¡Me encanta españa! I love Spain! The land of fine wine, olives, Don Quixote, tapas, Picasso, and so much more!
Preparing and taking nearly a month-long trip was quite a feat – especially when it came to the coordination of trains, planes, boats, and automobiles. Many blogs will tell you advice on how to book a flight or a hotel. I want to give you some insight for the ‘stuff’ you may not have put on your “to-do” list.
TEN TIPS FOR TRAVELING TO SPAIN
Before you set foot on the plane (or train, ship, or car…) consider the following ten suggestions:
TIP 1 – PACK SMART
I believe in packing smart. There is no need to pack for a trip to Europe your entire closet. Instead, try to pack with intention. Bring some clothes for the various kinds of climates. Are you planning on walking the streets – think cobblestones- almost everywhere – so don’t pack high heels! Common sense shoes, boots, sneakers, and sandals should do the trick! Try to pack a coat that doubles as a good and foul-weather jacket. Gloves, hats, and scarves are an excellent addition during the colder months. (And remember, if you forget something there ARE stores in Spain!)
TIP 2- BRING EUROS
Convert some American dollars to EUROS before traveling. Surprisingly, many taxi drivers, restaurants, and “tiendas” only accepted efectivo (cash). This was especially true in smaller villages.
TIP 3- BRING AN ELECTRICAL CONVERTER
Spain (and Portugal, among other European countries) do not have outlets the same as the United States. Their electrical current is different as the United States runs on 110 current while Spain uses the voltage of 220V. So, purchase a converter and bring it with you (carry-on luggage).
We used this one – an inexpensive and reliable option!
TIP 4- GO VIP
Chances are you are on limited time for your trip – so why waste it waiting on long lines? Skip the queues and treat yourself to a VIP experience, such as a guided tour of the PRADO MUSEUM or the Royal Palace. If nothing else, pay a little extra to skip the line and grab an audio headset.
TIP 5 – SEE FLAMENCO! (See below for MY recommendation)
TIP 6 – RIDE A TUK-TUK
We treated ourselves to a tuk-tuk tour in Madrid and loved every second. It was a highlight of our trip! A tuk-tuk is an electric vehicle that resembles a golf cart on “steroids”. It is an efficient and economical way to get around a city and enjoy the sights and sounds of an area. Having a knowledgeable driver is a bonus. So, on our inaugural European tuk-tuk ride, we not only received a quick history lesson but also our driver, Fernando, meandered streets that were off the regular tourist trail. This meant we got to see how “the non-tourist population of Madrid” lived. We thoroughly enjoyed every minute and would highly suggest grabbing one of the hundreds of tuk-tuks throughout Spain.
Book a tuk-tuk for your stay in Madrid here.
Note: A tuk-tuk may not be accessible for those who use a wheelchair. There are different types.
TIP 6: TRAVEL BY TRAIN
In the United States, we often jump in our cars to go from place to place. But, in Europe, the train system is much more extensive and a very popular mode of transportation. It also is cheap and easy to use. We took the train from the ATOCHA train station to both Toledo and Malaga, Spain. The RENFE train has comfy seats, is kept very clean, and is equipped with ample bathroom facilities. Note: There may be an issue for people with mobility to access the train- so, please check and plan ahead for help on and off trains at certain stations.
TIP 7: LEARN SPANISH PHRASES and KEYWORDS
If you are traveling to a foreign country that does not speak your native language (e.g. English) – then do yourself a favor and learn a few phrases and words to communicate. Truly- ten phrases and a few courtesy words for please, thank you, and you are welcome – could make a huge difference. There are so many ways to learn, especially Spanish! And, as an extra support be sure to download a translation app, too!
TIP 8. EAT WHERE THE LOCALS EAT
There are so many amazing places to eat – and so little time!
But here are some of my favorites that we explored during our journey throughout the middle and southern parts of Spain:
Madrid: TAPAS (small platters of foods that are so yummy)! There are so many great places to get tapas in Madrid. One of our favorites was near Plaza Mayor – Meson del Champinon
And the San Miguel Market is wall-to-wall tapas, too.
THIS MARBELLA RESTAURANT WAS THE FAMILY FAVORITE:
THE FARM.
This place is extraordinary and has some of the best food I have EVER enjoyed. We treated ourselves to the Flamenco dinner show that runs a few nights a week. Usually, a combo dinner and show means they are both good -but not great. However, in this circumstance BOTH the food at THE FARM and the FLAMENCO performance were AMAZING!
So, do check out THE FARM, located in the heart of old-town Marbella. Be sure to order the pumpkin soup if it is on the menu! RESERVATIONS ARE A MUST!
TIP 10: SNAP and WRITE
Snap those photos as one of the most treasured souvenirs you will ever have. And be sure to write down your thoughts and memories. In years to come you will be glad you did!
Enjoy these photos from Madrid, Malaga, Cadiz, and Marbella!
Coming up soon will be additional photo/ essay blogs including about..
TOLEDO, SPAIN, AVEIRO/ COSTA NOVA, PORTUGAL, and hints for traveling to Spain and Portugal if you have special needs.
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