiday in Spain is not only recommended for single persons or friends who want to see one of the 12 treasures of Spain, but also for families. Thanks to the City of Arts and Sciences, family holidays in Valencia in Spain are undoubtedly an unforgettable event.

800px-Ciudad_de_las_ciencias_noche_by_Chosovi_CC2.jpgTo find a suitable accommodation for families, an apartment in Valencia close to the City of Arts and Science is recommended. From this apartment in Valencia you don't have a long way to the old riverbed of Turia to take a walk, which is a park today and is pulsing like a green vein in the popular holiday destination. The Turia garden also contains a playground for children and sport areas, so visit this garden during your family holidays in Valencia!

As you can see, Valencia holidays in Spain are worth it throughout the year, because there are many possibilities for recreation and every taste should be pleased. In an apartment in Valencia or one of the hotels in Valencia you are close to every events, can enjoy the relaxation of the park and the Valencia weather or explore the sights in Valencia.

751px-Porta_ap%C3%B2stols_maig_by_Felivet.jpgSo why don't you plan Valencia holidays in Spain?

November 17, 2010

Christmas Shows in Port Aventura

The famous Christmas in Port Aventura will be entertaining its visitors with special Christmas shows and events, so prepare yourself and your children for spending the best time of the year in Port Aventura! (Read here about general information about Christmas Holidays in Port Aventura).

 

0909pa2.jpgPort Aventura tickets are not too expensive, as they offer a lot of promotions and discounts. But what is important to know about accommodation in Port Aventura, is that you have different options. You can either book a hotel inside Port Aventura itself; which is easy and simple and you have access to the park, but you can also book a hotel in the different surroundings at the Costa Dorada, for example a Salou Hotel PortAventura which includes the tickets to Port Aventura.

PortAventura is well-known for family holidays or family vacation in Spain. It offers fun and entertainment for the whole family, especially with the new shows they offer during Christmas time.

800px-Weihnachtsschmuck_by_l_kenzel.jpgHere I present you a summary list of the best shows in PortAventura:

Christmas Present

This is your chance to know the toy's factory of Santa Claus, in an acrobatic show with gnomos and reindeers dancing with the typical Christmas carols.

Where? In the Great Imperial Theatre in China.

 

Christmas Dream

A tender and moving show where Catherine, who didn't want to celebrate Christmas, recovers the illusion and the will to share Christmas magic.

At the Saloon.

 

Port Aventura on Ice

Great skaters on ice will performe a magnificent artistic exhibition. In Polynesia.

 

Great Christmas Party

Live Christmas as if you were in Mexico, funny and colourful. In the Cantina.

 

Woody on Christmas Tour

Join the tenderest parade, where the little ones will be able to share incredible moments with Woody and other famous characters.

In Mediterrània and Far West.

 

The Enchanted Forest

You will find Mörla witch who'll show incredible tricks, you'll meet the fairies ice palace and the toys' factory of Santa Claus. In Mexico.

 

The Arrival of the Royal Emissaries

The 3 Kings assistants arrive on floating chariots to pick up the children's letters, to end with a great show of music and fireworks. In Mediterrània.

 

The 3 Kings Ride

¡Just don't miss this important event, especially for the littlest ones!

In Far West and Mediterrània.

 

The Big Small Show

The small children will particularly enjoy this special show with puppets.

In the Tarima of the Far West Station.

 

The Christmas Stop

The most tender Christmas characters take every corner in Port Aventura, and they are waiting for you followed by artists and dancers... In Mediterrània.

La Posada de los Gnomos

For an authentic Christmas meal, in the Gnomos Inn the naughtiest Gnomos will help you a very special banquet of typical homemade American food, Cesar salad, Ribs and Brownies.

In The Iron Horse Hotel - Emma's House, in front of the Silver River Flum.

 

When spending Christmas Holidays in Port Aventura, keep in mind that the Christmas offers and specials apply from the 27th November 2010 until the 8th January 2011, and the park is closed on the 24th, 25th and 31st December.

Now I wish you a merry Christmas in PortAventura during your holidays at the Costa Dorada!

November 10, 2010

Cheap holidays in Benidorm

The Costa Blanca of Spain is known for wonderful locations and beaches, and not only Alicante is a renowned city for holiday - you can also spend enjoyable and cheap holidays in Benidorm!

Located at the western Mediterranean Sea, Benidorm has a mild climate and sunny weather even in the colder months and is divided into the Poniente and Levante. The corresponding Poniente beach and Levante beach give you access to swim in the Costa Blanca, a pleasure you should not miss during your cheap holidays in Benidorm.

 

800px-Benidormskyline_by_alemanito.jpgBenidorm is about one hour away from the Alicante airport and therefore easily accessible if you want to spend your holidays at the Costa Blanca. Due to its fame, Benidorm is a touristic place, but differs notably from other resorts in Spain. Famous in Benidorm are the cabaret acts, which are popular and take place all night long. This along with the many bars and discos offer a good nightlife in Benidorm.

Benidorm_uitzicht_vanaf_het_kruis_by_Moyogo.jpgBenidorm Hotels are also widely spread and popular, especially Benidorm Playa Levante Hotels or Poniente Hotels. But not only people who want to enjoy the Benidorm nightlife could spend fun and cheap holidays in Benidorm, also families benefit from the wonderful city at the Costa Blanca. During summer, you can enjoy the beach and participate in many water sports. The Benidorm beaches also have blue flag status, which is a certificate for their quality.

In the Mediterranean Sea lies also the Benidorm Island, a small island inhabited mostly by peafowls. This is of course a wonderful option for a boat tour during your Benidorm holidays, so you should definitely visit the peacock island of Benidorm.

A popular destination for family holidays in Benidorm is also the Terra Mitica Park, located only 10 minutes away from Benidorm. The Terra Mitica Theme Park is divided into different ancient sections, Egypt, Greece, Rome, Iberia and the Isles, with corresponding sights, rides and attractions.

With Terra Mitica tickets you have the option to book a Hotel in Benidorm with the tickets included, which is easy and you can avoid unnecessary stress during your cheap holidays in Benidorm. There are also a lot of specials and promotion offers for Terra Mitica, at the moment you can buy a 2x1 ticket to have access to Terra Mitica for two days, but pay only for one day.

To get to Terra Mitica Benidorm, you can take the train, who stops at Terra Mitica Station, or a bus (line 21 and 22) and step out at Terra Mitica.

 

800px-Benidorm-night-17042010_by_FDV.jpgWith the Benidorm Hotels and sights in this beautiful city at the Costa Blanca, you can see that it is easy to spend perfect cheap holidays here, whether you want to enjoy the Benidorm nightlife and weather or plan your family holidays at the beach of Benidorm. Cheap holidays in Benidorm is enjoyable in all seasons.

November 5, 2010

Holidays in Seville Spain

In Andalusia, the south of Spain is a city so rich in history and culture that it is absolutely a must to visit this wonderful piece of architecture and science - Seville or Sevilla in Spanish. As the capital of Andalusia, you can be sure to experience unique and exciting holidays in Seville Spain.

Why don't you book already now one of the many wonderful Seville holiday rentals in the city and plan your exploring tour in the capital of Andalusia? There is a lot to discover for sure.

 

800px-Sevilla2005July_043_dubaduba.jpgThe history and culture of Seville is rich and ancient, as part of the Moorish empire in Andalusia you can be sure to find tracks and traces of this past of Seville, which are alive throughout the city today. Seville has also UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which are the Cathedral, the Alcázar and the Archivo de Indias.

Of course, as a more southern region in Europe, Seville also can boast with its climate, resulting in wonderful weather. Seville weather in winter is usually mild and hot in summers. If you want to escape the colder weather in winter, a stay in Seville in a holiday rental is a good solution for this problem!

Seville is also easily accessible having its own Airport. The Seville airport has connections throughout Europe and therefore you should always find a good flight, international or national.

Like mentioned earlier, Seville has a lot of sights, most important the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Cathedral of Seville is part of the 12 Treasures of Spain (The Sagrada Familia Barcelona and the Alhambra Granada also belong to that). The Cathedral of Seville is located at the Plaza del Triunfo at the Avenida de la Constitutición in Seville and you can get there easily by Tram (T1).

  800px-CATEDRAL_001_by_anual.jpgIn front of the Cathedral is also the next UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Alcazar of Seville. It is a breathtaking palace and you should not miss it. The best idea is to first visit the Cathedral of Sevilla and then the Alcázar or vice versa, because the two sights are directly next to each other.

800px-Jardines_Alc%C3%A1zar_Sevilla_2009_by_Preston_Rhea.jpg

The third World Heritage Site that you should visit during your holidays in Spain in Seville is the Archivo General de Indias. It is a historical place which houses the most ancient documents about the Spain and the Spanish Empire in Americas and a must see sight in Seville during your vacation. It is conveniently located directly next to the Cathedral and Alcazar, so kill two birds with one stone and visit all three Seville sights while you are there.

800px-Sevilla2005July_041_by_dubaduba.jpgDuring your stay in a Seville holiday rental you should also see the golden tower of Seville, the Torre del Oro. After you visited the three World Heritage Sites in Seville, just head towards the river Guadalquivir and you should see the tower immediately.

From the Torre del Oro in Seville, head towards the park Maria Luisa in Seville and you will have two other sights. The Parque de Maria Luisa and the Plaza de Espana de Seville, perfect for enjoying the architecture and experiencing unforgettable holidays in Seville Spain.

Besides this sights, Seville also has a lot of Museums you should not miss, not only because the interesting cultural pieces they exhibit, but also because of the architecture of the museums itself. If you are in a Seville holiday rental near the Museo de Artes y Costumbres Populares (Traditional Arts and Customs Museum), definitely take a picture from the museum in front of the pond.

 

800px-Patio_de_las_doncellas_by_Cat_fromSevillaSpain.jpgAs you can see, Seville offers a lot to its visitors, not only sunny and mild climate and weather, but also a lot of sights, perfectly suited for sightseeing because most of them are located in the same place.

Book one of the nice Seville holiday rentals today and experience unique holidays in Spain.

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