Spain is an absolute classic when it comes to tourist destinations – everyone has either been there or knows at least twenty people who have. It’s been popular for expatriates for many years now and has seemingly endless appeal to people from all over the world. Having said that, it isn’t like Spain is a country overrun with tourists – a bit of travel and willingness to duck off the oft-travelled hotspots reveals a wealth of genuine Spanish culture and beauty, making the country well worth a visit even for those who think they’ve seen it all before. Located in the West of Europe with borders to Portugal in the West and France in the North, Spain is also represented through the Balearic and Canary Islands, as well as the small enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla on the North African mainland. Home to some of the highest and most mountainous terrain in Europe, Spain offers a wealth of differing geography for all who visit to see.

Spain, as the bridge between Europe and Africa, has always been the focal point for those wishing to expand and claim empires, and history has seen a fair share of empires, kingdoms and the like claiming dominion over the Iberian lands. From Roman rule established around the second century AD, through the Visigoths and the Muslims and on to the 13^th century when the Christians reclaimed control of the country. By the 15^th century the two kingdoms ruling over Spanish lands, Castilla and Aragon, were united under one flag, and not long after the infamous Spanish Inquisition was formed, executing and forcing out thousands of Jews and other non-Christians – really not as funny as Monty Python make out, to be fair. A certain Columbus discovered the new world in 1492, and his discovery paved the way for Spain to become one of the most powerful nations in the world, laying claim to many lands of the Americas and maintaining exclusive trading routes with these countries – unfortunately for Spain, this sheltering of the colonies hindered their growth and resulted in costly (monetary and otherwise) wars with England, France and the Netherlands. After a five year war of independence against Napoleonic rule established in 1808, Spain began an uncontrollable tailspin – the powerful empire was completely gone by the beginning of the 20^th century and internal strife pushed people to the brink of civil war. People were pushed one step too far in 1936 when opposition leader Jose Calvo Sotelo was assassinated – civil war broke out, lasting until 1939, which saw the Nationalists of the country, led by one General Francisco Franco, firmly in power. The centrist dictatorship of Franco remained in place until his death in 1975, which saw Spain as one of the fastest-growing economies in Europe and soon enough became a monarchy once more, with democracy installed and a socialist government by the early 80s – quite a swing around. Spain quickly established itself on the European scene, and by 1986 was admitted to the EU (EC at the time) – by 1992 the country hosted the Olympics. Recent history has seen a socialist government re-installed after a brief conservative run, as well as the country enjoying a strong economy and burgeoning levels of tourism.

Spain is a simply wonderful country, and even with a history as tumultuous as this it has managed to become one of the most stable, friendly and liberal countries around. Popular for decades with tourists of both Spain and other countries, there is always something to see and do in the region and off plan investment is a big business. Potential buyers who aren’t looking for the cheapest place in the world and want something classic and near enough guaranteed to be great should look no further than Spain.

The standards of healthcare in Spain are generally very good, though hospitals in rural areas can prove under-equipped. A reciprocal agreement with the UK means British nationals are entitled to free treatment for accidents or illnesses on production of an European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) – other charges may still apply, however. Private health insurance is still recommended in case emergency evacuation is necessary and to cover the cost of treatment.

Mobile phone coverage stretches across most of the country, though obviously quality of service cannot be guaranteed in more rural areas. Landlines are widely available and lines are of an excellent standard. Internet cafes are also widespread in urban areas.