Attractions

Spain remains one of the top 3 destinations in the world for second home buyers. Ease of access, a favourable climate and a strong rental environment result in the country providing a year on year appealing investment possibility.

Spain represents one of Europe's most culturally diverse and popular countries. From the stunning and numerous Costa's to the history of Madrid, Barcelona and Seville, the country has something for everyone. Ease of access from the UK and Europe, coupled with excellent value for money; make Spain the number one choice of
holiday for thousands of British holidaymaker's each year.

Economy

Spain has been transformed in the last three decades from a rural, agricultural country into a nation with a diversified economy with strong manufacturing and service sectors. Today the economy of Spain is the fifth largest in Europe, accounting for around 9% of EU output. Per capita income, at 78% of the EU average is among the lowest in the EU, although it is well ahead of Ireland, Portugal and Greece. Spain's main trading partners are France, Germany and Italy for exports and Germany, France and Italy for imports.

Tourism

The tourist industry in Spain incorporates a large proportion of its whole economy with a significant number of Europeans visiting the country each year and a large number owning second homes. Tourism thrives on the ease of access via low cost airlines, value for money and the myriad of locations to visit.

Climate

Visitors can generally expect a Mediterranean climate, characterised by hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. The vast central plateau, or Meseta, has a continental climate with hot, dry summers and cold winters. Rain generally falls in spring and autumn.

Health

The Spanish healthcare system has improved dramatically over the last few years and generally has a reputation for being excellent. Even if you should choose at any time to go private, it will cost a fraction of what it would in the UK.

Citizens of the EU, Switzerland, Iceland, Norway or Liechtenstein receive free or reduced cost state provided health care cover with the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). The EHIC replaced the E111 in 2006. Each family member will need a separate card. You can apply for this card online (www.ehic.org.uk) or pick up an application at any British post office. The EHIC will not cover you for non-emergencies or emergency repatriation.

Travel

The cheapest and quickest way to get to Spain is to fly. The majority of destinations on mainland Spain are only a couple of hours away from the UK and Europe, and there are plenty of budget flights available year-round to most regional airports.

Visas

According to your nationality, time and purpose of travel you may require a visa. EU citizens do not need a visa.

Tourist (Schengen) Visa

Those not exempt need a Schengen Visa, named after the agreement that abolished passport controls between Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain and Sweden. It allows unlimited travel throughout the entire zone within a 90-day period.

Applications are made with the consulate of the country you are entering first, or that will be your main destination. Among other things, you will need medical insurance and proof of sufficient funds to support yourself.

If you enter Spain overland, it is unlikely that your visa will be checked at the border, but major problems can arise if you don't have one later on.

Tourist visas cannot be extended except in emergencies (such as medical problems); you'll need to leave and reapply from outside Spain when your visa expires.

Useful Links

• http://www.spain.info
• http://www.sispain.org

Spanish Property Hotspots

Costa de la Luz property
The Atlantic coast of western Andalucia has been a favourite destination for the Spanish for many years. Overseas buyers will be delighted with the culture, the climate and the property prices.

Canary Islands property
With a warm climate all year round, dramatic volcanic scenery and excellent value property, there's more to these islands than simply its stunning beaches and popular resorts

Barcelona property
The throbbing capital of Catalonia is a major city break destination and growing commercial centre, but even its high property prices don't detract from its continuing appeal to overseas property buyers

Costa Blanca property

Although it's property market is reeling from one blow after another, it will recover, and will remain the first choice for British holidaymaker's and holiday-home buyers for years to come.

Costa del Sol property
Has long been a favourite. It's easy to reach, has a wonderful climate and lifestyle, sheltered beaches, top-class golf courses and marinas, and continued investment in its infrastructure has been reflected in the capital growth and rental yields achieved from Costa del Sol properties in recent years.

Bull Running in Spain

Every year from July 7th-14th thousands pack into Pamplona to start Spain's most famous bull-running fiesta to honour Navarre capital's patron saint, San Fermin. Spain stages more than 3,000 fiestas (festivals) each year but the 7 days of bull-running are the favourite in terms of spectacle and excitement.

The 'Tomatina' Tomato Fight - The worlds' biggest food fight

The festival called Tomatina happens every year on the last Wednesday of August, when around 30,00 people descend on the Spanish town of Bunol (in the Valencia region of Spain) to throw more than 240,000 pounds of tomatoes at each other. It is basically a town-wide tomato fight!

It is thought the tradition began in 1945 when a fight erupted among two young members of a carnival crowd. A vegetable stall was nearby in the town square and every started throwing tomatoes at each other. Exactly one year later, young people met at the square, but this time with their own tomatoes. Another food-fight started but was broken up by police.

In the following years this practice was banned by the authorities, but due to popular demand was given official recognition in 1959. This was only to occur if participants would respect the start and the end of tomato-throwing being announced with a banger.