Reggaeton

Reggaeton (sometimes written as reguetón) is a musical style from Latin America that originated from different musical styles and different countries. However, the origins of reggaeton are most commonly associated with Puerto Rico, where the music became popular and was also incorporated into commerce.  Reggaeton quickly spread through Latin America and has since achieved worldwide popularity.

Reggaeton music descends from "raggamuffin" or "raga" music, a subgenre of club music that in turn descends from reggae and hip hop. Reggaeton can be distinguished by its controversial Spanish lyrics, rapped and sung, provocative style and influences from various Latin American music styles such as bomba and salsa. In addition, reggaeton is recognizable by the "Dem Bow" beat, first popularized by Shabba Ranks in 1991.

Reggaeton developed as an urban movement aimed at youth, much like hip hop in the United States. Reggaeton is very much related to a style of music known as Perreo, derived from the Spanish word perro (dog), which refers to the obscene and sexually explicit dance moves.

The history and origin of reggaeton is somewhat controversial, as it mixes different musical genres and influences. Reggaeton once began with Panama's Spanish reggae style, an adaptation on Jamaican reggae. Nevertheless, according to general consensus, reggaeton originated in Puerto Rico, where it evaluated into the reggaeton we know today and is known and popular worldwide. Moreover, the most famous reggaeton artists are Puerto Rican. The development of reggaeton has been influenced by American hip hop, Puerto Rican rhythms and other influences of Latin American music.

Reggae Music

Reggae music originated in Jamaica and developed as more and more new sounds and rhythms were added. In 1985, Chico Man performed in Panama with a Spanish Reggae act. At the same time, Spanish rap emerged in Puerto Rico and Vico C. performed with it. A new, Latin American, musical movement developed throughout North and South America.

In the 1990s, Spanish and Jamaican reggae, as well as Spanish rap, were very popular. This trend laid the foundation for what eventually became today's reggaeton. The first popular reggae songs were: Demwbow, by Nacho Boom; Pantalón caliente, by Poncho Pan; Dulce, by La Atrevida; Muévelo y Son Bow, by el Gran General and many successes by Gringo Man.

Between 1993 and 1994, a new movement began in Puerto Rico. The first reggaeton sounds, called "under," were distributed through secret networks of young people. The movement became known for its controversial music and one of the main producers at the time was DJ Playero. The new genre developed and with time the names of the music changed: Melaza, then música underground, followed by Dem Bow, to finally become Reggaeton.

Reggaeton spread and rose to a nice popularity with the help of DJ Playero, DJ Nelson and DJ Eric. Reggaeton was no longer an underground music style, but had exploded to the top of mainstream Latin music. Some famous Reggaeton artists include Don Chenzina, Tempo, Master Joe & OG Black, Baby Rasta & Gringo and Lito & Polaco.

DJ Blass and artists Plan B and Speedy helped expand the movement to the United States. By 2004, reggaeton music had already achieved popularity in the U.S. and Europe, thanks to Reggaeton groups such as Tego Calderón, Daddy Yankee, Hector y Tito, Luny Tunes and Noriega, Yaga y Mackie and many others. Other important Reggaeton musicians are: Alexis & Fido, Angel & Khriz, Nina Sky, Nicky jam, Zion, RKM & Ken-y, Voltio, Calle 13, Hector "El Father", Ivy Queen, Wisin & Yandel, Tito "El Bambino" and Don Obar.

The most famous international Reggaeton songs are Daddy Yankee's hit single "Gasolina" and Shakira's "La Tortura. Both songs came out around 2005 and were worldwide hits that took reggaeton music to new heights.

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Assured of nice weather, but don't feel like staying in a hotel or apartment? Then camping in Spain is the ideal solution to really get away from it all! Spain is growing in popularity every year among campers and therefore has a wide range of campsites and camping options. It is relatively cheaper than staying in a hotel or apartment and the biggest advantage of camping is that you get in direct contact with the beautiful nature of Spain. Therefore, this form of tourism is perfect for families with young children and for people who do not want to stay directly in the city. At the campsite you can enjoy a stay in a quiet environment, directly in the open air with many opportunities for relaxation and entertainment.

• Popular regions for camping in Spain are Castile and León, Catalonia and Andalusia.
• The rich variety of landscapes in Spain makes camping so unique and special.
• Glamping: a combination of glamour and camping. For the camper who wants just a little more luxury.

Campsites in Spain

Throughout Spain there are several campsites present. These are classified by category. The classification system consists of four classifications namely: luxury, first class, second class and third class. These are currently not yet recognized nationally, but by autonomous region. Because of this, the quality in class may vary somewhat from region to region, so it is recommended to look carefully at the standards per region in advance. The camping high season is in the summer months of July and August when it is also high summer in Spain. Most campsites are open from April to September. Of course, some campsites are open longer and/or throughout the year. This is therefore an excellent time to travel to Spain and spend the winter here. This way you can escape the Dutch cold.

Popular regions are Castile and León, Catalonia and Andalusia. Zones that are busy for camping are Sierra de Gredos in Castile and León, the Costa Brava in Catalonia and the Costa del Sol in Andalusia. Numerous campsites can be found here. This also makes Spain perfect for traveling around with a camper or caravan due to the wide range and rich variety of landscapes throughout Spain. From the Pyrenees to the beaches of Costa del Sol, there are countless possibilities and something for everyone.

These opportunities also manifest themselves in the types of campsites. Traditional campsites, naturist campsites and camping farms are present in the most special natural areas. These campsites often offer a variety of camping options for your tent, camper or caravan. If you prefer to rent something, mobile homes, furnished tents and bungalows are also often available for rental. Nowadays, most campsites in Spain already have wifi as standard. Other facilities often depend on the campsite, classification and location. Traditional campsites are very suitable for families with young children. These child-friendly campsites therefore offer a wide range of cultural activities. There are also several camping farms available. Those interested in the countryside and nature can get the ultimate vacation feeling here in a more personal atmosphere.

Glamping in Spain

There are also naturist campsites available and there is still the more luxurious form of camping namely: glamping. Glamping is a combination of glamour and camping. This is still a fairly new form of camping. It is suitable for anyone who would like a little more luxury, but still wants to continue to enjoy an outdoor vacation. The price you have to pay for this is a lot higher than the average campsite, but the experience you get in return is unforgettable.

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Chile's National Independence Day

On Sept. 18, 1810, Chile declared independence from Spain. After an eight-year war, the Diechiocho, is now Chile's National Independence Day every year. This holiday, also called "Fiestas Patrias de Chile," is celebrated throughout the country with many festivities. Chile celebrates its independence with parades, parties, food, drink and music. Dance floors are laid out in large marquees, also called Ramadas, and a wide variety of Chilean traditional food is served in the so-called Fondas. Sept. 19 is also an important day for Chileans. Known as the "Day of the Glories of the Army," this day is celebrated at O'Higgens Park in Santiago de Chile. On this day is Chile's big military parade that attracts as many as millions of viewers.

• On Sept. 18 and 19, Chileans celebrate their independence with parades, parties, food, drink, music and a large military parade at O'Higgens Park in Santiago de Chile.
• Ramadas (large party tents) are set up with dance floors and Fondas (decorated tents) where Chilean cuisine is served.
• Chilean cuisine is very important during these holidays. The Chilean Empanada is the traditional dish: a kind of bread with a filling of pino, a mixture of minced meat, onions, boiled eggs raisins and olives.

The celebration of the Fiestas Patrias is an expression of Chilean culture. Festivities organized during these days include the Chilean rodeo, various street parties, the performance of the traditional dance the Cucea, visiting Fondas and Ramadas and barbecues. There is also a Catholic ceremony in the Plaza de Armas, led by the Archbishop of Santiago de Chile.

During the Fiestas Patrias, Chilean cuisine is very important. The favorite traditional Chilean drink during this festivity is the Chicha, a light alcoholic drink made from grapes, kind of like wine. In southern Chile, the preference is more for the apple Chicha. Chile's other national drink, Pisco is also very popular during these celebrations. This drink is also made from grapes but has a higher percentage of alcohol and tends more toward a brandy-like drink. Consuming traditional Chilean food is one of the most important activities during the Fiestas Patrias. Chileans prepare the food at home or in the so-called fondas, tents specially set up and decorated for this annual event. The predominant food is Chilean empanadas, which are baked from a type of bread. The filling consists of pino, a mixture of minced meat, onions, boiled eggs, raisins and olives. The barbecue is also very popular and as much as 50 million Dollars worth of meat is sold, during the Fiestas Patrias. The typical Chilean dessert not to be skipped is the Alfajor, the traditional cookie with a filling of caramelized milk.

No matter where you are in Chile during the independence celebrations, everywhere you will hear ¡Viva Chile! Going on vacation to Chile in September is highly recommended! Enjoy the spring-like weather, festivals, Chilean cuisine and of course the country itself.

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Tomato festival in Spain

'La Tomatina' is a very popular tomato festival in Spain where some 45,000 people throw tomatoes at each other. It takes place every year in Buñol on the last Wednesday of August. Buñol is a small village 40 km from the Spanish city of Valencia. The festival has been around for more than 60 years, and every year more people from all over the world flock to the tomato throwing.

• It all started in 1945 during a parade of giants and big heads (Los Gigantes y Cabezudos) when a group of angry boys started throwing tomatoes during a scuffle. It is now one of Spain's most popular festivals.
• It begins the night before when, as part of tradition, large pans of paella are prepared on a fire. When the starting gun is fired at 11 a.m. the next day, the tomatoes fly around your ears and you are literally in the (tomato) puree. Less than 3 hours later, the village is completely clean of tomatoes and you don't see any more of them.

History of "La Tomatina

It is always interesting to know how an event began, especially with such a curious and funny event as 'La Tomatina'. During the event of the so-called 'Los Gigantes y Cabezudos,' a fight suddenly broke out and some angry boys looted a vegetable stand and started throwing tomatoes. They were arrested and had to pay for the damage done. Curiously, on the same day a year later, the same boys again began throwing tomatoes, this time brought from home. Again they were arrested. After keeping this up for several years, it became a tradition, but without official status.

Unfortunately, in 1957 the tradition was broken by a ban. Punishment followed for those who did throw tomatoes. A funeral was held by the residents, where they carried a coffin with a tomato and buried it.

A few years later, they were still allowed to continue the tradition, though with strict rules. From then on, things went fast. The tradition became more and more famous, climbing a soaped pole to get the ham became the starting shot of tomato throwing, in 1975 a festival organization for the event was created and from 1980 all the tomatoes are even sponsored by the village's municipality.

Course of the festival

Actually, it begins the night before when large pans of paella are prepared on a fire. In the morning, all the windows are covered to keep them from the red gunk as much as possible and then it can begin. First the soaped pole must be climbed (the winner gets a big leg of jámon serrano, smoked ham) and when the top is reached everyone shouts, "Tomatoes!" The fireworks are set off and the tomato throwing can begin. For a whole hour the tomatoes fly around your ears and nowhere are you safe from this red goo. It only takes a moment and you are already up to your shins in tomato paste. After an hour of chaos, fireworks are shot into the air again and everyone stops throwing them. The big cleanup can begin!

The big cleanup

Everywhere you look you see red. All the houses, all the people and all the buildings. This seems like an impossible job. Yet every year they manage to have the city spick and span after a few hours. Participants are sprayed clean with garden hoses and with the help of the fire department or simply take a dip in the nearby river.

Facts

The festival has always been free to all, until last time in August. Since 50,000 people already came to the small village last year, the festival organization chose to start selling a maximum of 20,000 tickets in order to limit the number of visitors.

In addition, there are some rules during the event, but fairly few people follow them. For example, you must first crush the tomato before throwing it and clothing may not be torn off. Also, it is not smart to climb stairs or the like since you will become the target of some 20,000 people.

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Spain is known for its long sandy beaches, sun-drenched climate and has been in the top vacation countries for years. What is often forgotten is that Spain has perfect coastal resorts for wind or kite surfing. On the Andalusian coast, close to the Strait of Gibraltar lies the province of Cadiz. The village of Tarifa is a fantastic Spanish surfing and windsurfing destination. Tarifa is located at the point where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Sea making it a very popular destination for surfing vacations.

• Tarifa, a small town located on the southern coast of Spain, is also called the European capital of (wind) surfing.
• Surfers can be found on Tarifa's beach all year round; in winter it is more popular with surfers and windsurfers, while in summer it is teeming with kitesurfers.
• Surf lessons and surf camps are very popular for youth during vacations to Andalusia.

The province of Cadiz is the southernmost province of the Autonomous Region of Andalusia and thus also the southernmost province of Spain. At the southernmost tip near the village of Tarifa, the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea meet in the so-called Strait of Gibraltar. There the coast splits into the Costa del Sol and the Costa de la Luz. The distance to Morocco is only 14 kilometers, allowing for stunning views of the Moroccan Rif mountains.

The fact that the wind on the southern coast of Spain is extremely constant makes it the ideal place for surfing. For both as beginners and advanced surfers can surf here. Tarifa is a paradise for the kitesurfer, but surfers and windsurfers are also often found on Tarifa's coastline. Many surf schools can be found in the village offering both single lessons and surf camps. A surf camp during a vacation in Cadiz is popular among kids and teens every summer.

Besides being a popular surfing destination for young and old, Tarifa is also a paradise for nature and bird lovers, and activities such as horseback riding, diving and mountain climbing can be undertaken. The nearest major city is Cadiz, which is also called "the city that smiles" because of the cheerfulness of the Gaditanos, the city's inhabitants. The Gaditanos are cheerful and content and enjoy life to the fullest because every day is a new day. The city is also very popular among students who want to learn the Spanish language and for day trips during a vacation to Andalusia.

For surf lovers, the coast of Tarifa is definitely recommended. Tarifa is not called the European capital of (wind) surfing for nothing. Also, the coast of Tarifa is full of wildlife, dolphins and whales you will definitely spot here! In short, there is plenty to do here!

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Would you prefer to do something during your vacation instead of lying on the beach all day? There are several options for this in Spain, and perhaps more than you first expected. Active vacations in Spain abound. This is due in part to the variety of landscapes, making various outdoor sports possible. Combined with the varied climate, both winter sports and nice-weather activities are enjoyed here. Do not immediately think of strenuous activities, as hiking vacations or workshops also belong to this group. For every age, the word active has a different meaning.

• Active vacations in Spain are more often outdoor than indoor, thanks to the nice weather.
• Water sports activities can be enjoyed all over Spain.
• Taking a workshop in Spain is also among the active activities during a vacation.

Active Holidays in Spain

The term "active vacation" implies active performance during the vacation. In Spain, exercising such an achievement is excellent. This can be done in various forms, namely through excursions, workshops, festivals and sports. The chance of good weather here is much greater than in the Netherlands and, as a result, activities are mostly located outdoors rather than indoors. This makes the overall experience more intense by being active while still being able to enjoy the vast surroundings. The most popular activities are also in line with the country's unique characteristics and are made the most of. Skiing, water sports activities, trekking, horseback riding and golf are very popular in Spain. Indeed, sports in Spain are hot and widely practiced. Besides real sports, visiting one of the many water parks is also an active and popular venture. This activity is also more suitable for families with children. In Tenerife there is the largest water park in all of Spain and also in all of Europe: 'Siam Park'.

The north of Spain lends itself perfectly to cycling, mountain climbing and hiking through its vast forests and verdant countryside.
Canoeing and rafting are also activities that lend themselves perfectly to this because of the many rivers, lakes and streams.By canoe, for example, you can sail on the rivers "el Mera" and "el Rato" in the region of Galicia.In addition, there are also several opportunities to spend a relaxing day fishing and activities that are also popular in the Netherlands, such as paintball, karts or quad biking.

The region of Catalonia in eastern Spain is also a popular area for sporting activities.Hiking, cycling, hang gliding, ballooning, skydiving and "Nordig Walking" are some of the activities offered here.However, this is just a small sample of the activities Catalonia offers.

In the south of Spain in the autonomous region of Andalusia, the possibilities are countless. Here in the winter months you can ski perfectly on the Sierra Nevada, the southernmost mountain in Europe. In summer, this area is wonderful for long walks and hiking. Furthermore, golf is a popular activity and Andalusian horses are the figurehead for horseback riding in Andalusia. In the area around Cadiz, Seville and Málaga there are several companies and riding stables that offer horseback riding tours in this beautiful area. For example, you can take a tour in the interior of the country or along the coastline. Besides horseback riding, the area around Cadiz lends itself perfectly to water sports activities, such as surfing, kite surfing, scuba diving and sailing. The water here is just a little rougher than in other parts of Spain and there is often a stiff wind. In addition to Cadiz, these water sports activities can also be perfectly performed in the Canary Islands.

Activities that also belong to the active vacation are attending workshops. At first that may not sound so active, but there is certainly hard work being done there. In Spain, as in the Netherlands, there are various workshops to follow. From authentic workshops to the somewhat general workshops. A very popular workshop is to take a cooking workshop, so you can learn to prepare traditional Spanish dishes properly. Who is not good with pan and spatula, but wants to be creative can also go dancing or pottery and mosaics. By attending a workshop you will get to know the influences of Spanish culture, which you can take back to your own home, garden and kitchen.

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Sport in Spain has become an important part of Spanish culture. It can actually be performed anywhere, but for some exercises, of course, some places lend themselves better than others. This is also true of cycling in Spain. Of all the islands Spain possesses, Mallorca is by far the best cycling island. It is also the largest of the Balearic Islands. The mountainous landscape, good cycling facilities and infrastructure help this. You can explore the island by bike almost all year round and every season brings something special here. This completely changes the look of the island and makes cycling on Mallorca never boring. Not only in Spain itself are many cycling vacations offered, also from the Netherlands many organizations go that way every year. You do not have to be a professional cyclist if you would like to join in. Cycling on Mallorca is very accessible for young and old, as long as there is enough guidance for the little ones, of course.

• It is useful to distinguish between two levels: the sportive cyclist and the recreational cyclist.
• Sporty cyclists will cycle more inland. Here you sometimes have climbs of up to 6% that are a few kilometers long.
• For recreational cyclists, the distances are often shorter and less demanding. In addition, there are more frequent stops to enjoy the scenery and to have a drink.

Cycling in Mallorca

A wide variety of routes, with many beautiful turns, different altitudes and excellent cycling facilities. Mallorca is 70 kilometers wide and 100 kilometers long. It has an average temperature of nineteen degrees and has a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters that lends itself extremely well to bicycle tours. If you decide to go with your own bike, do consider the bike case supplement. This can also just be a bike box. However, it is advisable to pack the bike well or rather leave it at home to avoid any damage to the bike during transport. Once arrived in Mallorca, there are several tourist information centers where free bike routes are available for those who like to explore the island by themselves or with and group. For a clear distinction between the different levels, there are two different groups: the recreational cyclist and the sportive cyclist.

Sporty cyclists will do real day trips between 70 and 140 km per day at a higher speed. However, there are often different levels in this as well, as some of the climbs can be quite high. This can sometimes range from 4% to 9%. The sporty cyclist will also cycle mostly inland where the mountains are highest and the turns sharper. The "Serra de Tramuntana" and the "Serra de Llevant" are also by far the most popular destinations for beautiful and challenging cycling routes.

The recreational cyclist will take it a little easier. The routes will mostly be around the island or in between the mountain ranges. This way, even the little ones can just join in. Wearing a helmet is mandatory and gives that extra bit of safety. The average speed will also be relatively lower than that of the sporty cyclists. The average will be between 15 km/h and 20 km/h. These are often not day trips, but small trips of two or three hours with several stops to enjoy the scenery with a refreshing drink.

Don't feel like biking for a while? No problem! Mallorca is pre-eminently a child-friendly island and thus also has excellent beach facilities. You can also enjoy shopping in the capital Palma de Mallorca. Every year the famous cycling event the 'Challenge Ciclista a Mallorca' is also held there. Here a series of a total of four one-day races are held. Some of the biggest names in cycling have already taken part. For those who do not feel like cycling for a while can still watch it in peace and quiet. In short, no one will be bored here.

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Ibiza; the island for anyone who wants to escape the daily grind and let the magic of this special island wash over them. Around the 60s and 70s it was the place to be for the elite and sun worshippers. Luxury, party and enjoyment were the keywords of this island. Ibiza became famous because of the big rise of the hippies. This and its image as a party island lasted until the 1990s when it experienced a small decline in the number of tourists. Fortunately only short-lived, because after a few years, life on the island of Ibiza began to pick up and people returned en masse to relive that feeling of luxury, party and enjoyment. Nowadays, this Spanish island is all over again and shows it in its full glory.

• More than 160 kilometers of coastline and 50 beaches surround this Spanish island.
• Ibiza has become a spiritual island thanks to the hippie movement. Much of this can still be seen today.
• 'Playa d'en Bossa' is the most famous beach where you can be entertained day and night, thanks in part to the famous club 'Bora Bora' located nearby.

Ibiza is part of the Balearic Islands group and is popularly known as "Eivissa. Part of the autonomous region of the Balearic Islands, it has a total area of 572 ^km2 and is about three times the size of Texel. The island is located in the east of the Spanish peninsula and is easily reached by boat or plane. The image that Ibiza formed thanks to the hippies in the 1960s and 1970s is still present to some extent today. The many alternative healers who have lodgings here, the hippie markets and the relaxed atmosphere here only confirms this. Besides, it doesn't matter how you are dressed, or who you are. The tourists and locals have an open attitude, because everyone comes here with the same goal: to enjoy the beautiful surroundings and have a good time. This place is also very popular with famous Dutch people.

Clubs in Ibiza

The capital of Ibiza, Ibiza Town is best known for its many bars and clubs. It is the best place on the island when it comes to going out. Here all the world-famous DJs have played the best records in one of the most famous clubs from all over the world. Armin van Buuren, Tiësto, Avicii and Calvin Harris are famous names. Surely the most famous club in Ibiza is the "Pacha. This world-famous club has five different halls where in each hall a different type of music is played. It is probably the most luxurious club on the whole island and can accommodate about 3,000 people. It is also the only club open throughout the year. After a lot of partying, you can rest during the day at the nearest beach 'Figueretas'. This beach is also perfect for families living around this area and for tourists staying in Ibiza town.

During the day, after partying, you can relax on one of the many beaches. Cala Salada is one of them. This place is surrounded by a green oasis of trees and is just outside the crowds. During the summer months, this is a busy spot among tourists and locals. Another crowded spot is "Playa d'en Bossa. Perhaps not the most beautiful, but certainly the most glamorous beach where there is something to do day and night. Several parties are held here thanks to the famous club 'Bora Bora' located nearby. In addition, this is the beach with the most services and amenities. Because the beach is almost 3,000 meters long, there are also some less crowded and child-friendly areas. For those who are really looking for the most child-friendly beach should go to "Talamanca. Here both the water and the surroundings are quiet.

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With the wind through your hair and the sun in your face, feeling free and safe: that's what cycling in Seville gives you. Thanks to its many amenities and the fact that it is a relatively flat city, Seville is known as a city of cycling. While cycling, you can pass by the monuments and most special places that once seemed unreachable, but are now suddenly within reach. Long distances become short and short distances are more often covered by bicycle. Even in the heat of the day, a bike ride becomes child's play thanks to the pleasant addition of a light breeze. With the arrival of "Sevici," Seville's public bike rental service, cycling has never been easier.

• In July 2007 at the station of 'Ponce de Leon' the first public bike rental in Seville was opened.
• When using the 'Sevici' the first 30 minutes are always free.
• 'Isla de Cartuja' and 'Parque de Alamillo' are great locations to visit by bike.

Cycling in Spain

The municipality has agreed to the plan to offer an energy-efficient mode of public transportation to the public. Thus, in July 2007, the first public bicycle rental in Seville opened at the 'Ponce de Leon' station. Other major Spanish cities such as Barcelona, Madrid and Valencia have also adopted this form of public transportation. Today, the 'Sevici' is fully integrated into Sevillian life and the word is considered normal. Seville has 2,500 bicycles parked in 250 different places throughout Seville. This enormous popularity is partly due to Seville's good facilities and amenities when it comes to bicycles. The city was even ranked fourth as the most bike-friendly city by a survey by a renowned magazine in 2013.

The bike itself is fully adjustable and designed so that its sturdy appearance gives and emanates a safe feeling while still retaining its charm. On the bike's fender is the infinity symbol in the form of a piece of rope woven together. This is part of Seville's own logo. The colors also reflect this, as they are red and yellow. The slogan of the "Sevici" reads: Sevilla a tu ritmo. This means that you can discover Seville at your own pace.

The great advantage of "Sevici" is that you can effortlessly maneuver anywhere through the city. Once arrived at your destination, it is then only a matter of finding a stand to place the bike in and you have your hands free again. An annual or weekly subscription is required to use this service. You then receive a pass that you can insert into one of the vending machines at "Sevici" to access the bikes in the bike rack. It is also possible for teenagers between the ages of 14 and 18 to use this service, although parental permission is required. A nice bonus is that the first 30 minutes are always free! Because most facilities and tourist attractions are located in and around the old city center, 30 minutes is often enough for small rides.

Sightseeing in Seville

For the sights that are a bit further away, biking in Seville is also ideal. The public bicycle makes it easy to get to some less accessible destinations. An example is the site "Isla de Cartuja" where the 1992 World's Fair was held. This is about a 30-minute walk from the city center. Here stands a number of extraordinary pavilions designed especially for the world exhibition. This is the ideal starting point for a bicycle tour. In fact, you can then cycle on to city park 'Parque de Alamillo' to enjoy a quiet day in the park. During the day and in the evening, small open-air concerts or theater performances by local artists are often held here. After spending the rest of the day in the park you can bike back to the center when evening falls. The best way to do this is across the "Puente de Alamillo" bridge. This bridge was built especially for the World's Fair and was designed by the famous Spanish architect and engineer Santiago Calatrava. 

Cycling between the giant white bars of this rigged bridge illuminated by artificial light has something special about it. It is well worth stopping here to enjoy the scenery: illuminated houses and street lamps create a slight reflection and glint in the Guadalquivir River, while evening traffic quietly passes by and the moon is high in the sky. Having cycled all the way down the bridge, it only makes sense to cycle along the Guadalquivir as a conclusion.

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Tenerife is a volcanic island. The island's rich flora, volcanic landscapes and vast valleys, pine forests and deserts are characteristics that make hiking on Tenerife so special. It is totally different from the Dutch landscape. Hiking can be done in various ways: guided, with GPS, on your own, etc. In any case, whoever sets foot on this earth will be able to walk around here for hours.

• Tenerife has a volcanic landscape and also possesses Spain's highest mountain, “Pico del Teide.
• Those who hike in the Teno Mountains should definitely visit the village of Masca. This indigenous village can only be visited since a few years and is really worth a visit.

Hiking obviously involves the hiking facilities that are there. Because this exercise is so popular in Tenerife, the hiking facilities there are excellent. With a map handy, it seems almost impossible to get lost here. There are information points located at each nature reserve where they know all about the area, including useful information and tips on the various hiking routes and sights. Hikes can vary from one day to three days or more and the difficulty of the tours depends on various conditions, such as length, altitude and surface. In terms of temperature, Tenerife is pleasant all year round and therefore ideal for hiking; not too cold and not too hot. For true floral lovers and sun worshippers, the most ideal period for hiking in spring is between April and June. Everything is then in bloom and colors the island with the most spectacular spring colors. Well-known flora are the beautiful endemic Tijanaste and the Canary bellflower. These plant species are found only on this island and have beautiful colors.

Las Cañadas del Teide is by far the most famous hiking area in Tenerife. The area consists of several routes with different levels of difficulty. However, a good condition is important for all routes. It is a mountainous area with many ascents and descents where there are also many loose stones. Some caution is therefore always requested. The area is protected and belongs to the National Park. It is the sunniest place on the entire island and was declared a World Heritage Site in 2007. Also located here is the striking rock Roque de Garcia. This rock is the figurehead of Tenerife and has a particularly unique shape. This national park was created from the remains of an ancient primordial volcano. 

This one was still many times larger than the present volcano Pico del Teide. The old primordial volcano blew up part of itself by a large eruption. Landslides occurred and a new volcano arose from the remnants of the old volcano. There have been no eruptions since 1909. This last small eruption covered the volcano with several lava layers. Each layer is different with different shades of color. This is also the highest mountain in Spain and for good reason, because here at the foot of the mountain you can see a veritable sea of clouds. This sea of clouds is better known in the locals' vernacular as panza de burra (donkey belly). It is the result of rapid and steady gusts of wind that, with the combination of moisture and rapid airflow, form a thick dense layer of clouds. This particular phenomenon can be seen almost every summer.

One of the other hikes is in the Teno Mountains. This is the oldest part of the island and is known as the wildest area of Tenerife. With high mountains, deep ravines and dizzying views, this is well worth the effort. The area has six routes, all of which are available at the information point. Because the area is so rugged, there are some mountain villages that were not really accessible until recently. The village of Masca is an example of this. This is also the starting point of a beautiful hike that goes along the famous Masca ravine towards the sea.

Besides the Teno Mountains, the Anaga Mountains are a beautiful area for an interesting hike. The starting point for hiking routes starts from Puerto de la Cruz and La Orotava. It is advisable to walk downhill, though, because the routes are sometimes very steep and long. During one of these tours, you also have the chance that you will walk in the fog for part of the tour. This just makes it extra exciting and is one of the reasons why hiking in Tenerife is also such a true adventure.

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