The premier holiday destination preference for the British, and origin of the European club scene, Spain boasts a tourism economy unrivaled by most other European countries. Whether you seek a relaxing rural break, or an alcohol fueled stag weekend, Spain is sure to have a destination to suit.

While the predominant allure of Spain for the 18-30 group may be it’s party capital, Ibiza, the country has a wealth of stunning locations, unique cuisines and cultural experiences which make it unique from other European countries.

España is officially known as the Kingdom of Spain, however the country’s name has evolved considerably throughout history. Spain was first given the name “Iberia”, derived from the North African word “Iber”, meaning river. The Iberians were thought to have landed on Mediterranean soil in 6000 B.C. Greek arrival in 600 B.C led to some considerable name change. They referred to the Spanish peninsula as “Hesperia”, translating as “Land of the Setting Sun”. It is thought this name came about, due to the fact the land was surrounded predominantly by water, and the setting sun was the most common reflection upon the sea, viewed from inhabited areas.

Spain is often humorously referred to as “land of the rabbits”, however few know of the historical significance behind the reference. When the Carthaginian people first arrived in Spain in 300 B.C, they came across tribes. These tribes had become adept in farming and hunting from the lands and coasts of Spain. The rabbit was allegedly a common species along several coastlines, and became a primary source of food for the tribes. The Carthaginians believed the country was over-run by the creatures, and thus began referring to it as “Ispania” meaning “Land of Rabbits”. Despite some spelling variation since that time, the name has stuck.

Spain is the world’s 51st largest country, and during the 16th Century also had the world’s largest empire. The empire included parts of the Americas, France, Belgium, Italy, parts of North Africa and a number of outlying islands in the Asian and Pacific areas. It was one of the first empires on which it was said “the sun would never set”.

Similarly to Italy, Spain has a large devout following of Catholics, however this was not always the case. For a period of just over 300 years, the primary religion within Spain was Islam. The country was even under Muslim rule until 1492, when the last Moorish King was defeated in Granada.

Spain is renowned for its rich, regionally inspired cuisine, particularly tapas. Spain also has a diverse agricultural economy, and is the biggest European exporter of olive oil. Over 44% of all olive oil produced world-wide comes from Spain, and around 10% of that comes from the region Jaen. One of the world’s most expensive spices is also produced in Spain. “Azafran” or Saffron as we commonly refer to it is big business in Spain, who produce over three quarters of the world’s overall supply. Much of this is grown in a region known as Castilla-La-Mancha, which in 2001 received a Denomination of Origin for Saffron.

The word “tapas” is commonly misunderstood to define a particular type or style of food, however it actually relates to an eating process. The word “tapa” means “to cover” and defines an old method of covering a glass of wine with a piece of meet or cheese, then eating it.

Sherry is a popular drink in Britain, particularly around Christmas when the tipple is used to “toast” amongst family and friends, however few are aware that sherry originates from Spain. The word “sherry” comes from the word “shariz”, the Persian name for the city of Jerez in Andalusia. Sherry is actually a wine, and is produced in four different variations: “amontillado” meaning dry, “fino” dry and pale, “oloroso” full and dark, and “manzanilla” which loosely translates as camomile due to the yellow-ish colouration.

Artist Pablo Picasso immortalized the German destruction of one Spanish town in his 1937 paint ing “Guernica”, named after the subject town. Guernica was devastated by bombing by the Germans in the First World War, and Picasso (known for his artistic political references) captured the brutality and evil of “the enemy” perfectly. The painting remained in the New York Museum of Modern Art until 1981 due to Picasso’s insistence. He despised the absence of democratic rule in Spain, namely during the rule of Francisco Franco, and decreed that the Guernica could only return to Spain when democratic rule returned. Despite the death of Franco in 1975, the painting did not return to Spain until 1981. It can now be found in Queen Sofia’s Museum in Madrid.

Spain has a well catalogued history of war and political unrest, however the diverse cultures and history combine to make it one of the most unique European countries to visit. Whether you’re a lover of history, a keen extreme sports fan or in your younger years, pursuing the best popular dance acts, Spain is an ideal destination.