Donostia

Where in the world would you find a language unlike any other? How about turquoise sea water just meters from plush green mountains? A seashell shaped bay overlooked from a roller coaster on top of a mountain? 

(Photo by Keta)

Certainly one of the most interesting cities in Spain, the answer is Donostia. Many more will know it by its Castellano name- San Sebastian. It’s a tiny city, with a modest population which is often tripled during tourist season. Just 20 km from the southern coast of France, it’s architecture is a unique blend of Spanish, French, and Basque styles. The French part of the city even looks a little like Paris sometimes, especially near the river. 

Donostia is part of the Basque country, a semi-autonomous region of Spain with a distinct, ancient, rich, and unique culture and ethnicity. Basque people are quite interesting, and even for someone who is not from Spain, the difference is noticeable. 

San Sebastian has a unique history, stuck in between France and Spain but identifying with neither. Historically it was a fishing town, and the bay was even the starting point for explorations as far north as Denmark. Today still they serve some of the best Cod I have ever had- with sweet red and green peppers and onions. They even have a state of the art aquarium with a walk-through tank (not for the weak-stomached...) 

Attractive to surfers and families alike, San Sebastian has a lot to offer. Its most famous symbol is comprised of three metal sculptures protruding from some rocks just off the shore. The sculptures, much like the city, will simply not be done justice with words- they must be seen with your own eyes. So next time you find yourself, like me, sitting on the wait-list for the trip which leaves at 6 am, go for it! You might just make it free of charge, for a visit to one of the most unique places in the world, San Sebastian.