Before I start, I must say I’m not about to criticise the Spanish for their English translation when I can hardly speak more than a few words of their native tongue, but I must say I was surprised that on my recent visit to the popular British tourist spot of Puerto Pollensa, the English translation was poor to say the least.

As with most Spanish resorts which have such a British presence the majority of the restaurants, shops and bars I found attempted to make these holidaymakers feel more at home by using English names and translating their menus into a number of different languages - including English.

While this is commendable, you would expect that the marketing people would want to ensure their establishments continue to bring in the English custom, by spelling things correctly and making the menus more readable – however this doesn’t seem to be the case. The people are certainly hospitable but you’d think they’d take more pride in their services.

Next month I am going away with my family to a Spanish island which is certainly not unfamiliar to me, having been to Majorca a few times before. However, this time, rather than indulging in youthful pursuits like partying in a lively resort such as Alcudia; I am staying in a villa located in a quiet residential area not far from the centre of Puerto Pollensa.

As we are only a few hundred yards from the sea front, it should make for quite a relaxing holiday and so am looking forward to things like reading a good book as I lie on the beach. Having a heated pool in the rented villa is quite nice, so I can have an early morning swim without it being too cold.

If you are looking to find the best destinations in Spain where you can go to on your holidays, then you could do far worse than consider the places at the top of the list for the country in the Travellers’ Choice 2011 as published on Trip Advisor.

Featuring in the World Top 10, it is no surprise to spot Barcelona in there. For those looking for the perfect city break where you can enjoy a spot of Catalan culture and architecture, Las Ramblas is a great area to visit. Alternatively, you may wish to check out the many sights Madrid has to offer, such as the historic museums and the Royal Palace.

Those expecting more of a traditional beach holiday with that little bit more should consider San Sebastian-Donostia. Yes, it does have a beautiful beach, but it also serves the most exquisite food and drink and you can enjoy the wonderful fiestas and arts celebrations frequently held in this Basque city.

Finally, the island of Majorca is another Spanish delight if you are hoping to go somewhere nice on your holidays this year. Palma is the ideal place to start as you can explore the intriguing Old Town and relax on the many golden beaches to be found here.

With the black cloud hanging over everyone’s finances at the moment, fewer people are expecting to go on holiday this year. Don’t be put off by the high price holidays, instead opt for a cheaper holiday. You can even try camping, it’s different and it’s cheap.

Few people think of camping as a real holiday any more, but many campsites have luxury facilities like hot showers and fresh water supplies. You aren’t limited to local areas either. You can try travelling abroad. Why not have a camping holidays in Spain?

Spain has many warm and dry months, so it is suitable for camping without struggling to beat the wind and rain. There are plenty of great sights and landscapes to visit throughout Spain too.

You don’t necessarily have to just go in a tent, you can use caravans or static homes available in most campsites. They are easy to hire and offer many relaxing features. Caravans make things like cooking easier and are more comfortable for sleeping in than tents.

So, when it comes to sitting down with the family or your friends, put forward the idea of camping holidays in Spain. Whether caravan or tent, its enjoyable, different and fun.

Spain has been a popular destination for UK holiday makers for many years due to the beautiful scenery, great weather and cheap deals.  Now there is an added attraction to lure visitors to Spain in the guise of the Cirque du Soleil extravaganza, Varekai, which can be experienced within the next months.

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If you love the bustle of the Spanish night life, thriving salsa bars, the tantalizing smell of paella on the evening breeze and access to beaches within walking distance Barcelona is definitely for you.  Here’s a quick guide to the top 5 places to see in this vibrant and chic city:

La Rambla

La Rambla is a heady hive of activity.  This tree-lined pedestrian area is jammed packed with market stalls, cafes, buskers, mime artists and living statues.  The chirpy bird market is worth dropping in on and you’ll find it on the second block of La Ramblas.  Also worth a visit is one of the cities most vibrant markets Mercat de la Boqueria.  La Rambla leads to the impressive Monument a Colum and the beautiful harbour.  Here you’ll find a variety of restaurants and cafes to tease your taste buds. 

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