Spain

Norway are still right in contention to finish in the top two and qualify after extending their unbeaten run to six qualifiers, sitting four points behind Sweden ahead of matches against Romania, the Faroes and Malta. … [Read more...] about Ramos sets Spain caps record but Norwegians spoil party

I’m not sure if you guys have noticed this yet, but I’m not all that athletically inclined. Yes, I can appreciate a vigorous hike and I played varsity tennis in high school, but extreme sports aren’t really my thing- I’m a massive scaredy-cat when it comes to getting potentially injured. … [Read more...] about Surf’s Up in San Sebastián

La Porta del Cel (Gateway to Heaven) – Crowning Catalonia’s Summit The reflections of sky, clouds, and stars in the many lakes and ponds along the La Porta del Cel trail are what give the circular route its name as some say it is like hiking to the “gateway to heaven.” La Porta del Cel spans across both Catalonia and France, covering 40 miles and connecting four mountain refuges. Over four to five days, the route keeps you entirely in high mountain areas, including summiting the highest peak in Catalonia, the Pica d’Estats at 10,311 feet. Much of the trail goes through the Alt Pirineu Natural Park, the largest park in Catalonia, and passes multiple glacial lakes, including Certascan, the largest glacial lake in the Pyrenees. The best time to go is from mid-June to mid-September, but be aware that snow in the area lasts into July or later and, as with all mountainous areas, weather can be unpredictable. … [Read more...] about Europe’s Next Hiking Destination: Catalonia

The protesters took to the streets after nine of the 12 Catalan politicians and activists were found guilty of sedition and sentenced from nine to 13 years in prison. Four of them also were convicted of misuse of public funds. The other three were fined for disobedience. The court barred all of them from holding public office. … [Read more...] about AP PHOTOS: Riot police clash with protesters in Barcelona

6. I get really offended when people bad-mouth the U.S. This is a habit that has unfortunately gotten worse over the years. I’ve just heard so much negativity at this point that I can barely stop myself from leaving the room when foreigners tell me things like, “I think Americans are really stupid.” Are you or are you not aware of my nationality? … [Read more...] about 10 Ways that Travel Permanently Changed Me