Ticket Travel Agency

24/07/2024

Nicki discussing Ticket Travel😎

26/06/2024

****DIRECT FIGHTS MADRID TO ZANZIBAR RETURN******
*****Starting 28th June up to 06Sept*****

Discover the Blue of Zanzibar now with direct flights from Madrid from June 28th to September 6th. Seats still available for the first three departures. Don’t miss out on experiencing the magic of the Indian Ocean archipelago!
Book your trip at unbeatable PRICES!

SBH Monica Zanzibar 5* Departure on June 28 - 9 days/7 nights all-inclusive.

SBH Kilindini Resort 5* Departure on July 5 - 9 days/7 nights all-inclusive.

VOI Kiwengwa 4* Departure on July 12 - 9 days/7 nights all-inclusive.

Additionally, we offer the possibility of combining it with a Safari:
2-day/1-night Safari in Saadani 3-day/ 2-night Safari in Saadani 3-day/2-night Safari in Selous

Enjoy the convenience of direct flights from Madrid to Zanzibar, starting June 28 and running until September 6. We've taken care of all the details so you can relax and enjoy your trip.

Spoil Yourself! Call Ticket today for Details: +34 971676767

( Video - A Taste of Blue Zanzibar)

21/06/2024

"Imagine the ocean breeze on your face. Now, make that a reality with Ticket Travel, where your cruise dreams come to life!" Whether it's the sparkling waters of the Med or the vast oceans worldwide, Ticket Travel offers the best advance booking and last-minute cruise deals you can't resist. With decades of experience in marine travel, we're not just selling trips; we're crafting unforgettable experiences! … Why wait? Discover exclusive deals, unmatched expertise, and the joy of seamless travel. It's time to embark on a journey like no other with Ticket Travel, your trusted cruise specialist!😎

NEW! Find us on Instagram>
https://www.instagram.com/marinetravelspecialists/

19/06/2024

Just the Ticket!

17/06/2024

International Travel Agency

Meeting the demands of the modern traveller with the personal service and attention to detail of the traditional local high-street Travel Agency.

We serve a global clientele - from busy business travellers with demanding itineraries to those seeking just travel or vacation packages, from mini-breaks and weekend getaways to luxury cruises and exotic vacations in far-away destinations.

https://ticket-es.com
Image courtesy of: 😎https://www.facebook.com/PhoenixMediaMallorca

15/06/2024

Did you know that apart from our very competitive marine rates and special airline fares, we also book low-cost flights, ferries, cruises, hotels, car hire, and all-inclusive holidays? Etc etc

As we strive to keep up with the evolving needs of our valued clients, we are pleased to introduce a more convenient way to reach us, including an out-of-hours service line that complements our existing office hours.

The Ticket Whats app number is 0034 678 676 677.

Our 24-hour emergency helpline (for scheduled flights) is 0049 306 980 249 976

We sincerely hope that these extra measures will encourage our clients, past and present, to entrust us with their travel needs.

We look forward to helping you with your next trip!

“All you need is love and a Passport”😎

14/06/2024

"Introducing Ticket Travel, your gateway to the world and beyond. Based in the idyllic Portals Nous, Mallorca, we're more than just a travel agency. We're your personalised travel companion. With us, business travellers unlock global opportunities, vacationers discover paradise, and the marine industry finds unbeatable deals. Our marine service is a haven for the yachting community, connecting sea lovers with incredible experiences. So, whether you're dreaming of terrestrial adventures or cosmic journeys, Ticket Travel is your ticket to the extraordinary. Because with us, every journey is a voyage of discovery. Ticket Travel - your world, your way."

Call Today : +34971676767 or WhatsApp: +34-678 67 66 77

12/02/2024

All of us at Ticket are shocked and deeply saddened by the sudden loss of Roger Horner, one of the founders of E3Systems in Mallorca. He was very much loved by all of us at Ticket. We booked him on many a journey.
Our hearts go out to his wife Nicky, and his 2 daughters Lucy and Katy.

RIP Roger.

25/05/2023

*** Congratulations 6Points Mallorca for another successful 2023 Challenge ***

Wow! What a wonderful weekend! With a record registration of 109 riders and over €45,000 raised for Charity so far, Reverence Hotels 6Points Challenge Mallorca 2023 was a bumper event..........

But not just in the numbers...... Here are some comments and some photos (more details to follow later this week).

“Great job guys. Huge thank you to all the team leaders and support teams, an awesome event - you make 6Points the event-to-beat cycling experience. ❤️” Andrew

“Just a note to say huge thanks to all of you. Wonderful event, perfectly in the sweet spot between relaxed and super organised. And most of all wonderfully friendly and welcoming. Got to admit I won’t be riding today though 😂” Oz

“Second that! A great team putting this all together 🙌🏼“ Sol

“Tom and I appreciate the fact that every mile we rode, everything we ate (and drank 🍷🍻) and every need was taken care of because someone on the 6Points team planned and executed a perfect event!

We have lots of wonderful memories to share with our tribe back in Tennessee. Can’t thank you enough. 🙏🥰🚴‍♀️🚴🏽” Cathy and Tom
“A huge thank you from both Gerry and me for the incredible event.
Bryan, the event overall was just really impressive and I’ve done a lot of events - I don’t have Philip’s email address but please extend my gratitude to him for the time and effort he puts into compiling the routes. Overall, it was simply great (just disappointed you couldn’t get the rain and the soapy wave of water running down the mountains to stop Bryan)!

"The ride leaders do so much and I think they don’t often get the recognition they deserve. It's easy to be in a group just following someone but keeping control of a big group over long distances and this year, in challenging weather, is a tough gig.
Lars was great and my interaction during the ride with Graham really impressed me as he had an even bigger group and with a wider variance in cycling ability but he had them all laughing. Joining his group for a short section (all the groups got mixed together in some lanes), was one of the highlights of the event for me!

Seeing the children at the finishing line and the dogs was really emotional and brought home what we rode for.

Again, a really big thank you and to your entire team.” Alyson and Gerry

Please help 6Points and the great work that the team does by liking and sharing this post.

Hotels 6Points Mallorca 2023 - quick updateMusic we Use: https://www.bensound.com/free-music-for-videosLicense code: CEWNG7IODWFWLWDAVideo courtes...

10/09/2022

12/05/2022

*** 6Points Charity Cycling Challenge – May 20th – 22nd, 2022 ***

TICKET are proud to again be co-sponsoring the 2022 6Points Charity Cycling Challenge. Take part in the cycling challenge or come along to cheer the riders along. For more details, visit https://6pointschallenges.com/mallorca-registration/

There is a choice of two routes:
– 6Points Muntanas (Mountains) will take in all four compass extremities of the island and the highest and lowest points; climbing 7,500 metres over 420km in three days.

– 6Points Valles (Valleys) will do 3 of the Muntanas points and 3 Monasteries – 340kms and 4182 metres.

Join one of their paced groups, or bring your own team to take on the challenge. But hurry, because places are limited to just 75 riders so that the ethos of the ride experience is not compromised.

With ride support provided, hotels, dinners and entertainment arranged and a great group of riders to join, there really isn’t a better way to enjoy cycling on Mallorca.

As in the previous two years, 6Points is supporting Asdica, small local charity for disabled children and young people with autism, Down’s syndrome, physical disabilities, etc.

Addionally, following Covid and the hardships caused to many local families, they are also supporting a new program collecting food and other necessities to help these people survive the terrible situation they find themselves in.

For more information and registration, please visit https://6pointschallenges.com/mallorca-registration/

The Registration Fee is €120, and includes a 6Points cycling jersey for every rider and membership of the 6Points Club for 2022 (hotels and meals are not included). 6Points raises funds for local charities on Mallorca and we ask riders to agree to raise private sponsorship to a value of at least ....

19/04/2022

*** These 5 European Countries Offer No Flight Options. ***

There are many remote areas in the world that can only be reached by plane. It's impossible to imagine holidaying in every one of these places, like Macquarie Island, halfway between Antarctica and New Zealand, where penguins are more numerous than humans.

You might not be aware, however, that there are five countries in mainland Europe you cannot reach by plane.

Here are the details on how you can travel to them.

1. Vatican City: The religious center of Italy

The Vatican City, located in Rome's heart, is the world's smallest nation. It would be difficult to fit an airport on this sacred site, which covers only 44 hectares. The microstate can be reached in 35 minutes from Roma Termini (the largest station train station in Rome).

You can travel from Spain to Rome in 24 hours by ferry and connecting train. If you drive, you can go along the French Riviera to reach Vatican City in 13 hours.

You should also visit St Peter's Basilica (a beautiful domed structure from the Renaissance period that is the world's biggest church).

2. Monaco: The playground of the famous and wealthy

The Principality of Monaco is a sovereign city-state located along from the coast of Nice, South France. It is also the second-smallest country in the world. Although the French Riviera is famous for its luxurious casinos, fast cars, and wealthy inhabitants, it does not have an airport due to its small size.

Many of the residents of Nice Cote d'Azur, including many Formula One drivers, might arrive in private jets, but they must fly to Nice Cote d'Azur Airport which is located just 30km along the coast.

3. Andorra, a tiny country at the heart of Pyrenees

Andorra, a tiny landlocked state located in the Pyrenees Mountains, is nestled between France and Spain. It is known for its ski resorts. There are plenty of things to do in the summer, with 90 percent of Andorra being green space. It boasts the longest alpine run in the world, and a variety of horseback trails.

Although Andorra is the sixth-smallest country in Europe, it doesn't have an airport. However, it is easy to reach from France or Spain. You can drive or take the train from Paris to Andorra in just eight hours.

There is a bus that will take you from Barcelona to the airport in just over three hours.

4. Liechtenstein: A peaceful place to escape it all

The fourth-smallest country in Europe is Liechtenstein, a German-speaking country that lies between Austria and Switzerland in the Alps. This tiny state is home to some of Europe's most remote areas, making it a great place to relax in the mountains.

It doesn't have an airport so it is best to travel by train. You can travel from Berlin to Vienna in just over ten hours. From Vienna, it will take seven hours and you don't need to change trains.

Enjoy some ribel, Liechtenstein's national dish, while you're there. It is made from cornmeal and semolina.

5. San Marino: A microstate at the foot of a mountain

San Marino, a tiny country located in the north-east region of Italy is the fifth-smallest and oldest republic in the world. The microstate, which is located on Mount Titano's slope, measures just 13km long at its longest point. Its historic centre has been designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visitors can travel to the microstate by train or bus from Rome, which takes just over five hours. You're sure to see stunning scenery, no matter what you do.

Visit the three fortresses on the mountain that protect it, including Rocca Guaita (built in the 11th Century).

15/04/2022

*** Celebrity Cruises Announces Goop Sails on Celebrity Beyond ***

Celebrity Cruises and Lifestyle Brand goop will embark this autumn on an exclusive retreat at sea aboard Celebrity Beyond, a new-luxury ship.

Goop founder and CEO Gwyneth Paltrow will appear at 'goop At Sea' on the Celebrity Beyond 9-night sailing from Barcelona to the Italian Riviera & France.

Celebrity Beyond will be able to purchase a variety of goop's most popular products, including the GOOPGLOW, GOOPGENES and GOOPGLOW collections. This extends the partnership that started in early 2020.

Gwyneth Paltrow will remain Celebrity's Wellness Advisor. This collaboration was first announced in April 2021. Paltrow and the rest of the goop team will continue to create innovative wellness offerings for Celebrity's ships.

These include on-demand wellness classes, custom detox smoothies and fitness tools for AquaClass(r). Beyond also features the Aqua Sky Suites with floor-to-ceiling views of the ocean, private balconies, luxurious bedding, and other wellness amenities.

Kiki Koroshetz (goop's Vice President of Content) will continue to be part of Celebrity's Women in Wellness program, which brings together some of the most respected women leaders in the wellness sector to create a unique wellness program at sea.

Celebrity Beyond is a seafaring brand that takes well-being at sea to new heights. Its innovative design, which faces outward, leverages endless ocean views and stunning panoramas.

Celebrity Beyond features:

- the talents of Kelly Hoppen CBE, a multi-award winning British designer;
- Nate Berkus, a celebrated American designer; and
- Jouin Manku, a Paris-based design company;
- the innovation of Tom Wright, british architect;
- and Daniel Boulud's culinary skills.

"Nowhere is more rejuvenating than the open sea, and Celebrity Beyond has been designed by a dream team of contemporary, inspiring icons to give guests endless opportunities to disconnect from the world - while they simultaneously reconnect with the world around them," said Michael Scheiner, Celebrity Cruises' Chief Marketing Officer. "goop is the perfect partner for us to collaborate with to capture this therapeutic essence of the ocean in a really relevant and meaningful way for our target audience."

"Travel can be such a meaningful part of well-being and a curious approach to life," said Kiki Koroshetz, goop's VP of content. "Our partnership with Celebrity Cruises has been focused on the intersection of exploration and wellness. We've been fortunate to bring some brilliant experts and teachers onboard, literally, and this new adventure--a mix of discovery and restoration--will be a wholly unique experience."

Goop at Sea sailing will offer a range of exclusive programming, curated by and hosted by goop.

Gwyneth Paltrow hosts a live interview with a top-ranking wellness expert. She will also answer questions from the audience

There were several interactive sessions with goop experts that focused on improving the mind, body, and soul.

Pop-ups offer nourishment from the inside, including product trials, tastings, and massages.

Goop curates gifts and surprises

For more information, schedules, and bookings, contact the team at Ticket +34 971 676 767 or email [email protected]

12/04/2022

** UR Mallorca Facebook Group **

Please join and support the charity group, UR Mallorca Group, that has been setup to support families in Mallorca that have been displaced by the war with Rusia.

Food, clothes, money, accomodation - any or all would be gratefully appreciated.

https://www.facebook.com/URMallorca

Please Like and Share this post to get the word out.

Thankyou

10/04/2022

*** Slow Tourism in the Atlantic Loire Valley: Food, Wine and Water Sports ***

You have probably heard of France's Loire Valley. It is famous for its stunning chateaus and vineyards. But how familiar are you with Pays de la Loire and all it has to offer, a region that covers much of France's Loire Valley?

One thing is that Nantes, the regional capital, was home to Jules Vernes. The Nantes of today is inspired by his legacy. You can visit Galerie des Machines or take a ride on 'Grand Elephant'. The 40ft mechanical elephant was made hybrid in 2018 when its motor was replaced. This is a first for mechanical elephants.

Robot elephants can be trilling for all ages, and look at why the Atlantic Loire Valley makes a great place for slow tourism this summer.

>> What are the Loire Valley’s specialties?

Many of us realized the importance of supporting independent or small businesses after the pandemic. It is not difficult to do so in the Loire Valley. This region is rich in diversity and has many wonderful artisans, producers, and makers.

There are more than 350 farm-to-fork or tourist farm-stays in the Atlantic Loire Valley. You will find unique accommodation and the opportunity to meet local producers.

It's not only the traditionals like wine and cheese that you can enjoy - although there are plenty of those too. You can also try oysters at the coast or rillettes (a little like a pate-like version) at a farm. Season your food with Guerande salt and visit farms that grow saffron.

If the food isn't enough to entice, you can also find businesses that make skincare and beauty products from local ingredients.

>> Loire: Hit the water!

The Atlantic Loire Valley offers liquids other than wine. It has 450km coastline and 375km rivers that are suitable for boats.

You can paddle board, sailboat or boat in this region. There are approximately 160 water sports available. You can also explore Angers by canoe or, if you are less athletic, take a guided cruise through Saumur or stay on a barge in Nantes.

Out on the coast in Bretignolles-sur-Mer, you can now hire eco-friendly surfboards made using materials sourced from recycled plastic bottles. These high-performance, pioneering boards are now eligible for the "Initiatives Remarquables" label. They have half the carbon footprint as conventional surfboards.

The company offers a service that deposits boards for guaranteed end of life recycling. It also plans to create a paddleboard with the same technologies.

>> Enjoy the French culture

The reputation of the Atlantic Loire Valley for producing fine wines precedes it. It is the third largest wine-growing region in France, according to AOC (controlled design of origin) wines. There are over 350 cellars that are open for visitors.

Bio and organic vineyards are becoming more popular. Many offer tours on horseback, bicycles, or electric scooters around their vast grounds.

I don't know what it would be like for anyone else, but riding a horse and carriage through a sunny vineyard while sipping Cremant De Loire seems absolutely wonderful to me.

RandoCabanes has installed eco-friendly hikers’ cabins in the vineyards of Nantes for those looking for a more active wine adventure. The cabins blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment. You can enjoy guided tours, wine tastings and breakfast delivered right to your door.

07/04/2022

*** Polestar and Hertz Partner in the Purchase of 65,000 Electric Cars ***

Hertz and Polestar, a Swedish manufacturer of electric performance cars, announced a partnership to purchase up to 65,000 electric cars (EVs) over the next five years. The availability of electric vehicles (EVs) is expected to start in spring 2022 in Europe, and in late 2022 in North America.

Hertz sees the partnership as part of its ongoing commitment to leading in electrification and shared mobility, as well as a digital-first customer experience. Polestar's partnership with Hertz builds on Hertz’s October announcement to provide its customers the largest EV rental fleet outside of North America, and the largest worldwide. Hertz will make the fleet available for its leisure and business customers. Hertz also plans to extend EVs to rideshare drivers to accelerate electrification.

Hertz CEO Stephen Scherr stated that "We are excited to partner with Polestar and look forward to introducing their premium EV products into our retail and rideshare fleets.

"Today's partnership with Polestar further builds on our ambition to become a leading participant in the modern mobility ecosystem and doing so as an environmentally-forward company". They aim to provide renters, corporate customers, and rideshare partners a premium EV product and an exceptional experience. It will also reduce their carbon footprint.

Polestar is one of the key drivers of global EV growth. It helps to accelerate the transition to sustainable mobility, as consumers become more interested in the convenience and environmental benefits of electrification. Polestar reported that its volumes nearly tripled in 2021, and expects to more than double them again this year. Polestar anticipates that volumes will reach 290,000. vehicles annually by 2025. .

Hertz will order Polestar 2, an award winning EV that established Polestar as a premium EV maker with its first volume model. Polestar 2 features avant-garde Scandinavian design, and the most advanced in-car technology. Polestar 2 features the first global infotainment system that uses Android Automotive OS with Google built in for premium EV segments. It is driver-oriented and dynamic.

05/04/2022

*** Registration is Open for the 40th Copa del Rey MAPFRE ***

The competition will return to the bay of Palma to celebrate a very special edition, the 40th, which will begin on July 30 and end on Sunday August 6 with the traditional award ceremony at the Ses Voltes venue.

Registration open until June 17

With the publication of the Announcement of Regatta, the Organizing Committee opens the registration period for the 40th Copa del Rey MAPFRE. Those teams that register before May 30 will enjoy a reduced registration fee. After this date, and until June 17, they can also register, although they will have to pay the full entry fee.

Registration must be done through the official website of the regatta: www.regatacopadelrey.com

As reflected in the Regatta Announcement, the 40th Copa del Rey MAPFRE will feature, in addition to the Maxis and ORC in corrected time, five classes that will compete in real time: the first to cross the finish line wins. Thus, we will see the ClubSwan 50, ClubSwan 42, ClubSwan 36, the J70 and the Women's Cup, the women's class in which, for the second consecutive year, the crews will sail aboard the J80 one-designs.

Following tradition, the competition program reserves the first two days (July 30 and 31) for the confirmation of entries and registration, while the regattas will be held from August 1 to 6 from 1:00 p.m., at except for the J70 and Women's Cup classes that will start the official tests on Tuesday, August 2nd.

The 40th Copa del Rey MAPFRE is organized by the Real Club Náutico de Palma (RCNP) by delegation of the Royal Spanish Sailing Federation (RFEV). It is sponsored by MAPFRE and the institutional sponsorship of the Govern de les Illes Balears, the Hon. Palma City Council and the collaboration of the Balearic Port Authority and the Balearic Sailing Federation.

For heavily discounted flights in and out of Palma de Mallorca, contact Nicky at Ticket on +34 971 676 767 or by email at
[email protected]

-del-Rey, -Copa-del-Rey-MAPFRE, -de-Mallorca-Yachting, -Travel-Tickets -Seamen-Flight-Tickets

04/04/2022

*** Eurostar and Thalys Merge to Make it Easier to Travel by Train between 5 Countries ***

Two high-speed train companies have teamed up to form a rail giant that will service five countries on the continent.

After Tuesday's approval by the European Commission, Eurostar and Thalys will merge to form a single operator that connects the UK, France and Belgium with the Netherlands and Germany.

The plan was originally announced in 2019, but ticket sales dropped overnight due to the pandemic, which forced the cancellation of the plans. Both companies were in financial trouble, with Eurostar almost going out of business.

The Commission has now approved the decision. It found that the decision would not raise any concerns according to EU competition rules and had very little effect on the structure of rail markets.

>> What is Project Green Speed?

Thalys operates high-speed routes between France and Germany, while Eurostar services the Channel Tunnel route from London to Paris Brussels or Amsterdam. Both companies are majority owned by SNCF, a French railway company.

The climate emergency and the need for eco-responsible transportation require an ambitious response. When the project was first proposed, SNCF Guillaume Pepy stated that he wanted to combine the strengths of Eurostar with Thalys to address this challenge.

Pepy said that European high-speed railways are an attractive alternative to road or air transport for the company's 18.5million passengers.

Project Green Speed is the name of the merger. It aims to double the number of passengers each year to 30 million by 2030. It hopes to maximize the use of renewable energy within its combined train fleet.

Sophie Dutordoir (CEO of Belgian rail company SNCB) and chairman of Thalys' board, said that the merger would only benefit passengers.

"This merger project is based upon the firm belief train travel is the best, most sustainable, fastest, efficient, and safest method to travel in Europe. Now more than ever!"

What does the merger between Eurostar and Thalys bring for passengers?

Consumers will see a better booking, ticketing, and loyalty program across the entire network.

Passengers will find it easier to take, for instance, a Eurostar flight to Paris and then connect with a Thalys flight to travel to Germany.

The future could see services running all the way from London via Brussels to cities currently serviced by Thalys like Cologne or Frankfurt.

All UK-bound passengers will need to go through border control before they can board the train. This means that stations at these stations will need to add processing terminals such as those at Paris Gare du Nord or London St Pancras, which may take some time.

02/04/2022

*** Norwegian Jewel Returns to Operation. ***

Norwegian Cruise Line confirmed that Norwegian Jewel will be returning to service.

She will be the first company ship to sail from Panama City (Colon).

The Norwegian Jewel, a fully restored vessel, is now the 13th vessel in the 17-ship fleet that will return to service.

The ship will offer immersive itineraries to Alaska between May and September, before returning to Panama in November 24th.

The November voyages will be the first time homeporting to the destination from either port, the Colon Cruise Terminal or Fuerte amador Cruise Terminal in Panama City.

Her first voyage will take her up the South American coast and to nine amazing ports. She will launch from Panama City (Colon), Panama.

Norwegian Jewel offers a variety of itineraries that take you from Alaska to the Caribbean with Norwegian Jewel.

Norwegian Jewel will offer eight roundtrip Panama Canal cruises from Colon on the Caribbean side to Panama City (Fuerte Amador) on the Pacific side.

For flights and cruise details and bookings, contact Nicy at Ticket on +34 971 676 767 or email nicky@ticket-es

31/03/2022

*** Qatar Opens a Booking Portal for Accommodation during the FIFA World Cup ***

Qatar announced the opening of the accommodation booking site for FIFA World Cup fans.

The event will be held from November 21st through December 18th, and there will be 64 matches at eight venues.

Tickets are now available on a first-come, first-served basis.

All ticket holders will be "invited" to apply for accommodation through the Qatar Accommodation Agency.

This body will act as the primary booking platform for fans who are staying during the tournament. It also offers a wide range of accommodation options at different price points.

A statement said that fans can book accommodation through hotel/holiday websites and other channels, but the QAA portal is preferred because it offers the best selection of accommodation options at fair rates.

You will find a variety of accommodations options available, including apartments, villas and fan villages, as well as hotels, apartments and villas.

Fans attending FIFA World Cup matches must also obtain a Hayya Card, which is part of the Fan ID system.

This card can be either digital or physical and will include all information necessary for fans to visit the venue, such as details about accommodation and Covid-19 status.

Hayya Card holders will be able to access free public transport on matchdays and smart trip planning via the Hayya app.

For the best available travel / flight deals, contact Nicky and the team at Ticket on +34 971 676 767 or email [email protected].

Tip: Consider a break before or after the Qatar Games with a stop-over in Dubai, Oman or Saudi Arabia. Again, just contact Nicky for the deals available.

26/03/2022

*** Spain's Hidden Gem is Worth a Visit in 2022. ***

Santander is a tourist magnet despite its prime location in the Bay of Biscay. It boasts some of Spain's most popular surfing beaches, as well as a vibrant culinary scene.

The capital of autonomous Cantabria, located on the north coast in Spain, is home to 200,000 people. However, many of its medieval buildings were damaged in a huge fire in 1941.

On the other side of the beach is a beautiful bay that offers breathtaking views of rolling green hills, mountains and the ocean. The city center is smaller than the honeypots in Madrid or Barcelona. In the summer months, a cool breeze blows through the Bahia de Santander.

>> Tapas

Santander is known for its tapas or pinchos, as it is locally called (sometimes spelled pinchu or pintxo). These are meats, fish, cheeses and other ingredients that are poured onto crusty bread using a skewer, toothpick, or a knife.

There are many bodegas and pincho bars scattered throughout the city. Casa Lita is a great place to stop for lunch. It overlooks the bay and has indoor booths as well as an outdoor terrace. You can enjoy a wide selection of bread-based snacks and raciones (sharing plates), as well as delicious house wines starting at EUR2.50 per glass.

Plaza Canadio can be a great place to start your evening. However, Spain's nightlife doesn't really get underway until 9pm. There are many bars and restaurants around the central square, including Canadio (a pincho restaurant in the area that has received consistently high reviews in tourist guides).

La Bodega Riojano is a good option for those who live out of town. It's an atmospheric taverna that features flag-stone floors, white tablecloths, and mahogany wine barrels hanging on the walls.

You can choose from a wide range of meats, seafood and Cantabrian cheeses. A tuna tataki starter is melty on your tongue. Iberian pork with homemade chimichurri or roasted aubergine are as soft as marshmallows. Wines are EUR3 and mains at EUR14.

>> Which museums are worth visiting?

Renzo Piano, an Italian architect who won the award for Centro Botin design, opened Centro Botin to great fanfare on January 14, 2014. It is Santander’s premier cultural and arts hub.

The high-tech venue overlooks the bay and hosts concerts, screenings, and exhibitions throughout the year by artists from Spain as well as around the globe. The Museo Maritimo Del Cantabrico, also located on the shoreline is a wonderful place to spend a few hours.

The museum covers four floors and shows the region's maritime history. It also contains detailed models of ships, reconstructions of cabins, and an aquarium that houses small sharks, stingrays, and moray eels. The star attraction is the skeleton of a 24-metre long, 60-tonne fin-whale suspended from the ceiling.

>> Search for a remote home from home

You will find bars, restaurants, and shops right at your doorstep if you choose a hotel located in the center of town, rather than El Sardinero beach which is a 30-minute walk eastwards.

NH Cuidad in Menendez Pelayo offers modern, smart rooms (4th-floor rooms are equipped with balconies), and doubles starting at EUR60

The charming 19th-century family-run Jardin Secreto is hidden down Santander's side streets. It has been remodeled as a boutique hotel. It also boasts a garden, as its name implies. Doubles starting at EUR70

The Gran Hotel Sardinero, overlooking the golden sands at Primera Playa del Sardinero, is just a five-minute bus ride from the centre. The elegant exterior of the early 1900s palace is now a modern interior with neutrally decorated rooms.

Starting at EUR85 High season is when most hotels see significant increases in their prices.

>> Day out in the nature

Nature and animal lovers will love the Parque de la Naturaleza de Cabarceno.

Spain's only park of its type, the 750-ha government-run nature reserve is located 17 km south of Santander in an abandoned open-air iron mine. It houses 100 species of animals and is considered to be the country's only park of its type.

There are many things to see, including rhinos, wallabies, and gorillas as well as endangered Cantabrian brown bears.

You can also enjoy a 6-km cable car ride, educational areas and landscaped gardens. There are also beautiful little picnic spots for you to relax.