Spainwithfriendstravel’s Weblog

March 24, 2011

Spain Non Stop from LAX and MIA JESS Kalinowsky FriendsTravel.com

Filed under: Barcelona,Destination Wedding Spain,Europe,Honeymoon Spain,Madrid,Spain — spainwithfriendstravel @ 12:08 am



Starting in March Iberia will operate two new flights from Los Angeles and Miami giving your clients more ways to visit our Gran Melia and ME by Melia hotels in those destinations.
A distinctive luxury hotel, situated along the Paseo de la Castellana and centrally located to the main business artery and cultural venues of Madrid.
Situated in the heart of the Spanish capital the historical Grand Hotel Reina Victoria is reborn as the ME Madrid.
Impressive architecture that staircases the sky designed by Dominique Perrault. ME Barcelona
is situated in the new and trendy area of the
Barrio Poble Nou.
For more information contact JESS@FriendsTravel.com 24/7/365
*LAX-MAD Friday departure only available July – September. ∆Room rate based on first category, double occupancy and is subject to availability at time of reservation.

Reservations: SPAIN@FriendsTravel.com 24/7/365

Discounted First Class, Business Class, and Coach Airfares Worldwide!

Spanish RailPasses

EurailPasses

 

SPAIN@FriendsTravel.com 24/7/365

 

January 16, 2011

Spain and Portugal Tours JESS Kalinowsky Friends Travel LLP

Filed under: Europe,Portugal,Spain — spainwithfriendstravel @ 3:02 am

Browse Tours, pick some and EMAIL

SPAIN@FriendsTravel.com

Tour packages to: Spain & Portugal

Tour Name Tour Length Tour Pace Tour Type Starting Price
Portugal, Spain & Morocco

Portugal, Spain & Morocco

4.9/5 Read all (11) reviews.

Visit gothic churches, moorish palaces and gardens befitting royalty.

Dates & Prices
16 Challenging $3,079 USD
plus [government taxes and fees]
Grand Tour of Spain

Grand Tour of Spain

4.6/5 Read all (76) reviews.

Feel the festive spirit of Spain from the popular cities of Madrid and Barcelona to the stunning scenery and culture of Seville and Costa del Sol.

Dates & Prices
14 Active $2,549 USD
plus [government taxes and fees]
Barcelona & Northern Spain

Barcelona & Northern Spain

4.5/5 Read all (15) reviews.

Discover the personality and charm of Barcelona and Spain’s Basque Country.

Dates & Prices
13 Challenging $2,599 USD
plus [government taxes and fees]
Lourdes, Fátima & The Way of St. James

Lourdes, Fátima & The Way of St. James

4.6/5 Read all (3) reviews.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Way of St. James is one of the oldest and most traveled pilgrimage routes in the world.

Dates & Prices
11 Active Religious Heritage Tours $2,449 USD
plus [government taxes and fees]
Lisbon, Seville & Madrid

Lisbon, Seville & Madrid

4.5/5 Read all (24) reviews.

Iberian culture comes alive on this scenic tour of Portugal and Spain.

Dates & Prices
11 Comfortable $2,099 USD
plus [government taxes and fees]
Seville, Madrid & Barcelona

Seville, Madrid & Barcelona

4.2/5 Read all (9) reviews.

Discover the culture, cuisine and art of three remarkable Spanish cities on an unforgettable 9-day trip that will encourage vibrant daydreams of calling Spain your second home.

Dates & Prices
10 Comfortable $2,199 USD
plus [government taxes and fees]
Lisbon City Stay

Lisbon City Stay

From its succulent cuisine to evenings of fado music, the Portuguese capital will delight you with its charm.

Dates & Prices
6 Leisurely City Stays $1,039 USD
plus [government taxes and fees]

You may also like…

Tour Name Tour Length Tour Pace Tour Type Starting Price
Discover Brazil & Argentina

Discover Brazil & Argentina

3.0/5 Read all (4) reviews.

Though they share a border—and a waterfall—Brazil and Argentina could not be more different. Come discover two countries that are the embodiment of all things sensuous and elegant.

Dates & Prices
11 Active $2,899 USD
plus [government taxes and fees]
Northern Italy & the Italian Riviera

Northern Italy & the Italian Riviera

4.3/5 Read all (14) reviews.

Discover a region of Alpine views, preserved medieval towns and the luxury of the Italian Riviera.

Dates & Prices
12 Comfortable $3,199 USD
plus [government taxes and fees]
Paris, Normandy & the Loire Valley

Paris, Normandy & the Loire Valley

4.8/5 Read all (12) reviews.

From the beauty of the City of Lights to somber reminders of World War II, retrace a few chapters in France’s captivating history.

Dates & Prices
12 Active $2,499 USD
plus [government taxes and fees]

December 22, 2010

Valencia dates back 2,000 years JESS Kalinowsky Friends Travel LLP

The Region of Valencia dates back 2,000 years.

Valencia was founded by the Romans in 138 B.C. as a retirement paradise for former Legionnaires. Ever since, it has become a favorite haven for sun-worshippers from all over the continent. Today the region is known for its year-round near perfect climate, some of Spain’s finest white sand beaches like in Benidorm, Alicante and Denia, castles, exciting outdoor activities, including mountains, caves and wild-life sanctuaries such as La Albufera, a vivacious nightlife, spectacular fiestas like the famed Las Fallas, artistic ceramics like the famed Lladro, great traditional and avant-garde cuisine and a phenomenal, futuristic architecture.

Actually, archeologists have traced its history back to 100,000 B.C. In every corner of this picturesque region, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a rich past. You’ll be able to explore Greek, Phoenician, Carthaginian, Roman, Jewish and Moorish history, often right in the same location. Take the town of Sagunto, for example, where you’ll find one of the best preserved Roman theaters in Europe. It’s hard to believe that this sleepy little town was one of the most important cities in Iberia. This was before Hannibal, after an eight month siege laid it to waste. Now it has become one of Valencia’s great places to see.

After the Romans were driven from its shores, the region was conquered by the Moors. Then it was briefly re-conquered by El Cid in 1096, and recaptured by the Moors again. In 1238 it was finally captured by King Jaime I, known as James the Conqueror, and absorbed into the kingdom of Aragon. Valencia’s golden age reached its height during the 15th and 16th centuries, when it became the most important trading center in the western Mediterranean.

The moment you pass through Valencia’s Torres de Serranos, the magnificent medieval gateway, you’ll find yourself in one of the most modern, innovative cities in the world. At the same time, it’s one of Spain’s oldest historic cities. Everywhere you look, you’ll see a seamless blending of the Medieval into a brave, new, future world.

An example of this is the Cathedral of Valencia. In this one unique building, originally built in 1262, you’ll find distinct examples of Spain’s three great architectural styles in its three portals. The oldest is the Romanesque Puerta del Palau, the main entrance. The Puerta de los Hierros is Baroque. And the Gothic Puerta de los Apostoles. From the grotesque gargoyles of La Lonja, the exquisite Gothic Silk Exchange, to the fluid avant-garde architecture of Valencia’s own genius, Santiago Calatrava.

You’ll discover a range of styles that can only be found in the city which has become known as The First City of the New Millennium.

SPAIN@FriendsTravel.com

JESS@FriendsTravel.com

JESS Kalinowsky Professional Travel Consultant
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Spain Travel JESS Kalinowsky Friends Travel LLP

Spain Travel

Ibiza Town 

Ibiza Town © Spanish National Tourist Board

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MEETINGS@FriendsTravel.com

JESS Kalinowsky Professional Travel Consultant
FriendsTravel.com Google us now!
Expertise, trust, success ®
You cannot buy experience but you can buy from the people that have experience ®
EXPERIENCE. PROVEN. INNOVATIVE. ®
STYLE. QUALITY. VALUE. SMART. ®
Often copied, but never duplicated! ®
its more than the sights. Its the Experience!

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Spain’s Favorite Vacation Getaway! JESS Kalinowsky Friends Travel LLP

Spain’s Favorite Vacation Getaway!

Although the Community of Valencia has long been a favorite of savvy European travelers, it has yet to be discovered by American tourists. You’ll be introduced to a unique culture, language, gastronomy and a history that dates back 2,000 years. It’s no surprise that Valencia is considered one of Spain’s most desired vacation destinations.

There are so many attractions that draw visitors from all over the continent to Valencia, we hardly know where to begin. Its gentle, almost perfect climate. Its famous southern hospitality. Its magnificent beaches along its Spanish Riviera. Its unique gastronomy. Its great museums, cultural events and lavish celebrations held throughout the year. Its Championship Golf Courses and the America’s Cup. Plus everything from balloon rides to wine tasting to shopping at the famed Lladro Factory.

There’s more to Valencia’s gastronomy than Paella.
In recent years, Valencia’s cuisine has come to the forefront of Spanish Gastronomy. The gourmet ‘aficionado’ will find culinary delights not only in the city of Valencia, but in the most remote corners of this beautiful region, sometimes hidden away in isolated villages. Some restaurants specialize in traditional country dishes, while others have taken Mediterranean seafood to an avant-garde, innovative, elegant cuisine beyond your wildest imagination.

Accommodations to suit every taste, budget & lifestyle.
You’ll find a large selection of beautiful 4 and 5 star hotels in the city to choose from. Or stay at an elegant beach front resort, found along the beautiful Spanish Riviera. Or if you prefer, stay in a cozy boutique style hotel. Either way, Valencia offers a delightful variety of accommodations to suit your individual taste and budget.

Spain’s New Capital of Meetings and Conventions.
The city of Valencia has gone through a massive expansion and re-construction with the singular intention of making it the perfect venue for Events and Conventions. It’s no surprise that the AIPC (International Association of Palaces of Congresses) has named Valencia’s Palace of Congress “The Best Convention Center in the World”.

Spain’s Favorite Vacation Getaway! JESS Kalinowsky Friends Travel LLP

SPAIN@FriendsTravel.com

MEETINGS@FriendsTravel.com

JESS@FriendsTravel.com

JESS Kalinowsky Professional Travel Consultant
FriendsTravel.com Google us now!
Expertise, trust, success ®
You cannot buy experience but you can buy from the people that have experience ®
EXPERIENCE. PROVEN. INNOVATIVE. ®
STYLE. QUALITY. VALUE. SMART. ®
Often copied, but never duplicated! ®
its more than the sights. Its the Experience!

http://FriendsTravel.com

http://twitter.com/FriendsTravel

December 19, 2010

http://twitter.com/#!/FriendsTravel

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January 17, 2010

Barcelona, Spain and beyond with Friends Travel, LLP 90048

Filed under: Uncategorized — spainwithfriendstravel @ 3:00 am
Barcelona Essentials
Best Cities for Architecture Buffs

SPAIN@FriendsTravel.com
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barcelona parc guell park gaudi gingerbread housesSince hosting the Summer Olympics in 1992, Barcelona has received the attention it deserves as a premier vacation destination. The capital of Spain’s Catalonia region is one of the country’s — maybe even Europe’s — most beautiful and vibrant places. A city of contrasts, it is like no other in Spain; this is most evident in its architecture, a marriage of Gothic spikes and modern curves (one name to keep an eye out for is Antonio Gaudi, Barcelona’s most famous and unique architect).

Barcelona is also a city of neighborhoods, all distinct. The easiest way for visitors to get their bearings is to know that the city is basically divided into two parts. First, there’s the old city, which is where the heart of everything — from museums to shopping to cafes — is based. Then there’s the port area, known as Port Vell, featuring bars, restaurants, shops, an IMAX theater and the largest aquarium in Europe.

In fact, one of Barcelona’s best attributes is that while it seems large and spread out, its neighborhoods are surprisingly walkable and easily accessible by bus, metro or even foot (in comfortable shoes). Don’t miss a stroll along La Rambla, replete with produce and flower stands, a historic opera house, and a thoroughly intriguing open pet market with cages of for-sale lizards, chirping birds and other exotic animals.

Just be sure to rest your feet now and then over a few plates of tapas (which are meant to be shared, but we won’t tell) and an ice-cold pitcher of sangria.

Editor’s Note: Barcelona is notorious for pickpockets, particularly along La Rambla. Leave valuables in your hotel safe, and carry credit cards and cash in a safe place (ideally in a money belt under your clothes). For more information, see our Money Safety Tips.

What to Do
A fabulous promenade leading from the port to Placa de Catalunya, the center of old Barcelona, La Rambla is lined with shops, cafes, flower stalls, street performers and a wonderful food market called Boqueria. You’ll pass by the Gran Teatre del Liceu, Barcelona’s circa-1848 opera house (it was gutted by a fire in 1994 but has been rebuilt). La Rambla ends at the Placa de Catalunya — a huge plaza that’s the heart of the city and is surrounded by shops and cafes.

La Sagrada Familia, Barcelona’s funkiest church, was designed by Gaudi. The most unusual thing about it? It’s not finished yet! He began working on it in 1883 and designed intriguing features such as the bell towers, covered in Venetian mosaics, and the nativity-themed facade, with doorways representing faith, hope and charity. Services are held in the crypt where Gaudi is buried. The best way to experience Sagrada Familia is to take the elevator to the top of one of the towers (though on our visit the elevator was out of order and we hiked up the stairs instead); there’s an awesome view from that height. Also spend some time in the church museum.

The Museu d’art Contemporani de Barcelona (MACBA) is Barcelona’s ode to contemporary art, housing works by major international figures (Klee, Broodthaers) as well as the biggest up and coming Catalonian artists.

Architect Antoni Gaudi designed Palau Guell, a gorgeous late-19th-century palace capped with whimsical, brightly colored chimneys.

Another Gaudi design, Parc Guell is a pleasant public park overlooking the city — a maze of tropical flowers and colorful accents. The entrance is guarded by a mosaic lizard and two fanciful gatehouses (one of which houses a souvenir shop).

Gaudi’s brilliant colors and fantastical designs can be seen at two other must-visit sites: Casa Batllo and Casa Mila (commonly known as La Pedrera), both located on Passeig de Gracia.

For a look at Barcelona at its most gracious, pay a visit to the Eixample neighborhood north of Placa de Catalunya; this is where the city’s toniest boutiques, galleries, antique shops and restaurants are clustered.

barri gotic barcelona gothic quarter lantern Visit the atmospheric Barri Gotic, Barcelona’s gothic quarter, where the architecture dates back to the 13th century. Streets are winding and narrow, and there are numerous boutiques and antique and artisan galleries. Its best known attractions include the Museu Picasso; founded in 1963, the museum specializes in the works of Pablo Picasso (he donated works himself). Also in the neighborhood is La Seu Cathedral (Pla de la Seu), parts of which date back to 1298 — but it wasn’t actually completed until the late 19th century. Santa Maria del Mar (Carrer Montcada at Placa de Santa Maria) is another cathedral worth inspecting; it is, for this ornate city, unusually simple and quite elegant. It was built between 1329 and 1383.

Sports enthusiasts will enjoy a trip to Olympic Stadium. It existed before the Olympic games were held there, but it was completely remodeled in 1992 just for the occasion. These days, the stadium is used for various events, and is home to baseball team Barcelona Dragons as well as a Barcelona soccer club.

For serious beach time, the best bet is to take a RENFE train to Sant Pol or Sant Pau — both are north of the city and are easy day trips.

The village of Montjuic rises 700 feet above the city’s commercial port and is chock-a-block with cafes, boutiques, art galleries and museums. Not to be missed is Museu Arqueologic (Passeig Santa Madrona 39), which showcases artifacts from prehistoric cultures in both Catalonia and the Balearic Islands. Another highlight is the Fundacio Joan Miro, which features tapestries, paintings and sculptures of Catalonian Joan Miro — he’s considered a Surrealist. Another key art museum is the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya; it’s got one of the world’s premier collections of Romanesque art.

Take a pilgrimage to Montserrat. “The Serrated Mountain” — over 4,000 feet high — is an exquisite setting for a monastery. The original church opened in 1592, though Montserrat is an ongoing work in progress. While the complex includes shops and cafes, the real points of interest are the Basilica Facade and the Black Virgin — the soul of the monastery. Other features include the Placa de Santa Maria with its Gothic cloisters and the museum, which exhibits works of art from Catalania along with West Asia. If you’re visiting in the early afternoon (around 1 p.m.) try to catch the male choir singing Virolai, the hymn of Montserrat. Montserrat is a working monastery and is home to Benedictine monks. It’s easy to get there; a train runs hourly from Barcelona’s Placa Espanya.

One fun attraction right in town is the Museu de l’Erotica, located on La Rambla. More than a tawdry peep show, the museum (the only of its kind in Spain) showcases sexuality through the ages and contains a variety of artifacts from all over the world — everything from Buddhist sculptures to modern-day photography and art.

Barcelona Essentials
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Where to Eat
olive oil wine glasses dining barcelona mediterranean sea port restaurant meal lunchAs in the rest of Spain, tapas — or small plates — are very popular in Barcelona. But Catalan cuisine is unique from the food you’ll find elsewhere in Spain, featuring fresh seafood and distinctive sauces. One simple Catalan favorite to try is pa amb tomaquet — sliced bread rubbed with tomato and olive oil. For casual meals, stop by a tapas bar along La Rambla or grab a chorizo sandwich from one of many local stands. If you’re going out for a big restaurant meal, keep in mind that locals eat dinner late (think 9 p.m. and beyond).

Sample Mediterranean and Asian flavors on the fixed-price tasting menus at intimate Con Gracia, where chef Paul Treacy will “surprise” guests with three to five beautifully presented courses at lunch or dinner. Reservations recommended.

Merendero de la Mari is an indoor- and outdoor-dining seafood restaurant on the waterfront in Port Vell. Go for the excellent Catalan-style paella, or the fresh mussels.

For one of Barcelona’s hottest dining experiences, try Comerc 24, where the inventive tapas menu tastes constantly. Can’t get a table? Head to new sister property Tapac24, a tapas bar that’s open daily from 8 a.m. to midnight.

Locals and visitors alike stand in line at Cal Pep to sample what many consider the best seafood in the city. The tortillas are to die for.

Grab a quick breakfast or lunch at the Boqueria Market on La Rambla, Europe’s largest market. There are a number of eateries here; try Pinotxo for tapas, Bar Boqueria for great tortillas or Organic for vegetarian fare. Alternatively, pick up some fresh fruit, bread and cheese for an easy lunch to go.

For great food at affordable prices, check out Cerveseria Catalana (Carrer de Mallorca 236). The ambience is crowded and noisy, but the tapas can’t be beat.

Where to Stay
Although tourism in Barcelona reaches its peak over the summer months, Barcelona sees large numbers of visitors all year round — so be sure to book your hotel in advance no matter when you’re traveling. Visitors seeking modern, upscale hotels will find plenty of choice in the Eixample neighborhood, while Barri Gotic is home to a number of more affordable options. Stay near the port for sea views and easy access to La Rambla. Rental apartments can be a charming and affordable alternative to hotels.

Centrally located right on La Rambla, Le Meridien Barcelona offers spacious, stylishly decorated rooms and suites — as well as free Wi-Fi throughout the property.

The elegant, 40-room Duquesa de Cardona is located right across from Port Vell, within walking distance of La Rambla. There’s an open-air terrace with a cocktail bar and plunge pool on the top floor, a wonderful place to relax on Barcelona’s many warm, sunny days. Ask for a deluxe room with a harbor view.

Looking to splurge? The Hotel Arts Barcelona is a modern, arty, totally upscale hotel — part of the Ritz-Carlton chain — right on the Mediterranean in the port district.

In Eixample, the upscale neighborhood just north of Placa de Catalunya, the Silken Gran Hotel Havana simply oozes history and atmosphere. Amenities include a restaurant, piano bar, swimming pool and sauna.

For a moderately priced stay in the city’s lovely Gothic Quarter, try the Regencia Colon Hotel. Rooms are on the small side but very clean.

The Patio is a small bed and breakfast tucked away in the Eixample neighborhood, offering two rooms with exposed brick walls and elegant decor. Rates are very affordable for both solo travelers and couples.

barcelona la rambla las ramblasWhere to Shop
Barcelona is a haven for stylish travelers, offering a wealth of fine clothes, shoes and leather goods. (This is the place to buy that designer leather jacket you’ve been dying for.) The Barri Gotic is packed with offbeat little shops, while Eixample is home to chi-chi designer boutiques. Purchases in Spain are subject to an IVA (value-added tax), which non-E.U. citizens can get refunded if the total spent is more than 90.15 euros. Just ask for a tax-free receipt when you make the purchase and show it — along with your purchases — at customs. For more information, click here.

El Corte Ingles, Spain’s largest department store chain in the heart of the city, offers an immense variety and is a real Spanish experience. There are multiple locations around the city, including Placa de Catalunya.

Barcelona’s big-name designer boutiques — Chanel, Benetton, Armani — are clustered along elegant Passeig de Gracia, which runs from Placa de Catalunya to Carrer Gran de Gracia. In addition to high fashion and designer merchandise, this avenue also has some lovely examples of Art Nouveau buildings.

More big-name stores, as well as independent boutiques, can be found along Avinguda Diagonal (make a left off of Passeig de Gracia when heading north).

Barceloneta was, at one time, a fishing village. This beachfront neighborhood, filled with narrow, brightly colored houses (and a pretty nice beach), faces the Mediterranean. Following the waterfront, continue on to Port Olimpic, which has shops, cafes and bars. Port Vell, just beyond, has restaurants and Maremagnum, a big fancy shopping mall, complete with IMAX theater.

The Barri Gotic neighborhood has a number of independent shops, including antique stores.

SPAIN@FriendsTravel.com

July 29, 2008

Madrid, Seville, Cordoba, Granada, Valencia, Barcelona with FriendsTravel.com

Charming Spain - 10 Days – 8 Nights
Madrid, Seville, Cordoba, Granada, Valencia, Barcelona with FRIENDSTRAVEL.com
EMAIL: SPAIN@FriendsTravel.com
|
Your Tour Includes:
  • Transfers airport-hotel-airport
  • Accommodations in First Class hotels
  • Buffet breakfast daily
  • Deluxe air-conditioned motorcoach transportation
  • Professional tour escort throughout (bilingual English/Spanish)
  • Escorted sightseeing tours with bilingual guide in Madrid, Cordoba, Granada, Seville, Valencia and Barcelona
  • Evening Illuminations tour of Madrid
  • Baggage (1 piece per person) handling at hotels
  • Travel bag (delivered in Spain)
Departure Dates & Prices:
SglDblTpl
$1940$1344$1300

Aug 8 22 29


SglDblTpl
$2092$1496$1446

Sep 5 12 19 26
Oct 3 10 17 24


SglDblTpl
$1930$1378$1331

Oct 31
Nov 7 21
Dec 5 19
Jan 2 16 30
Feb 13 27
Mar 13 20 27


Select departure date above for tour availability
and reservations
.
OPTIONAL
Premium Package
You may wish to enhance your tour experience by adding our exclusive Premium Package.
For only $379 per person.

Includes:

  • “Tapas” dinner in Madrid
  • Typical lunch in Madrid
  • Tour to Toledo
  • Lunch in Merida
  • Lunch in Seville
  • Dinner in Granada
  • Tour-Show of the Albaicin in Granada
  • Flamenco show in Seville
  • Dinner in Barcelona’s Pueblo Español
  • Typical lunch in the Olympic Port of Barcelona
|
Hotels Used: (or similar)
Madrid
NH Príncipe de Vergara
Seville
Novotel Sevilla
Granada
Nevada Palace
Valencia
NH Las Artes
Barcelona
Barcelona Plaza
Note:
Itinerary:
Day 1, Friday: En route
Depart your home city, possibly via connection, on an overnight trans-Atlantic flight(fllight not included).

Day 2, Saturday: MADRID
Arrival at Madrid airport. After clearing simple immigration and customs formalities, meet your transferist OUTSIDE the luggage claim area (look for someone holding a sign bearing your name) You will be transferred to your First Class hotel. Take advantage of the free time to get to know one of Europe’s most dynamic capital cities. In the early evening, enjoy an “Illuminated Madrid” drive through the bustling streets of the old city, ending at the historical and impressive Plaza Mayor. This area is home to some of the most typical restaurants and taverns, which serve the delicious “tapas”. (PREMIUM PACKAGE includes a Tapas Dinner tonight.) Return to your hotel at your own convenience. Accommodations.

Day 3, Sunday: MADRID
Buffet breakfast. This morning’s escorted panoramic tour will allow you to get a glimpse of some of Madrid’s most outstanding attractions, like the Puerta del Sol, the magnificent fountains of Neptune and Cibeles, the stately Alcala Gate, the busy Gran Via, the Plaza de España and the Plaza de Oriente. Free time for lunch on your own. (PREMIUM PACKAGE includes a Lunch today.) Highly recommended this afternoon, is an optional tour to the Imperial former capital city of Toledo, where you will be escorted through its narrow cobblestone streets. Sightseeing will include the interior of the magnificent Gothic cathedral and a visit to St. Tome Church, where El Greco’s masterpiece painting is displayed. There will also be some time for shopping for the unique typical local artisanry. (PREMIUM PACKAGE includes the tour to Toledo) Return to Madrid for accommodations.

Day 4, Monday: MADRID-MERIDA-SEVILLE
Buffet breakfast. Departure through the once-remote region of Extremadura, home to many of the “conquistadors”. Arrival in ancient Merida. Free time for lunch. (Lunch included in PREMIUM PACKAGE.) In the afternoon, visit the impressive Roman amphitheatre archeological site before continuing to Seville. Accommodations.

Day 5, Tuesday: SEVILLE
Buffet breakfast. This morning’s sightseeing will explore this gracious and charming city, Spain’s third largest. See the Tower of Gold, the tranquil Maria Luisa Park, the quaint Santa Cruz Quarter, and finally the huge cathedral (one of the world’s largest) with its Giralda Tower (a former minaret). Free time for lunch on your own. (PREMIUM PACKAGE includes lunch today.) The afternoon is free to continue to explore or shop. This evening an optional Flamenco Show is suggested, with the enjoyment of local wine. (PREMIUM PACKAGE includes Flamenco Show and drink.) Accommodations.

Day 6, Wednesday: SEVILLE-CORDOBA-GRANADA
Buffet breakfast. Depart to Cordoba. Tour one of the world’s marvels, the former Great Mosque (now a cathedral). Free time for lunch on your own. Continue to Granada, passing thousands of acres of olive groves. (PREMIUM PACKAGE includes dinner tonight.) This evening, an excellent suggestion would be to visit (optionally) the typical Albaicin quarter, where Andalusian customs, music and wine join to create a fascinating atmosphere. (PREMIUM PACKAGE includes this visit).

Day 7, Thursday: GRANADA-VALENCIA
Buffet breakfast. This morning, enjoy an escorted tour of the magnificent Alhambra and the verdant Gardens of the Generalife. At mid-day, departure to the east cost of Spain arriving to Valencia for accomodation.

Day 8, Friday: VALENCIA – BARCELONA
Buffet breakfast and morning tour of the city and the new area of museums. In the early afternoon, continuation north to Barcelona, one of Europe’s most cosmopolitan cities. In the evening, perhaps consider dining at the charming Pueblo Español, featuring architectural replicas from all of Spain’s regions. (PREMIUM PACKAGE includes dinner tonight.) Accommodations.

Day 9, Saturday: BARCELONA
Buffet breakfast. This morning enjoy an escorted tour of one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. See the ancient Gothic Quarter with its magnificent cathedral. Stop to admire the exterior of Gaudi’s masterwork, the Basilica of the Sacred Family (Sagrada Familia). Continue to Montjuich Hill (site of the Olympic Stadium), to enjoy a spectacular view of Barcelona and its port area. Free time for lunch, perhaps in the Olympic Port area. (Lunch included today in PREMIUM PACKAGE.) Afternoon free. Accommodations.

Day 10, Sunday: EN ROUTE
Buffet breakfast. Pre-arranged transfer to Barcelona airport at the proper time to check-in for your trans-Atlantic flight to your home city (usually via connection). Arrival later the same day.

Spain: World Heritage Cities with FriendsTravel.com

Its World Heritage Cities / Spain’s group of World Heritage Cities comprises the majority of cities whose historic centres have the UNESCO World Heritage designation: Ávila, Cáceres, Cordoba, Cuenca, Mérida, Salamanca, Santiago de Compostela, Segovia, Tarragona, Toledo, Alcalá de Henares, Eivissa/Ibiza and San Cristóbal de La Laguna. Spain is the country with second most UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world. Choose a city, or cities, you want to visit, and EMAIL: SPAIN@FriendsTravel.com Tell us your preferred travel dates, names as they appear on the passports of each traveler, and if you prefer to fly First Class, Business Class, or Coach. We look forward to hearing from you. FriendsTravel is open 7 days a week, 365 days a year to serve your travel reservations needs. Spanish Rail tickets available, or Chauffeur Driver tours, or self drive tours.

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