Max Abroad : The Best of Spain

For decades, the image of Spain was inseparable from its bread. The long, crusty barra de pan (baguette) was the constant companion to every meal, used to scoop up the last drops of olive oil, mop up salsa, and serve as the backbone of every bocadillo.

Yet, that staple of the Spanish table is rapidly disappearing. Data shows that bread consumption in Spain has plummeted by a staggering 80% since the 1960s, falling from an estimated 134 kilograms per person per year to around 28 kilograms today. This dramatic cultural shift is doing more than just changing mealtimes; it is reshaping the country's diet and devastating its traditional bakeries.

What is driving this monumental change in a country deeply rooted in the Mediterranean diet? The reasons are a complex mix of health myths and generational shifts:

1. The "Bread Makes You Fat" Myth: This is arguably the most influential factor. Despite being a low-fat food, the persistent, incorrect mantra that "bread makes you fat" has profoundly impacted public perception. Studies indicate that nearly 30% of Spaniards now try to follow a bread-free diet, while another quarter do not consider it necessary for balanced nutrition.

2. The Generational Divide: Younger Spaniards are increasingly replacing bread with other, more globally popular carbohydrates. Rather than pan being the go-to starch, the modern generation often prefers alternatives like pizza and pasta.

3. The Gluten Concern: Following global trends, many Spanish consumers, even without a diagnosed intolerance, have reduced or eliminated gluten-containing products, further pressuring traditional bread sales.

The cultural rejection of daily bread has had a crushing effect on the industry that defines local neighbourhoods:

• Bakery Closures: Since the turn of the century, an estimated 40% of traditional bakeries (panaderías) have closed their doors.

• Shift to Industrial Bread: As daily consumption falls, sales have moved away from skilled bakers to large supermarkets and gas stations, where highly processed, industrial, and often less flavourful loaves dominate the market.

• Rising Prices: Compounding the problem for the consumer, the price of bread has risen significantly—up approximately 30% in the last decade, making bulk purchase less appealing.

Despite the overall decline, there is a positive counter-trend that expats, in particular, have enthusiastically embraced: the rise of artisanal bread.

Spanish consumers are increasingly moving towards high-quality, speciality breads. This demand is for loaves crafted using traditional methods, long fermentation, and quality ingredients—such as rustic sourdough (pan de masa madre) and whole-grain varieties.

This shift suggests that while bread may no longer be the cheap, obligatory filler for every meal, it is re-establishing its prestige as a gourmet, high-value food item. Instead of mindlessly consuming 130 kg of low-quality bread a year, Spaniards are now choosing smaller amounts of superior, traditionally made bread.

For those of us living in Spain who appreciate the rich culinary heritage, the best way to combat this decline is simple: seek out and support your local, artisan baker. Choose quality, complex flavours over convenience, and help keep the heart of Spain's baking tradition alive.

Spain, a nation celebrated for its deep-seated traditions like Día de Todos los Santos (All Saints' Day) on November 1st, has, in recent decades, enthusiastically embraced the global phenomenon of Halloween. What started as an "imported" holiday has blossomed into a vibrant, multi-layered celebration that skillfully blends modern fun with ancient Iberian and Celtic roots.

The relationship between Spain and the end-of-October observance is surprisingly complex, with both ancient roots and a relatively recent, rapid expansion:

• Ancient Celtic Heritage (Samaín): The eerie roots of Spain's association with this time of year can be traced back thousands of years to the northwestern region of Galicia. Here, the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain ("end of summer") was celebrated. This traditional festival, known locally as Samaín or Noite dos Calacús (Night of the Pumpkins), marks the time when the veil between the living and the dead is thinnest.

• Traditions: Even today, the modern revival of Samaín in Galicia involves carving pumpkins (or sometimes turnips), sharing ghost stories, lighting bonfires, and performing rituals like La Queimada (a flaming alcoholic punch with spells) to ward off evil spirits.

• The Deep-Rooted Traditional Focus (Día de Todos los Santos): For centuries, the main focus in Spain has been the solemn and reflective Día de Todos los Santos on November 1st, followed by Día de los Fieles Difuntos (All Souls' Day) on November 2nd. These are national holidays dedicated to honouring the dead.

  • Customs: Families visit cemeteries to clean and elaborately decorate the graves of loved ones with fresh flowers, especially chrysanthemums, turning the cemeteries into vibrant places of remembrance and respect.

• The American Cultural Tide: The rapid growth in the importance of Halloween (October 31st) began in the late 1980s and 1990s, largely driven by Anglo-Saxon cultural influence, particularly from the United States. Globalisation, horror movies, and television were key in introducing the now-familiar imagery of Jack-o'-lanterns, elaborate costumes, and "trick-or-treating" to Spanish society.

  • Growth: In large cities like Madrid and Barcelona, the celebration first gained a foothold in international schools, bars, and foreign communities. By the 2000s, the holiday was firmly established, especially among children and young people.

Modern Halloween in Spain is characterised by a fascinating mix, often celebrated over a three-day period that includes October 31st, November 1st, and November 2nd.

Modern Festivities on October 31st

The day, sometimes referred to as Día de las Brujas (Day of the Witches), is now a major occasion for contemporary celebration:

• Costume Parties and Nightlife: Adults embrace the party spirit, with nightclubs, bars, and even themed events in amusement parks going all-out with elaborate decorations and costume parties.1 ostumes often lean toward the traditional spooky and macabre—ghosts, zombies, and vampires—though pop culture figures are increasingly common.

• "Truco o Trato" (Trick-or-Treating): While not as universal or elaborate as in the US, "truco o trato" is now common in many urban neighbourhoods, schools, and community centres, especially for younger children.

• Urban Spookiness: Cities like Barcelona and Málaga organise public parades, zombie marches, and haunted house experiences, creating a major spectacle.

The Culinary Bridge to All Saints' Day

The transition from the playful fright of Halloween to the reverence of All Saints' Day is often marked by traditional autumn foods, shared by families and friends:

• La Castanyada (Catalonia): In Catalonia and parts of the north, the focus is on this traditional autumn festival, where people gather to eat castanyes (roasted chestnuts), boniatos (sweet potatoes), and panellets (small almond-based marzipan cakes).

• Huesos de Santo: Across Spain, bakeries sell Huesos de Santo ("Saint's Bones"), small, marzipan-filled pastries, and Buñuelos de Viento (fried cream-filled fritters), tying the festivities to the religious holiday.

 The Reverence of November 1st

Crucially, the fun of Halloween doesn't overshadow the respect for Día de Todos los Santos. Many Spaniards—particularly older generations—still prioritise this day of reflection, which offers a poignant contrast to the revelry of the previous night. It remains a significant family occasion centred on memorial, cemetery visits, and sharing special meals.

Halloween in Spain today is a perfect example of cultural syncretism. It successfully maintains ancient, local rituals in regions like Galicia, while simultaneously integrating the fun, commercialised appeal of the Anglo-Saxon holiday into its modern urban life, all while respecting the solemn, family-focused tradition of All Saints' Day. It has grown from a novelty to an established, highly anticipated event.

                                

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BEST TIME TO VISIT:  

Any time of year, but in winter it does get very cold and frequently snows, so for em the best time of year is Spring or Summer.

Every year, as summer draws to a close, the quaint Spanish village of Ochagavía in Spain's northern region of Navarre undergoes a stunning transformation. The village sheds the 21st century—hiding traffic signs, ATMs, and modern storefronts—to faithfully recreate life as it was in 1925. This immersive experience, known as Orhipean (meaning "beneath Ori" in Basque), draws nearly 3,000 visitors annually, all eager to witness a bygone era brought vividly to life by the local residents.

For a full weekend, Ochagavía’s approximately 500 residents—some of whom return specifically for the event—don the outfits of the 1920s to perform the forgotten trades and customs of their ancestors.

The atmosphere is thick with authenticity, largely due to the dedication of the town's older generation, who instruct the young on the proper techniques. Visitors can watch:

• Washerwomen kneeling by the river, scrubbing sheets in the traditional way.
• Spinners using simple tools to process thread, a skill still held by the village's elders.
• Farmers shearing sheep with scissors and guiding livestock, including donkeys, through the cobblestone streets.
• A special, dramatic event: the "mata-txerri" or pig slaughter, where residents process the animal in the street, grinding meat and stuffing casings to make chorizo.

One of the most colourful attractions is the makeshift barber-dentist, a character who stands before a vintage price list. While a moustache trim costs 10 cents, a tooth extraction is priced based on bravery: free for those who endure the process without complaint, but one peseta for the "fussy" who require anaesthesia.

The commitment to detail extends beyond the public square. Homes and historical buildings are used to recreate private village life. The vestibule of a private house becomes the doctor’s office, while a Pyrenees mansion, Casa Koleto, houses a meticulously recreated old school. Here, separate schedules for boys and girls are observed, and a job advertisement for a female teacher lists strict, era-appropriate rules: "Do not marry," "do not dye your hair," and "wear at least two petticoats."

Religious customs are also revived, including the angélicas, a now-lost tradition where First Communion girls offered flowers to the Virgin Mary in May.

The Orhipean festival, which began over two decades ago, arose from a desire to turn the local celebration toward historical preservation. Organisers acknowledged that the event would not be possible without the complete involvement of the elderly, who share their living memories and family heirlooms, such as antique shoes and household items. The event’s newspaper, updated each year, offers historical context by featuring local happenings from the year 1925, detailing births, deaths, and even early morning weddings, serving as a powerful reminder of the deep roots and enduring spirit of this Navarrese community.
 

According to data from the first half of 2025, Spain maintains a relatively low position on international crime indices. Official figures released by the Ministry of the Interior show a slight year-on-year decrease in total recorded offences. However, a familiar pattern persists: the highest crime rates are concentrated in the country's largest and most visited metropolitan areas.

The data reveals that non-violent offences, such as pickpocketing and mobile phone snatches, form the majority of incidents, particularly in tourist hot spots.

City Crime Rates: Barcelona Leads the List

When crime is measured by the rate of offences per 100,000 residents, which allows for fair comparison between cities of different sizes, Barcelona ranks as the city with the highest rate in Spain for the first half of 2025.

Here are the cities with the highest recorded crime rates (offences per 100,000 residents) from January to June 2025:

Regional Trends

When looking at the sheer volume of conventional offences (not rates), Catalonia leads the autonomous communities with 207,567 incidents recorded. This is followed by Andalusia (160,038) and the Community of Madrid (159,705). These volume figures typically reflect population density, high tourist flows, and the presence of major transport hubs. The highest volumes of offences occur in the provinces of Barcelona and Madrid.

Safety Tips for Residents and Visitors 

For both travellers and residents, safety concerns primarily revolve around opportunistic theft in crowded areas. Common locations for non-violent crimes include:

• Barcelona: The tourist corridors of Ciutat Vella and around the Sagrada Família.

• Madrid: The Sol–Gran Vía area.

• Valencia: The historic city centre.

• Málaga: The old town.

To minimise risk, authorities advise:

• Keeping phones and wallets secured in zipped pockets or bags, especially on public transport and busy pavements.

• Using a cross-body bag rather than a backpack.

• Avoid leaving personal belongings unattended at beaches, nightlife spots, or festival sites.

The national emergency number in Spain is 112. Incidents should be reported by filing a denuncia with the Policía Nacional or Guardia Civil.

For over seven centuries, the Atlantic waters west of the Canary Islands have been home to a captivating maritime enigma: the phantom island of San Borondón. Mentioned in maps and chronicles since the 13th century, this elusive land mass is famed for its habit of mysteriously appearing and vanishing, earning it the title of the "ninth island" of the Canary archipelago.

A Legend Born of a Saint

The legend of San Borondón traces its origins to the 6th-century Irish monk, Saint Brendan the Navigator. According to medieval accounts, the monk once landed on an island in the middle of the ocean that seemed solid ground, only for it to disappear suddenly. Popular tradition attributes the name of the phantom Spanish island to him.
Early depictions of the island were grand. The renowned Hereford world map of the 13th century shows an island named "Saint Brand" west of the Canaries, suggesting it would have been one of the largest in the archipelago, measuring an estimated 480 kilometres long and 155 kilometres wide. Despite its historical mention, its existence has never been definitively confirmed.

Centuries of Failed Expeditions

The allure of San Borondón was so strong that it spurred numerous expeditions between the 16th and 18th centuries, primarily focusing on the area northwest of El Hierro and near La Palma.
Notable attempts to find the island include:

• Late 15th Century: Fernando de Viseu, nephew of Infante Don Enrique the Navigator, led an early search.
• 1570: Hernán Pérez de Grado claimed to have reached the shores and even lost part of his crew on the voyage. The Portuguese pilot Pedro Vello also claimed to have landed, although he was forced to abandon the island due to adverse weather conditions.
• 1604: An expedition by Gaspar Pérez de Acosta and Friar Lorenzo de Pinedo returned empty-handed, suggesting the sighting was merely a bank of clouds on the horizon.
• 1721: Gaspar Domínguez led the last official expedition in search of the island, ultimately failing to find it.

Explaining the Vanishing Act

Today, San Borondón remains undiscovered, though the mystery of its reported sightings continues to spark speculation. Researchers have proposed several scientific explanations for the enduring legend:
Optical Illusions: The most common theory is that the sightings are mirages. These optical illusions are caused by light refracting in the atmosphere, making distant land or clouds appear closer, larger, and more distinct than they truly are.

Cloud Formations: Large, dense clusters of clouds over the sea can often assume the appearance of a floating, solid island, only to dissipate later, creating the illusion of a sudden "disappearance."

Volcanic Activity: Less likely, but intriguing, is the speculation that the sightings could be an underwater volcanic formation that briefly rises above the surface before sinking back into the depths.

As of 2025, the ghostly island of San Borondón remains an active part of Spanish folklore, a reminder of the legends still hidden within the vastness of the ocean.

The 17th Century "Palacio de Lerma" was the home of the Duke of Lerma, an influential favourite of King Phillip III of Spain. He was an important diplomat who negotiated numerous treaties and his magnificent and imposing palace was a symbol of his power. He could be described as a religious and racial bigot and was the person who, along with the Archbishop of Valencia, Juan de Ribera, initiated the expulsion of many thousands of Moriscos, the remnants of the earlier Moorish occupation of Spain, who had (officially at least) converted to Christianity. These two zealots had also encouraged the king to enslave the Moriscos for work in mines etc, as he could do so “without any scruples of conscience,”. Thankfully this proposal was rejected.

The Duke eventually fell from grace (but not before becoming a cardinal) and his palace fell into disrepair but it has now been sympathetically restored to become a “Parador”, a state-run, high end, tourist hotel, one of many historic buildings used in this Spanish effort to support tourism.

As one approaches Lerma on the nearby A1 autovia (either from Madrid or Burgos) one can see from a great distance the four imposing black spires (clearly recently renovated) at the corners of the building, looking like a giant, perhaps menacing, ecclesiastical edifice. From a distance, the building looks like one might imagine the headquarters of the Spanish Inquisition  (in keeping with the ideas that originated there) but when viewed up close from the town square it looks imposing and palatial. The palace had magnificent gardens and was reputed to have had 7 chapels (only one survives).

Next to the palace is an impressive church which, like the palace, bears the Duke’s coat of arms. Also check out the other historic buildings in the town including the tourist office, in a building where Rubens is said to have stayed.

If you fancy visiting the Palace and staying the night there  take a look here

From the sun-drenched vineyards of Sanlúcar de Barrameda in Andalusia, Bodegas Barbadillo has been crafting a legacy for over two centuries. Founded in 1821 by Benigno Barbadillo, this family-owned winery has become a true icon of Spanish winemaking, celebrated for its quality, tradition, and a certain fizzy cocktail that captures the very essence of southern Spain: the Rebujito.

Barbadillo's story is inextricably linked to the unique microclimate of Sanlúcar de Barrameda, a coastal town where the Atlantic influence and the famous "poniente" sea breeze create the perfect conditions for aging Manzanilla. Manzanilla is a type of fino sherry distinguished by a layer of yeast, known as "flor," which imparts a crisp, salty, and nutty character to the wine.

Barbadillo was a pioneer in this field. In 1827, the winery became the first to ship a bottled Manzanilla, a wine that would soon become its flagship product and a benchmark for the entire region. Their iconic Manzanilla Solear is a testament to this heritage, known for its bright salinity and elegant depth.

Beyond its world-renowned sherries, Barbadillo has also been at the forefront of innovation. In 1975, they launched "Castillo de San Diego" (now rebranded as Barbadillo Blanco de Albariza), which became one of the best-selling white wines in Spain. This success story, along with a focus on producing quality reds and rosés, has solidified Barbadillo's position as a leading name in Spanish wine, both locally and internationally.

While Barbadillo produces a wide range of exquisite wines, it is perhaps most famous among the general public for its connection to Rebujito. This refreshing, low-alcohol cocktail is the unofficial drink of the Andalusian "ferias," or festivals, particularly the famous Feria de Abril in Seville. The Rebujito's popularity stems from its ability to offer a crisp, cool respite from the hot sun, making it the perfect accompaniment to dancing, socialising, and enjoying tapas.

The foundation of a great Rebujito is a high-quality Manzanilla or Fino sherry. The light, dry, and slightly salty notes of Barbadillo's Manzanilla Solear make it a perfect base. The cocktail's simplicity is its genius, combining the complex flavours of sherry with the zesty kick of a lemon-lime soda.

The Authentic Rebujito Recipe

Creating a Rebujito is easy and quick, making it ideal for sharing with friends. While some people eyeball the ingredients, the traditional ratio is a perfect balance.

Ingredients:

1 part Manzanilla (Barbadillo Manzanilla Solear is the classic choice)
2 parts Lemon-lime soda (Sprite or Seven Up are common)
A handful of fresh mint leaves
Plenty of ice

Instructions:

Fill a large jug or glass with plenty of ice.

Pour in the Manzanilla.

Top up with the lemon-lime soda 

Gently crush the mint leaves to release their aroma, then add them to the jug.

Stir and serve immediately.

For an extra touch, you can garnish with a slice of lemon. This simple concoction is more than just a drink; it's a taste of Andalusian culture and a celebration of life.

Barbadillo is a staple in Spanish households and bars, and its wines are widely accessible. The average price for a bottle of Barbadillo's flagship Manzanilla Solear in Spain typically falls between €5 and €8. Other wines, like their Barbadillo Blanco de Albariza, are similarly affordable, often found in the €4 to €6 range.

This accessible price point, combined with the brand's reputation for quality, has made Barbadillo a consistent bestseller and a source of pride in its home country. Its popularity is not just due to its value, but also to its versatility, making it the perfect bottle to pair with a wide variety of Spanish cuisine or to simply enjoy on its own.

In essence, Barbadillo is more than just a winery; it's a cornerstone of Spanish tradition, and a sip of its wine, whether as a Manzanilla or a Rebujito, is a direct connection to the vibrant spirit of Andalusia.

This summer, while searching for the most beautiful villages in Spain, I bypassed the usual "Top 10" lists. Instead, this selection focuses on some of Spain's lesser-known, yet equally stunning, hidden gems. These are the towns that offer an authentic glimpse into Spanish life, boasting unique history, breathtaking landscapes, and an undeniable charm that's often missed by the mainstream tourist trail...

Lastres, Asturias

In Asturias, there are idyllic coastal spots such as Tazones or Ribadesella, for example, but Lastres is really special. It's a 16th-century whaling district, its typical houses perched on the cliff and the walk descending from the top of the town to the port are unmissable.

Frigiliana, Malaga

There are so many white villages in Andalusia that are worth visiting that a list would have to be made just for them. Frigiliana serves as an example, located in the region of Axarquia, which preserves one of the most valuable historical centres of Arab origin in Spain.

Frias, Burgos

This small town hanging from a rock in the province of Burgos is worthy of being a movie location. Located in the heart of the Montes Obarenes Natural Park, its panoramic view is impressive.

Besalu, Girona

I could have chosen Cadaqués or any of the towns that make up the so-called Garrotxa region, all of them worthy of entering this list, but Besalú is a magnificent representation of the beauty of the entire province of Girona. It has one of the best preserved medieval ensembles in Catalonia. In fact, it was declared, in 1966, a historical-artistic complex due to its great architectural value, and it is enough to see a couple of photos to know that you have to set foot on its streets at least once in your life.

Fornalutx, Majorca

 If you are lucky enough to travel to Mallorca soon, you have to give up at least one day on the beach to enjoy the Tramuntana mountains and the idyllic villages located in its heart. Dèia, Sóller and, above all, Fornalutx make up a wonderful enclave. The latter is quiet, with its characteristic stone-carved buildings and surrounding orange and lemon trees.

Comillas, Cantabria

 Santillana del Mar, Potes, Bárcena Mayor… The list of must-see towns in Cantabria is very long but I opted for Comillas for its location and the unique beauty of its peculiarities. And there are few places where you can see Gaudí's work outside of Catalonia, Comillas is one of them, surely the best.

Alcala del Jucar, Albacete

In a quiet area of ​​the province of Albacete, close to the province of Valencia, is this beautiful town embedded in a rock that forms the gorge of the Júcar river. It is a surprising place of unexpected beauty since its location gets "little media coverage".

Vejer de la Frontera, Cadiz

Next to the famous Cadiz coast, the town of Vejer de la Frontera overwhelms with its white beauty. Its elevated location with respect to the environment already catches you as you approach it, and its tangled streets conquer you as soon as you let yourself get lost in them. It is, without a doubt, a must-see that is well worth giving up a day at the beach for.

Allariz, Ourense

This Galician town is little known because it is not usually included in the list of the most beautiful towns in Spain, but it is one of those unique corners that the interior of Galicia offers. And above all it is because of its idyllic location and how well the architecture has adapted to the environment, letting it be the protagonist. Surrounded by chestnut forests and on the banks of the Arnoia River, this town with a medieval layout is a mandatory stop if you travel to Galicia.

Laguardia, Alava

In the heart of Rioja Alavesa, surrounded by vineyards and wineries that offer a unique landscape, is the town of Laguardia, already in the province of Álava. Located on a hill, and surrounded by a great wall, it is a must stand just a stone's throw from Logroño.

There was a civilisation on the Balearic Island of Menorca which built strange stone constructions known as talayots, taulas or navetas throughout the 1st millennium B.C. It is fairly easy to follow a route around the island to visit these wonders. A good starting point would be the Biniai Nou megalithic tomb. The Me-1 road linking the cities of Mahon and Ciutadella is the central backbone that crosses Menorca from one end to the other. Five kilometres from Mahon, a trail to the right leads to two hypogeal that give rise to the monument. The oldest human remains in Menorca were found here (2300-2200 B.C.).

Returning to the Me-1, you can head back 1 kilometre to the turn-off for the town of Talatí de Dalt. The highlights here are the monumental taula and several megalithic caves. Next is the Calescoves necropolis, located around 8 kilometres away on the southern coast, in two rocky coves which were a jetty in the Roman and Byzantine periods (towards the 6th century A.D.) here there is a set of one hundred caves that were used as a burial ground.

Not so far away is So na Cassana, where we can find the ruins of a religious complex and, along the same road around 2 kilometres down, is the Talayotic settlement of Torralba d’en Salort with its splendid megalithic monuments, several talayot, a hypostyle hall and numerous caves.

If you continue on, you will come across the town of Alaior. It is worth making a stop here to visit the picturesque nooks and streets with their traditional white limestone Menorcan houses. Next, we take the Son Bou road and, after the Galmés Tower, there are a further two monuments.

These are the megalithic tomb of Ses Roques Llises and, the most important site, the Talayotic settlement of Torre d’en Galmés, the largest on all the Balearic Islands where we get a better view of what these types of settlements were like.

From here we head into the heart of the island, still on the Me-1. Forests and farmland, which use the traditional dry stone walls for separation, line the route.

We head through the towns of Es Mercadal (7.5 kilometres), located alongside the Mare de Déu de Toro mountain and shrine, the highest peak in Minorca, and Ferreries (7 kilometres). Here we need to take the road to Es Migjorn Gran to shortly afterwards take the turn-off leading to the Talayotic settlement of Son Mercer de Baix (3 km). The examples of navetas still standing are magnificent.

The next stop is the Naveta des Tudons, a splendid funereal monument and one of the best-preserved and most visited on the island. To get here, we need to return again to the Me-1. At kilometre 40 (5 km after Ferreries), a 1-km deviation on the left leads directly there.

Finally, and after getting to Ciutadella on the western coast of the island, the Son Saura road leads you to the Talayotic settlement of Son Catlar around 6 kilometres on, which stands out for its large 800-metre long wall.