Spain is a favorite vacation spot for many different reasons. While food and wine are highlights of the culture, people in recovery might want to stay away from the bar scene. Fortunately, there are many amazing things to do in Spain, and you can learn more about them here.
1. Tour Architecture
In many parts of Spain, you will enjoy the beautiful Gothic architecture that is seen. The impressive photo-worthy landmarks are not to be missed, from stained glass churches to cobblestone streets. Older styles that show influence from Islamic regions, like the La Alhambra, offer unique and one-of-a-kind photo opportunities or a chance to glimpse the beautiful art styles. You’ll also see examples of Renaissance architecture like the Monasterio de El Escorial or even the baroque Real Hospício de San Fernando.
2. See Museums and Art Galleries
Spain has many examples of beautiful works of art that are amazing. There are also numerous museums that show visitors unique perspectives on life. For example, Museo Nacional del Prado is a stunning building in Madrid with plenty of fantastic paintings. In Barcelona, you can see the Picasso Museum, filled with artwork by Pablo Picasso, a Spanish native.
Local artists, festivals, and art galleries provide beautiful artwork and opportunities for people to learn from the artists. At the heart of the city of Barcelona is a museum known by many as one of the best modern art museums in Europe. The museum, Fundació Joan Miró, houses one of the largest collections of works by Spanish artist Joan Miró.
3. Hiking
There are many beautiful hiking trails in Spain to see the unique landscape in the region. The Camino de Santiago is a historic trail that many people travel the world over to the experience. This network spans a distance of about 500 miles in total. Camino Del Rey is another popular hiking spot that is 5 miles long and crosses an extraordinary drawbridge. Cami dels Bons Homes is another trail that spans about 124 miles. It starts in Southern France and crosses through the Pyrenees.
4. Spanish Lessons
Spain is a great destination to learn a new language! You can partner up with a private language tutor who would show you the ropes and even some prized local destinations. You may also sign up for a college course at one of the universities. Also, there are language immersion programs you can enroll in where you can get a live-in experience and benefit from experienced teachers. You may also choose to self-teach the language. With so many people to talk to and libraries to study in, you may pick up a new language faster than you think.
5. Try the Cuisine
Mediterranean foods are known all over the world for their superb health and flavor. Spanish cuisine is most famous for the wide variety of seafood and meat products due to Spain’s long shoreline. This includes proteins like squid, cuttlefish, octopus, shrimp, red mullet, and anchovy. And don’t forget to load up on healthy vegetables like garlic sprouts (calçots), cabbage (white and green), onion sprouts (calçotada), tomato (torta), cucumber, gourd (zucchini), and pumpkin, all of which are found in soups, stews, and other traditional dishes. Bread plays an important role in Spanish cuisine, often used as a utensil for olives and other snacks. You have to try the paella, a national staple and trendy food.
6. Experience Flamenco Dancing
The music and dance of Andalusia are two of the most representative symbols of this region, so you can not leave southern Spain without enjoying some live flamenco. Flamenco dance has characteristic guitar and dancing that make it stand out as one of the most recognized in the world. When you’re enjoying the performance, don’t forget to say, Ole!
7. Enjoy the ocean
Spain’s oceans and beaches feature beautiful water and beaches. Enjoy a day sunbathing, kayaking, fishing, or any other water activity you can think of. Surfing is another popular activity in certain areas, and you can also find lessons or groups to make new friends while you are doing it.
Exploring new things and having novel experiences while sober make the experience more memorable and meaningful. Don’t think of it as missing out on anything. Think of it as gaining an appreciation of the trip you couldn’t have while you were under the influence.
Sources
Spanish.academy – Everything You Need to Know About Spanish Architecture
Thegeographicalcure.com – Guide To the Best Art Museums in Spain
Theculturetrip.com – The Top Spots for Hiking and Trekking in Spain
Goabroad.com – Where to Learn Spanish in Spain
Viahero.com – The 16 Best Things To Do in Spain According To Locals
Sunshinebehavioralhealth.com – Inpatient Alcohol Rehab | Alcohol Rehab Facilities