In Retrospect

Over the course of this past summer, I have compiled in my head all the best things about each country I have visited. If I ever return (which I hope to do) to these places, I would want a list of all the best things to do, eat, and buy. Consequently I will be putting together micro-miniature guides to all 8 countries, including what I have observed are the most rewarding things to see, consume, and purchase. Of course, I was only in each country for 4-5 days, so it’s an amateur’s perspective; however, for first-timers it would be convenient as well as for my future second-timer self.
Following is the first installment.


SPAIN:

To Do:
1. Go to a soccer game; I didn’t actually do this, but while we were there, the US beat Spain and everyone had something to say about it. The games are supposedly insane.
2. See the sunflower fields; they are incredible, and they are everywhere.
3. Go to the Ice Bar in Barcelona; I did not do this either, but I wish I had. Apparently it is quite the experience, they give you coats at the entrance.
4. Speak Spanish; even if it is just a few words, they will appreciate it. Spain speaks less English than any other European country, and knowing some words or phrases will also help ensure better service, especially when polite and engaging.
5. Go topless at the beach; this is the country for first-timers. I saw more topless women and naked children on the beaches in Spain than in Bulgaria, Italy, Greece, and Croatia combined.
6. Visit a bull ring; stand right in the center and imagine what happens/has happened right where you are.
7. See flamenco dancers; Spanish tradition, I wish I had done it. Those who went had nothing but good things to say.

To Eat:
1. Paella; duh. There are so many different varieties that everyone will be able to find one that they like.
2. Sangria; I’ve never had better, it has just the right amount of sweetness.
3. Churros; In particular, the chocolate ones.
4. Gelato; in my opinion, better than Italy’s. Get just one scoop atop an extra long cone…I recommend mint chocolate chip or flavors you don’t generally find elsewhere, like Nutella or the European favorite: Stracchiatella (vanilla with small balls of chocolate).
5. Shrimp pancakes; I am not shrimp’s biggest fan, but they are incredible! Ignore the onions.

To Buy:
1. A tiled bull souvenir; they come in all different colors, but I prefer the black ones. They are sold everywhere, and don’t look like your average picked-it-up-at-a-souvenir-shop trinket.
2. A fan; an absolute MUST for the summertime. Fans can be magical when it is surpassing 100 degrees and you are on a three-hour guided walking tour.
3. Clothing; look for the sales because the Euro is a killer. Spain has fantastic shopping and you can find a number of stores and items that are not available in the US. My favorite was a store called Blanco; everything in it was 50% off and the quality was rather good. It was comparable to H&M in style.
4. A soccer jersey; if you are a fan.