On another wavelength: Gaudí's La Pedrera (the Quarry), Barcelona

The Spanish passion for living is deliciously contagious.

Once away from the holiday costas, you could only be in Spain. In the cities, narrow twisting old streets suddenly open out to views of daring modern architecture, while spit-and-sawdust bars serving wine from the barrel rub shoulders with blaring, glaring discos.

Travel is easy, accommodation plentiful, the climate benign, the people relaxed, the beaches long and sandy, the food and drink easy to come by and full of regional variety. More than 50 million foreigners a year visit Spain, yet you can also travel for days and hear nothing but Spanish.

Travellers to Spain can expect to find accommodation of all types, from upmarket hotels and resorts to more budget-focussed and unique options. For your next holiday accommodation in Spain, make sure you check the regular and special offers on hotels.com.au first. Europe is host to a wide range of travel experience, suitable for all budgets. And Spain is a great example, blending city experiences such as Barcelona as well as options away from the hustle and bustle; perfect for a relaxing holiday or a nature escape.