Sun, sangria and siestas
Spain lands you in one of Europe’s most vibrant countries with something to captivate every traveller. Couples will love the vibrant street life and exciting culture, while those of a more adventurous bent can explore some of the world’s most dramatic mountain ranges. The focus is on family here - and children are assured a warm welcome everywhere they go.
If you’re considering a holiday in Spain, food is likely to be at the forefront of your mind. In every city, town and village you’ll find tapas - small plates of perfectly seasoned local meats, seafood and vegetables. Each region has its own speciality; from Asturias’ salmon in cider to Cantabria’s delectable venison stew.
The variation in landscape and culture means you can move from desert plain to mountain village to bustling coastal city in just a few hours. There’s so much to see, you’ll need a lifetime to experience it all.
Luxury holidays in Spain offer the best of everything. In the ancient cities you can shop for international brands and exquisite local handicrafts or spend an afternoon relaxing in a street side restaurant. This is a nation with a well deserved reputation for food and wine. Seven of the world’s 50 best restaurants are located in Spain.
Here at Sovereign, we understand your holiday begins long before you head off to the airport. The anticipation is part of the fun, so our Personal Travel Planners are always available to give tips on how to get the most from your destination.
Both our top picks are located in Marbella on the Costa del Sol. On the outskirts of the city is Puente Romano Beach Resort and Spa – a chic, modern resort set in verdant grounds, with tennis courts, a gym and a spa. There are several onsite restaurants, including the two Michelin-starred Dani Garcia Restaurante.
Dubai takes you to an exotic paradise of white sand beaches, swaying palm trees, futuristic landscapes and vast shopping malls mixed with ancient Arabic tradition. There is something for everyone within this exciting UAE metropolis, where families will enjoy spending precious time together on the picture postcard Jumeriah Beach. For adventurers, the stunning Arabian Desert awaits and allows you to sample sand boarding, explore camel farms or enjoy a desert jeep safari. Home to the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, Dubai family holidays are full of adventure.
Take a tour along the pretty Dubai Creek on a traditional wooden abra, before taking a stroll through the atmospheric souks where you can pick up a souvenir. Select from an array of beautiful handmade jewellery, striking leather goods and aromatic spices including saffron and cinnamon. Be sure to take a break at the authentic cafés serving shisha and thick Arabic coffee and watch the world go by.
Holidays in Dubai offer upmarket amenities within Dubai City, which has been carved out of the desert. Designer shopping awaits at the boutiques lining the extensive, modern malls in addition to plenty of tax free bargains. When hunger strikes, sample the Michelin starred restaurants and chic cafés that make Dubai so popular with foodies. You will be spoilt for choice with our fine collection of luxury hotels in Dubai, complete with infinity pools. Atlantis The Palm is a spectacular oceanic resort perched on the world’s largest manmade island, Atlantis. Guests can indulge in a luxury Spa, Aquarium and over 20 bars and restaurants.
Enjoy the best of Spain with our mini destination guide. Find out more about Spain and our favourite hotels by clicking here.
One thing’s for sure – Spanish summers are hot. On mainland Spain, summers are long and the rest of the year is pretty sunny too, peaking at 30°C in July and August. The Canaries are a good winter sun destination, with steady mid 20s sunshine for as many as 10 months a year. Over on the Balearics there’s more good news, with similarly hot average temperatures and around 11 hours of sunshine per day.
Currently visas are not required for UK citizens travelling to Spain.
Restaurant bills include a service charge by law in Spain, so whether you choose to tip further is up to you. If you enjoyed the meal and service, it is customary to leave 5-10%. Hotel porters and maids will appreciate a small tip, and while taxi drivers don’t require a tip, it’s common to round up the fare.
The official language of Spain is Spanish. English is widely spoken too, so getting by is easy.