March 2009

Food, Wine and Spirits of Portugal and Spain

There is a reason why many travelers plan their trip around the culinary delights and featured wines of a country. And there is an even bigger reason why many gastronomes choose Spain and Portugal as their favorite destinations in which to indulge. The locals in the Iberian Peninsula are known for their passion for life and even more so for celebrating that passion through their food. The fervor is contagious, how could it not be? Paella, tapas and hearty stews are a favorite, as are the unique wines and spirits that accompany them.
The vast coastline of both Spain and Portugal yields the seafood from which their most famous dishes are made. As you wind your way along the spectacular coastline, you will find many local restaurants where you can savor mouth watering lobsters, shrimps, mussels and fish served in every manner imaginable. Grilled, poached, fried or stewed, served with a combination of spices and flavors you won’t find anywhere else.

Portuguese cooking is a blend of the best features from all the different cultures that have visited its shores. Spices from India, peppers from Brazil and seasonings from Macau, add flavor to their dishes. In fact, the Portuguese lay claim to introducing many of these flavors to Europe. The unofficial national fish is ‘bacalhau’ – or salted cod. It is said there are more than 365 ways to prepare this obviously popular dish.

Meat also plays an important role in Portuguese cooking. The popular ‘carne de porco a alentejana’ combines clams with diced marinated pork and red peppers. And don’t forget ‘cozido à portuguesa’ - a thick, rich stew made of meat and local vegetables. It too has a number of variations but the most common method is prepared with pork.

One of the most memorable experiences you may have is enjoying paella in the city where it originated – Valencia. Paella is probably the best known Spanish dish and one bite will validate the country’s growing reputation for creativity and innovation in its cuisine. Paella Valenciana combines the best of the entire region - the seafood caught off the shores of Valencia, the short grained Arboro rice from the Ebro River Delta, fresh vegetables and even the regional chorizo sausages.

A visit is not complete without taking part in the tasty experience of sampling tapas. These small plates are considered appetizers but sitting and enjoying the vast array of olives, cheeses, seafood, meats or vegetables is one of Spain’s most popular social activities. Locals wet their appetite with delicious tapas washed down with exquisite wines before their main meals. Often tapas are the meal.

Centuries’ old olive oil production in both Spain and Portugal has only helped to enhance the flavors of the local dishes. When you head inland, you will discover how the ability to cure hams and create mouth-watering sausages has been perfected over the centuries. Each region of the Peninsula has their own distinctive methods of preparing their meats. In addition, lamb and even rabbit are transformed in dishes that utilize the amazing selection of vegetables. Homemade breads and cheeses are like none you will find anywhere else in the world and those with a sweet tooth can enjoy a wide range of desserts, cakes and pastries.

Wine is another important aspect for truly enjoying a visit to the Iberian Peninsula. Production dates back to the days of the Romans so one could argue it has now been perfected. Some of the finest wines in the world have their origins here.

Portugal’s wines are an under rated treasure. For a small country, you may be surprised to learn there are over 100 varieties to choose from, from the strong Douro wines in the north to the light, fruity Algarve wines in the south. Of course probably the best known is the robust Madeira wine, but it gives only a glimmer of the body of the country’s fabulous red table wines which complement Portugal’s rich cuisine. For whites, Vinho Verde, Vinho do Douro, Vinho do Alentejo, Vinho do Dã are all internationally recognized for their crisp, fresh tastes.

There are over 50 recognized wine regions in Spain alone, which is part of the reason why it is the second largest wine producer in the world. But we can talk about quality above quantity. The Rioja region has become synonymous with impressive red wines while on the northern plateau, Ribera del Duero is noted for its world class Vega Sicilia and Tinto Pesquera wines. Despite the acclaim for its reds, Spain’s production of whites cannot be discounted. Special mention should be made to the wines from Penedés as well as the Galician Albariño and the Txakoli from the Basque Country.

It’s no wonder that with such fabulous cuisine to choose from, both Spain and Portugal are also known for their spirits and dessert wines. In Portugal you must try the delicate, vibrancy of their Port wine which gets its name from the historic city of Oporto where it was first created. Or perhaps enjoy the unique Portuguese liqueur, Amarguinha, made from sour almonds.

In Spain, simply sit back and enjoy the wines of Jerez. You will know it as sherry, a wine made from white grapes and fortified with brandy after fermentation is complete. A real treat.February 2009

February 2009

Portugal and Spain - The Perfect Honeymoon Destination

Rich in both history and culture and oh, so romantic, Portugal and Spain lovingly entice honeymooners by promising an experience guaranteed to create lifelong memories. Where better for couples to start their life together than in a land that exudes such passion and romance?

For centuries, people of the Iberian Peninsula have enjoyed a lifestyle that is as seductive as it is exciting. They know far too well how to enjoy their historical and natural surroundings and are willing and anxious to share that with others.

Couples who want to immerse themselves in history will find that there is so much to see and do. They may choose to chase the same windmills Don Quixote did, explore Spain’s Route of Castles, wander through the distinctively colorful medieval buildings of Portugal’s city of Porto, count the columns in the Mezquita or Great Mosque of Córdoba, or explore the Batalha Monastery, a masterpiece of Portuguese Gothic architecture and former Dominican Abbey.
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Both Spain and Portugal have a wide range of UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the spectacular mountaintop city of Toledo or the “Hanging Houses” on the cliffs of Cuenca, the magnificent Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon, or Sintra’s magical palaces and gardens. Couples can expect to be seduced by their surroundings, whether they are taking in Lisbon or Madrid’s famous arts and culture or stealing away for quiet time in small hidden gems such as Tróia Peninsula, or the Renaissance city of Cáceres.

After the excitement of a hectic wedding, honeymooners are invited to slow down the pace and take in the amazing food and wine served by these amazing European countries. Enjoy long, leisurely lunches or romantic dinners as you savor the hearty stews, delightful local cheeses, and mouth-watering sausages, or dine on the vast array of seafood found throughout the Iberian Peninsula. What visit to Spain would be complete without sampling Valencia’s renowned paella, or just one of Portugal’s reputed 365 ways to prepare cod?

With over 50 recognized wine growing regions, Spain is the second largest wine producer in the world. From the reds of Rioja to the whites of Penedés, Spain´s wines are among the finest you will ever taste. While the reputation of Portugal’s Madeira and Port wines is well known, couples should experience the increasingly popular Vinho Verde or Green Wine. These wines are picked late and drunk young, with unique and crisp flavors.

Nothing is more seductive than witnessing the passionate and complex dance of Flamenco, or the listening to the romantic music of the Fado. These melodies are considered to be the heart of Portugal’s soul and one cannot help but be drawn to the “saudade,” a Portuguese word that translates roughly as longing, or nostalgia for unrealized dreams.

There are endless beaches to choose from either on the Atlantic Ocean or the Mediterranean. Honeymooners seeking to swim, sail, or take part in a host of water activities will be drawn to Algarve, Costa del Sol and Ibiza. These regions are famous around the world for their glittering coasts, luxurious resorts and multi-cuisine restaurants. World class golf and tennis facilities are also available as are top notch spas beckoning those who just want to relax. Up for some nightlife? It’s hard to top Lisbon or Ibiza’s reputation as the perfect hangout to party the night away.

Newlyweds are also invited to explore the garden like islands of the Azores featuring azure lagoons and volcanic ruggedness, and the natural scenic beauty of the islands of Madeira. Located amidst the waters of the Atlantic Ocean, they provide a great escape for lovers who want to enjoy the clear, beautiful beaches surrounding the islands, the lush gardens of Porto Moniz or the stunning marine Garajau Natural Reserve.

Spain and Portugal make for a unique, romantic travel destination that blends diverse cultures, history, and an unabated passion for music, art, literature, and tradition. In addition to memories, the Iberian Peninsula offers value as the most affordable region in Europe. From the beaches to the Pyrenees Mountains, Spain and Portugal have a lot to offer honeymooners looking to start their lives together in a spectacularly memorable way.

November 21, 2008

Celebrate the Holiday Season in Portugal & Spain

Come the holiday season, both Spain and Portugal come to life with plenty of celebrations, traditions, festivals and excitement. In the mild winter climate, the locals traditionally take to the streets in collective gaiety, singing, dancing and partying at every opportunity. The mood is contagious, and the decorations plentiful, instilling a festive atmosphere in cities and towns across the Iberian Peninsula. Although the season is filled with the usual Christmas and New YearHoliday celebrations, each country has its own distinctive traditions that make them unique.

The smell of roasting chestnuts fills the air for towns around Portugal. Elaborate nativity scenes, many with people acting the roles, adorn the streets as Christmas Holiday markets pop up on every corner. Christmas dinner is always a huge family feast and is traditionally eaten after midnight on Christmas Eve. In Portugal, prior to attending midnight mass, families gather around the tree to celebrate the birth of Jesus, while in Spain the celebrations and singing of carols, takes place after dinner and continues into the wee hours of the morning.
It is not Santa who comes to Spain bearing gifts, but the Three Wise Men. The Spanish Christmas continues for a few weeks after Dec. 25th. On the Eve of Epiphany, in the secret of the night, the Three Wise Men pass leaving gifts. January 6th, Epiphany is heralded with parades in various cities where candy and cakes are distributed to throngs of children, making this is one of the most important holidays on the Spanish calendar.
New Year’s Eve on the other hand is for the most part celebrated in the streets. Street parties are common; everywhere you look there is live entertainment, sidewalk theatres and jovial music as locals and tourists get ready to bring in the New Year. The Iberian PeninsulaSpanish ‘good luck’ tradition on New Year’s is to eat a grape every time the clock strikes during midnight. In Lisbon on New Year’s Eve–called Noite Mágica–hotels and the streets are the scenes of many parties and elaborate displays of lights. And, New Year is huge on Portugal’s Madeira with celebration for a month leading up to the big night, capped off by the biggest display of fireworks in Europe.So whether you are in Portugal or Spain for the holidays, you are guaranteed an excellent time. There is certainly no lack of things to do or festivals to attend and all visitors are welcomed with open arms.
 

October 3, 2008

 Portugal and Spain Continue to Add  World Class Sporting Events

Over the years Portugal and Spain have played host to numerous world class sporting events, making Rafael Nadal, Cristiano Ronaldo, Seve Ballesteros and Luis Figo household names. Not only has this helped bring both countries into the spotlight, but it has substantially increased tourism.

TENNIS
Over the years, Spain has produced some incredible tennis players from Manuels Santana and Orantes in the 1960s and 1970s, to current champions like Rafael Nadal. Nadal recently led the Spanish team to victory over the US in the Davis Cup before leading them to the final in Argentina this November.
Spain vs the USA was an unprecedented match in that it took place in Madrid\'s spectacular Las Ventas bullring. The Federations Cup final was also held in the Spanish capital but in the rather more conventional surrounds of the Club de Campo Villa. Future ATP Masters events are also scheduled to take place in the new Caja Mágica complex.

 There are numerous Iberian costal cities with world class tennis faclities including the cosmopolitan city of Barcelona who regularly hosts ATP and WPA fixtures. Held just outside Lisbon along the Portuguese Rivera, the Estoril Open is Portugal\'s most prestigious tennis tournament of which Roger Federer the current title holder. Interestingly, Estoril is also home to the MotoGP cirucuit and the wonderful world of motor sport.
 

GOLF
Disappointed from their recent performance at the Ryder Cup, the Europeans still returned home with fond memories of the tournament\'s only visit to Spain since the Seve Ballesteros-inspired triumph at Valderrama in 1997. Located in the colourful region of Andalucia, Club de Golf Valderrama remains Spain\'s premier golf course and home to the Volvo Masters from October 30th to November 2nd. This and the Portugal Masters are the only major tournaments held during the autumn thanks to the warm Iberia Peninsula weather.
The much anticipated Portugal Masters is scheduled to take place On October 16th through the 19th at the world renowned Victoria Golf Club in Vilamoura. With prize money reaching €4 million, it is the richest golf tournament in the country, attracting the worlds best players.

SOCCER
Americans may refer to it as soccer, but in Europe it is unequivocally called ‘football’ and for many passionate fans, it is the only true sport in existence. Spain and Portugal are soccer-mad countries, with Spain currently holding the European Champion title and Portugal playing host to many recent tournaments. The domestic leagues from both countries showcase the world\'s best talents with every sizable city throughout the peninsula playing home to a major team. Many cities boast stadiums of architectural beauty such as the cavernous 100,000 seat Nou Camp in Catalonia and Benfica\'s revamped Stadium of Light in Lisbon. European supporters are passionate with loyalties built on historical and cultural rivalries.

 No visit to the Iberian peninsula is complete without experiencing the electric atmosphere of a live football match. However if a visit to a stadium itself proves impossible, catching the game on television over beer and tapas snacks at the neighbourhood bar can be just as rewarding. Now real enthusiasts can take it a step further by joining a soccer camp or summer training program or get a behind the scenes look at the clubs themselves by touring the stadium museums.

MOTOR SPORTS
The Estoril track was a popular Formula One venue throughout the 80’s and 90’s and is currently a fixture on the popular MotoGP circuit. It has a new domestic rival in the Portimão racetrack in the Algarve, set for its international inauguration on November 2nd with the final round of the World Superbike Championship. This new complex covers 300 hectares of land between the port city of Portimão and the hills of Monchique, with a capacity for up to 100,000 spectators including a VIP tower with 15,000 seats.
Barcelona\'s Montmeló racetrack has hosted the Spanish F1 Grand Prix since 1991 and the MotoGP since 1992. Given the boom in interest that has accompanied local hero Fernando Alonso\'s rise in the sport, Spain was awarded a second race this year with Valencia being granted the European Grand Prix. Valencia\'s track takes in the city\'s stunning new waterfront complex, making use of the newly renovated port which was redeveloped in 2007 to host the Americas Cup. Alongside Monaco, Valencia has now become Europes second street-based circuit on the F1 calendar.

August 26, 2008

Portugal and Spain Offer the Best Value in Western Europe

Looking for the perfect place to vacation? Perhaps you should take a closer look at the wonders of the Iberian Peninsula. With a rich and fascinating history, both Portugal and Spain have a lot to offer from art, culture and architecture, to thousands of years of mixed cultural history.

Journey with us as we explore the Spanish and Portuguese culture, arts, entertainment, events and fiestas. Experience the incredible beauty as we take you on a guided tour through cities, towns and countryside. Our monthly newsletter will keep you up to date with the latest news and upcoming events, as well as show you what all the buzz is about. We also have the insider info on how to get the best value for your money while enjoying an incredible vacation.

Home to numerous famous artists and architects, kings and queens, both countries are adorned with magnificent castles, fortresses, villas, museums, cathedrals and more. Romanesque and Gothic influences evident in their style and design. Portugal boasts some of the world’s greatest medieval cathedrals, palaces and monasteries, including the Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon and the Sintra National Palace, also known as the Village Palace. Being home to some of the world’s most important explorers such as Ferdinand Magellan, Bartholomeu Dias and Vasco da Gama, Portugal’s history is very colorful with many international influences evident in its architecture, culture and lifestyle. Spain on the other hand, is a monumental treasure trove of art, and home to some incredible museums, architecture and blockbuster exhibits featuring their most famous artists including Picasso, Gaudi, Dali, Miro?, Goya and more.

While being voted one of the Mediterranean’s top tourist destinations with the lowest average hotel room rate in Western Europe, the Iberian Peninsula is the place to be. No matter what kind of vacation you are seeking, they have it all. Exquisite beaches, incredible Mediterranean views, history, culture, great golf courses, world class hotels and villas, and a calendar of events to match. Travel with us through wine country, over mountains and across rivers as we take you on the trip of a lifetime. We don’t want you to miss a thing…