What’s New in Spain?
Madrid´s Hotel Scene is Booming!
The Spanish capital is firmly establishing itself as one of the world’s leading destinations by doubling its premium accommodations in 2019 and 2020. Eight new high-end projects have been approved in Madrid´s city center in the past few years which will add 1,200 rooms to Madrid’s current luxury accommodation scene.
One of the most highly anticipated is the Four Seasons Madrid at the historic Canalejas Centre. It will feature 200 luxury rooms along with 22 private residences and 45 high-end boutiques. The construction is currently in the final stage of completion and the opening is expected in late 2019.
Right in front of the Four Seasons, Marriott is expected to open a new W Madrid. The hotel will have 141 rooms, including 20 suites and an Extreme WOW suite (the W version of the presidential suite). Clients and residents alike will be able to enjoy the lively bar located on the hotel roof and the open-air WET swimming pool, as well as indulge in a cocktail while enjoying the impressive views of Madrid’s skyline on warm summer evenings. The opening has been postponed until 2020.
Another completely renovated property, the Ritz Madrid (now managed by Mandarin Oriental chain) is also expected to re-open at the beginning of 2020.
Madrid´s 4-star property will also get an upgrade with 585 rooms at the new RIU Plaza España. Some of the rooms will be available this summer.
Michelin Chefs Star in Gourmet Event
Spanish Heritage DMC pulled out all the stops for one of their best corporate clients who asked them to incorporate Barcelona´s current haute cuisine for several of their off-site dinners. After over 1,500 emails, 576 phone calls, and 11 tastings, 4 of the most famous chefs of the Spanish and worldwide gastronomy scene, Dani García, Albert Raurich, Sergio and Javier Torres, with a total of 6 Michelin stars, created an exclusive gourmet event for the attendees who were completely amazed by the experience.
Exclusive Foodie Experience in Marbella
Speaking ofSpanish haute cuisine, Dani García’s Atelier in Marbella is a must-visit for any foodie in Costa del Sol – the research and development center where this famous Michelin star chef and his team daily create avant-garde dishes and innovative products. There is no more extraordinary activity you can offer your group than dining at the very mecca of gourmet creativity while witnessing the process.
The Most Authentic Andalusia Experience – Wine & Horses
The most authentic experience in the South of Spain will immerse you tout à fait in the Spanish culture. Spanish Heritage DMC offers you carefully crafted and a 100% authentic Spanish Culture Discovery Day in Andalusia that features visiting the Royal School of Equestrian Art where you will see the Andalusian horses dance. You will also stop at the magnificent Finca Los Alburejos and have the pleasure of meeting Domecq family members who share the story of this estate dedicated to horse breeding and will also serve a casual al fresco lunch. Finally, a stop at the famous Gonzales Byass winery that produces one of the most famous sherry brands, Tío Pepe. There your group will be escorted through the different bodegas (wine cellars) and do a tasting of the various sherry varieties.
Did You Know?
Spain has 47 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Spain is the 3rd ranked country in the world by number of sites that have pre-historic rock art, historic cities and buildings, bridges, national parks and landscapes. Only Italy with 49 sites and China with 45 have more.
Thank the Spanish for the Stapler
The first known stapler was made in the 18th century in the Basque country for the French King Louis XV – and every single staple was engraved with the royal emblem. Spain has also given the world the mop and bucket (1956), the forerunner of the modern cigarette (17th century) and the astronaut’s space suit (1935).
Spain Produces Over Half the World’s Olive Oil
Spain produces more than 1.5 million tons of olive oil, and almost all of it comes from the southern region of Andalusia. Spanish wine is also a noted product as it is the second largest producer in the world, after Italy, making 4.6 million metric tons in 2015.
Enjoy a Meal in the Oldest Restaurant in the World
You can enjoy a meal in the oldest restaurant in the world in Spain’s capital, Madrid. Although other restaurants claim they are older, the title has been awarded by Guinness World Records to Restaurante Botín, which has been open since 1725. The signature dish is Cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig).
Spain is the Country of Fiestas
Spain is the Country of Fiestas, with hundreds of festivals taking place throughout the year. The oldest fiesta, Romería de Nuestra Señora de le Cabeza, has been held for over 800 years! The Fiesta de los Patios was awarded UNESCO World heritage status in 2013. Be chased by bulls during the festival of San Fermin, throw overripe tomatoes during La Tomatina or watch while huge ninots (statues) are burned during Las Fallas.
Source: Expatica.com