Voices Of BP: An Insider’s Guide To Culinary & Cultural Activities In Spain

Spain’s diverse offerings have long captivated visitors, including Blue Parallel’s Product Manager, Josefina. To offer you an insight into Spain behind-the-scenes and lesser-known experiences, Josefina is sharing her favorite culinary and cultural activities in this Q&A series: “Voices of BP.”

How long have you lived in Spain?

I’ve been living in Spain for almost three years now. Blue Parallel’s team is located across Latin America and the Mediterranean as it means we can be on-call for our travelers 24/7 and also allows us to become experts in the regions in which we operate.

Initially, I relocated from Buenos Aires to Barcelona. Barcelona was a great introduction to this vibrant country and offered plenty of opportunities to immerse myself in the local culture.

After some time I moved to Madrid as I adored the city’s energy and atmosphere. Madrid reminds me of Buenos Aires, with its beautiful architecture, lively neighborhoods, and its unique blend of history and modernity. While it still feels new and exciting, there is a familiarity to it which made moving here an easy transition.

What are your favorite regions?

I personally prioritize culinary experiences and culturally immersive experiences. While there are still plenty of regions I am yet to explore in Spain, Madrid tops my list for both of these things. It’s full of life and there’s always something popping up, whether it’s a new activity or a fresh restaurant.

It’s one of the reasons I enjoy working on Blue Parallel’s luxury tours to Madrid. There are some activities and experiences that stand the test of time, as well as lots of new activities to recommend depending on the type of traveler.

You can also spend days wandering around the city, admiring its grandeur like the baroque Plaza Mayor and the neoclassical Puerta de Alcalá.

When I want to escape Madrid’s scorching summers, I visit the Balearic Islands. I also love the Basque Country as it has an excellent culinary scene and stunning natural landscapes. As a foodie, I really enjoy the authentic pintxos tours in the Basque Country, and there’s also great wine tasting experiences.

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What are your favorite cultural experiences in Spain?

Spain has a rich history and there’s plenty of unique cultural experiences to enjoy throughout the country…

Cultural Experiences in Madrid

Madrid will appeal to travelers interested in history, culture and arts. There’s a rich selection of museums and cultural landmarks, as well as a buzzing shopping scene and lively nightlife. The Prado Museum is a must for anyone visiting Madrid, but my favorite has to be the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum.

The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum offers an incredible collection that spans centuries, from European classics to modern art, and offers a diverse art experience in one place.

Cultural Experiences in Barcelona

Barcelona has a great bohemian charm and is also a great city for people interested in architecture. Of course, it is home to some of Gaudi’s most iconic works, like the Casa Batllo, La Pedrera and the famous La Sagrada Familia.

Shopping enthusiasts will be able to visit Casa Batllo and La Pedrera while exploring Paseo de Gracia, an iconic avenue known for its luxury boutiques and high-end designer stores. It’s a perfect place for fashion lovers who also want to immerse themselves in the stunning modernist architecture.

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I love the museums in Barcelona as well, especially the Moco Museum. It’s known for its contemporary art exhibitions and unique mix of famous modern artists and rising talent. It’s a must-see for fans of modern and urban art, showcasing a vibrant perspective on the global art scene.

Cultural Experiences in Andalucia

Andalucia is perfect for history buffs! This region opens the door to Spain’s Moorish and unique cultural heritage.

The Alhambra in Granada is a great example of Moorish history and can be visited on a day trip. When organizing tours for Blue Parallel’s travelers, we organize private insider tours before the monument opens to the public. Other historical highlights in Andalucia include the Mezquita in Córdoba, Seville’s cathedral, the Giralda Minaret and the Alcázar of Seville.

Cultural Experiences in the Basque Country

The Basque Country’s food scene is a cultural experience in itself as is such a significant part of local traditions. This region is a gastronomical haven with Michelin-starred restaurants, smaller hotspots offering epic traditional dishes, and bustling markets filled with fresh, locally sourced produce.

Can You Share 3 Things First Time Visitors Should Do In Spain?

There’s so much to choose from, but if I had to select three I would say:

1. Enjoy a tapas tour: without a doubt, first-time visitors to Spain should embark on a tapas tour. It’s a fantastic way to sample the country’s culinary highlights while being immersed in the passionate food culture. Authentic tapas tours also offer an insight into authentic Spain away from major tourist attractions.
2. Visit La Sagrada Familia: there’s a reason this is one of the most popular activities for people visiting Spain. While it can attract the crowds, there’s nothing quite like this architectural masterpiece and it should be on everyone’s bucket list.
3. Wander Madrid’s streets: I personally love just meandering through the streets of Madrid, taking in everything around me. Taking a moment to switch off and just admire the historical beauty, bustling plazas and fragrant smells is really magical. I recommend the Alonso Martínez neighborhood as it’s home to lots of trendy cafes.

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Please share your favorite Spanish dish…

The culinary experiences in Spain are vast but one dish everyone must try is Iberian jamón.

Iberian jamón is a cured ham known for its rich, savory flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. It’s also a cultural symbol of Spanish culinary heritage and has been a beloved tradition throughout the country for centuries. It is often served thinly sliced and paired with local wines or cheeses and embodies the artisanal methods passed down through generations.

You can access this delicacy almost anywhere in Spain. When organizing tours for Blue Parallel travelers, we recommend a unique tasting experience in Seville which starts with a visit to a small village to learn about the product, followed by an exclusive tour of Seville’s best Iberian ham company.

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Do you have a favorite restaurant?

Many of my favorite restaurants are in Madrid, including Casa Benigna and Quispe.

Casa Benigna is a cozy spot known for its authentic, flavorful paellas made with high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques. It’s a perfect place for savoring Spanish cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.

Quispe, on the other hand, offers a modern twist with its Peruvian dishes. I can’t get enough of their ceviche and creative cocktails!

Can you remember your favorite meal in Spain?

Yes, the best meal I’ve ever had in Spain was a seven-course culinary experience at Ovillo in Madrid.

Ovillo is an upscale restaurant that offers a modern, innovative take on Mediterranean cuisine. The menu highlights seasonal ingredients and the presentation is stunning; it’s a meal for all the senses!

I tried their tasting menu and it was unforgettable! There was a beautiful balance between rich intense flavors and creative techniques that showcased the chef’s unique artistry. Every course was divine and you could tell each dish was meticulously crafted around the whole experience.

What is one piece of advice you would give to people visiting Spain?

My insider tip for anyone visiting Spain is to walk as much as possible through the cities. By exploring on foot, you’ll stumble upon charming streets, hidden gems, and local spots that aren’t always on the tourist map. It’s the best way to soak in the culture and discover beautiful corners of Spain that you might otherwise miss.

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