Elizabeth Bennett

The superb coastline, gastronomy and historic cities of Spain take most of its travel headlines, while less is made of another great facet of life in the country: its high-speed rail network, the most extensive in Europe (and second only to China worldwide) with more than 2,400 miles of tracks whizzing travellers across the country at up to 193mph.

Our writers make the most of warm weather, smaller crowds and off-peak prices to visit their favourite spots, from the Baltic to the Bosphorus

A meal masterminded by the Roca brothers of El Celler fame – twice named world’s best restaurant – might be the initial draw at this contemporary hotel just outside Girona but its spectacular hilltop position, spacious suites and outdoor pool will keep travellers coming back for more than just the gastronomy.

Detour from the beach to visit Goa’s laid-back capital, a charming heritage town that’s been buoyed in recent years by an influx of new residents.

Sandwiched between Montjuïc, the large hillside park that hugs the south of the city, and the avenue of Parallel, the neighborhood of Poble-Sec feels distinct to its neighbours across this wide street. This largely residential pocket of central Barcelona is defined by its narrow upward sloping streets and noticeable feeling of calm compared to its noisier busier counterparts.

All trips to Formentera begin by boat and the lack of airport on the quietest and wildest Balearic Island adds to its castaway charm. For a hideaway with a luxurious, barefoot feel, Teranka ticks all the boxes with its proximity to the island’s azure waters, a gallery-worthy art collection, and impressive line-up of culinary and wellness experiences.

The Middle East has put itself on the wellness map in recent years, thanks in large part to its therapists

Professional safari guide Andrew van den Broeck reveals how your trip can
benefit both conservation and communities in Africa

The weight-loss drug has made headlines and broken sales records,
but what does it mean for our future?

Boutique Borneta, with its soothing palette and position overlooking Barcelona’s largest park, is a serene escape in buzzy El Born.

Ever feel like you’re an impostor, who’s bluffing their way through life? You’re not alone. Even the world’s most brilliant minds suffer from the fear of being ‘found out’. But what causes impostor syndrome? And can you overcome it?

Finding an excuse to travel is never exactly necessary, but sometimes a specific event can inspire a whole trip or make the decision between two destinations that much easier. A landmark art exhibition or a unique chance to see the work of someone you admire up close is a great starting point for visiting a new place, or perhaps revisiting somewhere you love spending time in.

Carol Douglas wanted to study art as a teenager, but her parents didn’t see the point and she spent decades regretting what might have been. She now has an exhibition at Yorkshire Sculpture Park

Shoulder season is the perfect time to visit Spain's most southern state, home to quintessential classics like flamenco, tapas and sweeping sandy beaches.

Just south of the Spanish-French border in Catalonia’s Empordà, the town of Cadaqués and its surrounding lunar-like Cap de Creus peninsula were once home to Salvador Dalí. Elizabeth Bennett explores the houses and otherworldly landscapes that inspired his surrealist work.