IT IS SAID that Spain is not one country, but several. It has by far the greatest range of landscapes in Europe, four distinct languages, many cultures, and, in Madrid and Barcelona, two of Europe’s most dynamic cities. The country which was once known for its high-rise package ghettoes today offers a broad and eclectic choice of characterful accommodation; from former monastic cells to dream-like Gaudíesque hotels, and from converted castles to farmsteads. Even Tenerife, that temple of ‘pile-it-high and sell-itcheap’ tourism, also offers the traveller a stunningly-sited parador and numerous rural hideaways. Continue reading →

The region is with approximately six million inhabitants in the greater area among the largest metropolises of Europe. The city Madrid (without suburbs) is with approximately 3.3 million inhabitants to London and Berlin the third largest in the European Union.

Madrid is a both national and internationally important trade center and finance center. The city forms furthermore the geographic, political and cultural midpoint of Spain. Madrid is the seat of the Spanish government. In the city, the king, a Catholic Archbishop as well as important administration authorities and military authorities reside moreover. In Madrid, six public universities as well as different other universities, theater, museums and cultural institutions are available. Continue reading →