In episode 51 of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, prepare to embark on a captivating journey through Spain as hosts Tracy and Doug and guest interviewer Melissa Kiely share their unforgettable experiences exploring Madrid, Seville, and Barcelona.
Discover the highlights of their three-week Spanish adventure, from the fascinating tours they took and the charming accommodations they stayed in, to the unique culinary delights they savored. The trio delves into the intricacies of travelling around Spain, including the challenges and joys of navigating various cities by train and metro.
Plus, Tracy and Doug offer insightful tips and reflections on what they’d do differently next time, making this episode a treasure trove of inspiration and practical advice for anyone planning their own Spanish escapade. So tune in and let the wanderlust begin!
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Episode 51 – Summary + Tours mentioned in this episode
With practical guidance for itineraries, accommodations, and transport, Tracy and Doug share their insights on everything from the unexpected adventures brought about by train strikes to the joys of staying just outside major city centers for a more local experience.
Alongside Melissa, they recount cultural highlights and share thoughtful tips to inspire your own Spanish escapade.
Tapas and Walking Tours
Barcelona
- Barcelona Tapas, Taverns & History Tour
- Complete Gaudi Tour with Sagrada Familia, House Visit & Park Güell
Seville
- Tastes, Tapas & Traditions of Seville Food Tour
- Tapas & Flamenco Tour: Seville Tapas Crawl with Flamenco Show
- Best of Seville Walking Tour: Exclusive Early Alcazar Access, Cathedral & Jewish Quarter
Madrid
What you’ll learn in this episode
- 📅 How to maintain flexible travel plans to accommodate unexpected changes like weather or strikes.
- 🚄 Advice on using Spain’s fast trains and local train services like Madrid and Barcelona’s metro systems.
- 🛏️ Advantages of choosing apartment accommodations for longer stays and cost savings.
- 🥢 Delight in Spain’s rich dining experiences, including tapas tours and the art of flamenco.
Places, foods and words/concepts mentioned
Places
- Madrid: The capital city known for its vibrant culture and historical sites; easy to explore via an efficient metro system.
- Seville: Renowned for its walkable streets, mesmerizing flamenco, and traditional architecture.
- Barcelona: A bustling city full of architectural wonders, including Gaudí’s impressive designs.
- Sitges: A charming coastal town south of Barcelona, offering a different pace and stunning beach views.
Foods
- Tapas: A staple of Spanish culinary tradition; highlighted in immersive food tours across Madrid, Seville, and Barcelona.
Words/Concepts
- Devour Tours: Renowned tour company offering engaging food tours to experience local cuisine and culture.
- Renfe: Spain’s national railway company, crucial for intercity travel; potential strike disruptions discussed.
- Flamenco: A passionate and traditional Spanish art form witnessed in Seville, hailed as a cultural highlight.
Links
Podcasts
- Episode #37 – Tips for first-time visitors to France
- Episode #38 – Top Tips and Insights for First-Time Travellers to Tokyo, Japan
- Episode #42 – Discover Italy: Essential tips for first-time visitors with Dianne Bortoletto
Articles
- Spain Travel Guide
- What to watch
