Spain is an attractive tourist destination and boasts an idyllic cultural atmosphere. Miguel de Cervantes first published Don Quixote here in 1574.
France boasts 47 UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as entire historic cities and buildings. Additionally, La Tomatina food fight takes place every year here.
Spanish is the second most-spoken language in the world
Spanish is one of the two most-spoken world languages, with over 500 million native speakers globally and only Mandarin Chinese surpassing it with over 1.2 billion speakers globally. Furthermore, it remains one of the top three foreign language to learn globally – its usage continues to expand with each passing day.
Spanish’s popularity stems from its many regional variations and international standing, such as being spoken across Spain (Castellano) versus Latin America with various dialects; similarly in Basque country where their version of Euskara exists.
Furthermore, Spanish is becoming a vital language in global business transactions and also serves as an international language taught at schools, universities, and online platforms – thus encouraging many individuals to learn it and take advantage of its growing importance within global economic spheres.
Spanish is a relatively straightforward language to learn, with pronunciation that closely mirrors English and an alphabet comprised of five vowels and 17-19 consonants. Furthermore, Spanish has taken in many words from other languages, particularly English, while its vocabulary continues to expand through new words borrowed from the Internet and other cultural and technological trends.
One of the many fascinating aspects of Spanish is its conjugation system. This allows speakers to change verb tenses simply by changing letters that accompany verbs. For instance, modern Spanish uses “Me gusta”, while medieval Spanish had “Mas me gusta”.
Another peculiar characteristic of Spanish is its four co-official languages – Galician, Catalan and Basque. Each one is spoken in specific parts of Spain with distinctive dialects making each distinctly separate from one another.
Recent years have been difficult for Spain’s economy, with an unemployment rate reaching 24% in 2015. Yet tourism to Spain remained strong, making it one of the top visited nations in Europe.
It has 47 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Spain is a cultural treasure, famed for its exquisite architecture and fascinating history. Home to 47 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and over 80 million tourists each year, Spain boasts mountainous terrain, cosmopolitan cities, stunning castles and gorgeous beaches that provide something for everyone – making it the ideal location for learning Spanish or discovering other cultures.
Spain lies to the southwest of Europe and contains both Canary and Balearic Islands as well as Ceuta and Melilla in North Africa. Additionally, Spain is famous for its cuisine ranging from tapas to paella and its wine, considered amongst some of the finest worldwide. Many restaurants across Spain also serve up some excellent Spanish wines.
Between the Middle Ages and the end of the 19th century, Spain was an influential power. With extensive trade routes, an advanced industrial economy, and an impressive population base spanning each inhabited continent – Spain was an imperial power with extensive influence across many spheres of society.
After the 1898 revolution, Spain took steps to reform its institutions. A constitution was drafted that guaranteed religious freedom while creating democratic, secular and decentralised government – this process being marked by dialogue and negotiation which allowed for wide social consensus.
Notable buildings include Gothic churches in Madrid and Toledo, royal palaces such as Alhambra and Castile-La Mancha and architect Antoni Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia Basilica; an unfinished temple featuring towering towers and captivating facades which will hopefully be completed by 2026.
Other popular attractions in Spain are the Aqueduct of Segovia and Alcazar Castle, both used as residences by various monarchs. Furthermore, Spain is an incredible country to enjoy some of the finest art around – it ranks third for UNESCO World Heritage List masterpieces with Moorish, Jewish and Christian influences visible within their masterpieces. Furthermore, Mudejar architecture stands out as a great way to experience some of this beauty and exquisite ornamentation features throughout.
It is one of the safest countries in the world
Spain is considered to be one of the safest countries worldwide, boasting low crime rates and no natural disasters. Tourist hotspots may pose extra danger when it comes to theft and pickpocketing; be extra wary when traveling here. Be especially wary when leaving valuables unattended while using public transport – and always inform a friend or family member of your daily itinerary, particularly if traveling into remote regions of Spain.
Spain is an impressive economy that excels in many aspects of the Better Life Index, such as work-life balance, health, social connections and standard of living; unemployment levels remain relatively low compared to OECD averages and housing affordability; its population is highly mobile with diverse employment sectors and workforce diversity; quality healthcare is superb and boasts highly educated workers.
Spain boasts abundant natural beauty, and boasts an impressive number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites that range from architectural masterpieces to historic towns and villages – including Alhambra, Sagrada Familia and Picasso Museum – which make for spectacular cultural treasures. Furthermore, Spain is known for its vibrant nightlife scene and diverse culinary scene – ideal for foodies looking for adventure.
Spaniards are predominantly Catholic and follow a strict moral code, creating an inclusive sense of community for people from all races and ethnicities. Furthermore, its diverse population contributes to creating a vibrant multicultural atmosphere rich in culture and language – reflecting itself even through cuisine which blends both traditional and modern dishes from around the globe.
Visitors to Canada often marvel at its warm climate, yet it’s essential that they take steps to protect themselves from UV rays. Pack a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses as well as applying sunscreen with an SPF rating of 30 or higher for added protection from peak sun hours – don’t forget to stay hydrated with water too.
It is home to La Tomatina
Bunol in Spain is home to one of the world’s most celebrated festivals: La Tomatina. Held annually on the last Wednesday in August, this messy, exhilarating celebration involves throwing ripe tomatoes at one another during this thrilling spectacle. Now an international tourist destination, thousands flock every year for this unique event!
Although its exact origins remain elusive, the festival is thought to have started sometime between 1940 and 1950 when young people who had been barred from joining a parade decided to disrupt it by throwing tomatoes at participants instead of joining it themselves. Soon afterwards, tomato-throwing became part of an annual festivities celebrating St Louis Bertran as patron saint of their town.
Over time, the Tomatina has grown increasingly renowned worldwide. Now one of Spain’s premier festivals, it attracts visitors from around the globe – not to mention locals looking for ways to experience what life’s really like in Spain! While its chaotic and messy events draw in visitors from faraway lands.
This event spans one week and features dance shows, parades, concerts and other forms of entertainment – an ideal chance to witness Spain’s festive side and experience something you won’t find anywhere else in Europe. Additionally, this festival provides the perfect chance to sample some of Spain’s delicious cuisine including its most celebrated dish: paella. First prepared here over 50 years ago – make sure not to miss this delicious experience.
Bonaparte made numerous reforms during this period of stability in education, health and taxation; they also reformed the army, streamlined industry and created new public infrastructures. Despite these achievements, however, agricultural issues arose that led to international isolation and ideological division. By the end of this period however, modern Spain emerged, capable of joining the European Union and even holding periodic presidencies of this bloc while making up lost time economically, socially and culturally.