By Gina Bang, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer 鈥� Avanti Destinations 

People always ask me what it was like growing up in Kodiak, Alaska. I know what听they’re听really asking 鈥� the remoteness, the cold, the dark. And yes, all of that is true. But听here’s听what I听actually tell听them: my parents still live there, and the winter sky in Kodiak is one of the most luminous things听I’ve听ever seen. A full moon with snow all around you听doesn’t听feel dark 鈥� it feels鈥�bright. Millions of stars. Shooting stars. The Aurora听dancing听overhead. You stand there and think: I have never听in my life seen a sky like this.听

That’s听my origin story with听astrotourism. And听it’s听why I mean it when I say: in 2026, the universe is putting on a show, and you should be there for it.听

We’ve听been looking up at the sun, moon, and stars with awe and curiosity since the beginning of human history. And that looking up is precisely what connects us across cultures, centuries, and continents. Whether you want to听witness听a once-in-a-generation celestial event or simply sit quietly under a canopy of stars somewhere far from a city’s glow,听astrotourism听delivers the kind of travel听that’s听genuinely hard to forget.听

And in 2026, the calendar is stacked. 

The Big One: Solar Eclipse over Spain, August 12 

On August 12, a total solar eclipse will cross northern Spain, Iceland, and western Ireland, the first visible in Europe since 1999. Avanti has a seven-day/six-night Spain package听departing听August 10 that puts you exactly where you want to be: watching the eclipse鈥�and鈥痶he Perseid meteor showers that same evening, from the top of a castle surrounded by vineyards.听That’s听not a sentence I expected to write, and yet here we are.听

The itinerary winds through Madrid, the Ribera del Duero wine region, La Rioja, Zaragoza, and Barcelona, through medieval towns, wineries with tastings, stays in luxury historic properties (one was a synagogue in the 13th century). An expert astronomy guide is with you for the eclipse itself.听It’s听the kind of trip that has a story in every single element.听

Dark Sky Reserves: The Southern Hemisphere’s Best Kept Secrets 

New Zealand’s Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve is the largest in the southern hemisphere and one of the finest stargazing spots on the planet. It’s where the Milky Way is听visible to the naked eye. A 1.5-hour guided tour pairs high-powered binoculars and听state-of-the-art听telescopes with a Theatre Planetarium orientation. Go in winter (our summer).听

In Chile, the Atacama Desert logs more than 320 clear nights per year with minimal light pollution at high altitude. A two-hour experience, maximum of 15 guests, a driver, an astronomy guide, and an aperitif at a hand-picked location, is exactly the kind of thing that sounds understated and lands as extraordinary.听

In Peru, the Cuzco Planetarium sits at over 11,000 feet and grounds you in the ancient Andean relationship with the cosmos before sending you outside with professional astronomical equipment to see it for yourself. 

Northern Lights: Multiple Ways to Chase the Aurora 

In the northern hemisphere, the Aurora Borealis听remains听the ultimate fleeting reward, and there are more ways to chase it than ever. Take an Aurora safari by snowmobile-pulled sledge near Ruka, Finland. Lace up snowshoes in听Saariselka听or Kiruna. Ride a dogsled in Sweden. Take a听SuperJeep听in Iceland.听

My personal favorite on the list: a Northern Lights photography tour near听Svolvaer听in Norway’s remote Lofoten Islands, led by a local nature photographer who shares his favorite spots for capturing the best shots.听That’s听not a tour; it’s听an invitation into someone’s world.

And if you really want to lean in, the Aurora Colosseum in Kiruna, Sweden is a handmade, hand-carved ice structure rebuilt every year. You arrive by snowmobile to watch the lights from beneath reindeer hides with fires nearby. Pair it with a stay at the legendary听IceHotel听in nearby听Jukkasj盲rvi听and听you’ve听got yourself a trip.听

The universe has always been putting on a show. In 2026, we’ve got front-row seats. 

About Avanti Destinations

Since 1981, Avanti Destinations has been selling custom-crafted independent travel vacations in Europe, Asia, North Africa/the Middle East, the South Pacific, and Central and South America. The Portland, Oregon-based wholesale tour operator offers a wide range of FIT components to travel advisors only, including air, rail, rental cars, hotels, sightseeing/attractions, transfers and hard-to-find experiential travel options, such as astronomy, soft adventure, nature/wildlife spotting, cooking classes, food and wine/beer/spirits tastings.   

Avanti specializes in hand-picked 3-, 4-, and 5-star hotels, resorts, and unique accommodations, such as jungle ecolodges, villas, and castles, in both large cities and small towns and in connecting all the pieces of complex or multi-destination itineraries. The company also creates complete packages for custom groups of 10 or more passengers.  

For more information: .  

The post Astrotourism听around the world in 2026: solar eclipse, meteor showers, Northern Lights, and stargazing听 appeared first on 性视界 Blog.

Lanzarote, in the Canary Islands, is blessed with the best of Europe鈥檚 winter weather. 

Winter feels different in Lanzarote. 

Thanks to its geography, the island of Lanzarote is under stable and pleasant temperatures all year round: mild winters and summers, with an average of 22 and 26 degrees Celsius (71-78 degrees Fahrenheit) and far from the extreme temperatures that dominate the European continent. It鈥檚 usually described as an eternal spring-weather like! 

We鈥檝e compiled some plans for those adventurous travelers seeking experiences that offer authentic insight into a community鈥檚 way of life. 

C茅sar Manrique and Tourist Centers听

C茅sar Manrique (1919-1992) was a local artist inspired by the incredible natural beauty of his homeland. Lanzarote holds the secrets of living and not fighting against natural elements. 鈥淏eing born here influences any moderately sensitive being,鈥� with this wisdom, Manrique reflected his work creating The Centres for Art, Culture and Tourism. 

One of Manrique’s spectacular projects blending art and nature is Jameos del Agua. These magnificent caves sit in a seven-kilometer-long lava tunnel formed some 25,000 years ago with some parts that collapsed forming some sorts of 鈥榟oles鈥� in the ceiling (jameos). Here, Manrique represented Lanzarote鈥檚 landscape most iconic colors: blue (ocean), green (vegetation), red (volcanic eruptions) and white (houses walls and architecture). 

Rising from the volcanic ashes 鈥� wine at La Geria landscape听

After the volcanic eruptions, the island鈥檚 farmers had to develop clever engineering to adapt cropping methods to the landscape that was now covered in ashes. Since grapevines could survive, the secret ingredient was the dreaded ash itself. With conical hollows built into layers of volcanic ash – three meters wide by three to four meters deep -, collecting the sparse rain and dew, and funneling the water to the plant鈥檚 root, the volcanic ashes draw moisture from the air and retain it in the soil. The low semicircular wall, built from lava stones, shields the vines from the winds creating a landscape like no other in the world! 

In the Protected Landscape of La Geria one can find several bodegas (wineries) which sell international award-winning wines, like some of the best-known wines of the malvasia grape. 

Gastronomy听

With rain so rare, both viticulture and agriculture exist in Lanzarote through the daily miracle of crops sprouting from the black grit found almost everywhere. Plum, firm and with concentrated flavors, grains and vegetables highlight local stews. 

The Atlantic surrounding the island provides seasonally local seafood and fresh-caught fish together with La Santa prawns, a culinary delicacy. The most common variety of meats include pork, chicken, rabbit and goat. 

Papas arrugadas, or Canarian wrinkly potatoes, are a must in regional cuisine! They are usually served with red mojo sauce, made from either red bell peppers or chili peppers, and green mojo sauce, made from coriander and/or parsley. 

La Graciosa听

Small, quiet, with no paved roads and barely inhabited, La Graciosa is just a half an hour by boat from Lanzarote. There are wonderful, deserted beaches, turquoise water and an unspoiled landscape that make it the perfect place to enjoy a few days of calm and relaxation.听

An island rooted in sustainability听

The unique model of development that the island has experienced, with sustained economic growth and clear protection and conservation of nature and the environment, has helped to obtain in 1993 the declaration of UNESCO鈥檚 Biosphere Reserve. Such recognition was the definitive confirmation of the islanders鈥� continued commitment to respect for and conservation of their environment.听

Lanzarote and mainland Spain 鈥� the perfect match!听

Combining Lanzarote with bucket-list Spanish destinations like Madrid, Barcelona, Seville or Bilbao is easily feasible thanks to daily flights from these cities for the adventurers. Welcome to this winter sun destination paradise that is just around two and a half hours by plane southwest from mainland Spain. Flip flops in winter? Not crazy!听

The post One of 厂辫补颈苍鈥檚 warmest places for winter sun: Guide to discover Lanzarote听 appeared first on 性视界 Blog.

By: 罢耻谤别蝉辫补帽补

It might not come as a surprise that Spain is one of the leading tourist destinations in the world for its vibrant culture, rich history and stunning landscapes. But did you know that Spain is a global leader in sustainable travel innovation? Hop on a reduced-emission train to explore a sustainable Spain – from eco-conscious adventures through protected national parks and stays on organic farms to socially conscious experiences like community cultural exchanges. Ready to leave a positive mark on Spain, while creating memories that will last a lifetime? 

Eco-Friendly Hiking Trails  

From north to south, Spain is brimming with protected national parks and hiking trails that not only offer opportunities to immerse yourself in stunning nature, but also to learn about its world-class conservation efforts.   

Whether it鈥檚 a trek into the UNESCO protected mountains of Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park in the north, the coastal cliffs of Cabo de Gata-N铆jar Natural Park in the south, or the ancient laurel forests of Garajonay National Park on the Canary Islands, there is a protected trail for every type of trekker.  

Want to travel across the country the way pilgrims have been doing for centuries? The Camino de Santiago is an immersive way to experience 厂辫补颈苍鈥檚 rich cultural and spiritual heritage. Leading to Santiago de Compostela in northwestern Spain, this network of pilgrimage routes is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the country the way pilgrims once did, while visiting the small rural towns and lesser-traveled cities of today. You can choose to do the journey on foot, bike, or even horse! Pilgrims are encouraged to minimize their footprint with Leave No Trace principles and support local businesses along the way.  

Immersive Experiences: Organic Vineyard Visits, Bike Tours & Sustainable Surfing 

Throughout the country, locals are finding ways to showcase their home to visitors in uniquely eco & socially conscious ways.  

In La Mancha, organic vineyards offer tours and tastings that showcase sustainable viticulture practices. Visitors can participate in grape harvesting experiences while, of course, trying some of their delicious wines. 

In Bardenas Reales Natural Park, biking tours allow travelers to discover otherworldly landscapes on wheels while learning about local conservation efforts to protect the park’s unique ecosystem.  

On the Basque coast, the surf schools of Zarautz are inviting students to join in on beach clean-up initiatives, learn about the ocean, and take part in marine conservation projects. 

In cities, you can find 鈥渋ntercambios鈥� or language exchanges happening nearly any day of the week, offering a unique opportunity to connect with locals and share your language and culture, while learning theirs.  

Travelers looking to dive even deeper into a local community can participate in a cultural exchange program, where they can experience a truly authentic side of Spain by living with a host family, joining in on cultural activities, and volunteering in the local community. 

Sustainable Accommodations: From 鈥淐asas Rurales鈥� in the Countryside to Eco-Lodges in the Mountains 

Trade in the chain hotels for a more authentic stay in 厂辫补颈苍鈥檚 countryside. Throughout the country, you can find family-owned 鈥渃asas rurales鈥� that showcase the perfect blend of rural hospitality and sustainable living. Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of 厂辫补颈苍鈥檚 rolling hills, visitors can participate in hands-on activities like harvesting fresh produce on organic farms or participating in permaculture workshops.  

For a different perspective of 厂辫补颈苍鈥檚 natural beauty, head into the mountains to unplug in sustainable eco-lodges, found throughout the country. Guided hikes through ancient forests lead to hidden waterfalls and centuries-old chestnut groves, while connecting with local communities to learn about their rural revitalization efforts. 

Eco-Friendly Transportation 

Now, how to get to all these places? Spain has created low-emission transportation to move within its cities, and across the country. 

To cover ground in bigger cities throughout the country, you鈥檒l find local bike sharing apps that allow you to cheaply and easily rent a bike to see the city. You can find bike sharing in capital cities like Madrid and Barcelona, and mid-size cities like Santander, Seville, Zaragoza, and Bilbao – to name a few! Just download the local bike sharing app, hop on a bike, and you鈥檙e off. 

To zip across the country, jump on a high-speed, low-emission train, generated by 100% electric power. 

Another option is to travel with locals on trusted ride-sharing apps that safely connect you with drivers heading to the same destination. 

Valencia: European Green Capital 2024 

Valencia has been recognized as the European Green Capital for 2024, a testament to the city’s dedication to sustainability and environmental innovation. This prestigious title highlights Valencia’s efforts to promote eco-friendly urban living, enhance green spaces, and implement sustainable mobility solutions. Visitors to Valencia can explore its numerous green initiatives, such as extensive bike lanes, eco-friendly public transport, and urban gardens that contribute to the city’s vibrant, sustainable lifestyle. Whether you鈥檙e strolling through the lush Turia Gardens or enjoying a bike ride along the coast, Valencia offers a shining example of how modern cities can embrace sustainability. 

Discover EDEN Destinations in Spain 

Spain is home to several EDEN (European Destinations of Excellence) award-winning locations, recognized for their commitment to sustainable tourism. The EDEN award celebrates destinations that have successfully developed a tourism offering based on their local assets while respecting the environment and enhancing the well-being of local communities. Among these, regions like the Sierra de las Nieves in Andalusia and Ribeira Sacra in Galicia stand out for their breathtaking natural beauty and sustainable tourism practices. These destinations offer travelers a chance to explore 厂辫补颈苍鈥檚 diverse landscapes while ensuring that their visit leaves a positive impact on the environment and local communities. 

Ready to experience sustainable Spain? 

Spain has taken massive strides to transform its everyday practices to a sustainable way of life, and locals are proud to share that with visitors. Touching every corner of its culture – from eco-conscious daily practices to socially conscious initiatives – sustainable adventures await in every corner of the country. So, hop on some low-emission wheels and experience firsthand 厂辫补颈苍鈥檚 commitment to conservation and community – from hiking through protected mountains and surfing on conscious coastlines, to connecting with local communities to learn their way of life and contribute to their community. Now, the only question left for you is, where will you leave your mark? 

The post <strong>Leave Your Mark, Not Your Footprint: A Guide to Sustainable Travel in Spain</strong>听 appeared first on 性视界 Blog.

If the thought of learning to cook a delicious dish in a local kitchen makes your taste buds tingle with excitement, this post is for you.  

By Dominique Ferrari, Collette 

Ever considered donning a chef’s apron on your next vacation? We鈥檝e curated a menu of five immersive culinary experiences that鈥檒l fill your belly (and heart!) and give you the ultimate souvenir to bring home: fantastic local cooking skills for life. 

Because there is truly no better way to travel than by diving in, fork-first, to learn the art of traveling by taste.  

1.     Cook (and taste!) Paella in Spain 

Our first stop takes us to the sun-drenched shores of , where we go behind the scenes of one of the country鈥檚 most iconic dishes and learn the art of making it. In Spain, paella is more than a meal 鈥� it’s an event. From the first grain of rice to the last garnishes, you鈥檒l learn so much about the history of this beloved dish and the cultural importance it holds. Buen provecho! 

2. Discover the Magic of Coconut Candy in Costa Rica 

Next up: the breathtaking beauty of , where the vibrant local flavors are as colorful as the country’s diverse ecosystem. Our destination is a small village, once a bustling coconut plantation. And our guide, a local villager, is eager to share the history of his home. Watch as he expertly cracks open a coconut, revealing the treasure within鈥� the foundation for the sweetest local delicacy of all: coconut candy. As you try your hand at making it yourself, the flavor, and the people, will leave you enchanted.  

3. Go Truffle Hunting in Croatia  

Picture this: You’re in the lush, green forests of , surrounded by the rustle of leaves and the scent of earth and trees. A troop of eager, friendly dogs are ready to lead you on an adventure unlike any other 鈥� truffle hunting. Venture into the forest and become an active participant in a cherished local tradition. Every dig and triumphant discovery of these coveted fungi deepens your connection to this land and its culinary culture.  

4. Prepare a Tasteful Toast to Peruvian Fusion  

Next, we’re heading to , a land where the fusion of sea and mountain, old and new, all melt together and make for some of the most exciting dishes on the planet. Activate all your senses and step into a local kitchen for an interactive ceviche cooking class. Freshly caught fish, tangy lime, fiery chiles, and aromatic cilantro all come together as you chop, mix, and marinate a sensory explosion that perfectly encapsulates Peru鈥檚 coastal spirit. Next, shake things up with a hands-on lesson in making the perfect pisco sour 鈥� a refreshing cocktail and testament to the country’s rich viticultural history.  

5. Taste Tuscany in a Hands-on Journey into the Heart of Italian Cuisine 

Finally, imagine yourself immersed in the rolling hills of , where vineyards stretch out as far as the eye can see. Here, under the (ahem) Tuscan sun, we find the quintessential Italian villa. As the aromas of garlic, tomatoes, and fresh basil envelop you, tie on an apron; because in this family-owned kitchen, you’re not just a guest 鈥� you’re part of the famiglia. Each slice, stir, and simmer is an immersion in the art of Italian cooking. And as you sit down to savor the fruits of your labor, surrounded by new friends and sweeping views of the Italian countryside, you’ll realize this is more than a meal. It鈥檚 the whole point of travel. Buon viaggio e buon appetito! 

About Collette

Since 1918, Collette has been a leader in guided travel. Today, Collette offers tours on all seven continents in a variety of travel styles, plus a comprehensive travel protection plan, flexible tour pacing, and unrivaled industry expertise. This third-generation family-owned business is dedicated to giving back in both local and global communities through their social responsibility platform.鈥� For more information, visit鈥�鈥�or call 1(800) 340-5158.鈥�� 

The post <strong>Savor the Journey:听 5 Immersive Culinary Experiences for the Foodie in You</strong>听 appeared first on 性视界 Blog.

By: Jos茅 Manuel de Juan of The Tourism Office of Spain 

Spain is one of the world’s tourism leaders, ranking second among the most visited countries. As part of this leadership role, the Government of Spain has launched an ambitious scheme that seeks to promote the transformation of tourist destinations towards sustainability in three ways: environmental, socioeconomic, and territorial. 

UNWTO defines sustainable tourism as “tourism that takes full account of current and future economic, social, and environmental impacts to meet the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities.” Therefore, sustainable tourism is not a tourism product but rather a management principle that must be applied to any type of tourism product and destination. 

With this concept in mind, the Spanish government plans to invest 1.9 billion euros in the next three years to support 厂辫补颈苍鈥檚 tourist destinations in their transformation process to integrate environmental, socioeconomic and territorial sustainability into their offer and to develop resilience strategies to face the new challenges in the tourism ecosystem, from climate change to tourism overdemand to health and safety crises.  

Specifically: 

• To diversify the offer of tourist destinations to help generate employment opportunities, redistribute tourism revenue, and promote territorial cohesion while disrupting the concentration of the demand, particularly toward rural areas, as well as to promote arrivals all year round. 

• To guarantee sustainability by reducing emissions, improving waste and water management, protecting and restoring ecosystems for tourism, and introducing actions to prevent or mitigate the effects of climate change. 

Any municipality in Spain can present their plans to the Government to get their sustainability plans financed.  

The type of plan will depend on the type of destination. Destinations will be divided into categories which will require different actions: 

Sun and beach destinations 

Sun and beach destinations are currently facing a profound change, with consumers who are increasingly more informed, more demanding and who have more alternatives, and citizens who demand a better distribution of the socioeconomic benefits of tourism among local populations. 

All this requires a strategy that reinforces the diversity of the tourism experience, the participation of the local population in the benefits of tourism, the reduction of its environmental impact, the contribution to energy efficiency, and the recovery of an environment where a wide range of travel experiences can coexist. 

Rural destinations 

Inland Spain has an enormous cultural heritage and rich natural resources. This endows it with  great potential from a tourism standpoint and a wide margin for development.  

A better integration of this territory in 厂辫补颈苍鈥檚 tourism system will contribute to a seasonal adjustment, a disruption of the current concentration, and the distribution of tourism income. 厂辫补颈苍鈥檚 plan for rural destinations is aimed at improving the quality of life of their residents, generating new job opportunities, revitalizing aged social spaces, improving industries and business, and contributing to the country鈥檚 strategy against depopulation. 

Urban destinations 

Urban tourism represents approximately a quarter of the international tourism demand towards Spain. The cities are also the main points of entry into the country through their airports. 

Cities face considerable challenges: the renovation of their cultural and leisure offer and the integration of new pieces in that offer, as well as the need for maintenance and improvement of their historic centers; a balanced approach that takes into consideration the multiplicity of demographic groups that inhabit a given space or neighborhood and the expectation that each group has for that space (living , working, visiting, etc.); the need to expand and diversify areas of interest; and the need for digital tools that allow a better management of tourism flows and contribute to a more efficient management of the different services made available to them. 

Independently of the funds that are available to the destinations, the Spanish Government has just announced a 170-million-euros project aimed at financing hotels and other hospitality facilities to become more energy efficient.  

This is just a brief summary of 厂辫补颈苍鈥檚 comprehensive plan for a more sustainable tourism industry, one that the country takes with great enthusiasm as we lead the way into a new era in world travel. 

Find your dream vacation to Spain with a 性视界 tour operator here

is a destination filled to the brim with hidden gems in nature, culture, and cuisine. Mediterranean beaches, green National Parks, historic towns filled with contemporary art, and fresh seafood paired with world class wine make it a top pick for American travelers.

Find more travel tips, news, and inspiration by visiting the . 

Plan your visit with a tour operator by visiting

The post 厂辫补颈苍鈥檚 Commitment to Tourism Sustainability appeared first on 性视界 Blog.

Spain is an outdoor enthusiast鈥檚 dream, with 15 national parks, 52 biosphere reserves, 40 designated natural spaces, 15 geoparks, and dozens of starlight reserves. It is a destination that offers sustainable tourism experiences, where travelers can be confident that they are traveling to protected areas and preserving the natural habitat. The landscapes themselves vary from mountainous and rugged to endless expanses of white sand beaches, and even marshy areas teeming with wildlife. Here are five ways to get your sustainable, fresh-air fix in Spain.

1.National Parks

Spain is home to . Ten of the parks are located on the southwestern Iberian Peninsula, four in the Canary Islands off the coast of northwestern Africa, and one in the Balearic Islands, an archipelago off eastern Spain. Plus, four of the parks are also UNESCO World Heritage sites.听

Adventure is abundant at each. At the Aig眉estortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park there are more than 200 bodies of water, including streams, rivers, and lakes. Marine and terrestrial wildlife can be found at the pristine beaches of the Galicia Maritime-Terrestrial National Park, located in the northwestern community of Galicia. Dozens of ecosystems exist in the Do帽ana National Park in southern Spain, from marshland to lagoons, pine groves to dunes, and cliffs. Picos de Europa National Park spread across the provinces of Asturias, Cantabria and Le贸n, is home to brown bears and the Iberian wolf, with a skyline of impressive rock formations.

2. Starlight Reserves

Home to dozens of , Spain is a leading destination for astrotourism.听 Clear skies and little light pollution result in worthy hours to watch the constellations. Plus, several hotels offer star charts, educational materials, and even have a telescope on hand for visitors. Small towns, like the ones on the Canary Island of La Palma or outside the Sierra Morena mountains in Andalusia, are ideal places for stargazing with zero distractions.

3. Biosphere Reserves

Spain counts , the most out of any country in the world. From the snowy Alto Bernesga Biosphere Reserve in the Green Spain region to the lakes of the La Mancha H煤meda Biosphere Reserve south of Madrid, there are endless miles of wide-open spaces teaming with wildlife. Travel by horseback through the Dehesas de la Sierra Morena near Seville or spot native flora and fauna like giant lizards in the La Gomera Biosphere Reserve on the Canary archipelago.

4. Natural Spaces

Travelers can find businesses and organizations committed to protecting the ecosystem in accredited by the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism. Travelers with a sustainability mindset can visit these spaces and be confident that they are contributing to the preservation of the natural landscape. A comprehensive list of all the protected rushing rivers, parks, nature reserves, biospheres, and many more, that are invested in having a planet-friendly impact can be found .

5. Geoparks

厂辫补颈苍鈥檚 reveal the history of the Earth through spectacular landscapes, fossils, and rock formations that are millions of years old.

The world鈥檚 largest collection of jellyfish fossils can be found at the Sierra Norte de Sevilla Geopark in the central region of western Sierra Morena. Several wineries now populate the area around Central Catalunya Geopark in the heart of Catalonia, while guests can eat food cooked by lava at the Lanzarote and Chinijo Islands Geopark. Although the northeastern Conca de Tremp Montsec Geopark was once under the sea and later the home of dinosaurs, there is now a sightseeing train that runs through the mountains.

nine-day Country Roads of Andalucia offers a bird-watching tour with a naturalist guide for a chance to see rare species in Do帽ana National Park.

The ten-day Barcelona, Madrid, and Lisbon itinerary from visits multiple parks, including Montserrat Natural Park. Contact your travel advisor to learn more.

is a destination filled to the brim with hidden gems in nature, culture, and cuisine. Mediterranean beaches, green National Parks, historic towns filled with contemporary art, and fresh seafood paired with world class wine make it a top pick for American travelers. When travel resumes, it is at the top of our bucket list.

Find more travel tips, news, and inspiration by visiting the .

Plan your visit with a tour operator by visiting

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Along 厂辫补颈苍鈥檚 southern coast is the large region of Andalusia, made up of eight provinces with Seville as the capital city. Two of these provinces, Malaga and Cadiz, are famed for the prettiest historic architecture: Pueblos Blancos, translated to . Here are the most picturesque places to go in each area.

Malaga

The city of in the southern coastal province of Malaga is the largest city on the Costa del Sol and the birthplace of Pablo Picasso. Travelers who are soaking up the sun on the Mediterranean beaches and tasting the fresh seafood would be smart to venture inland for a few days. Whitewashed houses occupy the streets of villages further inland from the Costa del Sol, but still within driving distance.

The top small towns outside the city to view these historic homes include Ronda, Frigiliana, and Casares. While Ronda offers a 98-metre-high bridge for breathtaking views, Casares has an Arab castle at the top of its village, historically home to Iberians, Phoenicians, and Romans. Frigiliana still has a view of the Mediterranean while sitting up in the hills, offering narrow streets and passageways that evoke its Moorish past.

Cadiz

In the southwestern province of Cadiz, an entire white villages route takes travelers through 19 different towns in the area. Here鈥檚 a full list of the stops: Arcos de la Frontera, Bornos, Espera, Villamart铆n, Algodonales, El Gastor, Olvera, Torre Alh谩quime, Setenil de las Bodegas, Alcal谩 del Valle, Prado del Rey, El Bosque, Ubrique, Benaocaz, Villaluenga del Rosario, Grazalema, Zahara de la Sierra, Algar and Puerta Serrano.

There is much more to see than these picturesque homes in each small town. Leather workshops line the streets of Ubrique, while Ronda is known for its organic wine. Popular foods throughout the area include pastries like bu帽uelos and traditional mollete bread rolls. Artisanal cheese and other handmade goods are always nearby.

This route also takes you through some in the provinces, including the Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park, Los Alcornocales Natural Park, and the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park. Spend a few days hiking or walking along the ravines in between your city walking tours.

Feeling inspired? Visit the white-washed houses on Spain’s Classics & Portugal 15-day tour of coastal views and citrus groves, historic walking tours and boat rides, and much more. Select departure dates are available between May and November 2021, starting at $3,449 per person.

Or, contact your travel advisor to add a full day sightseeing tour of Ronda and Setenil to your itinerary through . This guided walk through the white houses is followed by a visit to a bullfighting museum and then a local winery.

is a destination filled to the brim with hidden gems in nature, culture, and cuisine. Mediterranean beaches, green National Parks, historic towns filled with contemporary art, and fresh seafood paired with world class wine make it a top pick for American travelers. When travel resumes, it is at the top of our bucket list.

Find more travel tips, news, and inspiration by visiting the .

Plan your visit with a tour operator by visiting

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is a region in Northern Spain that earned its name for its dense forests, lush pastures, and wet, temperate oceanic climate. Stretching along the Atlantic coast between the borders of Portugal and France, vibrant cities line the green coast.

Four autonomous communities make up the Green Spain region, which include Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria and the Basque Country. Here is just a sample of the beaches, foods, museums, and parks that travelers can discover in the area鈥檚 smaller historic cities.

CANTABRIA

Santander

In Cantabria, the city of Santander sits on Sardinero beach near the Magdalena Peninsula. Strolling through the city, you might spot penguins playing in a small marine park near the water and small fish markets serving calamari.  Historic mansions line the streets and the bay. Enjoy the smell of the ocean by walking on the sand down the coast.

Altamira

Approximately 21 miles from Santander sits the Altamira Cave, which holds some of the most famous prehistoric cave art and charcoal drawings in the world. The Altamira National Museum and Research Center reconstructs the original cave and offers information on the origins. Afterwards, it is a short drive to Santillana del Mar, a beautiful village of medieval towers and Renaissance palaces.

BASQUE COUNTRY

Bilbao

The port city of Bilbao in the Basque Country, the eastern most autonomous community, and home to cobblestone streets, local artists, and small bars serving pinchos. The 鈥淪even Streets鈥� in the old town are the origins of the city with a medieval layout. The streets link the Cathedral of Santiago and the La Ribera Market, one of the largest covered markets in Europe.

Famous for its contemporary art and architecture, Bilbao is home to the Guggenheim Museum as well as the Museum of Fine Arts of Bilbao. There are 30 other art galleries that surround the Albia gardens in the heart of the city. Funiculars, like cable cars, take travelers up and down Mount Artxanda for a panoramic view of the city. For a different perspective, there are boat rides that ride along the river for a look at the city鈥檚 architecture.

San Sebasti谩n

Located on the Bay of Biscay is the city of San Sebasti谩n, with a seafront promenade, sandy beaches, and vibrantly colorful sunsets. There are several fine dining restaurants credited to its 19 Michelin stars. Popular pinchos, include anchovies, seafood, and mushrooms. Live music, modern bars, and five-star cuisine line the wide streets, along with shops nestled into the 19^th century architecture.

ASTURIAS

Picos de Europa National Park

Although the Picos de Europa National Park spans multiple regions, it is a popular place to visit while in the Asturias area. Here, travelers can visit the two Lakes of Covadonga, which include Lake Enol and Lake La Ercina, and are perfect for hiking.

Oviedo

The churches of San Miguel de Lillo and Santa Mar铆a del Naranco in Oviedo are some of the best example of pre-Romanesque Asturian art. Traditional cake shops here serve carbayones or moscovitas, popular and traditional pastries. It is also home to the 9^th-century Foncalada fountain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

骋颈箩贸苍

Spending a few hours in 骋颈箩贸苍 is worth it for a visit to the small fishing neighborhood of Cimadevilla, with cider houses, traditional foods, and perfect sunsets over the bay. San Lorenzo beach is also a top spot to stop, with historic Roman baths and the Church of San Pedro nearby.

GALICIA

Ribeira Sacra

In the farthest western community of Galicia, the area of Ribeira Sacra is home to monasteries dug into rocky mountains across more than 60 miles. Cliffs and trees line the horizon with wineries dotting the countryside. Travelers can even explore the area by taking a catamaran trip down the Sil and Mi帽o rivers or riding in a hot air balloon.

Santiago de Compostela

In Santiago de Compostela, explore the old town and its cathedral before stopping at a restaurant for octopus, empanadas, pork shoulder, or some delicious seafood. The city is home to the Galician Centre of Contemporary Art and the park of San Domingos de Bonaval. Nearby, the C铆es Islands, which the Romans regarded as the islands of the Gods, are accessible by boat each summer.

See each distinct area of Green Spain in this short video鈥�

Explore Oviedo and 骋颈箩贸苍, on Northern Spain 11-day itinerary filled with fine wine, local produce, and art tours. Departure is available on select dates between April and October 2021 starting at $3,146.

is a destination filled to the brim with hidden gems in nature, culture, and cuisine. Mediterranean beaches, green National Parks, historic towns filled with contemporary art, and fresh seafood paired with world class wine make it a top pick for American travelers. When travel resumes, it is at the top of our bucket list.

Find more travel tips, news, and inspiration by visiting the .

Plan your visit with a tour operator by visiting

The post Off-the-Beaten Path in the Lush 鈥楪reen鈥� Spain Region appeared first on 性视界 Blog.

is world-renowned for its wine culture, olive oil farms, and traditional dishes like tapas and paella. Famous Spanish restaurants and chefs are experts when it comes to the healthy Mediterranean diet, and each region boasts its own specialty. Here are ten gastronomic experiences to check off your foodie bucket list on your next trip to Spain.听

1. Volcanic Wine

While travelers can experience 厂辫补颈苍鈥檚 distinct wine culture through tastings, tours, and even yoga classes in a vineyard, they can also visit a volcanic winery in the Canary Islands. Farmers have built these vineyards by carving out holes in the volcanic gravel, where the vines flourish and eventually produce sweet and white varieties.

2. Cal莽ots

These long, white, mild onions are barbecued and served with a sauce called salvitxada. It is a culinary tradition in Catalonia to throw on a bib and dig in by eating with your hands. On the last Sunday of January, the Great Cal莽otada festival takes place in 厂辫补颈苍鈥檚 northeastern region of Catalonia as a sociable and delicious ritual.

3. Queimada

Queimada is a drink based on marc, a liquor distilled from pomace leftover from winemaking, that is accompanied with a ritual preparation. At Galician bars, the bartender will light the liquid on fire while stirring the drink with a wooden spoon and speaking a spell out loud to ward off evil spirits. 

4. Pintxos

Similar to Spanish tapas, pintxos are the types of snacks from Northern Spain, particularly the Basque County, that are eaten as an appetizer before dinner. The difference in pintxos from tapas is that the food is spiked through a skewer, typically with a piece of bread as well. Pintxo translates to 鈥渟pike鈥� or 鈥渟kewer鈥� in English. An insider tip: it is pronounced pinchos.

5. Sardines

The best way to try sardines is either on a boat or at a beach bar on the Costa del Sol, where the fish is skewered onto bamboo sticks and grilled over a fire. This delicious way of preparing, serving, and eating sardines has been popular since the 19^th century.

6. Manchego

This delicious cheese is made with sheep鈥檚 milk and matured over a long period of time, ranging from one month to two years. Local cheesemakers produce it in three varieties: soft, semi-cured, and cured.

7. Olive Oil

The province of Ja茅n is home to 60 million olive oil trees that produce 20% of the world鈥檚 olive oil. Visit an oil mill or a museum, hike through the groves, join a tasting, or even spend the night on an oil estate.

8. Paella

This Spanish rice dish, paella, originated in the city of Valencia. Travelers can grab a seat at a seaside restaurant and taste the seafood, vegetables, and spices. Cooking classes are a fun and interactive way to learn about the dish that often include boat rides and local market visits to find the ingredients yourself.

9. Cocido

The comforting and warm Cocido is a long-simmered stew. Each region has its own twist on the classic recipe, but famously, there are four main ingredients: broth, chickpeas, vegetables, and meat. A celebration of the dish is held throughout Madrid in February and March when restaurants come together to offer an entire Cocido Madrile帽o Route.

10. Caldereta De Langosta

Also known as a casserole of spiny lobster, the Caldereta De Langosta is a Mediterranean dish that is best found in the village of Fornells, known as the temple of this recipe. It is so popular that making a reservation at a restaurant that serves it is recommended. 

Learn to make your own paella on the Spain’s Classics & Portugal, which includes a visit to a traditional fisherman鈥檚 home, known as a barraca, for a paella-making demonstration and authentic lunch.

offers tapas tastings and wine pairings on their 14-day Spanish Fiesta itinerary, bringing travelers along the Costa Del Sol, through Madrid, and more. Or, go to a traditional paella dinner in Valencia on Globus鈥� 9-day Best of Spain itinerary from Madrid to Barcelona.

is a destination filled to the brim with hidden gems in nature, culture, and cuisine. Mediterranean beaches, green National Parks, historic towns filled with contemporary art, and fresh seafood paired with world class wine make it a top pick for American travelers. When travel resumes, it is at the top of our bucket list.

Find more travel tips, news, and inspiration by visiting the .

Plan your visit with a tour operator by visiting

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