top travel destinations

There is no superior starting place for your travel to Spain than the grand and enchanting streets of Barcelona. There is never a dull moment in this city that literally never sleeps
especially in the summer months. Barcelona is studded with the unmistakable modernism of Antoni Gaudi
who single-handedly landed the city on the architectural map. A stroll down the grand avenue Passeig de Gracia will take you directly in front of both Casa Batllo and Casa Mila
which are incredible feats of art and design and fully accessible to the public. Make reservations to have cocktails and watch the sun set on the Alice In Wonderland-like rooftop of Casa Mila (only available for the summer season). Wind your way through the narrow passages of the Gothic Quarter
the oldest part of town
until you find the overwhelming and unmistakable Gothic Cathedral (just remember to watch your pockets!).

Just an hour north of Barcelona in the town of Figueres is Northern Spain's most interesting and unique museum. The Dali museum is so extraordinary because it was designed and constructed by the artist himself and the collection of his works is unsurpassed anywhere else in the world. The coastline north of Barcelona
extending to the French border
is known as the Costa Brava and is one of the Mediterranean's most exclusive and beautiful vacation destinations. Additionally
Catalonia's countryside is spotted with superb Spanish wine vineyards and olive groves. Once you fall in love with Barcelona
it will be extremely difficult to leave; however
there are a few other gems in the north to explore in order to have really traveled Spain.

San Sebastian (Donostia)
A blend of cosmopolitan chic and sophisticated resort town
San Sebastian offers all the luxuries of a big city while providing the Atlantic coastline with its most popular beach getaway. San Sebastian
the heart and soul of the Basque region
is widely known for its world-class restaurants and irresistible tapas bars; its location just south of the French border has added a unique flare to the culture and cuisine found nowhere else in Spain. Just a short bus ride inland takes you to Bilbao
home of Frank O. Gehry's spectacular architectural triumph
the Guggenheim Museum. This is one stop that must be made when you travel Spain!

Pamplona
The captivating words of Hemmingway and the dangerous art of bull running are inescapable symbols of this historic township. Another cultural staple of the Basque region
Pamplona should be a stop on as you travel Spain in July when La Fiesta de San Fermin (The Running of the Bulls) takes place over 14 days. The population of 250
0
explodes to over 1 million
so reserve a place to stay early or simply do what the locals do: eat
drink and dance in the streets until the sun comes up and the bulls begin to run!

Months would be needed to travel Spain's diverse cultures and distinct regions. With more limited time
these fascinating destinations provide an intimate window into the authentic Spanish way of life.

For more information on travel to Spain and other destinations in Europe
and discount airfare to Spain
visit www.cfares.com.

No country embodies the grandeur of European travel quite like France. From the international artistic reputation of Cannes to the luxurious leisure of the Riviera
France has demonstrated a remarkable capacity to overcome a tumultuous history by enriching the quality of life with those experiences. The diversity of the country will leave you stimulated
satiated and asking for more when you finally treat yourself and travel to France!

Throughout European history
France has been the undisputed pioneer of social revolution and cultural renaissance. An enlightened society with classic charm
France will guide your journey seamlessly through centuries of power and progress
defeats and suffering
all of which possess an essence of timelessness. Travel France in July and witness Bastille Day
a commemoration of the destruction of the prison that King Louis XVI and his predecessors used to quiet social disruption and censor or torture public irritants. The day is symbolic of the value of social freedoms and democratic governance to the French people. The main celebration takes place in Paris at the former site of the Bastille.

Go further back in time and explore the French countryside
which is rich with Roman Ruins dating up until the 5th Century. Gr้oux-les-Bains
in the south of France
is known not only for its hot springs but also for the ruins of Roman bath tubs and swimming pools that depended on these springs as a source for hot water. Aix-en-Provence is a well known town central to France's wine and art culture
but also shares a Roman past as an ancient city with two aqueducts demonstrating the technological prowess of the Roman people.

For a more unique experience
travel to the Loire Valley
a bastion of medieval castles
and have yourself a true Chโteaux experience. Many of the ancient and classical castles have rooms available for rent
mainly during the summer season. There is no better way to be immersed in French history; plus
the castles often offer the best of the surrounding wine region.

French Travel: More Than a History Lesson
Not only is France a gateway into Europe's enchanting history
the country that is world renowned for its irresistible food
fabulous wines and sophisticated lifestyle does live up to its reputation. Visit Nice to enjoy the coveted Riviera way of life while avoiding the throngs of tourists that swarm to St. Tropez just up the coast. While in Paris
make sure to enjoy a quiche lorraine in a local caf้ somewhere on the outskirts of town in addition to scaling the Eiffel Tower or getting lost in the Louvre. However you choose to travel
there is no way to miss the robust culture and resilient history of France.

For more information on travel to France and other regions in Europe
and discount airfare to France
visit www.cfares.com.