Spain has excellent roads, a great rail system and modern convenient airports. Lodging
is available at almost any level desired. Prices in the large cities run a little high, but the
rural areas are very reasonable. Airfare is generally 20% cheaper round trip from
Spain to the US, as opposed to US to Spain. Airfare from the US runs about $800
round trip for coach from DFW. Barcelona and Madrid are an easy train ride to
almost anywhere in Europe. Driving is different than in the US. In this writer's opinion
the Spanish are significantly less aggressive than American drivers. That is, they tend
toward a greater courtesy level, but they do drive fast and hard.
One great joy of visiting Europe is the ability to travel quickly from one culture to
another. Spain, Portugal, Italy and France are each easily reached in short order and, of
course, Monacco and Andorra, unique tiny principalities are nestled amongst these
countries. Many people are unaware of Andorra, a tiny country between Spain and
France. But it is a tax free oasis, and a joy for the true shopper.
Interesting Travel Links
Michelin travel information, excellent resource throughout Europe
http://www.viamichelin.com
Cal Rei de Talli, a wonderful small hotel in the foothills of the Pyrenes, say hello to Carlos.
http://homepage.tinet.ie/~bha/3919CalReiDeTalli.html
Hotel Costa Bella, a wonderful treasure of a hotel in Nice, France, this small hotel is on the Venere web site.
Venere is an excellent resource, but this hotel is really nice (no pun intended).
http://www.venere.com/fr/nice/costabella/
Il Talucco, in northern Italy, this B&B is as charming as the hostess, Valentina, moderately priced in charming
Biella, this is one of this writer's favorites.
http://www.iltalucco.com/
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