According to the RAE (Royal Academy of Spanish,) the definition of castillo (castle, fortress) is: a place surrounded by walls for defense. Castles are not only former residences of kings and nobles, they also present images of the cities in which they are located. Spain, with its well-preserved, splendid castles, is a like living museum, where visitors can experience the country’s rich history and culture.

Castillo de Butrón is located in the town of Gatica (Vizcaya province), 20 kms from Bilbao. The origin of the castle dates back to the Middle Ages. In the 19th century, extra fortification was added. Unfortunately, it is privately owned and not open for public visits.

With its Majorcan gothic style, Castillo de Bellver is situated just a few kilometers outside of Palma de Mallorca. It has been used for a variety of purposes throughout history. It was once built to be the residence of King Jaime II, and later, in the 19th century, it was converted into a coin factory.  

Castillo de Olite, in the Navarra region, was chosen as one of the Medieval Wonders of Spain and you will be amazed by its history. Its French architecture reflects the architectural preferences of the castle’s original owner, Carlos III. To reach the top of the castle you have to first climb up 133 stairs, but the sight is worth the effort.

The Alcázar de Segovia has been preserved for over 8 centuries. Built atop an enormous rock, this is often considered to be one of the most impressive fortresses ever created, and it’s no surprise that it was one of the castles that served as a source of inspiration for Disney’s famous cartoon castle that appeared in the film Cinderella. Today, it also serves as a Military Museum.  

Castillo de Peñafiel was built in German gothic style with Campospera stone. It is situated on a high hill where you can see the Duratón and Botijas valleys. Its structure is plain and it only has one door. The tower keep is 30 meters high with a rectangular shape. It is one of Spain’s National Monuments and it is the home of the Provincial Museum-Foundation of the Wines of Valladolid.

The size of the Castillo de Almodovar del Rio is impressive, but that’s not the only great thing about this building. Like other historical figures in Cordoba, it also represents a blend of Islam and Spanish architectural traditions. According to popular myth, the ghost of a Muslim princess who died in the castle appears every March 28th wearing a white dress floating about the tower keep.  

Islam and gothic art come together in Castillo de Manzanares el Real, one of the best preserved buildings in Spain. The castle dates back to the 15th century. It has appeared in several movies featuring famous actors such as Clint Eastwood, Charlton Heston and Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Of course, you can visit Spain's famous big cities. But how about looking at Spain from the other side? In Spain you can find the most beautiful places, places in Spain where tourists do not come (yet), but of course also places that have already been discovered by mass tourism. Read more about the most beautiful places in Spain here.

Nerja
For example, you have the town of Nerja. A few years ago this was very quiet but slowly it is starting to get a little busier and busier. The famous protruding rock point with gigantic panoramic terrace is also called the ''Balcon de Europa''. Through this ''Balcony of Europe'' you have an impressive view of the city, the coast and the mountains. Spain's most photographed beach can also be found here. As well as the stalactite caves, these are called ''Las cuevas de Nerja.''

Desierto de Tabernas
The only desert in Europe has formed a type of flora and fauna all its own. This is due to the unique conditions in which the desert finds itself. The ''Desierto de Tabernas'' is not a typical sandy desert. It is a rugged desert in which you will also find rocky areas. The 280-square-mile desert is a protected area where the sun shines no less than 3,000 hours a year! The desert is located in southeastern Spain, just above Almeria.

Vejer de la Frontera
The Spanish often call this small town ''El pueblo blanco'' because so many white houses can be seen in its streets. It was once voted the most beautiful place in Spain, but despite this, it is still a fairly undiscovered travel destination.

Frigiliana
This is the best preserved Moorish village in Andalusia. This picturesque white village is truly beautiful to see and to walk through, it is always atmospheric and is one of the most beautiful places in Spain.

Puente Nuevo
This giant bridge is an important feature of the city of Ronda. Ronda is split into two parts by a river that flows through the middle of it. Because of this, there is a gorge, the Tajo Gorge. The Puente Nuevo connects these parts. The walls of the gorge are 200 meters high, giving you impressive views into the depths from the bridge. From the Puente Arabe and Puente Viejo bridges you can view the ''hanging houses'' above the Tajo Gorge.

Cádiz
The most beautiful place in Spain, and also one of the best kept hidden, is Cadiz. It is the oldest inhabited port city in Western Europe. Cadiz's intimate Old Town is a paradise to walk through. It lies at the end of the peninsula and is almost completely surrounded by water. You will feast your eyes as you wander around among a maze of narrow streets after which you emerge onto one of the atmospheric plazas. Cadiz is la ciudad que sonríe, the city that smiles.

At don Quijote, we're preparing an unforgettable summer for you. Come visit these summer destinations, where unique Spanish experiences await.

1. Alicante
   Alicante means golden beaches and a city that is perfect for taking relaxing walks in while chatting with Alicantinos. A trip to the island of Tabarca will give you the chance to behold wonderfully preserved nature of the Mediterranean coast.
2. Barcelona
   Summer nights in Barcelona are all about spectacular experiences at theatres, parties and city terraces. Spend a magical evening hanging out in Gaudi's Park Guell, a special prologue to a warm night meeting friends on Las Ramblas. You also won't want to miss the Mercado de la Boquería, a Mediterranean market surrounded by fantastic restaurants.
3. Cadiz
   Cadiz is a unique town that features the best cultural and geographical elements of the Mediterranean and the Atlantic. The friendliness of the gaditanos (people from Cadiz) will make you feel at home in this city that welcomes all travelers, a place that's just minutes from the wineries of Jerez de la Frontera and the most beautiful horses in the world at the Real Escuela del Arte Ecuestre (Royal School of the Equestrian Arts).
4. Granada
   In Granada, summer is a time for enjoying delicious tapas on terraces along the river and visiting the Alhambra by night, where you'll discover the magic hidden within the impressive palace walls. The Sierra Nevada Mountain Range and the Tropical Coast are both right next door, places accustomed to receiving visitors from all over the world and where summertime adventures await.
5. Madrid
   During the summer months, many people from Madrid get away from the city, which turns it into a relatively quiet place without the crowds and with reasonable amounts of traffic. Here, the terraces on the Paseo de Recoletos walkway become a spot where night owls meet up and make new friends. If it gets a little hot during the day, you always have the option of beating the heat by slipping into one of the city's many museums, or just by drifting into Retiro Park, the heart of Madrid summers.
6. Malaga
   Malaga sits right on the Costa del Sol, where the Pablo Picasso house-museum is a must-visit attraction along with fantastic beaches. Malaga cuisine will open your eyes to the delicious flavors of the famous Mediterranean diet.
7. Marbella
   Just around the corner from Malaga we find Marbella, where the jet-set from around the world come to gather in the city's restaurants, terraces and exclusive shops while a more laid back Andalusia community welcomes visitors in the city's old town. If you like golf, you can play a round on some of the country's finest courses.
8. Seville
   Flamenco, the largest gothic cathedral in the world, legendary tapas, Seville. The monumental character of the city, the neighborhood of Santa Cruz and Maria Luisa park are all places you'll plan to see by day so that in the evening, you can be entertained by the wit of the waiters and the sevillanos taking walks on Betis Street and out in the Triana neighborhood and also along the Guadalquivir River, with a fish tapa in one hand and a beer in the other: the perfect balance.
9. Salamanca
   Salamanca is one of Spain's most important university towns for international students. The town's university traditions, its historic monuments and artistic character, the exceptional beauty and variety of its bars and cafés all help make this a place where making new friends is not only easy, it's inevitable. The heart of Salamanca beats to the rhythm of Spanish.
10. Tenerife
    This may be a top ten list, but we're giving you a little bit extra this month with two more essential destinations: Tenerife, the island of eternal spring, with some of the best surf spots and surprising underwater landscapes to explore while diving. Puerto de la Cruz, on the north side of the island, is a perfect place to organize your vacation. On this mini continent, you'll climb up to Teide peak, stroll through prehistoric forests and take a refreshing dip at the beach all while you watch your Spanish improve.
11. Valencia
    This capital city is a sunny place that offers infinite summer vacation possibilities: the old riverbed of the Turia has been converted into a park that functions as the backbone of the city. The City of Arts and Sciences of Valencia is spectacular (the oceanographic here is the biggest in Europe), La Albufera, beaches where you'll enjoy the best paella imaginable... Valencia is the cherry on top of this cake of vacation destination ideas.

World Heritage Sites in Spain

Spain has the second highest number of Unesco World Heritage Sites in the world. This list includes everything about nature, historic buildings, modern cities, gardens and monuments. Each of these heritages is so unique and special that it must be protected. These World Heritage Sites are popular sights in Spain and also give an idea about the culture in Spain.

Some of Spain's World Heritage Sites:

Santiago de Compostela

The city in northwestern Spain is not the only World Heritage Site here. The pilgrimage route to Santiago is also Unesco heritage.

Old city of Salamanca

The city famous for its university is also on the World Heritage List. In the historic center of Salamanca, there is much to admire such as the Cathedral, the University, the Romano Bridge, Ingles de los Dominocos....

Alhambra and Albaicín in Granada

The Alhambra dates back to the Middle Ages. It was the palace and fortress of the Moorish rulers of the Kingdom of Granada in Andalusia. On a hill directly opposite the Alhambra is the "Albaicín" district. This is the old Arab neighborhood of Granada.

Works of Gaudí

The Works of Gaudí include 7 structures designed by Spanish architect Antoni Gaudí. 6 of these structures can be visited in Barcelona, and one in Santa Coloma de Cervello. The 7 structures include Park Güell, Palau Güell, Casa Milà, Casa Vicens, Gaudí's work on the Sagrada Familia, Casa Battló, Cripta Colònia, Güell.

Historic city of Toledo

When staying in Salamanca or Madrid, it is definitely worth visiting one of the oldest cities in Europe. Because of its rich history and culture, the city is on Unesco's World Heritage List.

There is also the Vizcaya Bridge, which is the oldest suspension bridge in the world. The Cathedral and Palace of Seville are also worth seeing, as well as the center and aqueduct of Segovia.  There are many more attractions in Spain, scattered throughout the country. Keep this in mind while planning your Spanish trip!

Spanish is either a fast language or Spanish speakers just talk faster; at least that’s what linguists and researchers are saying. Last year researchers from University of Lyon carried out a study on 59 native speakers from different countries and found out that Spanish was the second fastest language.

As a learner you might notice that Spanish is a strong and passionate language that is rich in expressions. Beginners may find that proper pronunciation can get a little bit difficult. Finding the correct vowel to stress or pronouncing “George” as “Jorge” or the “r” as “rr” will take a little time to get used to.

Based on the study conducted by SpinVox (an American company integrating speech technology into human intelligence), the worst pronounced Spanish word is “viniste” usually mistaken with “veniste”. The second word is “trastorno” pronounced as “transtorno”, as it seems people mistakenly follow pronunciation patterns set by similar words like ‘transporte’ and “transcripción”.

Another fact that this study has revealed is that not being able to pronounce certain words in the right way often makes Spanish speakers laugh or simply amuses the person he or she is talking to. 47% of Spanish learners said they were embarrassed when they couldn’t pronounce a word correctly, and one in five respondents admitted feeling uncomfortable if their conversation partner was having difficulties with pronunciation. In addition, more than half of those questioned said they try to avoid using words that are difficult to pronounce to avoid looking funny while 43% of people admitted that they correct someone who makes pronunciation mistakes. In fact, having someone correct our pronunciation mistakes is the best way to learn Spanish, as many words are hard to say and when we try to pronounce them correctly, we become aware of how we actually talk.

Have you ever had difficulty pronouncing Spanish words or, if you are native Spanish speaker, do you correct the people you talk to? Some of the most poorly pronounced Spanish words are shown below. Maybe you can add more words which you think are not often said correctly.

Spaniards love good food! Tapas, paella, tortilla you name it.... What cannot be missing in Spanish cuisine is olive oil. This typically Spanish element is used in almost all dishes. In Spain you can therefore also find the most delicious olive oil.

Olive oil goes way back in history, to 4000 BC. At that time, olive trees only grew near the Mediterranean Sea. But today they can grow anywhere. Spain was then the first to produce and export the oil. Besides being a healthy food element, it was also used to generate light and heat.

Spain, the largest olive oil producer in the world

Spain is the largest olive oil producer in the world. Much of Spain's olive oil is of the best quality. The type of olive oil that is considered the best with the most pronounced flavor is the Extra viegre olive oil. This is because this oil comes from one pressing. Other types of oil come from multiple pressings, which reduces the flavor. Spanish olive oil brands include Oleoestepa, Ybarra Gran Seleccion Afrutado, Carbonell and Hacendado. What is remarkable about Spanish olive oil is that it has a golden yellow hue, unlike olive oil from other countries, which are green. This makes Spanish olive oil special. What also makes Spanish olive oil different is the powerful aroma and peppery flavor it often has. Spanish olive oil is delectable.

Mediterranean cuisine

In Mediterranean cuisine, olive oil is used for everything. The Mediterranean diet is considered one of the healthiest. This is mainly because everything is used fresh and of high quality. The locals themselves are the biggest fans of their cuisine and value the use of fresh ingredients. Apart from the fact that so much is used fresh, it is also mostly healthy fats and nutrients that you get inside.Among other things, it prevents cardiovascular diseases.

It is recommended to incorporate 2 to 3 tablespoons of olive oil in your food daily. Did you also know that olive oil ensures healthy gums and white teeth, works against wrinkles and gives you beautiful nails.  It helps combat aging and there are many cosmetic home remedies that incorporate olive oil....

We in the Netherlands can do that too! Put it summery in a salad or use it for frying. Or imitate Spanish cuisine and make tasty tapas! You can use olive oil for almost anything.

Leaving the Atocha Station is the title of American writer Ben Lerner’s first novel, a book set in Madrid that has quickly become an American literary sensation. The novel has earned the 33 year old Lerner excited critical praise from The Boston Globe, The Wall Street Journal, The New Yorker (among many other journals) and from writers including Paul Auster and Jonathan Franzen. Lerner’s decision to set his story in Madrid and the book’s success among American readers reflects a growing American interest in the city and in Spain in general.

Leaving the Atocha Station tells the semi-autobiographical tale of Adam Gordon, a young American writer spending a year in Spain’s capital on an unnamed scholarship to work on a poem about the Spanish Civil War (in 2003, Ben Lerner spent time in Madrid on a Fullbright Scholarship). The narrative is introspective, possibly to the point of self-absorption, an endearing and funny characteristic to many critics, annoying to others. Gordon does however have an ambiguous awareness of his surroundings which he uses to paint abstract portraits of the people of Madrid and of the city itself.

A semi-autobiographical tale

Throughout the book, language and cultural barriers veil Gordon’s surroundings with a confusion that creates surprisingly colorful interpretations - although seemingly detached from reality, these indicate that Gordon is wholly engaged with his surroundings, albeit from the distance of his own creative world. We follow the young American poet as he parties and feels his life is filled with a sense of hopeful failure; a type of failure out of which emerges ambiguity and abstraction that promises creative possibility. Failing to fully understand the Spanish Ianguage during what seems like a meaningful conversation, he writes: “I formed several stories out of her speech, formed them at once, so it was less like I failed to understand them than that I understood in chords." He also experiences failed attempts at romance in Madrid, he often fails to tell the truth, and most importantly he fails to understand if the promising ambiguity of his anxieties, contempt and failures can inspire passion in poetry or if they indicate that he should quit writing and go do something else.

Lerner’s skill as a poet and his decidedly flexible style shine in this first novel. Gordon’s voice comes in a variety of writing formats. He drifts around Madrid and we drift through his thoughts in the form of lyrical poetry, essay, insightful prose and even an instant text messenger conversation, perhaps the most memorable moment of this memorable book.

Americans in Spain

Although Gordon seems to fail at everything, lie to everyone and live in a world of lazy privilege, his brutal honesty with himself, and the reader, is what makes his voice so engaging. He feels annoyed with America, even more annoyed by other Americans in Spain attempting to escape American annoyance by fleeing to Europe and pretending they are not a part of, or have ever contributed to what he considers American annoyance. He’s mostly annoyed by Americans pretending not be American, because he himself is one of these pretenders. As he attempts to determine if he’s also a pretend poet, Americans reading Leaving the Atocha Station will likely feel forced to consider their own opinions of themselves and their country, as they view Madrid through this unique new book.  

Is being happy directly related to social welfare and a high standard of living strongly associated with developed countries? Considering the results obtained from an international survey conducted by Gallup Inc., this might not always be the case.  

The results suggest that Latin America is the happiest place in the world. 1000 people from 148 countries took the survey and answered questions such as “Do you laugh a lot?” and “Did you feel well-rested yesterday?”

The rankings of nations such as Guatemala have risen in terms of well-being. Regardless of political or economic challenges in certain countries, people report that they smile often and feel positive. Countries like Panama and Paraguay are the most positive in Latin America followed by El Salvador, Venezuela, Trinidad and Tobago, Ecuador and Costa Rica.

The study confirms the generalized, positive reputation residents of many Latin American countries have in terms of friendliness, maintaining a positive outlook on life and placing a high value on family, friends and religion.

To enjoy life in Latin America and learn Spanish in a friendly environment, check out our Spanish language schools in the world’s happiest countries.   

Antigua, Guatemala: Literally called Ancient Guatemala, this city was selected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its well-protected remains of colonial churches and Spanish Baroque architecture. The city has a relatively small population (nearly 35.000) and you’ll get to learn Spanish just 4 blocks away from the Plaza Central. You’ll also discover Guatamala’s rich culture while exploring this historic city. Antigua is a popular destination for students from Europe and North America that come to learn Spanish through language immersion.  

Quito, Ecuador: Quito, the capital city of Ecuador, was one of the first World Heritage Sites to be acknowledged (1978). Beautiful natural landscapes and colonial architecture help make this an attractive Spanish language study destination. The city sits 9,350 feet (2,800 meters) above sea level, a location that offers amazing views of volcanic formations. Popular activities here include bird watching and visiting lively market places.

Latin America offers not only language immersion but also exciting cultural activities you can participate in while expanding your Spanish skills and enjoying the nice company of the people that ranked number one as the happiest people in the world.

Building peace in the minds of men and women. That is the goal of UNESCO. UNESCO creates a World Heritage List containing all of the world's special places. Many of these beautiful and historic places can be found in Latin America. Definitely worth a visit if you are in South America!

UNESCO was founded by the United Nations, the aim of which is world peace. The UN wants to improve the living conditions of all people in the world. They also strive to stimulate the development of universal values, in this way they hope to achieve freedom of want and freedom of fear.

UNESCO is helping in this endeavor by creating a World Heritage List. This list is divided into 3 parts. Namely; Natural Heritage, Cultural Heritage and Mixed Heritage, which is a combination of Natural and Cultural Heritage. There is also a separate list of endangered world heritage. In total there are 962 World Heritage Sites, spread over 157 countries.

Latin America is full of extraordinary places on this World Heritage List. 20 percent of all Natural World Heritage Sites on UNESCO's list are found in Latin America and the Caribbean.  Most world heritage sites in Latin America are found in Mexico and Peru. Thus, in Mexico you can see sights like one of the new 7 wonders of the world "Chichen Itza. In Mexico you will find no less than 31 (!) World Heritage sites. Take your pick!

One of the most important cities of the Maya was Chichen Itza. In the city you will find the Pyramid of Kukulcán (also called "el Castillo"). The pyramid is now more than 1,000 years old and great to see once! There are many more ruins to view, attracting millions of visitors. But that's not surprising, the city and its monuments are breathtaking and still exude all the historical charm of the past.

You certainly won't be bored in Peru either! Here you will find 11 different sights that are on the World Heritage List. There are many different cities, historical properties, parks and much more. Peru's most besproke n world heritage site is Cusco. This ancient village was originally the capital of the Incas.

In short: take a good look at the world heritage list and find a nice place to visit! Enjoy!

When we think of Spain, we often think sun, sea, delicious tapas and flamenco. Spain however also offers some of the best theme parks in Europe, where you can discover another side of this wonderful country. Take a look at some of the fun theme parks you can visit here:

Isla Mágica Sevilla (Magic Island):  You’ll go back in time to an age of pirates and travel to a magical universe in the city centre called La Cartuja. The park consists of 8 themed areas, where one minute you’ll be on a rafting adventure in El Dorado and the next minute you’ll find yourself aboard an old fashioned pirate ship.

Parque Warner (Warner Brothers Park): Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck and all the other famous Warner Bros characters are waiting in this spectacular park in Madrid, which offers activities both for kids and adults. If you have a fear of heights, it might not be a good idea to go on the Superman La Atracción de Acero rollercoaster, which is unique in that it was the first floorless roller coaster in Europe.

Parque Europa: Travel around Europe without leaving Madrid. The newly transformed theme park Parque Europa de Torrejón de Ardoz not only offers full time fun for kids, adults also have great time here wandering around famous European landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower or London Bridge.

Parque de Attracciones de Madrid: The capital of Spain is the home of various parks and this one is truly worth seeing. 40 exciting rides and other activities offer visitors the chance to experience wild adrenaline-filled theme park fun. After a long day of adventures, you can chill out at the restaurant area or enjoy a little peace with your kids playing games together.

Terra Mítica: If you happen to go to the Costa Blanca, stop by Benidorm, Alicante for a mythical journey to the ancient cultures of the Mediterranean. The park is divided into 5 different zones: Egypt, Greece, Rome, the Mediterranean Islands and the Iberian Peninsula. Terra Mítica is a park full of excitement, with roller coasters, ferris wheels, merry-go-rounds and other activities.

Universal Port Aventura: This is one of the most entertaining theme parks in Europe and it is just an hour away from Barcelona by car. Situated in the heart of the Costa Dorada in Salou, the park has 6 themed areas: the Mediterranean, Mexico, China, the Wild West, Polynesia and Sesame Street. Each zone offers its own characteristic adventures through rides, attractions and live entertainment shows.

Dinópolis: There’s not much chance you’ll get to see a T-REX outside of the movies, yet in Spain you do get to learn about history and science by stepping into the ancient world of dinosaurs. Dinopolis is a cultural park and museum that was established after the discovery of a collection of fossils in the area. The park features 6 areas spread around the main section of the park: Legendark, Inhóspitak, Mar Nummus, Bosque Pétreo, Región Ambarina and Titania.