Join me for a rainy day stroll along what is probably Madrid's most iconic street. We start off at the bottom end of Gran Vía where it joins Calle Alcalá and follow its 1.3 kilometres all the way to Plaza de España. Forget chain stores, hotels, and touristy restaurants! Along the way we'll take in the street's most famous buildings and landmarks and explore the fascinating stories behind them. Think clocks, bombs, cocktails, neon lights, theatres, skyscrapers, and a Phoenix. Locations: Edificio Metrópolis Edificio Grassy Museo Chicote Gran Via metro station Edificio Telefónica Almacenes Madrid-Paris (Now Primark) Schweppes neon advertisement Edificio Carrión/Edificio Capitol Cines Callao Palacio de la Prensa Various Theatres Edificio de España/Riu Hotel Torre de Madrid Plaza de España Monumento a Cervantes El edificio de la Real Compañía Asturiana de Minas Casa Gallardo

The cool autumn evenings have arrived in Madrid and on a wander down Madrid's Calle de Arenal, I had a sudden craving for Spain's favourite warm, sweet treat — churros y chocolate! This a quintessentially Spanish snack that can be enjoyed at any time of year, but I think during autumn and winter churros y chocolate are a perfect comforting warmer. Join me as I visit Madrid's iconic Chocolatería San Ginés and pull up a chair at an old marble table in its dining room that dates back to 1894. As I dunk and chomp my way through this sinfully delicious delicacy I take in the surroundings, look at the photos adorning the walls, and take in the basement 'train carriage-style nook'. I also talk about San Ginés's interesting literary connection to modernist playwright Ramón María del Valle-Inclán and his play Luces de Bohemia. Next stop Los Artesanos 1902 where I see their churrero in action in the kitchen, albeit through a glass window, and explain how churros and porras (the thicker version) are made. Final stop is a very quiet Chocolatería Valor for another round of churros and run-through the curious history of this snack and also when it is usually eaten. (Not for dessert!) Other must-visit churrerías that I mention in the episode: Chocolat La Antigua Churrería  Churrería Camu  Churrería Santa Ana Here's a bit more background about the play Luces de Bohemia    

Chris Atkin, author of his new book, (Just As Well) It's Not About The Bike: A Journey Across Southern Spain, joins me in this episode to chat about his experience pedaling 1300 kilometres from Valencia to Gibraltar on a basic bike with only seven gears and barely enough room for panniers. Chris describes some of his favourite stops on his six week journey, including a grueling ride across Spain´s Sierra Nevada, Gandia´s ghost town vibe, picturesque Altea versus the untamed tourism of Benidorm, discovering morcilla in a tiny pueblo of Almócita in the province of Almeria, Granada and the Alhambra and the final destination of Gibraltar, bursting with civic pride. On the ride Chris shares with us some interesting anecdotes, for example Franco´s favourite singer (She despised him!), a little known nuclear catastrophe that happened in Palomares in the 1960s and the heartwarming story of why Mónica was daubed in giant white letters on a Málaga chimney. Chris also offers some practical advice for cycling in Spain, finding accommodation and improving your Spanish. Get your hands on a copy of his book (Just As Well) It's Not About The Bike: A Journey Across Southern Spain here Find out more about Chris Atkin on his website https://chrisatkinonline.com/

Spain vs England! I examine the cultural differences between Spain and the UK with the help of some of my Spanish friends who live and work in England. Let battle commence! I chat with Paula, Diego, Pedro and English ally Dan about the pros and cons of living in Spain and the UK, the things we miss, annoyances and frustrations from each country and share our observations on jobs, working conditions, corruption, families, politeness, bureaucracy, daily routines, the going out culture, outdoor life, food, weather and Brexit. Also in this episode I look ahead to future podcast interview with Ben Curtis from the Notes in Spanish and Notes from Spain podcast shows and talk about the new When in Spain Facebook group. FOLLOW WHEN IN SPAIN 📺Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/2SOrKrL 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Join the When in Spain Facebook Group. https://bit.ly/2CdDgWt 📷Follow on Instagram to see photography from across Spain. https://bit.ly/2D5p6IJ WANT TO SUPPORT WHEN IN SPAIN? 💚 Make a small donation $1-$5 via Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wheninspain WHAT IS WHEN IN SPAIN? The When in Spain show is a weekly podcast show, recorded in Madrid (and other parts of Spain) where l talk about my ‘warts and all’ observations and insights on life and culture on the Iberian peninsular. In each episode of the podcast I cast an eye on everyday life, people, places, politics, culture and history and attempt to give an honest opinion from a Brit who has a love-frustration relationship with Spain. I shall attempt to dispel or indeed confirm Spanish stereotypes through my ramblings and see if I can delve into the Spanish psyche. ..................................................................................................................... WHO THE HELL IS WHEN IN SPAIN? I'm Paul Burge, former BBC journalist, Hispanophile and Manchego lover. A Brit, born in Oxford and living in Spain for almost 5 years. I currently live in the centre of Madrid.

This week I explain how to open a Spanish bank account whether you're a resident or non-resident in Spain. I look at the process and paperwork whether opening an account online or in person. I give a rundown of the major Spanish banks and some lesser-known ones and assess what kind of bank accounts are available and talk about how to avoid hidden bank charges and fees. All that plus my own personal experience of opening an account with CaixaBank. FOLLOW WHEN IN SPAIN 📺Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/2SOrKrL 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Join the When in Spain Facebook Group. https://bit.ly/2CdDgWt 📷Follow on Instagram to see photography from across Spain. https://bit.ly/2D5p6IJ WANT TO SUPPORT WHEN IN SPAIN? 💚 Make a small donation $1-$5 via Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wheninspain WHAT IS WHEN IN SPAIN? The When in Spain show is a weekly podcast show, recorded in Madrid (and other parts of Spain) where l talk about my ‘warts and all’ observations and insights on life and culture on the Iberian peninsular. In each episode of the podcast I cast an eye on everyday life, people, places, politics, culture and history and attempt to give an honest opinion from a Brit who has a love-frustration relationship with Spain. I shall attempt to dispel or indeed confirm Spanish stereotypes through my ramblings and see if I can delve into the Spanish psyche. ..................................................................................................................... WHO THE HELL IS WHEN IN SPAIN? I'm Paul Burge, former BBC journalist, Hispanophile and Manchego lover. A Brit, born in Oxford and living in Spain for almost 5 years. I currently live in the centre of Madrid.

In Episode Ten of When in Spain I look at how to get the all-important Spanish NIE number and residency card. In this show I'll explain why it's crucial to get the NIE if you're planning to live, work, study, retire or buy a property in Spain. I'll guide you through the application process and talk about the frustrations and challenges of getting hold of this piece of paperwork that is the key to living in Spain. FOLLOW WHEN IN SPAIN 📺Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/2SOrKrL 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Join the When in Spain Facebook Group. https://bit.ly/2CdDgWt 📷Follow on Instagram to see photography from across Spain. https://bit.ly/2D5p6IJ WANT TO SUPPORT WHEN IN SPAIN? 💚 Make a small donation $1-$5 via Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wheninspain WHAT IS WHEN IN SPAIN? The When in Spain show is a weekly podcast show, recorded in Madrid (and other parts of Spain) where l talk about my ‘warts and all’ observations and insights on life and culture on the Iberian peninsular. In each episode of the podcast I cast an eye on everyday life, people, places, politics, culture and history and attempt to give an honest opinion from a Brit who has a love-frustration relationship with Spain. I shall attempt to dispel or indeed confirm Spanish stereotypes through my ramblings and see if I can delve into the Spanish psyche. ..................................................................................................................... WHO THE HELL IS WHEN IN SPAIN? I'm Paul Burge, former BBC journalist, Hispanophile and Manchego lover. A Brit, born in Oxford and living in Spain for almost 5 years. I currently live in the centre of Madrid.

Anyone learning Spanish will tell you that the journey is long and full of twists and turns. Are you struggling to maintain motivation? Tongue-tied when it comes to talking? Does Spanish grammar fill you with dread? Should you even bother to learn Spanish if you’re living in Spain or planning to move here? In episode eight of When in Spain I talk to Melissa from Thinking Spanglish, a blog described as a 'survivors guide' to learning Spanish, aimed at helping people overcome their fear of learning and improving Spanish. We answer the 'dreaded' question, should you or shouldn't you learn Spanish to live in Spain? Can you survive without it...? We find out. We also look at language learning resources, the challenges and rewards of learning Spanish, some top tips for language learning and of course we'll compare our own language learning experiences and insights. Melissa's long held ambition to live abroad brought her to Spain four and a half years ago - via her passion for flamenco and her various stints teaching in Spain. We met up on a sunny terrace in Madrid. Apologies for some of the loud and unexpected traffic noise on what's usually a quiet street. Here are a few links to resources mentioned in the episode: http://www.bbc.co.uk/languages/spanish/mividaloca/ http://thinkingspanglish.com/best-flashcard-app-spanish-in-a-month-elky-entertainment-llc-version-1-28/ FOLLOW WHEN IN SPAIN 📺Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/2SOrKrL 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Join the When in Spain Facebook Group. https://bit.ly/2CdDgWt 📷Follow on Instagram to see photography from across Spain. https://bit.ly/2D5p6IJ WANT TO SUPPORT WHEN IN SPAIN? 💚 Make a small donation $1-$5 via Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wheninspain WHAT IS WHEN IN SPAIN? The When in Spain show is a weekly podcast show, recorded in Madrid (and other parts of Spain) where l talk about my ‘warts and all’ observations and insights on life and culture on the Iberian peninsular. In each episode of the podcast I cast an eye on everyday life, people, places, politics, culture and history and attempt to give an honest opinion from a Brit who has a love-frustration relationship with Spain. I shall attempt to dispel or indeed confirm Spanish stereotypes through my ramblings and see if I can delve into the Spanish psyche. ..................................................................................................................... WHO THE HELL IS WHEN IN SPAIN? I'm Paul Burge, former BBC journalist, Hispanophile and Manchego lover. A Brit, born in Oxford and living in Spain for almost 5 years. I currently live in the centre of Madrid.  

In episode six of When in Spain I go out to buy milk and get thinking about the strange and colourful Spanish expressions that revolve around milk or 'la leche'. Learn some of these milky expressions in this episode and find out about their origins. Also, I take a look ahead to future When in Spain shows and talk about collaborations, subjects and themes you can expect to hear in the coming months. More colour pieces on culture and lifestyle, more practical how to guides and a look at the darker side of Spanish life. FOLLOW WHEN IN SPAIN 📺Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/2SOrKrL 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Join the When in Spain Facebook Group. https://bit.ly/2CdDgWt 📷Follow on Instagram to see photography from across Spain. https://bit.ly/2D5p6IJ WANT TO SUPPORT WHEN IN SPAIN? 💚 Make a small donation $1-$5 via Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wheninspain WHAT IS WHEN IN SPAIN? The When in Spain show is a weekly podcast show, recorded in Madrid (and other parts of Spain) where l talk about my ‘warts and all’ observations and insights on life and culture on the Iberian peninsular. In each episode of the podcast I cast an eye on everyday life, people, places, politics, culture and history and attempt to give an honest opinion from a Brit who has a love-frustration relationship with Spain. I shall attempt to dispel or indeed confirm Spanish stereotypes through my ramblings and see if I can delve into the Spanish psyche. ..................................................................................................................... WHO THE HELL IS WHEN IN SPAIN? I'm Paul Burge, former BBC journalist, Hispanophile and Manchego lover. A Brit, born in Oxford and living in Spain for almost 5 years. I currently live in the centre of Madrid.

In episode five of When in Spain we take a whistle-stop tour around Spain's four biggest cities in search of the best neighbourhoods to rent rooms and apartments. We compare Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia and Seville. Paul gives a flavour of dozens of neighbourhoods, from the hip and trendy, to the studenty, traditional and family friendly. He also looks at what kind of properties you can expect to find and sorts the cheap from the expensive. There should be something to cater for every taste whether it's Barcelona's traditional Barrio de Gracia, Madrid's classy Salamanca district or Seville's home of flamenco in Triana. Let's go house hunting! FOLLOW WHEN IN SPAIN 📺Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/2SOrKrL 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Join the When in Spain Facebook Group. https://bit.ly/2CdDgWt 📷Follow on Instagram to see photography from across Spain. https://bit.ly/2D5p6IJ WANT TO SUPPORT WHEN IN SPAIN? 💚 Make a small donation $1-$5 via Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wheninspain WHAT IS WHEN IN SPAIN? The When in Spain show is a weekly podcast show, recorded in Madrid (and other parts of Spain) where l talk about my ‘warts and all’ observations and insights on life and culture on the Iberian peninsular. In each episode of the podcast I cast an eye on everyday life, people, places, politics, culture and history and attempt to give an honest opinion from a Brit who has a love-frustration relationship with Spain. I shall attempt to dispel or indeed confirm Spanish stereotypes through my ramblings and see if I can delve into the Spanish psyche. ..................................................................................................................... WHO THE HELL IS WHEN IN SPAIN? I'm Paul Burge, former BBC journalist, Hispanophile and Manchego lover. A Brit, born in Oxford and living in Spain for almost 5 years. I currently live in the centre of Madrid.

In episode four of When in Spain I look at how to rent a room or apartment in Spain. The focus is on Spain’s four biggest cities, Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia and Seville. Click on the player above to listen to the episode and hear all about my ups and downs of finding somewhere to rent in Madrid. In the podcast episode I look at when, and where to start your search. Price ranges and advice on things to watch out for. FOLLOW WHEN IN SPAIN 📺Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/2SOrKrL 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Join the When in Spain Facebook Group. https://bit.ly/2CdDgWt 📷Follow on Instagram to see photography from across Spain. https://bit.ly/2D5p6IJ WANT TO SUPPORT WHEN IN SPAIN? 💚 Make a small donation $1-$5 via Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wheninspain I’ve seen apartments/rooms like the one in the photo below described as ’boutique living’. Don’t fall for any shit. It’s dog eat dog out there. When should you start your search for a room or apartment? Well, if at all possible avoid looking in September/October. This is the time of year when everybody and their dog is looking. There are a few reasons for this. University students, Erasmus students and teachers starting the Auxiliares program along with many other English teachers all arrive ahead of the start of the academic year and frantically begin their house hunt. January can also be a busier time of year to find rental accommodation. Also, people who have secured a new job just before or during the summer tend to start their contracts in September. If they’re relocating from a different city they’ll also be lining up to view properties. How long will it take to get a roof over your head? Longer than you might think. My advice would be to allow yourself at least two or three weeks. It took me a few months to find somewhere I was happy with. It’s very unlikely that you’re going to find somewhere in just a few days. When should you look? June or July is a good bet. August, possibly. Although many landlords and people looking for housemates tend to go away on holiday during August. November is another good time to look, once things have quietened down a bit, although there may well be less availability. The spring is also a good bet, March – May. Where to conduct your online search… Here are a list of the most common property search websites in Spain. Idealista – The most popular site, many agencies tend to advertise here. Pisos.com Mil Anuncios – A classifieds website for just about anything but also includes rooms and                                     apartments Fotocasa Badi  – A bit like Airbnb and relatively new. Homeowners looking to rent out their spare                        room advertise on here. They tend to be quite fussy. Other options for conducting your search Locutorios Locutorios are small neighbourhood internet cafes/international calling points. They often sell mobile phone accessories and carry out repairs. Many of them have noticeboards that carry adverts for rooms and apartments in the local area. Locutorios are becoming less common, especially in city centres but you might get lucky. Flyers Walls and signposts are often plastered in flyers advertising properties, they’ll have a little tear-off phone number. Also, as you wander the street look up at balconies which often carry signs “Se Alquila’ For rent, and carry a phone number. Worth a try, especially as these are often posted by somebody from the ‘older’ generation let’s say, and who may not be internet savvy and therefore may be offering a bargain! Agencies Agencies can take the legwork out of the search, especially if you’re short on time. However they are usually very expensive. Most people use agencies if they’re looking for an entire apartment and not sharing. One option is to find other like-minded sharers and go in on an apartment together.  You’ll usually end up paying at least one month’s rent in agency fees, money which you can kiss goodbye to.

Hola a todos!! In episode three of When in Spain I guide us around the Feria de San Isidro in Madrid and take in the sights, sounds and flavours. To hear all the festivities hit play on audio player above and immerse yourself in all things Feria! FOLLOW WHEN IN SPAIN 📺Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/2SOrKrL 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Join the When in Spain Facebook Group. https://bit.ly/2CdDgWt 📷Follow on Instagram to see photography from across Spain. https://bit.ly/2D5p6IJ WANT TO SUPPORT WHEN IN SPAIN? 💚 Make a small donation $1-$5 via Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wheninspain What is a feria? In short, it’s an annual festival that takes place in practically every town and city across Spain between Spring and Autumn. Each feria usually lasts around a week and celebrates local traditions, music, dance, food and some of them have religious connections, such as Madrid’s San Isidro. If you’re thinking of the cliché of flamenco, girls in bright coloured figure-hugging dresses wearing flowers in their hair… My advice for anyone who’s never been to a feria. Go! It’a raucous induction to the España profunda – deep Spain. In my opinion some of the most lively and colourful ferias are in Andalucía in southern Spain. If you’re thinking of the cliché of flamenco, girls in bright coloured figure-hugging dresses wearing flowers in their hair and jugs of Rebujito flowing like water,  (Sherry mixed with lemonade) this is as close as it gets. The big ones in the south are in Seville, Malaga, Cordoba and Cadiz. Other ferias Of course, not all ferias are made in Andalucía. There are a few others which are well-known. Pamplona in the north of Spain has it’s San Fermín, the one where people get chased by bulls through the city’s narrow streets, usually resulting in more than few drunken guiris getting trampled. Valencia, on the east coast has Las Fallas, a deafening feria where towering fallas – cardboard and paper-mâché figures are burned to the ground and a daily explosive barrage of coordinated firecracker and fireworks displays called Mascletàs take place. Not for the faint-hearted. Bring your earplugs. Once was enough for me. …and in Madrid, San Isidro So where does that leave Madrid’s Feria de San Isidro? Meh. For me it falls short. Nada especial. I only say this because considering Madrid is the capital city, its feria is pretty low-key which surprises me considering Madrid is renowned for its buzzing nightlife and lively ambiente. That said, it certainly has a charm to it and a curious history. San Isidro (Saint Isidore) is the Catholic Patron Saint of Madrid and the Patron Saint of Farmers. (1070 – 1130?) His full name is San Isidro el Labrador, Saint Isidore the worker of the land. He was born in Madrid in around 1070, to poor but very devout parents and spent his life as a farm hand for the wealthy landowner Juan de Vargas. The miracles of San Isidro Isidore married Maria Torribia, known as Santa María de la Cabeza and they had one son together. On one occasion, their son fell into a deep well but following the prayers of his parents, the water of the well miraculously rose to ground-level, bringing the child with it. Another story recounts how he had the help of angels in the fields. Isidro used to attend Mass before going to work. One day, his fellow farm workers complained to the boss that Isidro always turned up late for work. His boss decided to take it upon himself to do some detective work and found Isidro busy praying in a local church while an angel was ploughing the fields for him. On another occasion, Isidro’s master saw an angel ploughing either side of him, making Isidro’s work equal to that of three of his fellow field workers. Despite their humble lifestyle San Isidro and Santa Maria were well-known for their generosity and used to give food to the poor. An an act of kindness that is reflected in today’s feria when cocido madrileño – (Madrid stew) is given out for free.

In this, the second episode of the When in Spain podcast show I take you for a wander around La Latina, the neighbourhood where I live and one of the oldest and most famous in Madrid. We’ll take in the sights and sounds while I talk about everyday life in the barrio and offer a few personal observations. I’d say it’s still a pretty authentic barrio as far as central Madrid neighbourhoods go. It’s bustling, noisy, beautiful and gritty. It’s an everyday working neighbourhood that still manages to retain its own Spanish, Madrileñan and Castizo* identity despite a growing influx of tourists, immigrants and international students. All seem to rub shoulders fairly oblivious to each other’s existence – so far. However, the clank of plastic wheels from ‘carry-on’ suitcases as they’re dragged across the barrio’s maze of cobbled streets is becoming an increasingly common sound and one that often wakes me up and 6am. As abuelos pass away their apartments are being sold on and devoured by gangs of Airbnb-ers. This has pushed up rents and house prices in the last couple of years and, in turn gradually transforming La Latina into one of the more expensive areas in the Spanish capital. That said, this ain’t no Barceloneta or Bario Gotico, two of Barcelona’s most tourist-plagued, once-traditional neighbourhoods. On a daily basis for me it looks and feels like this. You’ll see a couple of octogenarians propping up a bar, grunting to each other as they pick at a slab of tortilla and sip thimbles of beer, their bespectacled eyes glued to a bulky TV clamped to the wall. Outside two elderly and perfectly coiffured Madrileñas will be conversing with each other at shouting volume, both clutching bags of fruit and veg from the greengrocer. As they stand directly in the middle of the pavement, knowingly blocking everybody’s passage, they’ll be comparing the price, quality and texture of said produce before moving on to comparing their seasonal ailments. Suddenly, Horns will start blaring. (The car horn is a favoured means of communication in Spain, it’s loud you see.) Half a dozen drivers are suddenly and furiously punching and pumping the steering wheel of their Seat Ibiza because two kids have run into oncoming traffic, chasing a rat-like dog, who in turn is chasing a ball. Cries will ring out from drivers and passersby ¡¡Ostia!! and ¡¡Joderrrr!! The thing I love about La Latina and Madrid and Spain in general, is that people still value and remain loyal to independent shops. The neighbourhood is home to dozens and dozens of independent greengrocer, butchers, bakers, grocery shops, pharmacies and ironmongers, all of which add character. It reminds me of growing up in England in my childhood. Some of these places are reminiscent of the 1950s. La Latina is also home to El Rastro Madrid’s biggest flea market. An amazing assault on the senses (Especially on a Sunday morning) and a treasure trove of antiques, clothes, bric-a-brac, art, music, household goods, plants and flowers. “La Latina, is very Castizo, and you’re gonna love it”. That’s what my old flatmate Laura told me when I first moved into the barrio. I’ve since been trying to work out what Castizomeans. It’s a word that gets bandied around a lot. Castizo (Spanish: [kasˈtiθo] or [kasˈtiso]) is a Spanish word with a general meaning of “pure”, “genuine” or representative of its race (from the Spanish: “casta”). The feminine form is castiza. So, anything can be castizo – but you only really know it when you see it, feel it, smell it, or hear it. It’s hard to explain. Despite all its antiquated charm La Latina has tonnes of modern, ‘trendy’ bars and restaurants. It’s definitely a place where people come to go out. Out out. You could easily drink and dine in a different venue every night for weeks, maybe months on end without leaving the neighbourhood. Old ‘tasca’ bars like the one I go to in episode 2, stand cheek by jowl with hip craft beer ‘socials’,

Join Karina, me and friends, Adam and Ollie, for a day trip to the charming medieval town of Brihuega and its beautiful lavender fields. A slice of Provence right in the centre of Spain! Brihuega is famous in Spain for its lavender cultivation and surprisingly, it is one of the world's major producers of lavender products, including lavender oil which is used by one of the big Spanish perfume brands. But, away from the lavender fields, we discovered that Brihuega has much more to offer than Instagramable photos of purple hillsides. Find out about the town's turbulent history, Moorish past, former royal cloth factory, secret tunnels and relaxing fountains. The perfect day trip from Madrid! We also stop off in the city of Guadalajara to explore what it has to offer. (Compared to Brihuega, not very much we discovered!) Listen for yourself in the episode...

Sarah Willats joins me to talk about Madrid's public transport network, how to get the best out of it, tickets, passes and trips whether visiting for a holiday, business or making the Spanish capital your home. Sarah, aka Sarah la Viajera (check out her Spain travel blog!) has recently published her book, The Ultimate Guide to Madrid’s Transportation Networks which she spent two years researching and which involved riding every Madrid Metro line, many of the city's buses, commuter trains and bike and scooter sharing schemes. Sarah is an expert on Madrid's public transport system after spending five years riding it and painstakingly testing and researching the network to make life easier for anyone visiting the Spanish capital. In the episode we talk about the transport network's different systems and the differences and pros can cons of each one. Sarah walks us through some facts and figures about the Madrid Metro and some curious history, including its 'ghost stations'. We also share our favourite journeys using Madrid's public transportation and run through some suggestions for day trips out of the city without using a car. Then it's onto practicalities. Sarah guides us through the different tickets and passes and how to buy them and how to get to the centre of Madrid from Barajas Airport and onwards to Atocha train station.    

Join us for all the sights and sounds on a road trip along Spain's rugged Costa Brava. Discover the beautiful seaside towns and villages of Tossa de Mar, Calella de Palafrugell, Platja Fonda, Roses and of course Cadaqués, home to Salvador Dalí's former house, now a wonderful, eccentric museum. We explore the coves of turquoise waters, the back streets of fishing villages and the stunning medieval fortress village in Tossa. Tune in to hear about the Costa Brava's turbulent history and a slice of Catalan culture, food and drink. At the end of the episode I offer some practical advice for a visit to this beautiful corner of Spain.

Writer, historian and guide, Nick Lloyd walks us through Barcelona to explore the history of the Spanish Civil War and the city's relationship with this dark chapter from Spain's past. Nick guides around the key locations in the Catalan capital which hold historical significance and reveals some chilling stories of death and destruction. He also describes the walking tour that he runs in Barcelona and how some of his guests inspired him to start collecting fascinating artefacts which help him tell the story of the Spanish Civil War. Nick gives us a comprehensive overview of the key events, players and locations and talks about themes such as the defeat of the military rebellion in Barcelona, the militias, the libertarian revolution, revolutionary violence vs Francoist violence, anarchism, George Orwell and the bombing of Barcelona. We also talk about the lack of a museum dedicated to the Spanish Civil War and talk about whether plans to create one in the future will ever come to fruition. You can find out more about Nick Lloyd on his websites: http://thespanishcivilwar.com/ and https://www.iberianature.com/ If you would like to get a copy of his book Forgotten Places: Barcelona and the Spanish Civil War you can find more information here and buy a copy on Amazon here

Think you can speak Spanish? Think again if you move to Andalucía! Adam Harrison moved to Huelva province seven years ago and realised that the local dialect was very different to the Spanish he had learnt. So on a quest to share is observations and frustrations learning Andaluz Adam set up InglesAndaluz on TikTok and Instagram where he compares English, Spanish and Andaluz through humourous videos. His content recently went viral and he was invited onto a number of Spanish TV programmes to talk about speaking Andaluz as a non-native. In the episode Adam gives us a crash course in the Andaluz dialect and shares some of his favourite vocabulary and expressions that will make you sound like a native of Andalucía. He also shares his thoughts on living in Andalucía compared with his native Newcastle in northeast England. Want to lean to speak Andaluz? Check out Adam's videos on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/inglesandaluz/?hl=en and on his TikTok channel https://www.tiktok.com/@inglesandaluz?lang=es If you would like to get your hands on a copy of the Andalusian Dictionary you can find it here: https://www.plateroeditorial.es/libro/andalusian-dictionary_119406/

Travel journalist and writer Tom Chesshyre joins me to talk about his slow train adventure all around Spain. As research for his latest book Slow Trains around Spain: A 3,000-Mile Adventure on 52 Rides, Tom spent 35 days on the tracks and clocked-up 95 hours and 20 minutes onboard all manner of different types of trains, from funiculars, cog trains, narrow gauge, metros and even an aluminium mine train. Tom shares his experience of going unprepared and traveling in an ad-hoc way with a rucksack and an armful of books. We look at the history of Spain's railways, train stations, train museums, George Orwell and the trenches near Huesca where he fought in the Spanish Civil War. Tom shares some anecdotes about his fellow train passengers, hostel owners and station managers and talks the politics of the Spanish train network.

Hola Spain fans! This is a kind of hybrid episode. Lots of sounds of Madrid as I wander its squares, shops and markets and stop off in a few cafes and bars. Along the way I talk all about the cost of living in Spain. I look at renting and buying property, utility bills, groceries, healthcare costs, running a car and average salaries. I make lots of comparisons between costs in a handful of different Spanish cities and also compare the cost of living in Madrid with London and New York. So join me to find out some useful facts and figures as well as immersing yourself in Madrid on a sunny Friday afternoon! Check out the amazing market atmosphere towards the end of the episode. A very immersive and colourful experience! For more detailed show notes head over to wheninspainpodcast.com

We transport ourselves to the majestic olive groves of Jaén to talk all about Spanish olive oil with special guest and olive oil aficionado, Lucas Soler. Lucas was born in Barcelona but even though he has spent nearly all of his life in the US, olive oil has always remained in his blood. Since a young age 'liquid gold' has been a staple of his diet. When Lucas's mother bought an olive grove for the family in Almería 25 years ago, his passion for olive oil was re-ignited. Faced with a lack of good quality EVOO (Extra Virgin Olive Oil) in the US, Lucas spotted a businesses opportunity. He set up his own company called Olive Oil Grove oliveoilgrove.com where he imports the best possible quality Spanish Extra Virgin Olive Oil to the US market. In the episode Lucas talks us through the different grades of olive oil, the health benefits and what you should look for when choosing great quality Spanish olive oil. We even do a virtual transatlantic olive oil tasting where we compared notes on the Picual Extra Virgin Olive Oil that Lucas has sourced from a grove in Jaén following a trip there last year in the midst of the lockdown - a story he also shares in the episode. Lucas also dazzles us with some truly incredible facts and figures about Spanish olive oil and I run through the ancient history of olives and olive oil to find out how it became so popular in Spain. Find out more about Lucas, his business, Olive Oil Grove at oliveoilgrove.com.  Also find him on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/oliveoilgrove/ and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/OliveOilGrove/

In this episode of the When in Spain podcast I explore the Balearic island of Mallorca. Joining me to scratch beneath the surface of the island is guide and long-time Mallorca resident, Gina Vasquez who runs Visit My Mallorca https://www.visitmymallorca.com/ Gina talks us through the ancient history of Mallorca and recommends things to see in the island's capital, Palma, including the city's impressive gothic cathedral, La Seu. It has one of the world’s largest stained glass windows.  We also get out across the island and look at Gina's favourite towns, villages, beaches and natural beauty spots to include on a visit. We talk about the artist and sculptor Joan Miró who lived and worked on Mallorca - Gina's husband knew Joan Miró personally and she recommends a visit to the the Fundació Joan Miró where you can see Miró's workshop and numerous pieces of his work. https://www.fmirobcn.org/en/foundation/  Gina also tells us about a fascinating slice of Mallorcan history. The small town of Petra is the birthplace of St. Junípero Serra (1713-1784), a Franciscan friar who founded the first nine of 21 Spanish missions in California from San Diego to San Francisco. Places and other things we mentioned in the episode: La Seu Cathedral, Palma Santa Catalina neighbourhood, Palma Plaza d'Espanya, Palma Olivar Market, Palma La Llotja de Palma Across the Island Sineu (with its 15th Century market) Sóller Portopetro Portocolom Cala Figuera Biniaraix Banyalbufar Sa Calobra Formentor Mirador Es Colomer Parc natural de Mondragó Estellencs Deià (Robert Graves called it his home) Drach Caves (Porto Cristo) Sant Elm (San Telmo) Pollença (Family beaches) Bakery in Palma to buy Ensaimada - Fornet de la Soca https://fornetdelasoca.com/ TV Series - The Mallorca Files https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9204128/ RESOURCES  Miró https://miromallorca.com/en/ government tourism site https://www.illesbalears.travel/experience/en/mallorca/sant-antoni-and-sant-sebastia transportation island-wide www.tib.org Palma city bus. http://www.emtpalma.cat/en/home One of Gina's favorite restaurants in Palma, http://www.larosavermuteria.com/en/restaurants  

Walk with me through the charming city of El Puerto de Santa María. We'll take in the famous sherry bodegas, explore Christopher Columbus's link to the city, take a look at the Castillo de San Marco, where Juan de la Cosa famously drew the first map of the world to include The Americas. Along the way, a few observations on the crumbling charm of Cadiz's sister city, a stroll through the lively Plaza de España and a stop at an even livelier local sherry bar. To round off, some top tips on what and where to eat, nearby beaches to visit, and what to do when when the Levante wind blows!

In this episode we delve into the curious history, culture and untouched landscape of the balearic island of Menorca. Joining us to guide us around this lesser-discovered island is Lorraine Ure. For Lorraine, Menorca was love at first sight when the cruise ship she was working on docked in the port of Mahón. She has since had a 25 year love affair with the island and now proudly calls it home. Does Mayonnaise really come from Menorca? How did gin become the island's most famous tipple? When is it acceptable to touch a horse's private parts? And why are there so many English words used in Menorquí - the local language of the island? Find out in the episode as Lorraine talks us through the unique Menorcan culture and traditions. She also recommends towns, villages, beaches, long walks, food & drink and great restaurants for anyone planning a visit to the island. Lorraine has also edited a beautiful book of watercolours of Menorca called Menorca Sketchbook packed with beautiful paintings by her partner Graham Byfield. It's available to buy on Ebay and will soon be available on Amazon. Find out more about Graham and his work here. In the episode Lorraine also talked about the tiny neighbouring island of La Isla del Rey and its beautiful 18th Century Royal Naval Hospital -  the first of its kind in the world - which has been renovated by a team of volunteers for the last 17 years - something that Lorraine has been keenly involved with. Soon it will be possible to visit the hospital. Find out more about it here: https://www.islahospitalmenorca.org/en/home/ Some of places mentioned in the episode: Es Migjorn Gran Es Mercadal Monte Toro S’Albufera des Grau Natural Park Cami de Cavalls (The Path of Horses) Cova d'en Xorio (A cave bar to watch the sunset from in Cala en Porter) Beaches and Coves: Binibeca, Alcaufar, Cala Mesquida, Platja de Cala Galdana, Platja de Son Bou, Platja de Binimel·là Restaurants: Restaurant S´Amarador in Ciutadella de Menorca, El Grill, Carretera del Aeropuerto, Mahón.  

Let's banish the winter blues with a trip around some of Spain's most beautiful and secret swimming locations. Forget the packed beaches of the stereotypical 'costas' and let's transport ourselves to secluded coves, white sand beaches, emerald pools, craggy canyons, wild waterfalls and relaxing rivers... Guiding us around these of the beaten track slices of watery wonder are Lola Culsán & John Weller. Lola and John live in London and both are avid swimmers. So much so that they have written and produced two beautiful books all about wild swimming in Spain both inland and on the coasts. Their first book is called, Wild Swimming Spain - Discover the most beautiful rivers, lakes and waterfalls of Spain. They also have a brand new second book coming out on March 1st 2021 called, Hidden Beaches Spain - 450 secret coast and island beaches to walk, swim & explore. In fact for their latest publication, Lola and John were lucky enough to take a year out from their jobs in London and spend a whole year driving the coasts of Spain in their camper van all in the name of research! What a tough assignment! In the episode John and Lola are going to guide us around some of their favourite places to swim, kayak, dive and hike (or just relax) all around Spain and also offer practical advice if you want to some wild swimming in some wild locations.  If you would like to get a copy of their books you can pre-order Hidden Beaches Spain on Amazon or via Wild Things Publishing at http://www.wildthingspublishing.com/shop/ and their first book, Wild Swimming Spain is already available from the same places. Can't wait until March 1st for Hidden Beaches Spain? No problem! You can immediately download the super exclusive pre-launch digital edition from Wild Things Publishing's website for £7.99 To find out more about Lola and John check out their social media:  Facebook https://www.facebook.com/wildswimmingspain Twitter https://twitter.com/wildswimspain Instagram @wildswimmingspain List of locations mentioned in the podcast episode: L'Alta Garrotxa - Girona Lago Ausente – Castilla Leon Huesca – Barranco de la Nata de Arro, Sierra de Guara, Cañón Del Río Vero, Salto De Bierge Pozas Pígalo – Zaragoza Cangas de Onís – Asturias Fiesta de las Piraguas (The Canoe Fiesta of Asturias) https://www.turismoasturias.es/en/descubre/fiestas-de-interes-turistico/fiesta-de-las-piraguas-descenso-internacional-del-sella Río Deva, Panes, Pechón Playa – Cantabria Cave of Altamira – Cantabria Castro de Baroña – A Coruña Bolonia, Baelo Claudia, Costa de la Luz - Cadiz Cami de Cavalls - Menorca Cala Pudenta – Menorca Praia Barreira (Beekeeper Beach) - Galicia Cíes Islands – Galicia Praia da Coviña – Galicia Playa de Mónsul – Almería Cala Estreta – Girona Costa Calida, La Manga, Cala del Cuevo, Cala de las Cañas – Almería Denia, La Cova Tallada – Alicante

Planning to buy a property in Spain? Maybe it's a future ambition to own your dream Spanish home. Whatever the case, this episode will give you a detailed insight into buying a house or apartment in Spain and is packed with practical advice on buying in Spain. It's a meaty subject so I decided to enlist Spanish property consultant Felix Joseph who shares his expert advice. Felix runs his own property consultancy on the Costa del Sol called Property Under One Roof. He's also written a book called How to Buy a Property in Spain: everything they wont tell you about buying a property in Spain. Felix first caught the property bug at a young age when his father unfurled the plans for a house he was going to buy in his native Caribbean. Felix studied an economics degree and then worked in IT for 15 years before investing in property in the UK and building up his own property portfolio which allowed him to semi-retire to Spain with his family. In 2002 he left IT to set up his real estate company ‘Property Under One Roof’ and then moved to Spain in 2006 and pivoted into property consultancy where he offers a wholistic service for people from outside Spain looking to buy. In the this episode we look at: The paperwork you need to get in order in order to be ready to buy property in Spain, such as a fiscal ID number (NIE)  Whether now is a good time to buy property in Spain or not in light of the situation with Covid 19 and for British citizens, Brexit.  The costs associated with buying property in Spain. The property purchasing process in Spain and legal issues involved.  Mortgages and financing options for buying property in Spain.  The Golden Visa How to find a property in Spain Taxes Sage advice and what pitfalls to watch out for when buying property in Spain. Plus a few questions that When in Spain listeners sent in. For more information about Felix Jospeh and his property consultancy check out his website and social media below: Website: http://howtobuyapropertyinspain.com/ His book available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/-/es/Felix-Joseph-ebook/dp/B087QST5M9 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YOURPUOR  

Sit back and join us for some armchair travel to the capital of Andalucía. That's right we're of to the 2,200-year-old city of Seville or Sevilla if you're feeling Andaluz! Our guide for the journey is native Sevillana, Aldara Arias Saavedra.  Aldara produces and hosts her own podcast about food and slow, sustainable travel in Seville called Slow Tasters Podcast. She also works as a tour guide in Seville and the wider Andalucía region of Spain and has a passion for promoting slow and sustainable tourism and finding ways to reduce our impact on the places we visit.  During the episode Aldara walks us through the city's intoxicating mix of resplendent Mudéjar palaces, baroque churches and winding medieval lanes which are home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Real Alcázar A magnificent marriage of Christian and Mudéjar architecture, Seville’s royal palace complex is a breathtaking spectacle. The site, which was originally developed as a fort in 913, has been revamped many times over the 11 centuries of its existence. www.alcazarsevilla.org. Catedral & Giralda Seville’s showpiece church is awe-inspiring in its scale and majesty. The world’s largest Gothic cathedral, it was built between 1434 and 1517 over the remains of what had previously been the city’s main mosque. Highlights include the Giralda, the mighty bell tower, which incorporates the mosque’s original minaret and the monumental tomb of Christopher Columbus. The Archivo General de Indias The General Archive of the Indies, housed in the ancient merchants' exchange of Seville, Spain, the Casa Lonja de Mercaderes, is the repository of extremely valuable archival documents illustrating the history of the Spanish Empire in the Americas and the Philippines.. Aldara explains the city’s past as a showcase Moorish capital and later as a 16th-century metropolis rich on the back of New World trade. She also gives us an insight into the sevillano art of celebrating and the city’s great annual festivals, notably the Semana Santa and Feria de Abril. Later in the episode we talk about alternative parts of Seville to wander and get away from the touristy sites and soak up the neighbourhood atmosphere with the locals. Food and drink with a special recommendation. To round-up Aldara shares her philosophy of slow travel, sustainable tourism and why she thinks we need to reduce our impact on the places we visit and how we can go about doing it. PLACES MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE Feria neighbourhood San Luis San Luis de los Franceses Alameda Square Basilica de la Macarena Plaza de España Catedral & Giralda Real Alcázar The Archivo General de Indias Triana FOOD Antigua Abacería de San Lorenzo to eat a Montadito de pringá. Calle Teodosio, 53, Sevilla http://antiguaabaceriadesanlorenzo.com/ DAY TRIPS FROM SEVILLE Parque Natural Sierra de Hornachuelos Constantina Cazalla de la Sierra Find out more about Aldara here http://aldaraas.com/  and follow her on Instagram here @aldaraas

Thinking about moving to Spain? Think it's too late?  Join me to hear the inspirational story from Marsha Scarbrough who proves it's never too late to say yes to a new life in Spain. Marsha left her native California to start afresh in Madrid when she was 70 years old after losing everything in the 2008 financial crisis and declaring herself bankrupt. Marsha spent 20 years working as an assistant director on films and network TV shows in Hollywood but by the time she hit 50 se knew she wanted to leave the LA rat-race behind. In 2017 she moved to Madrid and has never looked-back. I caught up with Marsha in the barrio of Chamberí that she now calls home. Marsha shares her experience of making the move, we talk paperwork, visas, healthcare, finding somewhere to live and much more. She also gives us some insights into life in Madrid and Spain and her favourite places in the Spanish capital. Also find out how Marsha found herself plastered across the Spanish press when she first arrived in Madrid - think Donald Trump! Later in the episode Marsha talks about her award-winning memoirs Medicine Dance and Honey in the River.  Find out more about Marsha on her website http://www.marshascarbrough.com/ and check out the International Living website that Marsha writes for here https://internationalliving.com/author/mascarbrough/ Interested in her books? You can find them here on Amazon 

In this episode of The When in Spain podcast we're talking about Jewish history or Sephardic history - to use the Hebrew word - in Spain. We'll also be talking about a law that Spain passed in 2015 that has laid a pathway for people of Sephardic descent to reclaim Spanish citizenship – and one of those who is going through the process joins me in the episode. I'll be chatting to Nichole Martínez Kruse who relocated from San Diego in the US to Zaragoza in the Spanish region of Aragon after a family member and amateur genealogist discovered Inquisition records dating back to the 1500s proving that Nichole's Spanish ancestors were Jews. This culminated in Nichole applying for Spanish citizenship via Sephardic ancestry. (CORRECTION - Important to note that Nichole has not yet obtained Spanish citizenship as I incorrectly said in the episode.)  Nowadays Nichole helps others looking to gain Spanish citizenship through their sephardic roots through her boutique immigration firm, Welcome Home Sefardi. https://www.welcomehomesefardi.com/ Nichole is going to be sharing her personal story and offering some practical advice for those interested in embarking on the same ancestral journey. We'll also look at Jewish history in Spain and how she finds her new life in Zaragoza. At the end of the episode I'll be running through a few historical locations across Spain that should be on your radar to visit to if you're interested in exploring the history of Sephardic Spain. 

Drizzle, green hills, pintxos, cider, pelota & bull running. We must be talking The Basque Country! Tucked into the corner of northeastern Spain, País Vasco, or as it is known in the regional Basque language, Euskadi is one of the lesser-known Spains for many. To talk us through the landscape, cities, beaches, language, traditions and food and drink is David Bumstead. David moved to San Sebastian from the UK in 1983 and never left. Join us as we explore this unique corner of Spain and everything it has to offer. In the episode David talks us through the landscape, cities, beaches and countryside of The Basque Country. We also delve into Basque language and traditions, including pelota and bull running in Pamplona. Of course, we talk food and drink, from pintxos to the region´s renowned yet secretive gastronomic societies. We round off the episode looking at ETA and its history and how Basques feel about it today. Useful links and places mentioned in the episode: Bilbao Guggenheim - https://www.guggenheim-bilbao.eus/en   Gernika Gernika Peace Museum - https://www.museodelapaz.org/   San Sebastián International Film Festival https://www.sansebastianfestival.com/2020/film_registration/1/3514/in   Beaches Getaria Hondarribia   Inland walking Txindoki Mountain Parque Natural Aralar Ordizia Txakoli Wine - https://www.sansebastianturismoa.eus/en/eat/txakoli-wine Basque Cider Houses - https://www.sansebastianturismoa.eus/en/eat/where-to-eat/cider-houses   Pamplona - San Fermin (Running of the Bulls) - https://www.sanfermin.com/en/ Film and TV Patria Ocho Apellidos Vascos (Spanish Affair) La Línea Invisible LEARN A FEW WORDS OF BASQUE BEFORE YOUR VISIT Kaixo = Hello / Agur = Goodbye Bai = Yes / Ez = No Eskerrik asko = Thank you Mesedez = Please Zenbat balio du? = How much? Ez dut ulertzen = don’t understand Bi garagardo = two beers Ezkerra = left / Eskuina = right Ba al dakizu ingelesez? = Do you speak English? 📺Subscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/2SOrKrL 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Join the When in Spain Facebook Group. https://bit.ly/2CdDgWt 📷Follow on Instagram to see photography from across Spain. https://bit.ly/2D5p6IJ WANT TO SUPPORT WHEN IN SPAIN? 💚 Make a small donation $1-$5 via Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wheninspain

In this episode I look at the American writer, Ernest Hemingway´s relationship with Madrid and wider Spain and how Spain and the Spanish capital inspired and influenced his writing. Ernest Hemingway is commonly associated with a handful of places around the world, most notably Paris, Pamplona, Havana, Key West and Ketchum, Idaho, where he took his own life in July 1961. But, Ernest Hemingway also had a lifelong love affair with Madrid and many of the city´s locations inspired his works such as, The Sun Also Rises, Death in the Afternoon and For Whom the Bell Tolls. Don Ernesto, as Hemingway was affectionately called by the Spanish, spent numerous stints in Madrid. He was here for chunks of the late 1920s, late 1930s, and parts of the 1950s, with his last visit in 1960. Joining me in this episode to help trace Hemingway´s footsteps around Madrid is Stephen Drake-Jones. Stephen is a historian, lecturer and tour guide with an encyclopedic knowledge of various periods of Spanish history and is also an expert on Ernest Hemingway´s Madrid. Stephen and I met up in one of Ernest Hemingway´s favourite Madrid hangouts – La Cerveceria Alemana – on the leafy Plaza Santa Ana and we pulled up two chairs at the exact table in the bar´s window where Hemingway often used to sit and drink. In fact it is where he gleaned much information for his classic, Death in the Afternoon. He wrote the appendix to the book in La Cerveceria Alemana, picking the brains of the numerous bullfighting aficionados who would hang out there.  

In this second episode talking to writer & journalist William Chislett we look at current economic, societal and political problems that Spain is dealing with and the future challenges the country faces. William talks us through the education system, unemployment, the Spanish economy, pensions and the implications of the EU’s €140 billion pandemic recovery fund that Spain is set to receive. William is a former Madrid correspondent for the UK´s Times newspaper. He was based in Madrid and reported first-hand on Spain’s transition to democracy from 1975-1978. He even interviewed King Juan Carlos. He subsequently worked for the Financial Times based in Mexico covering Central America, before returning to the Spanish capital in 1986, where he still lives. William has written numerous books on Spain including, Spain – What Everyone Needs to Know and he writes a monthly article called Inside Spain - A lively look at Spanish current affairs - for the Elcano Royal Institute think tank. Well worth reading if you´re interested in Spanish politics. William´s work can be found at https://williamchislett.com/ 

In this episode we look at a fascinating and monumental period in Spanish history – The death of Franco in 1975 and Spain's transition to democracy that followed in the late 1970s. In this part one of a two part podcast I had the great pleasure of talking to writer and journalist William Chislett. William is a former Madrid correspondent for the UK´s Times newspaper. William was based in Madrid and reported first-hand on Spain’s transition to democracy from 1975-1978. He even interviewed King Juan Carlos. He subsequently worked for the Financial Times based in Mexico covering Central America, before returning to the Spanish capital in 1986, where he still lives. In the interview William reflects on what life was like in Spain following the death of Franco, what the atmosphere was like and talks us through the key developments that lead to the 1977 elections - the first free elections held in Spain since 1936 - and the enactment of Spain´s 1978 constitution. William has written numerous books on Spain including, Spain – What Everyone Needs to Know and he writes a monthly article called Inside Spain - A lively look at Spanish current affairs - for the Elcano Royal Institute think tank. Well worth reading if you´re interested in Spanish politics. William´s work can be found at https://williamchislett.com/   

Join me for all the sights and sounds on a visit to the university city of Salamanca during Spain's 'Semana Santa'. I take in what is possibly Spain's most impressive Plaza Mayor, explore the city's ancient university — including a frog hunt — dodge religious processions, and gaze in wonder at one of the city's cathedrals — yes, it has two! Plus, a splash of history, architecture, and observations for good measure!  

Join me for a walk around a little slice of deep Spain, right on Madrid's doorstep. Located on the Tagus-Jarama river basin, Chinchón is just 45km from Madrid but worlds apart. Although it has grown beyond its village confines, visiting its antique heart is like stepping back into a charming, ramshackle past. Surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, Chinchón has an iconic Plaza Mayor, flanked by  15th-17th century galleried houses, staggered roofs and 234 green wooden balconies and even doubles up as the town's bull ring. Over the years, it has hosted royal announcements and celebrations, mock spear combats, bullfights, livestock fairs, public executions and even film shootings (Cantinflas, Rita Hayworth, Orson Welles and John Wayne all took part in movies shot in Chinchón). Chinchón has a tower without a church and a church without a tower,’ the popular saying goes. The Clock Tower is the only remnant of the old church, whereas the new(er) church, Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, has no tower, although it does boast a painting by Goya entitled Assumption of the Virgin Mary. I soak up the sights and sounds on the town's Plaza Mayor, take a look at the church and clock tower and find out what the connection is with this small back water and the artist, Goya. There is also a medieval castle, which, however, is somewhat damaged and also closed to the public. Its last use was as a distillery producing Anís de Chinchón known commercially as Anisette, an anise-flavored high-alcohol liqueur which the town has been noted for centuries. I sipped a glass for the first time in the square and there are three varieties - Chinchón dulce, seco, or extra seco. The sweet version is less potent!  Chinchón became famous thanks to its aniseed spirit, and above all because of the Countess of Chinchón, who was responsible for the discovery of quinine, isolated by Pelletier and Caventou in 1820. The wife of the Count of Chinchón, who was also the Viceroy of Peru, had been cured of a tropical fever in the 17th Century, thanks to a remedy prepared by with Peruvian bark, and so she had some brought back to Europe. The Swedish scientist Linné gave it the scientific name of chinchona in her honour. Though small, Chinchón is known for its festivals, a big draw for people from nearby Madrid, and those visiting it. Two of the biggest are the Chinchón Festival de anis y vino, a celebration of locally distilled anisette and wine, which takes place at the end of March, and the October garlic festival. In October of each year the central plaza is the site of a temporary bullring, with the profits from the bullfighting going to charitable causes. In February, the square plays host to Carnival celebrations and a huge Medieval Market, featuring, parades, shows and an arts and crafts market. The event commemorates one of the times the Catholic Monarchs visited Chinchón. In August, during the local fiestas, the square turns into a bullring hosting bullfights, shows, verbenas (traditional outdoor festivals), running of the bulls, and sporting and religious events.   October brings the Bullfighting Charity Festival, followed by the Garlic Festival. On Easter Saturday, around 250 locals take part in the re-enactment of the Passion of Jesus. As a prelude to the bullfighting season, the first running of the bulls of the year takes place on 25 July, followed by a novillada (a fight with young bulls and bullfighters). Getting to Chinchón. Take the bus 337 from Metro Stop Conde de Casal. The journey takes just under and hour and buses leave every half an hour. Tickets cost 4.20 each way.

Join me for a day out to the Royal City of Aranjuez, a worthwhile day trip from the Spanish capital. I hop on the Cercanías light-rail commuter train from Madrid's Atocha Station and make the 45 minute train ride through the middle of the harsh Castilian plateau, to the haven of peace and tranquillity of Aranjuez, which lies in a green fertile valley between the rivers Tagus and Jarama. Wander with me as I explore this opulent, former Royal Spring retreat and walk its grand boulevards, squares and parks - that seem to remind me of a mini version of Paris. I talk through the royal comings and goings over the centuries, take a look at the Royal Palace, stop off in a very traditional Taberna to soak up the history - and noise - over a beer and some Buñelos de Rape. Then off to cool down in the vast Jardín del Prícipe, probably Spain's largest park. Tune in to find out about the famous modern classical concerto that the Prince's Garden inspired and what the 'Strawberry Train' is all about. At the beginning of the episode I also talk in more detail about Madrid's Cercanías train system and the places of note you can visit easily and affordably by using it. More info here:  https://www.renfe.com/es/en/suburban/suburban-madrid I didn't go inside the Royal Palace but you can find more info about ticket prices and the timetable here:https://www.patrimonionacional.es/en/visita/royal-palace-aranjuez Enjoy the When in Spain podcast? Please support the show by becoming a When in Spain Patron: https://www.patreon.com/wheninspain?fan_landing=true Check out more info and podcast episodes at https://www.wheninspainpodcast.com/

This week I've got a great guest for you Spain lovers – I'm going to be chatting all about that famous Spanish wine, Sherry with Annie Manson – aka Annie B! Annie is a foodie, food writer, Sherry expert and qualified Sherry educator. Annie who hails from Scotland, ran her own successful catering and corporate hospitality company in London for 15 years before falling for, and deciding to stay in the beuatiful white-washed Adaluz town Vejer. Annie runs Annie B´s Spanish Kitchen, where she cooks out of Casa Alegre, her home and the official centre for Peña Gastronómica de Vejer – The Gourmet Association of Vejer.  There, she runs culinary adventures – cooking courses using local ingredients. She also hosts food tours across Andalucía and as far away as Morocco and Menorca. But her true passion is sherry which she shares through her expert Sherry tastings. Annie is going to run us through the history of sherry, a fascinating connection between sherry and Scottish whisky, the different varieties available, the famous Sherry triangle, home to the three cities where sherry is produced and the production process. "If it swims: Fino and Manzanilla. If it flies: Amontillado. If it runs: Oloroso." Annie is going to run us through the history of sherry, a fascinating connection between sherry and Scottish whisky, the different varieties available, the famous Sherry triangle, home to the three cities where sherry is produced and the production process. Stay tuned to the end of the episode to hear Annie share food pairing inspiration and her favourite bodegas and bars to visit along with some practical advice for visiting bodegas and drinking sherry. (Listed below) Find out more about Annie and her Spanish Kitchen here: https://www.anniebspain.com/ Annie B Annie and her Spanish Kitchen on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/anniebspain/?hl=en Bodegas & bars Annie mentioned in the episode: Jerez https://www.tiopepe.com/ https://www.lustau.es/ Tabanco San Pablo https://www.tabancoelpasaje.com/ Tabanco Banderillas El Puerto de Santa María http://www.gutierrezcolosia.com/ https://www.osborne.es/en/ Bodegas Obregon Sanlúcar de Barrameda https://lagitana.es/ http://www.casabalbino.es/ http://www.entrebotasrestaurante.es/ Types of Sherry by Annie B Fino de Jerez – the driest and youngest of all Sherries (3-5 years old). The newly pressed wine is fortified up to 15% where a layer of protective yeast forms within the 3/4 filled barrels. This layer of yeast not only protects the wine from becoming oxidized, it also eats all the sugar in the wine, hence the bone dryness. Whoever was the first person to look into a Sherry barrel to see a huge layer of FLOR covering the Sherry, thinking ‘’that looks yummy, I think I’ll taste it’’ deserves to be sanctified! Manzanilla – not to be confused with Chamomile tea! Again a young and bone dry Fino but Manzanilla is from Sanlúcar – and nowhere else. Fino only come from Jerez and El Puerto de Santa Maria. Amontillado – Starts off as a Fino or Manzanilla for 3/5 years and is then fortified up to 18% and receives further oxidative ageing in barrel before bottling. It’s the air that gives Amontillado its brown tinge. Oloroso – The wine from the second pressing is immediately fortified to 18% and then entered into barrels where it remains exposed to the oxygen as long as +40 years. Palo Cortado – This is my favourite Sherry. You can’t make it – it just happens. It starts its life as a Fino/Manzanilla but inexplicably loses its layer of flor and, as a result, is exposed to the air thus requiring further fortification. It becomes an oxidized wine with the richness of Oloroso but the crispness of Amontillado. Cream Sherry – A typical Cream Sherry is a blend of Oloroso and PX Sherries. Croft Original is made for the British market and is a blend of Fino and Sweet Moscatel. Pedro Ximenez (PX) – The sweetest of all Sherries,

Part 2 of "ask me anything". I answer more of your questions about life in Spain from my point of view. In the second part I answer your questions about my favourite Spanish food and restaurants, moving to different parts of Spain, washing machines and Spanish culture.

I asked you guys, the listeners to "ask me anything"! (About Spain that is - and my life here) In part 1 I answer your questions about how and why I came to live in Spain, where to live in Spain, the situation with Covid-19 and why I decided to start the When in Spain podcast, how I make it and the journey it has taken me on.

In this episode we take a mini break from Spain as I take you with us on a trip to the Portuguese capital, Lisbon and on to the magical sub-tropical island of Madeira. This summer Karina and I booked our holiday to the Portuguese autonomous island of Madeira to visit our friend who is from there. The only way we could fly to the so-called "island of eternal spring" was by stopping off in Lisbon. So we decided to spend a few days there too, incidentally known as the "the city of the seven hills". Come along for the ride, as I explore what charming Lisbon has to offer as a city break destination. Sounds, must-see sights and of course a splash of food and drink. Then back on the plane for a 90 minute hop out into the Atlantic to explore Madeira´s stunning natural scenery. Mountains, waterfalls, beaches, cliffs and cablecars. Why include Portugal on a podcast about Spain? Well, Portugal is Spain´s cousin next door and Lisbon is definitely a viable and affordable side trip from Spain if you´re going to be on the peninsular for any extended period of time. Madeira less so, but I thought I´d share my insights anyway. Enjoy. Next episode back to Spain!

About 20 km east of Madrid, in the small town of Mejorada del Campo, stands a building that testifies to a former monk's lifetime of devotion to the Catholic faith. After eight years in a Trappist order at Soria‘s Santa Maria de la Huerta monastery, Don Justo Gallego Martinez was ordered to leave, for fear of infecting the other monks with tuberculosis that he had been diagnosed with. When his mother died in 1963 and bequeathed to him a large plot of land, including an olive grove in the center of the town, Gallego had an idea. If he would never again be allowed to enter a Catholic church as an ordained member of the faith, then he would express his devotion in a magnificent way. He would build his own church. In fact he would build his own Cathedral from scratch and make a shrine to “Our Lady of the Pillar”, or Nuestra Señora del Pilar. The incredible thing about this place of worship is that practically all building materials used to construct it have been scavenged or donated by local construction companies. As you walk around the cathedral you can see columns made of concrete-filled plastic buckets or air ducts and stairs whose lips are formed from coils of wire, among other things. Today, Don Justo, as he is known, is 95 years old. The Cathedral still needs at least ten years of work, years that its creator simply doesn’t have. Yet, such is his devotion that he still works on its construction every day, except Sundays. Today the frame of a huge structure, with a 50-meter-tall dome modeled on St. Peter’s in Rome, towers over the town of Mejorada del Campo. Like the cathedrals of old, it will not reach completion during Don Justo´s lifetime. What will happen to the building after Gallego’s death remains an open question. No one has yet stepped up to take over the project, nor is his cathedral recognized by the Catholic Church. How to get there Catedral de Justo is located in Mejorada del Campo, a small town just 20km from Madrid. To get there, there are two public buses from the center: Avenida de América (line 282) and Conde de Casal (line 341). The bus stop in Mejorada del Campo is called Calle de Arquitecto Antoni Gaudí and is located right in front of the cathedral. However, going by car is a better option, so you can continue your day-trip to Alcalá de Heneres, Cervantes’ hometown, which is about half an hour away.

In this episode of the When in Spain podcast I take a weekend trip two hours south of Madrid to the town of Valdepeñas with three friends, one of whom spent a year living the Spanish small town life in deep Castilla la Mancha before moving to the Spanish capital. With the help of Matt Jennings, friend and fellow Hispanophile - who incidentally wrote his masters thesis on Miguel de Cervantes´ most famous work The Ingenious Gentleman Don Quixote of La Mancha - we talk about what Valedepeñas and the wider autonomous community of Castilla la Mancha is famous for and what it has to offer. Think wine, windmills and of course Don Quixote. Also find out why Valdepeñas is classed as a heroic city or Ciudad Heroica.  Chris and Adam also join us as we sup beer and eat tapas in the centre of Valdepeñas, to talk about the differences between small town life versus big city living in Spain. We look at integrating with the locals, language learning and adapting to life in Spain.

A round up of do's and don'ts to make your experience in Spain as authentic and enjoyable as possible. Spain, like any country when we're not too familiar with it at first, can feel complicated and overwhelming. Especially when we don't have any kind of cultural compass to guide us along the way. Whether you visiting Spain on holiday or coming to live and work here, I share my personal insights and experience gained over the years of living in Madrid to help you get the best out of Spain. Have a listen to some of the cultural faux-pas I made so you don't have to! I run through 20 things you should and shouldn't do when your visiting or living in Spain so that you can be in sync with locals, integrate with the pace of life and live a truly authentic Spanish experience. In this episode I run through timetables and timekeeping, what not to eat and drink and what typical delicacies you should definitely try before you leave and where to buy them. Speaking of food, I give some pointers on dinner table etiquette in Spain and what conversation topics you might not want to get into - depending how well you know your hosts. I look at tipping, indulging in a leisurely sobremesa, going for a pre-dinner paseo and how to address elderly people when you give up your seat for them on a crowded bus. When the weather heats up should you wear flip-flops around the city? Is it ok to wear shorts everywhere? And when do you change from your Winter to Summer wardrobe? Plus, why shouldn´t you do anything on Tuesday the 13th - if you are superstitious? And finally, the Spanish Civil War. Should you even bring it up? Find out in the episode...

Hop on and ride with me as I cycle Madrid's streets to uncover some curious secrets and hidden gems of the Spanish capital. In this episode of the When in Spain podcast I sign-up to Madrid's BiciMadrid public cycle scheme and dodge the traffic to check out some fascinating locations which hide some surprising stories in the Spanish capital. More at https://www.wheninspainpodcast.com/post/madrid-secrets-by-bike   I puzzle at the Masonic symbolism on the Ministry of Agriculture building next to Atocha Station, visit the scene of the audacious assassination of Spanish prime minister Admiral Luis Carrero - whose car was catapulted over a five-floor apartment, visit Madrid's oldest sports venue, a hidden pelota court on a leafy city street and uncover a fishy story in the Malasaña neighbourhood. Listen to the episode to find what the giant bronze statues on top of the Ministry of Agriculture symbolise. In fact the whole façade of the Ministerio de Agricultura is littered with Masonic references. Find out what they mean in the episode. Next stop...The scene of the audacious assassination of Spanish prime minister Admiral Luis Carrero on a quiet street in the upmarket Salamanca district in 1973. Find out who was behind the murder of Franco's would-be successor and the incredible lengths they went to plant a bomb which sent his car and him flying over a five floor building where the scars can still be seen today.   On a lighter note, I scoot over to the other side of the Castellana into the handsome neighbourhood of Almagro, home to a hidden 4000-square metre Pelota Court, otherwise known as Beti-Jai in Basque, which is where the ball game originates from. The huge open air court was left to ruin for decades after it closed in 1919. It had several reincarnations over the years including a practice ground for Falangist bands. In 2018 it was brought back to its former Neo-Mudejar glory after a long renovation project. Last stop, a fishy tale on Malasaña's Fish Street, Calle del Pez. Hear the sombre story of how the street got its name.

After a loooooong break I'm back with a beautiful spring evening wander down one of my favourite Madrid streets — Calle de Santa Isabel. We'll be taking in the sights and sounds with stop-offs in El Cine Doré (Cinema and home to Spain's national film archive), San Antón municipal market, El Amor de Díos Flamenco school, Bar Benteveo (one of my all time favourite Madrid bars with its kitch interior), The Santa Isabel convent and a few other points of interest before the final stop just outside the Reina Sofia museum. Why not follow along on Google Maps? https://goo.gl/maps/BptC7WN3z8KSDWmy6

In this episode, I'm joined by native Granaína Marta Sanchéz to find out everything you need to know about the must-visit Spanish city of Granada. Marta is a tour guide and runs her own Granada walking tour company, Bite Granada. we take a virtual walk around this, one of Spain's most captivating cities which oozes the essence of Al-Andalus. In fact it's known as the Moorish city. More at https://www.wheninspainpodcast.com/post/granada-with-marta-s%C3%A1nchez We begin our tour in Granada's bustling Plaza Bib-Rambla, from there we cut through the Alcaicería, an Arabic-style bazaar composed of narrow alleyways, which takes us to the cathedral, La Santa Iglesia Catedral Metropolitana de la Encarnación de Granada. It's the largest and first renaissance cathedral in Spain. We gaze at its lavish gold and white interior, famous for its stained-glass domed chapel. Next door we stop into the Elaborate Royal chapel, a mausoleum for Catholic royalty, including Ferdinand & Isabella. Just over the road we stick our heads into the Palacio de la Madraza, a University cultural center opened in a former Moorish school built in the 1300s. We then head up into the Albaicín, Granada's oldest neighbourhood and old Moorish heart of Granada, this steep, whitewashed warren of narrow alleys has barely changed in a thousand years. Next, the Mirador de San Nicolás to admire the magical views of the Alhambra just across the valley. Next we step inside the Alhambra and  transport ourselves to the era of the Nasrids. Marta explains the significance of this medieval citadel which includes the palace of Charles V, the Alcázaba and the garden palace of El Generalife with its tranquil gardens. Finally we talk food and Marta tempts us with traditional granada sweets including the local cake called Pío Nono. She also shares some of her favourite places to eat and drink including Casa Julio and La Tana. If you are planning a trip to Granada in the future check out the walking tours that Marta offers right here: https://bitegranada.com/  and her Instagram https://www.instagram.com/bitegranada/  She has also just started virtual tours of Granada on her new YouTube Channel Biting Granada. Don't forget to visit the new When in Spain website www.wheninspainpodcast.com

Think blue flowerpots of vibrant geranium flowers of every colour imaginable. White washed houses, the scent of orange blossom drifting through the streets, tranquil patios, trickling fountains and the sound of a distant guitar.  More at https://www.wheninspainpodcast.com/post/cordoba-patios-fiesta This week we´re heading to Códoba´s annual Fiesta de los Patios (Courtyard Festival) - virtually of course. And joining us we have an expert guide, Karen Rosenblum, who many of you may remember joined me on the podcast episode about our favourite Madrid streets. Karen had a tour of the patios organised for this year but of course sadly had to cancel it. So, we thought why not take you there virtually! Cordoba´s Patios Festival takes place every year during the first week of May and is a long standing tradition of the city of Cordoba. Patios really means courtyards and the festival celebrates the art of elaborately decorating courtyards with hundreds of colourful flowers and plants. Since the first patios event in 1918, the Cordobeses have been cultivating and caring for their patios every day. These secret courtyards are privately owned, hidden behind the homes, doors and walls of the city, but for one week of the year they are opened to the public, who can come and enjoy the beauty of the flowers, plants and architecture. Check out other virtual Códoba Patios Festival events in Karen´s Travel Spain! Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelspain/ Karen´s Spain Less Traveled Website https://www.spainlesstraveled.com/blog Patio Routes https://www.turismodecordoba.org/archivos/2019/20190424091146000000.pdf Info on the Patio Festival https://www.turismodecordoba.org/-en-1-1 Restaurante Casa Mazal - casamazal.es For as little as $1 you can support When in Spain by becoming a Patron – and it only takes a minute. You can sign-up to become a When in Spain patron at https://www.patreon.com/wheninspain The When in Spain podcast is an independently produced show. No adverts, no sponsors, no media company backing. All episodes are available to listen to for free. However, my time and resources for producing the episodes are not free. It comes at a personal cost. So if you enjoy the When in Spain podcast and don't want to see it disappear please do consider making a small contribution to help support the future of podcast.  Every listener donation, however big or small, is so valuable. https://www.wheninspainpodcast.com/

Author and journalist Paul Richardson joins me to talk about life living off-grid on his farm El Chabolino (The Little Shack) https://chabolino.com/ in deep Extremadura. Paul and his husband are almost completely self-sufficient and live from what they produce on their 12-acres of Spanish countryside. Which means tending fruit trees, olive groves and making wine from their own vines. They also rear their own animals and make homemade soap! More here https://www.wheninspainpodcast.com/post/extremadura-with-author-paul-richardson Paul also talks about the (forgotten) region of Extremadura, its history, beautiful pueblos and of course its cuisine. Paul is the author of A Late Dinner - one of my favourite books about Spain. I highly recommend it if you´re into Spain and food. As mentioned in the episode Paul will be leading a tour of Extremadura in May 2021, including the region´s history, architecture, food and wine. To find out more or book visit https://www.martinrandall.com/extremadura  For as little as $1 you can support When in Spain by becoming a Patron – and it only takes a minute. You can sign-up to become a When in Spain patron at https://www.patreon.com/wheninspain The When in Spain podcast is an independently produced show. No adverts, no sponsors, no media company backing. All episodes are available to listen to for free. However, my time and resources for producing the episodes are not free. It comes at a personal cost. So if you enjoy the When in Spain podcast and don't want to see it disappear please do consider making a small contribution to help support the future of podcast.  Every listener donation, however big or small, is so valuable.

Vermut 101 a guide to Spain's favourite day-time tipple, vermouth. I explore the world of this fortified wine and its culture with Paula Móvil, lifestyle editor from Conde Nast Traveler and co-founder of La Vermutería Pop-up, a pop-up bar event showcasing vermouth, its brands and styles at regular events around Madrid. More here https://www.wheninspainpodcast.com/post/vermut-with-paula-m%C3%B3vil-from-la-vermuter%C3%ADa Paula walks us through the history of Spanish vermouth, the varieties available, how to drink it and shares her favourite Madrid bars to sip it. Check out La Vermuteria's website https://lavermuteria.wordpress.com/  For as little as $1 you can support When in Spain by becoming a Patron – and it only takes a minute. You can sign-up to become a When in Spain patron at https://www.patreon.com/wheninspain The When in Spain podcast is an independently produced show. No adverts, no sponsors, no media company backing. All episodes are available to listen to for free. However, my time and resources for producing the episodes are not free. It comes at a personal cost. So if you enjoy the When in Spain podcast and don't want to see it disappear please do consider making a small contribution to help support the future of podcast.  Every listener donation, however big or small, is so valuable.

I look back at a few food and drink episodes from last year. I sample some beautiful Jamón Ibérico with food guide Margit Sperling from Walk and Eat Spain.  Then I quaff wine and explore the world of Spanish vino with Luke Darracott and Roque Madrid from Madrid & Darracott. Check out the show notes here https://www.wheninspainpodcast.com/post/foodies-in-madrid-best-bites  From grape to grain with a stop-off at La Osita bar where I chat with owners and brewers David and Patrick about their own Madrid brewed craft beer and the craft beer scene in Spain. From there I pay a visit to some nuns, even though I can´t see them, to buy some biscuits through a secret door at the Carboneras Church and Convent. Then we wrap things up chatting to Sam and Veren from Alternative Travelers about the vegan food scene in Madrid and beyond. Also in this episode I read out some reviews and responses to the question - Why do you listen to the When in Spain podcast? Where do you listen? What´s your favourite episode? For as little as $1 you can support When in Spain by becoming a Patron – and it only takes a minute. You can sign-up to become a When in Spain patron at https://www.patreon.com/wheninspain The When in Spain podcast is an independently produced show. No adverts, no sponsors, no media company backing. All episodes are available to listen to for free. However, my time and resources for producing the episodes are not free. It comes at a personal cost. So if you enjoy the When in Spain podcast and don't want to see it disappear please do consider making a small contribution to help support the future of podcast.  Every listener donation, however big or small, is so valuable.  

In this episode we're talking and walking Spain's third biggest city - the beautiful Mediterranean city of Valencia. Guiding us around Valencia is photographer and guide, Paul Knowles who runs his own walking private tour, Streets of Valencia. In the episode Paul talks history and reveals some of Valencia's most important sights, including the Catedral de Santa María de Valencia, La Lonja de la Seda - a beautiful 15th-century Gothic silk exchange, the Palace of the Marqués de Dos Aguas a Rococo nobility palace with its elaborate facade. Then on to the Central Market of Valencia where we see what fresh produce is on offer. Next, the Serranos Gate, one of the twelve entrances to Valencia that formed part of the ancient city wall. From there we head to the lively neighbourhood of Russafa (Ruzafa in Valenciano) to check out the bar and restaurant scene. Of course we head to Valencia's various beaches too and en route stop off at the city's Turia Gardens, an eight kilometre long park that winds through the Valencia, once a river that was diverted because of the serious flooding it inflicted on the city. In the Turia Gardens we admire the imposing futuristic architecture of the numerous buildings that form the Park of Arts & Sciences. Along the way we look at food and drink options including the famous Valencian dish- Paella. Paul advises when and where to eat it and how to spot an authentic one. Valencia is full of oranges - so it's apt then to try an Agua de Valencia - Cava, Orange juice and Gin or Vodka. To finish off, we talk Las Fallas, Valencia's annual feria of fire and fireworks like no other festival in Spain. To book one of Paul's walking tours which include a set of professionally taken photos around the city, visit https://www.streetsofvalencia.com and to see Paul´s fantastic photography of Valencia follow him on Instagram streetsofvalenciatour The When in Spain podcast is an independently produced show. No adverts, no sponsors, no media company backing. All episodes are available to listen to free. However, my time and resources for producing the episodes are not free. It comes at a personal cost. So if you enjoy the When in Spain podcast and don't want to see it disappear please do consider making a small contribution to help support the future of podcast.  Every listener donation, however big or small, is so valuable. For as little as $1 you can support When in Spain by becoming a Patron – and it only takes a minute. You can sign-up to become a When in Spain patron at https://www.patreon.com/wheninspain