Dive into Zaragoza's River Aquarium
Friday, June 20, 2025
In Zaragoza, the River Aquarium (Acuario Fluvial de Zaragoza) offers a captivating journey through the world's major river ecosystems. More than just an aquarium, it's an educational and immersive experience that showcases the incredible biodiversity found in freshwater habitats across the globe. For any tourist visiting Spain, and especially those exploring the Aragon region, this unique attraction is an absolute must-see.

The River Aquarium was a key pavilion during the 2008 Zaragoza International Expo, which focused on water and sustainable development. Its enduring presence stands as a testament to the Expo's legacy, continuing to educate and inspire visitors long after the event concluded. The modern, striking architecture of the building itself is a sight to behold, reflecting the importance of its contents.
What Awaits You Inside?
Prepare to be amazed as you embark on a fascinating aquatic adventure, tracing the course of some of the world's most iconic rivers:
- The Nile: Discover the ancient lifeblood of Egypt, home to impressive Nile crocodiles, cichlids, and other African species.
- The Amazon: Plunge into the lush, biodiverse waters of the Amazon rainforest, where piranhas, colossal arapaima, and an astonishing array of colourful fish thrive amidst dense vegetation.
- The Mekong: Explore the vibrant ecosystems of Southeast Asia's lifeline, featuring unique and often surprising species from this mighty river.
- The Murray-Darling: Journey to the distant waters of Australia, encountering some of its distinctive aquatic inhabitants.
- The Ebro: Naturally, the aquarium pays homage to its local river, the Ebro, showcasing the native fish and amphibians that call this Spanish waterway home.
- The World River Plaza: This central tank is a spectacular highlight, representing an amalgamation of global river life and housing some of the aquarium's largest and most impressive inhabitants.
Beyond the Fish: Education and Conservation
The River Aquarium is not just about showcasing beautiful creatures; it's deeply committed to education and conservation. Informative displays, interactive exhibits, and engaging presentations highlight the delicate balance of river ecosystems, the threats they face (such as pollution and habitat loss), and the importance of conservation efforts. It's an excellent opportunity for visitors of all ages to learn about freshwater biodiversity and how they can contribute to its protection.

Practical Information for Tourists:
- Location: The River Aquarium is conveniently located on the left bank of the Ebro River, within the beautiful Luis Buñuel Water Park (Parque del Agua Luis Buñuel), an easy and pleasant walk from the city center or accessible via public transport.
- Opening Hours: Check the official website for the most up-to-date opening hours, as these can vary seasonally.
- Tickets: Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the entrance. Consider purchasing a combined ticket if you plan to visit other attractions in Zaragoza.
- Facilities: The aquarium offers amenities such as a gift shop, and often has a cafeteria or restaurant where you can grab a bite to eat.
- Family-Friendly: The River Aquarium is incredibly family-friendly, with engaging exhibits that captivate children and adults alike. It's an ideal activity for a rainy day or a break from exploring Zaragoza's historic sites.

Making the Most of Your Visit:
- Allow Ample Time: To fully appreciate all the exhibits and soak in the atmosphere, allocate at least 2-3 hours for your visit.
- Read the Information: Take the time to read the informative plaques and learn about the fascinating species and ecosystems you're observing.
- Check for Special Activities: The aquarium sometimes hosts special events, feeding times, or guided tours, which can enhance your experience. Check their website before your visit.

A trip to Zaragoza's River Aquarium offers a unique opportunity to connect with the planet's vital freshwater systems. It's a journey of discovery that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the aquatic world and a renewed sense of responsibility towards its preservation. Don't miss this experience!
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Embrace the Flames and Fortune: Your Expat Guide to San Juan in Spain
Friday, June 6, 2025
As June descends upon Spain, a palpable excitement fills the air, culminating in one of the country's most enchanting and ancient celebrations: Las Hogueras de San Juan (The Bonfires of Saint John). Marking the summer solstice and the eve of St. John the Baptist's birthday, this magical night on June 23rd offers expats a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a blend of pagan rituals and Christian traditions.
But what exactly can you expect from this fiery fiesta, and how can you prepare to experience it like a true local? Read on for your essential guide.
What to Expect: A Night of Fire, Water, and Community
San Juan is a nationwide phenomenon, with celebrations varying slightly by region, but the core elements of fire and water remain universal.
- Bonfires (Hogueras/Fogueres/Cacharelas): The undisputed stars of the night. Across beaches, plazas, and even some streets, bonfires of all sizes are meticulously built. These range from small, personal fires where friends and families gather, to enormous, elaborate effigies (particularly in Alicante, where they are true works of art akin to Valencia's Fallas) that are spectacularly burned at midnight. The fires symbolise purification, burning away the old and negative to make way for new beginnings and good luck.
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Firecrackers and Fireworks: The air crackles with excitement as fireworks light up the sky and firecrackers punctuate the night with loud bangs. In some regions, like Catalonia, you might encounter "correfocs" (fire runs), where costumed "demons" run through the streets with fireworks, creating a dazzling but intense display.
- Water Rituals: As midnight strikes, a wave of revelers often rushes to the sea or rivers. Tradition dictates that dipping your feet, or even taking a full swim, at midnight purifies the soul and body, washing away bad luck. Jumping over seven waves is a particularly popular ritual for good fortune. Some people also wash their face three times at midnight for wishes and good health.

- Community and Merriment (Verbena): San Juan is a deeply social affair. Friends and families gather on beaches, in parks, or even set up tables in the streets for communal dinners. Food, drink, music, and dancing are integral to the celebration, often continuing until the early hours of the morning. Expect a lively, multi-generational atmosphere
- Symbolic Burning: Beyond the main bonfires, many individuals will write down wishes, worries, or things they want to leave behind on pieces of paper and throw them into the flames, or burn old personal items.
- Regional Variations:
- Alicante: The "Fogueres de Sant Joan" is a grand, week-long festival culminating in the burning of massive, artistic bonfires on June 24th, followed by a "banyá" (firefighters hosing down revelers).
- Catalonia (Nit de Sant Joan): Known for its intense beach parties, elaborate firework displays, and the arrival of the "Flama del Canigó" (Canigó Flame) which is used to light many of the bonfires.
- Galicia: Celebrates with "cacharelas," roasted sardines, and the tradition of gathering "herbas de San Xoán" (San Juan herbs) to leave in water overnight for a purifying wash the next morning.
- Malaga: Often features the burning of "júas," rag dolls representing negative aspects of the past year.
How to Prepare: Your Expat Checklist
To truly enjoy San Juan, a little preparation goes a long way.

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Choose Your Location Wisely:
- Big Cities (Barcelona, Valencia, Alicante, Malaga): Offer large, organized celebrations, often with major firework displays and concerts. Expect huge crowds.
- Smaller Coastal Towns: Provide a more intimate, local experience, with families gathering on the beach with their own bonfires.
- Inland Towns: Some inland towns also have bonfires and festivities, often with a more traditional, less beach-focused vibe.
- Consider visiting a local tourism office or checking municipal websites for specific program details in your chosen area.
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Dress for the Occasion (Comfort and Safety First!):
- Comfortable, Closed-Toe Shoes: Absolutely essential. You'll be walking a lot, often on sand or uneven ground, and near fires. Avoid sandals.
- Old Clothes: Wear something you don't mind getting dirty, sandy, or potentially singed. Natural fibres like cotton are preferable to synthetics, which can melt.
- Long Sleeves/Hood (Optional but Recommended): Especially if you plan to get close to the bonfires or fire runs, a light long-sleeved top or a hoodie can offer some protection from sparks and heat.
- Swimsuit and Towel: If you plan to partake in the midnight swim!
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Pack Your Essentials:
- Food and Drinks: Many locals bring picnic dinners to the beach or set up street tables. Pack a cooler with snacks, drinks (water is key!), and perhaps some coca de Sant Joan (a traditional sweet bread, often with candied fruit and pine nuts).
- Blankets/Chairs: To comfortably stake out your spot, especially on the beach.
- Earplugs/Headphones: Especially important if you're sensitive to loud noises, as firecrackers can be constant and intense. Essential for children and pets.
- Eye Protection: If you plan to get close to firework displays or correfocs, consider glasses or a mask.
- Rubbish Bags: Be a responsible reveller and take all your rubbish with you. Local authorities often put out extra bins, but beaches can get very messy if not respected.
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Safety First!
- Fires are Hot: Maintain a safe distance from bonfires. Do not jump over large bonfires unless you are confident and aware of the risks. Never use flammable liquids to light fires.
- Firecrackers are Dangerous: Do not handle fireworks or firecrackers if you are not experienced, and always follow local guidelines. Keep them away from your body, face, and other people. Never put them inside objects like bottles or bricks.
- Crowds: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in very crowded areas. Keep an eye on your belongings to prevent pickpocketing.
- Children and Pets: Supervise children closely. Keep pets indoors or in a quiet, safe space as the noise and fires can be very distressing for them.
- Alcohol: Drink responsibly. San Juan is a long night, and excessive alcohol can impair judgment, especially around fire.
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Transportation:
- Public Transport: Expect significant crowds and potential road closures, especially near popular celebration spots. Public transport often runs extended or special services, making it the best option. Check local transport websites for updated schedules.
- Parking: Avoid driving to popular areas if possible; parking will be scarce.
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Embrace the Spirit:
- Participate: Don't be afraid to join in the rituals. Jump over a small bonfire (safely!), dip your feet in the sea at midnight, or simply enjoy the communal meal.
- Be Patient: With large crowds, things might move slower than usual. Embrace the relaxed Spanish pace.
- Enjoy the Magic: San Juan is a night brimming with ancient symbolism and joyful energy. Let yourself be swept up in the atmosphere and celebrate the arrival of summer in true Spanish style.

San Juan is more than just a party; it's a deeply ingrained cultural experience that offers a unique glimpse into Spanish traditions. By understanding what to expect and preparing accordingly, expats can ensure a memorable and safe night of fire, water, and celebration under the Spanish stars. ¡Feliz Noche de San Juan!
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Spanish Craft Beer
Friday, May 23, 2025
In Spain, however much they might like going out for a few beers, they're not known as a beer-drinking country. Change is in the air, however, and more and more Spaniards are scouting out quality and originality in their beer. It's becoming a normal thing to go to a beer tasting, and the words associated with beer are beginning to sound less and less foreign. Each province now has a microbrewery or two that make and market their own brews, organise classes and tastings with pairing suggestions, open their brewery doors to the public so they can get a closer look at how it's done, etc just as wineries have been doing for years, encouraging tourism similar to wine tourism, though it is still in its early stages.
The ingredients are simple: water, barley (which turns into malt after germination and the drying of the barley), hops and yeast. People have been brewing beer for centuries and it has been one of the world's biggest industries throughout history. Here are some of the most popular craft beers in Spain which are well worth tasting...
La Salve, Bilbao: A beer that is coming back strong

This isn't a new beer; the brewery was founded in 1886. After being closed for several decades, La Salve was reborn in 2014 with the aim of becoming the figurehead of Bilbao's beers. With the intention of creating cultural spaces in which to support new artists, its name comes from the site of its first brewery, underneath the La Salve bridge which is now directly connected to the Guggenheim Museum. It was the son of a German brewer who lived in the capital who set the ball in motion. They brew two types of beer: 33 cl and 50 cl golden and Munich ales, the perfect match for meat and cheese thanks to their caramel aroma and the hints of malt and clove.
Cibeles, Madrid.
Can't get any more Madrid than this. Cibeles, with 12 different kinds of beer, has only been on the market for four years and its microbrewery south of the city has become a gathering place for craft beer lovers. Besides brewing and bottling their beers, they also host activities at their facilities, ranging from tastings and classes on brewing to concerts. The space is also available to hire for company events or meetings. Their beers go from the classic pale ale, smooth and refreshing, to a stout with more body that releases aromas and flavours of coffee and chocolate.
Cervecería Casasola, Valladolid. From the heart of the Esgueva Valley
They were pioneers in Castilla y León in microbrewing. The brewery is housed in what was once a monastery's dairy. They've captured the essence of the place in their brand and their logo which features a monk; a reference to the abbots, considered the best brewers of them all. In Casasola they bottle a large variety of beers in 75 cl bottles, giving them the opportunity to ferment for a second time in the bottle, strengthening the flavour. That's how they add hints of pepper, orange and even a final touch of coriander to their wheat beer.

Beer Cat, Barcelona. Craft beer born in a country villa
Beer Cat is a special case in several ways. It is Spanish brewing led by three English partners who decided one day to leave their homeland and embark on this project in Barcelona. Inside a typical Catalan masia, or country villa, they brew six types of beer and offer guided tours of the estate. Each one of its beers pairs perfectly with different dishes, like its Pa i Roses, a wheat beer, whose touches of lime and citric aromas perfectly bring out the flavours of fish dishes.
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Madrid Buzzing as San Isidro Festival Draws to a Close
Monday, May 12, 2025
Madrid is currently alive with the vibrant energy of its annual San Isidro festival, a cherished celebration honouring the city's patron saint, San Isidro Labrador. This significant event, deeply rooted in tradition yet embracing contemporary flair, unfolds every year in mid-May, with the saint's feast day falling on the 15th. This year, the festivities commenced at the beginning of May and will continue until the 15th, offering a delightful blend of cultural experiences for locals and visitors alike. The atmosphere is one of warm Spanish hospitality, where age-old customs mingle seamlessly with modern entertainment, ensuring there's something to captivate every attendee. For those seeking a late spring getaway filled with authentic cultural immersion, the San Isidro festival presents a compelling opportunity, especially as it enters its final, exhilarating stretch.

At the heart of the San Isidro celebrations lies a deep respect for tradition, and a central element of this is the pilgrimage, or romería, to the Pradera de San Isidro. Here, families and friends gather in a joyous atmosphere, many adorned in the traditional Madrileño attire of "chulapo" for men and "chulapa" for women. This practice not only showcases a strong sense of local identity but also provides a visually stunning and culturally enriching experience for anyone witnessing the scene.
The act of dressing in these historical garments and congregating in this specific location speaks to a long-standing cultural practice, passed down through generations, offering a genuine glimpse into Madrid's heritage. Adding to the unique customs is the tradition of drinking "agua del santo," or holy water, from the spring located next to the Ermita de San Isidro (San Isidro Hermitage). This ritual connects the festival to its religious foundations and offers a distinctive cultural experience for those who partake. The act of consuming this water carries a symbolic weight, likely linked to the patron saint, providing a deeper understanding of the festival's origins. No visit to the Pradera de San Isidro during the festival would be complete without indulging in the traditional foods, most notably the rosquillas and limonada.

The rosquillas, a type of ring-shaped pastry, come in various tempting forms, including the plain "tontas," the sugar-glazed "listas," the meringue-topped Santa Clara, and the almond-covered "francesas". This variety suggests a rich culinary tradition associated with the festival. The Madrid-style limonada is a refreshing concoction of wine, lemon, sugar, and chopped fruit, offering a distinct local flavour. The specific mention of these different types of pastries indicates a level of culinary detail and tradition that goes beyond typical festival fare. The ingredients of the limonada point to a refreshing and potentially potent local beverage perfect for the spring weather.

While specific dates have passed, the types of traditional events that have recently occurred include the blessing of the water from the Santo Fountain and a special opening of the Chapel of San Isidro. These events underscore the religious significance of the festival and provide opportunities for spiritual participation. Adding a vibrant and playful element to the festivities are the parades of giants and big-heads, known as pasacalles de gigantes y cabezudos. These lively processions, which have taken place in the Plaza de la Villa, bring colour and amusement to the streets, appealing to families and people of all ages. For those eager to immerse themselves further in Madrid's culture, workshops on the traditional Madrid dance, the "chotis," have been held at the Círculo de Bellas Artes, offering an interactive and engaging way to learn this iconic dance.
The San Isidro festival offers more than just traditions and music; it encompasses a wide range of activities that transform Madrid into a city-wide celebration. The official opening of the festival is marked by the pregón, a speech delivered by a well-known personality. This event signifies the formal commencement of the festivities and often generates excitement and anticipation. The traditional Pottery Fair, or Feria de la Cacharrería, takes place in the Plaza de las Comendadoras, providing an opportunity to discover and purchase traditional crafts. This fair offers a chance to experience traditional Spanish craftsmanship and acquire unique souvenirs. For a more unusual form of entertainment, the Mechanical Theatre, or Teatro Mecánico, presents its performances at Matadero Madrid. This quirky and perhaps nostalgic form of entertainment adds to the festival's diverse offerings.

Book lovers can explore the Antique and Second-Hand Book Fair, which runs along the Paseo de Recoletos, extending beyond the main festival period. This caters to a specific interest and indicates a broader cultural celebration in the city. The religious foundation of the festival is also evident through various traditional religious ceremonies held throughout the celebration, including the blessing of the water and masses at different locations. These events underscore the religious significance of San Isidro and provide opportunities for worship and reflection. A significant event within the festival program is the prestigious San Isidro Bullfighting Fair, held at the Plaza Monumental de Las Ventas. While this event can be a subject of differing opinions, it remains a deeply ingrained part of Spanish culture and the San Isidro festivities, attracting a dedicated audience. The culmination of the San Isidro festival is marked by a spectacular fireworks display on the final day. This grand finale provides a memorable and visually stunning conclusion to the celebrations.
As the San Isidro festival approaches its final days, the energy and excitement in Madrid remain palpable. The blend of enduring traditions, captivating musical performances, and diverse cultural activities creates an atmosphere unlike any other. For those seeking a last-minute cultural adventure, the remaining days of the San Isidro festival offer a unique opportunity to experience the heart and soul of Madrid in full celebratory swing. Don't miss the chance to witness the final flourish of this beloved fiesta.
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Exploring the Enchanting Subterranean River of San José
Friday, May 9, 2025
Hidden within the stunning Sierra de Espadán Natural Park in Spain lies a natural wonder that captivates all who venture into its depths: the subterranean river of San José. This remarkable river flows through the Caves of San José (Grutas de San José), offering visitors a truly unforgettable experience. It's one of the few navigable underground rivers in Europe, a hydrologically active cave system stretching an impressive 2,750 metres, with 800 metres accessible for exploration.

A visit to the subterranean river of San José is like stepping into another world. The crystal-clear waters of the river wind their way through a series of breathtaking chambers and formations, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of nature's artistry. The journey, largely undertaken by boat, typically lasts around 40 minutes, allowing ample time to soak in the beauty of the surroundings.
The route along the river unveils a series of captivating sights. The Blue Pond shimmers with an ethereal glow, while the Bat Room echoes with the whispers of its nocturnal inhabitants. The Boca del Forn, a dramatic opening in the cave, leads to the serene lakes of Diana and Diablo, each possessing its own unique charm.
Adding to the allure of the caves are the distinctive formations that adorn the landscape. The Medusa, a striking stalactite formation, hangs suspended from the ceiling, while the Cascade of Flowers mimics a frozen waterfall in stone. The Portal of Bethlehem evokes a sense of wonder, its intricate details resembling a scene from a fairytale.
Beyond its geological wonders, the Caves of San José also hold historical significance. Palaeolithic remains and cave paintings have been discovered within its depths, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who sought shelter here thousands of years ago. These ancient artefacts add another layer of intrigue to this already fascinating site.

The subterranean river of San José is more than just a tourist attraction; it's an experience that touches the soul. The tranquillity of the underground world, the beauty of the natural formations, and the sense of adventure all combine to create a memory that will last a lifetime. It's a testament to the power and artistry of nature, a place where you can escape the everyday and immerse yourself in the wonders of the earth.
If you are looking for an extraordinary adventure, a journey into the heart of the earth, then the subterranean river of San José awaits. It's a destination that promises to leave you spellbound, a place where the beauty of nature unfolds in the most unexpected and enchanting ways.
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How does drinking Beer affect you?
Friday, May 2, 2025
Drinking a very cold beer on a hot summer day can be an incomparable pleasure. But not only in the summer season is this drink present in our lives, throughout the year beer is the king of concoctions and competes fiercely with wine for first place in Spain.
The importance of beer in Spain is total. In recent years, moreover, the production of all kinds of this concoction has increased exponentially with hundreds of varieties for all tastes.
From classic blonde beers to IPAs to the most modern, there are many types of beer that we can find in bars and supermarkets. Even the arrival of new craft varieties of this drink in establishments has taken beer to a new level.
Spain is one of the countries that consumes the most beer. Even so, it is far from other countries like Slovakia that dominate the lists of maximum lovers of this drink.
This concoction has thousands of years behind it. There are documents that prove that beer was already present in ancient Egypt, a fact that makes it one of the drinks with the longest history in the world. Since then, the passion for this fermentation, that has true lovers, has not stopped growing.
Although its popularity is total, it is still an alcoholic beverage. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), this type of concoction should be limited to about 20 grams daily, the equivalent of two glasses of wine or beer for men. Even so, many experts advise against this recommendation and call for completely eliminating alcohol or making it occasional.
Thus, if we decide to consume beer or alcohol every day, we must take into account the effects on the body that these will generate. Several studies have analysed the possible damage of this over the years.
Although it is true that the intake of this drink can favour in some contexts, there are more negative effects than positive ones. Even so, a Spanish study managed to show that within a healthy diet, a controlled intake of beer could help in a certain way to fight against cardiovascular diseases. Which may be a good enough excuse for most people!
However, it should be noted that this is an exception. The effects of drinking beer and alcohol on a daily basis have a long list of negatives. The first is an increased risk of depression according to different studies that analysed regular and sporadic drinkers.
In addition, daily consumption is also related to obesity, liver disease and cancer. More than 30 grams a day clearly increases the appearance of cirrhosis and cancer, especially in the throat and mouth.
In relation to calories, each beer provides around 150 calories, something that can lead to a lack of control if you do not have a varied and healthy diet. Stomach upset is also linked to this drink on a daily basis. Damage to the stomach or oesophagus is two of the most common.
Finally, daily consumption is also directly related to the increased risk of death. Heavy and problem drinkers tend to have higher premature deaths than those who drink occasionally or do not consume alcohol at all.
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Spain's sunniest winter destination
Friday, April 18, 2025

Online travel agent, loveholidays, looked for the sunniest European destinations. Where’s the best destination for Brits to escape the UK winter?
The best winter sun destinations are:
1. Almeria, Spain
2. Las Palmas, Spain
3. Larnaca, Cyprus
4. Cadiz, Spain
5. Seville, Spain
6. Valletta, Malta
7. Valencia, Spain
8. Faro, Portugal
9. Barcelona, Spain
10. Marseille, France

Almeria, in sunny Spanish Andalucia, was ranked the brightest city for a break in the winter sun.
The beautiful destination has an average of six hours and 18 minutes of sunshine between December and February.
Almeria’s top attraction is the Parque Natural de Cabo de Gata, Andalucia’s largest protected coastal area.

A visitor wrote on Tripadvisor: “We really enjoyed Cabo de Gata and went to Playa de Los Genoveses. The whole area was very unspoilt.”
Another said: “The views in this park are amazing. The seas, the mountains and especially the pine smell, make it worth a trip.”
Tourists can also visit the Alcazaba of Almeria, a fortified complex built in the time of the Moors.
A tourist wrote on Tripadvisor: “This is a magical place with incredible views. Well worth a visit- and we’ll come back!”
Almeria can enjoy highs of 16 degrees in January with the temperature rarely dropping below nine degrees.
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Fish on Good Friday - The Basque way...
Thursday, April 10, 2025
Bacalao a la vizcaina is yet another example of the very tasty yet very simple dishes that come from the northern Spanish region of the Basque Country. The main ingredient of Bacalao a la vizcaina is codfish. Cod is perhaps one of the most consumed fish in Spain, although historically this fish was mostly a product eaten during Lent. It is also a fish that is easily fished around the coasts of Spain, of which there is a lot!
Originally from the Basque Country, Vizcaina sauce on the other hand, is a sauce that is extremely versatile and is used in a number of dishes from the region. It is often used for many stews and products such as the pork dish called 'Manos de cerdo con salsa vizcaína'. In some parts of the Basque Country, they even use the sauce in an escargot recipe. However, most people will associate the sauce immediately with cod. Nowadays it is a rather polemic recipe - as is the case with most traditional recipes - the argument whether tomatoes should be one of it's ingredients or not is a very alive debate among gourmets and cooks, though many say that the red ingredient is pepper. Either way, the sauce is a rich red colour and is tasty with either ingredient. So when you come to make this dish, the choice is up to you!
The pepper theory seems historically more plausible, as tomatoes were not used as food in Spain even 200 years after they were imported; first, they were used as ornamental plants. Perhaps, pepper was used originally and then, once the tomato became more commonly used in Spanish cooking, the sauce was adapted. But it doesn't really matter, in truth, there are many formulas to prepare this sauce, and despite how much people may argue about its historical accuracy, they are delicious anyway.
You might find that certain people use a type of Spanish biscuit, often a 'galleta maria', when they are making the sauce. These biscuits are used to help thicken the sauce, but it can often make it much sweeter. The sauce may be thick or runny, depending on your personal taste. If you don't want to use biscuits to thicken your sauce, you could always use plain or corn flour instead, which I prefer.
One of the great things about vizcaina sauce is that it is fairly simple to make and generally uses common and inexpensive ingredients. This means that it is a great option for those people who love Spanish gastronomy, but want to enjoy it on a budget!

Bacalao a la Vizcaina | Cod Bizcaine Style
Ingredients:
1 large salted cod loin (or fresh cod loin)
1 large onion
2 garlic cloves
2 roasted peppers (preferably chorizo peppers
1 tomato
1 tbs of flour
Extra virgin olive oil
Preparation:
- Soak the cod loin in water for 24 hours, changing the water every 8 hours to get rid of some of the salt.
- Then put the cod loin in a pan with cold water and heat. Remove from the heat when it begins to boil.
- Cover the bottom of a frying pan with olive oil. Stir fry the diced onion until it begins to brown, then add the garlic cloves, peppers and tomato.
- When all the ingredients are lightly fried add the flour, you need to cook it a little.
- Add some of the broth in which the cod was cooked (two teacups) and let it boil at low heat. This broth has the flavour and jelly of the cod.
- When the sauce gets a good thick consistency, add the cod and keep on low heat, only enough time to heat up the cod and then serve!
Enjoy!
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Strawberries in season
Saturday, April 5, 2025

Strawberries are in season! The earliest varieties have already appeared on the shelves of supermarkets and, strawberries are typically a spring fruit that we love to enjoy at this time of year in a thousand different ways. Full of virtues, they have a small drawback: they are very delicate and spoil quickly. To extend their life we can apply simple steps at home that will avoid the annoyance and wastefulness of having to throw them away, especially as strawberry punnets tend to be fairly big in Spanish supermarkets.
We need to be aware that strawberries are non-climacteric fruits, that is, they no longer ripen once they have been collected, unlike apples or bananas. This means that when we buy them, they have already started to deteriorate and lose quality, and it is something that will only become more pronounced as the days go by. The key, therefore, is to buy them at the optimal time and conserve them properly to slow down this deterioration process.
Don't be carried away by temptation unless you know you are going to be able to consume all the strawberries in a short period of time. If we decide to buy them, as always, it is convenient to check the labelling to know the collection date or packaging date, and thus choose the most recent. It is also important to examine the strawberries carefully as well.
It is preferable to choose strawberries that are not too tightly packed, in rigid and protected containers that allow you to see the contents clearly. Check that there are no mouldy, stale or pieces that are too green, that they are not crushed or apparently damaged. Very green or white fruit will no longer ripen, and old fruit will likely show dark spots, cracks, or a loss of juices as the strawberries start to weep with time.
When in the trolley they need to be treated with care and never put other objects on top. If possible, keep them at the top, away from damp or very fragrant food, and also separated from apples and bananas, which emit ethylene.
Although they are at room temperature in the store, strawberries, like berries and other delicate fruits, must be refrigerated. The sooner we get them in the fridge, the better, and always without washing. Strawberries should only be washed just before eating, as the humidity would only accelerate their deterioration.
Once at home, you should open the container and check them one by one, discarding those that may have mould or very visible damage. The most strawberries that are most mature should be separated and consumed quickly.
Mouldy or rotten fruits must be thrown away. It is not safe to cut off the rotten or mouldy part as fungi are dangerous pathogens that spread through the food.
Do not remove the stems, as it would be an easy entry point for microorganisms. This can be applied, as a general rule, to all plant products.
Place the fruit in a clean, spacious container, preferably in one which allows them to be arranged in a single layer, without piling them up. If we have too many, you can always split them between two containers.
We can line the bottom of the container with kitchen paper or with a special cloth for preserving vegetables, such as those sold for refrigerator drawers. This allows air to circulate and will absorb any possible moisture that is released.
Strawberries need to "breathe" so you should never close them tightly. If we want to cover them, make sure you leave access for air to circulate freely.
Inside the refrigerator, ensure that they are kept at a constant cold temperature, never lower than 2ºC, and not higher than 6ºC. Again, away from foods that emit strong odours or ethylene.
Strawberries will keep fresh like this for between four and five days, but it is always advisable to check the status of all fruits daily, to quickly discard any specimen that shows signs of mould or any deterioration.
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Published at 1:31 AM Comments (0)
The Smallest Window in the World - Toledo's Tiny Marvel
Friday, March 28, 2025
In the heart of Spain, hidden within the winding cobblestone streets of Toledo, lies a peculiar architectural wonder that has captured the imagination of locals and tourists alike. This minuscule marvel, barely visible to the untrained eye, holds the prestigious title of "The Smallest Window in the World." But what makes this diminutive opening so special, and why has it become such a captivating attraction in a city already brimming with historical treasures?

Before we delve into the intriguing tale of the world's smallest window, let's set the stage by exploring the enchanting city that houses this unique feature. Toledo, often referred to as the "City of Three Cultures," is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has been captivating visitors for centuries. Perched atop a hill overlooking the Tagus River, this ancient city has been a melting pot of Christian, Muslim, and Jewish influences, each leaving an indelible mark on its architecture, culture, and spirit.
As you wander through Toledo's narrow, labyrinthine streets, you'll find yourself transported back in time. The city's skyline is dominated by the imposing Alcázar fortress and the majestic Gothic cathedral, while its streets are lined with well-preserved medieval buildings, synagogues, and mosques. It's within this rich tapestry of history that our tiny protagonist, the world's smallest window, resides.

Tucked away on Calle Sillería (Sillería Street) at number 3, the world's smallest window is easy to miss if you're not actively seeking it out. This minuscule architectural feature is set into the wall of a 16th-century building known as the Casón de Los López. Once a grand Toledo residence, this historic structure now stands as a testament to the city's rich past and houses this peculiar claim to fame.
The window itself is truly a sight to behold – or rather, a sight you might struggle to behold without getting up close and personal. Smaller than the palm of an adult's hand, this tiny aperture has been officially recognised by the Guinness Book of World Records as the smallest window in the world. Its diminutive size begs the question: what could possibly have been its purpose?
The true function of this tiny window remains shrouded in mystery, sparking countless theories and legends among locals and historians alike. Some speculate that it might have served as a discreet peephole, allowing the occupants of the house to observe the street without being seen. Others suggest it could have been a clever way to pass small objects or messages in secret.
Adding to the intrigue is an inscription at the base of the window. Some claim it reads "Thank you, Allah" in Arabic, while others insist it says "Talaytula," the former Arabic name for Toledo. This cryptic message only deepens the mystery surrounding the window's origins and purpose.

Regardless of its original function, the world's smallest window has become a symbol of Toledo's rich history and the fascinating blend of cultures that have shaped the city over the centuries.
The building that houses this miniature marvel, the Casón de Los López, is itself a fascinating piece of Toledo's architectural heritage. Dating back to the 16th century, this structure offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Toledo's past.
In 1973, the building underwent a careful restoration, preserving its historic character while adapting it for modern use. For many years, it housed a restaurant, allowing visitors to dine in the shadow of centuries-old walls and, of course, catch a glimpse of the world's smallest window. Although the restaurant has since closed, the building remains an important landmark in Toledo's old city.
Interestingly, just to the right of the famous tiny window, there's another, larger window that looks into the interior of the Casón de Los López. This juxtaposition of sizes serves to emphasise just how remarkably small the world-record-holding window truly is.

While the world's smallest window may be one of Toledo's more quirky attractions, it's far from the only hidden gem in this historic city. As you explore the winding streets and ancient squares, you'll discover countless other fascinating details that speak to Toledo's rich past.
From intricate Mudéjar designs adorning centuries-old buildings to hidden courtyards bursting with fragrant orange trees, Toledo is a city that rewards curious explorers. The smallest window is just one example of the many surprises that await those willing to look a little closer and dig a little deeper into the city's history.
In a world that often celebrates the biggest, the tallest, and the most grandiose, there's something refreshingly humble about Toledo's claim to fame. The world's smallest window reminds us that sometimes, it's the little things that capture our imagination and stick in our memory.
This tiny architectural feature has become a symbol of Toledo's ability to surprise and delight visitors. It represents the city's attention to detail, its preservation of history, and its celebration of the unique and the unusual.
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