Experience the allure of Spain on a journey through Madrid, Bilbao, Sevilla, and Granada. From Madrid’s lively plazas to Bilbao’s modern charm, Sevilla’s flamenco rhythms, Granada’s historic wonders, each city offers a unique blend of culture and beauty. Explore the essence of Spain in its most captivating destinations. Barcelona post-trip is optional.
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You are an active traveler who loves to see things up-close and personal. You aren’t bothered by standing or walking for long periods of time (1-2 hours) and you can navigate uneven surfaces and easily climb into and out of different kinds of vehicles or vessels. You can handle the rigors of exploring the world in a hands-on way, even if that means getting up early or staying up late!
Main trip:
*Included airfare is limited to the following flights:
• Bilbao to Seville
NOTE: International return flights should be booked arriving into Madrid with a departure from Granada, unless you join the Barcelona post-trip, which would then require you fly home from Barcelona.
Post-trip to Barcelona:
Main trip:
Post-trip to Barcelona:
**Itinerary Subject to Change**
Most flights arrive in the morning or afternoon. You’ll be greeted at the airport and assisted through immigration, then transferred to the beautiful H10 Villa de la Reina Hotel. Dinner will be on your own.
No Meals
H10 Villa de la Reina Hotel
Today we head to the beautiful city of Toledo – about 45 minutes from Madrid. It’s known for it’s known for its medieval Arab, Jewish and Christian monuments in its walled old city and we’re going to explore this beautiful place by foot. We’ll enjoy our first lunch together at a gorgeous venue in the midst of a vineyard offering views of the city – like nothing you’ve ever seen! We’ll head back to Madrid after lunch with time to freshen up and rest before we head out to our welcome dinner to celebrate our journey ahead.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
H10 Villa de la Reina Hotel
**WOW! Signature Event** This morning we explore the picturesque city of Madrid. The morning starts with a private visit to the world famous Prado Museum – full of works by Monet, Renoir, Degas, and more. We’ll follow up with a tour of the city, culminating in a delicious lunch together! The afternoon finds us back in Madrid. We’ll roll up our sleeves and be involved in the preparation of Spain’s signature dish – paella. We will create a fabulous dish and enjoy it together for dinner!
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
H10 Villa de la Reina Hotel
Get yourself ready for a bit of a drive, but we guarantee the 3.5 hours will be worth every minute! We are headed to the Rioja wine region – one of the most beautiful parts of Spain and one that people rarely visit. We’ll stop and dine among the vines at a beautiful winery in the middle of the vineyard with breathtaking views all around. With full stomachs and hearts, we head to Bilbao – located in the middle of Spain’s Basque Country, it is a blend modernity and tradition. After checking in the Tayko Bilbao Hotel, you’ll enjoy the evening and dinner on your own.
Breakfast & Lunch
Tayko Bilbao Hotel
Today we discover Bilbao through a leisurely stroll. Enjoy it’s architecture and the contrast between the new and the old. We’ll culminate our jaunt at a “txoko” – a Basque word meaning nook or cozy corner. Here we’ll put on our aprons and learn to prepare “pintxos” – the Basque word for spike – the Basque version of tapas. We’ll fuel up for the second half of our day on these delicious pintxos, then head to the world famous Guggenheim Museum for a tour of this magnificent place. Then we’re off to dinner as a group!
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Tayko Bilbao Hotel
The beautiful seaside city of San Sebastian is on today’s itinerary. This coastal haven is celebrated for its beautiful beaches, world-class cuisine, and vibrant cultural scene. From the iconic La Concha Beach to the renowned culinary delights of its pintxo bars, the city offers a perfect blend of relaxation and culinary exploration amidst its charming streets and historic architecture. And we’ll explore it today – taking the funicular to the top of Monte Igueldo for the best views of the city! For lunch we’ll be doing our own version of a pintxo crawl – dining our way around the best places. The afternoon and dinner will be on your own with plenty of options in this charming city.
Breakfast. Lunch & Dinner
Tayko Bilbao Hotel
Today it’s an early start as we say farewell to this amazing Basque region of Spain and fly to Seville – one of the most charming cities you’ll ever see, nestled in the Andalusian region of Spain. After a quick check in to the Palacio Villapanés Hotel, you’ll have the remainder of the day to explore this idyllic city. Enjoy lunch on your own. We’ll regroup and enjoy dinner together.
Breakfast & Dinner
Palacio Villapanés Hotel
Seville is known for its captivating blend of history, architecture, and culture. Today we’ll cruise around the city learning about the historic churches and palaces, Moorish buildings, flamenco dancing, and more. After our morning tour, we’ll have lunch together, then head out for something special: a private flamenco dance demonstration where we not only revel in the passion of this dance genre, but learn about the history. We’ll dine together following the performance.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Palacio Villapanés Hotel
Today we head to Ronda, perched dramatically atop towering cliffs, is a town steeped in history and breathtaking natural beauty. Its most iconic feature is the Puente Nuevo, a towering bridge spanning the El Tajo gorge that divides the town into two halves. We’ll explore this amazing city taking in the historic bullfighting arena, the classical city center, and other hidden gems along the way. Next we head to an actual working olive farm! Here we’ll learn about the farming practices and taste the olive oil. We’ll dine together at the farm, enjoying this farm-to-table experience. Upon our return to Seville, we’ll have time to freshen up before we head to dinner at a local restaurant.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Palacio Villapanés Hotel
Today we head to Granada – renowned for its Moorish heritage and the majestic UNESCO World Heritage site of Alhambra. First we’ll check in to our hotel, the Hotel Palacio de Santa Paula. Then we’ll head out to explore the world famous Alhambra and all the iconic sites of this beautiful city. Hopefully, you’ll work up a good appetite doing all that exploring because we’re off to enjoy a lunch of the Granada version of pintxos… tapas! The afternoon is yours to wander around the winding cobblestone streets of the Albaicín district, check out the spectacular views from Plaza de San Nicolas, or do a little shopping at the Alcaiceria market. We’ll regroup for our final farewell dinner together to celebrate the wonderful adventure we’ve shared.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hotel Palacio de Santa Paula
Today we head to the airport for our flights home with our hearts and minds full of memories of this very special adventure. OR, if you’re joining us for the Barcelona optional post-trip, you’ll be flying with the rest of the group to Barcelona. See detailed information about the post-trip, below.
Breakfast
Located right on Gran Vía, one of the most representative avenues in Madrid, the H10 Villa de la Reina is perfectly located close to the most significant areas of the city. The H10 Villa de la Reinais a boutique hotel located in a majestic building from the early 20th century. With a French-inspired interior design, it combines classic and modern elements, offering a calm setting from which to explore the city and surrounding area.
Set in the historic old town, with views of the estuary, this picturesque 1924 building has been not just preserved but updated with modern architectural interventions in steel, glass, and polished concrete. Hotel Tayko Bilbao is a great place to use as a hub and explore the city’s top spots. You’ll be right on the main riverfront and just steps away from main attractions.
Palacio de Villapanés is a renovated 18th century palace that combines traditional nobility and contemporary pleasure. This intimate hotel gives off palatial vibes and state-of-the-art comfort. It has gorgeous views from the roof terrace with a small pool. Located just a half mile from Seville Cathedral and other iconic sites. The perfect place to relax after exploring this beautiful area.
You’ll be arriving with other WOW! travelers to beautiful Barcelona. We’ll be greeted at the airport and assisted through baggage claim and head to our hotel, H10 Cubik Hotel, to check in and grab some lunch. Then we’ll get straight to it! Our first item of business: all things Gaudi! No visit to Barcelona is complete without seeing the iconic architectural wonders that the genius architect designed! We’ll head back to the hotel after to refresh, then regroup and head to dinner.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
H10 Cubik Hotel
Today we’ll discover the secrets behind the stones. We’ll weave our way through the winding corridors of the medieval town – a historical journey to give you a unique view of the enchanting Gothic Quarter and an overview of ancient traditions. We’ll then make our way to the famous Market “La Boquería” – who doesn’t love visiting a local market? After our morning of exploration, we’ll dine together at a beautiful restaurant for lunch. This afternoon is yours to enjoy. Then back to the hotel to freshen up, followed by our farewell dinner as we say “adios” to this fantastic Spanish adventure.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
H10 Cubik Hotel
After breakfast we’ll say adios to this beautiful city and head to the airport with our hearts full of amazing memories.
Breakfast
The H10 Cubik Hotel is an exclusive hotel located in Barcelona’s historic center, very close to Barcelona Cathedral. Its Brutalist interior design plays with geometric shapes and pure colors. It features bright rooms, the Market Restaurant and the spectacular Atik Terrace with plunge pool and stunning views of the Cathedral.
WOW! Spain 2024
Dates:
10-night package: September 1-11, 2024
2-night post-trip: September 11-13, 2024
Cost:
10-night package: $8,795 per person double occupancy; $10,645 single occupancy
2-night post-trip: $2,850 per person double occupancy; $3,195 single occupancy
Unless otherwise noted, all participants on a WOW! trip must be at least 18 years of age at time of travel.
Payment Schedule:
Space is limited. Reservations will be made on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation:
Penalties vary depending on the date of cancellation:
* We will do all possible to resell your space should you cancel. If we are successful, we will refund you in full, less $875 per person.
Air Transportation:
You may make your own flight arrangements, or we can assist with a $75 per person service fee (waived for WOW! Travel Club alumni). We cannot book mileage tickets or upgrades, which must be done directly with the carrier. If you would like us to assist, contact Gabriel Haigazian (gabriel@wowtravelclub.com or 818-444-2700) or Howard Wise (howard@wowtravelclub.com or 818-444-2710). It is the responsibility of the traveler to provide the legal name as on the passport. Carriers may deny boarding if name on ticket does not EXACTLY match name on passport.
Supplemental Travel Insurance for Trip Cancellation / Interruption:
Your package includes basic trip insurance:
Additional trip cancellation insurance is available for purchase to cover financial penalties if you need to cancel your trip. Travelers may insure all prepaid and nonrefundable payments against cancellation and interruption due to covered reasons. Note that fear of travel is not covered under these policies. Certain plans include coverage for Pre-Existing Medical conditions, financial default, “Cancel for Work Reasons” and “Cancellation for Any Reason.” Coverage varies by product. Please note that most insurance companies require you to purchase insurance within 14 days of the initial deposit date in order to be covered for pre-existing conditions.
For further information and purchase options click HERE for plans offered by Travel Guard. If you prefer, contact Travel Guard Insurance directly at (800) 826-1300, ext. 3 and speak with an agent. Please provide Agency Code #05-614836.
MedJet Assist – Air Medical Travel Protection Membership
MedJet Assist provides and pays for hospital-to-hospital medical transfer of a member if injury or illness occur during domestic or international travel, more than 150 miles from home. Unlike most travel insurance, a MedJet Assist member is transferred to their home hospital of choice, regardless of medical necessity. There are no “acceptable facility” clauses, no claim forms, no cost caps and no surprise bills after the transport. COVID-19 is covered (with some restrictions).
MedJet Assist is complimentary to travel insurance – it’s recommended to purchase both. Here’s a great 2-minute video that explains the coverage and how it differs from travel insurance. Click HERE to view the video.
Short-term or annual memberships are available. Click HERE for pricing and to enroll:
For those of you 75-84 years of age, you’ll need to call MedJet Assist to enroll at 800-527-7478.
Pricing:
All prices quoted are based on tariffs and exchange rates in effect as of March 2024 and are subject to change. Rates are based on a minimum group size of 16 paying guests. Should the group size(s) fall below this minimum number, package price or inclusions may be modified. Unused tour items, missed meals or activities, etc. are not refundable.
Tips and Taxes:
The package includes all service charges, taxes and entrance fees etc. Basic gratuities to drivers, guides, and porters are included. You are welcome to extend additional gratuities for anyone who has provided exemplary service.
Baggage:
Please check applicable baggage allowances and fees with your international airline carrier. Overweight luggage and/or additional checked bags can be purchased directly from the airlines.
Passport/Visa:
You must have a valid passport with at least 6 months validity from the date of re-entry to your home country. Further details will be provided closer to our trip dates.
Health / Vaccinations:
Although as of March 2024, there are no vaccination requirements to enter Spain, it is recommended that you are up-to-date on all vaccines. You may wish to consult your physician for recommendations. Additional information is available on the CDC website for Spain and the US.
Travel Documents:
Final travel documents will be sent to your mailing address approximately two weeks prior to departure.
Risks of Travel and Your Responsibilities:
International travel involves inherent risks. The CTP Group/WOW! Travel Club (CTP/WOW) cannot be liable for any injury, death or loss of personal property in connection with your participation in CTP/WOW activities. By participating in this CTP/WOW travel program, you assume risk of inherent dangers (including without limitation, annoyance and expenses) related to military or political action, civil disturbances, quarantine, strikes, detention, mental trauma, pilferage, weather, epidemiological events, acts of God or any other circumstances over which CTP/WOW has no control.
I understand that CTP/WOW reserves the right to refuse as a trip participant or remove from a trip, any person it judges to be incapable of meeting the rigors and requirements of participating in activities, or who it determines to detract from the enjoyment of the trip by others. I agree to follow all written and verbal rules of safety presented to me by CTP/WOW. CTP/WOW reserves the right to make route, hotel, itinerary and trip modifications as required or desirable to improve the trip quality and/or to accommodate the comfort and well-being of guests.
CTP/WOW reserves the right to alter or cancel any trip due to weather, sickness, political climate, and/or insufficient registration or other unforeseen circumstances beyond our control. While CTP/WOW will make every effort to obtain full or partial refunds from suppliers, CTP/ WOW cannot guarantee your ability to recoup payment.
The above Terms and Conditions are hereby expressly incorporated into the “Release, Waiver and Indemnity Agreement” to be signed by you as a WOW! Travel Club participant.
WOW! Vows:
All guests will be asked to sign and agree to the WOW! Vows for responsible travel:
Consent:
Payment of the deposit OR any other partial payment for registration of a participant for CTP/ WOW activities constitutes consent by all guests/participants registered by the party completing online registration. You and your guests/participants hereby agree to the Terms & Conditions of this website. The Terms & Conditions set forth on this website may not be modified or amended except in writing by an authorized officer of CTP/WOW.
All guests/participants are required to initial and sign a Release Waiver and Indemnity Agreement, which will be sent electronically prior to departure. The signed Release must be received prior to the start of your trip.
Please note: This trip includes full days of sightseeing and significant amounts of walking on stairs and uneven surfaces. You should be in good physical condition to participate in this journey to its fullest.
March 2024 CST # 1016440-10
What will the weather be like?
Spain’s weather in September is generally warm and pleasant, with countrywide temperatures averaging around 77-82°F (25-28°C) during the day and dropping to around 68-72°F (20-22°C) at night. In the north of the country you should expect temperature ranges of 60-80°F, while the south will be hotter, around 70-90°F
What should I wear?
Pack light weight clothes with a light jacket or sweater. Cool and casual are the operative words here! Be sure to pack sunscreen and comfortable shoes. Layers are always a good idea and you should bring along an umbrella just in case.
Do I need to get any vaccinations?
Nothing specific is required, but you should be up-to-date with all routine vaccinations. Consult the Center for Disease Control website for current recommendations: For travel to Spain. Check with your physician at least 30-60 days prior to travel.
Are there any special requirements/documents I need to visit Spain?
No, just your passport. Please ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the date of your intended travel to Spain.
What about airfare?
International airfare is not included in the package. We can assist with reservations for a service fee of $75 per person. (Service fee is waived for WOW! Travel Club alumni.)
Will I need an adapter to plug in my appliances and chargers?
In the United States, we have plugs A and B. In Spain there are two associated plug types, types C and F. Plug type C is the plug which has two round pins and plug type F is the plug which has two round pins with two earth clips on the side. Spain operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz. Please note: even with an adapter, a US hairdryer should not be used. All hotels will have hairdryers available.
Can I use my cell phone in Spain?
With most providers, it’s best to activate an international data and telephone plan. We suggest that you contact your carrier to discuss potential costs for data and voice communications.
What is the currency?
Like most of the European Union, Spain uses the Euro as its currency. You’ll see the Euro represented by both the symbol – € – and the initials: EUR. As of this posting (March 2024), the exchange rate is 1.08 € to one USD – almost one-to-one. For reference, a glass of beer at a cafe is €2.50 or $2.70. A great way to figure out prices while you travel is to install an exchange app on your phone – we recommend My Currency Converter (it’s free to install). Click HERE for current exchange rate.
Of course, Visa and Mastercard credit cards (many merchants do not accept Amex) are accepted widely, as well as USD. Bank-associated ATMs are available and generally charge a better exchange rate than an exchange office.
What about travel insurance?
We recommend insurance to cover financial penalties if you need to cancel your trip. Information will be provided upon receipt of deposit. Here are links to two travel insurance providers: Travel Guard and MedJet.
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