Spain is a delightful dichotomy - futuristic in many ways, yet respectful of its rich history and tradition. Spain is among the most popular tourist destinations in the world. From the delicate music of flamenco to swashbuckling matadors, Spain's culture and tradition are as widely varied as its geography. Flamenco is a genuine southern Spanish art form influenced by diverse cultures throughout Spain's history, including the Gypsies, the legendary Tartessos, and the Muslims. One social custom that visitors will notice immediately is that Spaniards get up later in the morning and usually stay out later at night than other Europeans. If you want to dance until dawn, you're visiting the right country. © 2009, The Globe Pequot Press, LaVerne Ferguson-Kosinski Information by Europe by Eurail
Barcelona Sants Station is the center of Barcelona's transportation system. The high speed Euromed trains to Alicante, Castellon Tarragona, and Valencia depart from the Sants Station, as well as direct trains to Montpellier for connections to Paris and Geneva on TGVs. Twelve tracks are located beneath the main floor of the station. Chamartin Station is Madrid's international station connecting with most European capitals, as well as the north, northeast, and south of Spain. The station is near the Chamartin metro stop. High speed AVE and Talgo 200 trains connect Madrid with Andalusia from Puerto de Atocha Station. RENFE (Red Nacional de Ferrocarrilles Espanoles) accepts the variety of Eurail passes, but it deviates from the basic rail pass concept in that certain trains, such as AVE trains and Talgos operating on high-speed lines, are not included, but rail pass holders do receive substantial discounts. Reservations are required on Spanish trains. © 2009, The Globe Pequot Press, LaVerne Ferguson-Kosinski Information by Europe by Eurail
