These Countries Were Just Named Safer for Retirees Than the U.S.
A new ranking from International Living is highlighting the safest places for retirees to live abroad.
To create the report, experts at International Living combined scores from its Global Retirement Index and its Global Peace Index.
Destinations such as Portugal, Malaysia, and Costa Rica all made the 2025 list.Everyone deserves to feel relaxed, happy, and, most importantly, safe in their retirement years. After all, you've spent a lifetime working and saving, so now is your time to kick back and relax. And the experts at International Living made a new list to help you do just that.
In May, the pros at International Living, which helps expats live their best lives all over the world, released their list of the safest places to retire in 2025. As the team shared in a statement with Travel + Leisure, the list is not ranked in any particular order, it simply presents the destinations that all performed well based on their analysis.
As for how they came up with the list, International Living noted it created a combined score from its annual Global Retirement Index and the Global Peace Index to find the most peaceful places to retire. "When readers ask about safety abroad, the answer is almost always 'yes, it's safe'—if you choose the right place," Jennifer Stevens, the executive editor of International Living, shared.
And it's certainly a list you can trust, as it also includes plenty of hands-on, lived-in experience. "Our international correspondents and regular contributors live in and regularly visit the places we recommend,' says Stevens. "If we don't feel a place is safe for a 'regular person' to go about their 'regular life' day-to-day, then we don't recommend that place.'
Perhaps most interestingly of all, every single one of these destinations ranks (much) higher than the U.S. in the Global Peace Index, which ranked all the way down at No. 132 in the 2024 rankings.
As for a few key spots that made International Living's list, unsurprisingly to me, Portugal made the list thanks to its place at No. 7 on the Global Peace Index list and No. 2 on International Living's Global Retirement Index.
'Violent crime is virtually unheard of,' Terry Coles, who has lived in Portugal for seven years, shared in International Living's report, a claim I can attest to as well as an immigrant here myself. 'There's a sense of security here that wraps around you like a warm blanket—steady, comforting, and always present.' Portugal's calm atmosphere and inclusive culture make it a reassuring haven for retirees.
Also making its way to the list is Malaysia, which clocks in at No. 10 on the Global Peace Index list and No. 7 on International Living's Global Retirement Index.
'After 16 years in Malaysia, I can say this with confidence: I've never felt safer,' Keith Hockton, an expat living in Malaysia, noted. With a peaceful, multicultural society and low petty crime, 'safety here isn't about high fences or patrols. It's about cultural norms.' Most expats live worry-free lives in places like Penang and Langkawi.
Costa Rica, another hot spot for retirement, also appears on this list. It holds a bit of a lower position on the Global Peace Index list at No. 38, but also holds the No. 3 spot on the Global Retirement Index, giving it an edge.
'I've never questioned my choice to raise my two children in Costa Rica,' Bekah Bottone, a resident since 2013, added. "I'm thankful my children have grown up on the beach, immersed in nature's playground. Life here is lived outdoors—relaxed, joyful, and connected to the environment.'
Other key destinations include Ireland, No. 2 on the Global Peace Index and No. 15 on the Global Retirement Index; Vietnam, No. 41 on the Global Peace Index and No. 16 on the Global Retirement Index; and Uruguay, No. 52 on the Global Peace Index and No. 14 on the Global Retirement Index.
See the full list and all the local insights at internationalliving.com.
Read the original article on Travel & Leisure
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Metro Detroit native breaks world traveling record after visiting every country
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Forbes
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Best Hotels In Madrid 2025
The best hotels in Madrid beckon travelers with a dynamic blend of thoughtful amenities, historic architecture and locations ideal for exploring the city's many diverse neighborhoods. From tasty tapas to thrilling flamenco performances to world-class museums like the Prado and Reina Sofia, immersive cultural experiences can be found here at every turn. To choose Madrid's best accommodations, we tapped experts like Jamie Tice, a travel advisor at Fora, who knows the ins and outs of the city. Our top recommendation is the Rosewood Villa Magna, thanks to its spacious rooms and ideal Salamanca location. We also recommend the Santo Mauro, A Luxury Collection Hotel for families and the Petit Palace Lealtad Plaza for couples. Below, the best hotels in Madrid in 2025. Guest room at the Rosewood Villa Magna. Madrid's leafy Salamanca neighborhood comes highly recommended by Tice, and the Rosewood Villa Magna—perched on the swanky Paseo de la Castellana—is a great all-around choice. Its location places guests close to excellent boutique shopping, and its spacious rooms feature king-size beds, lacquer-trimmed furnishings, marble baths and dark wood chevron-patterned flooring. Common areas are equally cozy, with an open-plan setting and plush seating ideal for lounging, and the property's Sense spa offers a standout Turkish marble hammam that's not to be missed. For meals, guests can choose between Flor y Nata's traditional afternoon tea, grilled Spanish cuisine at Las Brasas de Castellana, Michelin-star chef Jesús Sánchez's signature Cantabrian cuisine at Amós, or light tapas and cocktails at Tarde.O—the latter three offering beautiful al fresco seating options. A treat for families: With the exception of Amós, all children under age 12 eat free. Doble Treatment Room at Four Seasons Hotel Madrid. Opening its doors in 2020, the Four Seasons Madrid is an ideal marriage of high-end accommodations and authentic Spanish flavor. Located on the uber-central square of Puerta Del Sol, the hotel features 200 elegantly adorned rooms and 22 residences all housed in seven historic buildings that were merged together. Dining includes elevated Andalusian cuisine at Michelin-star chef Dani Garcia's namesake Dani, as well as creative cocktails and Mediterranean and Asian dishes at Isa Restaurant and Cocktail Bar. Art lovers will have no shortage of things to see (the hotel has over 1,500 art pieces on display), and the property's expansive wellness area features a spa, fitness center, hair salon, glass-covered heated and cold water pools, eight plush treatment rooms, and—for extra opulence—a gold-dusted relaxation area. Main courtyard at CoolRooms Palacio de Atocha. The Palacio de Atocha, the one-time lavish home of a high-ranking navy official, is now a retro-modern 34-room boutique stay in Madrid's literary district, Las Letras. The building, constructed in 1852, retains glamorous vintage touches: a winding staircase, a granite garden fountain, wrought-iron courtyard detailing and the former carriage entrance, which mixes curiously well with the neon signage and contemporary artwork sprinkled around the premises. Guest rooms here offer a real taste of palatial living, with antique moldings, modish velvet furnishings, and black and white marble baths. At meal time, the property's restaurant, El Patio de Atocha, serves a creative fusion of international cuisines and regional ingredients in an airy, blue canopy space with views of the property's pool and garden. Penthouse with terrace at 7 Islas Hotel. Family-run since opening its doors in 2002, Madrid's industrial-hip 7 Islas Hotel is a creative stay in the city's urban art enclave of Malasaña. The hotel's curated artwork rotates every few months, and the on-site 7 Kitchen & Bar serves Mediterranean bites and craft cocktails. With nightly rates hovering around $150 during peak season, accommodations here offer great value: Guests can choose from cozy Easy rooms to penthouse suites with luxe terraces, all with a clean, minimalist aesthetic comprising natural wood floors, metal trunk storage, printed throw rugs and woven leather and metal headboards. All rooms feature minibars with artisan products, quality bedding, Malin+Goetz amenities, and full bar menu room service for an exceptional homestay at a competitive price. Suite at the Santo Mauro, A Luxury Collection Hotel Words like 'grand' and 'aristocratic' come to mind describing Santo Mauro, the 19th-century neoclassical Duke's residence-turned-luxury-hotel in Madrid's quiet Chamberí district. The property consists of three buildings surrounded by enchanting manicured gardens with dense trees and wrought-iron and marble patio sets with fringed parasols—an ideal spot for couples seeking a romantic escape. High-ceilinged antique-filled banquets and sitting rooms, each more striking than the next, occupy the lounge area, while room names such as The Red Room match their themes. After drinks at La Coctelería bar, guests can choose between the refined La Biblioteca restaurant, a former library featuring walls lined with bookshelves; Gresca, an ornate see-and-be-seen hotspot; or the property's charming garden terrace. The Petit Palace Room at the Petit Palace Lealtad Palace. Elegant and understated, Petit Palace Lealtad Plaza's vividly-painted lounges, eye-catching wall art and prime location near many of Madrid's most family-friendly attractions make it a solid choice for travelers of all ages. With complimentary strollers, a stay here makes it easy to experience all that the city has to offer, like the Botanical Gardens, El Retiro Park and the Prado Museum. At check-in, young visitors will immediately feel at home with a selection of toys from a collaboration with UNICEF and a dedicated play area to give parents a breather. Depending on the size of your brood, family rooms with bunk beds, cribs, extra beds and multimedia devices are available to keep children entertained. At breakfast time, high chairs and special children's menus complete the hotel's kid-friendly initiative. Suite at the Mandarin Oriental Ritz, Madrid. Situated in Madrid's tony Golden Triangle of Art, home to the famed Prado, Reina Sofia and Thyssen-Bornemisza museums, and just a short jaunt to El Retiro Park, the Mandarin Oriental Ritz offers an impeccable location near the city's big sights. All 100 rooms and 53 suites ooze sophistication with leather headboards, white marble bathrooms, ultra-comfort beds, a maxi bar and a neutral color palette. The rooms here are particularly great for groups, as all Deluxe rooms and suites offer connecting rooms; the Grand Suite, in particular, has a king bed and four twin beds. The on-site dining, all conceptualized by Michelin-star chef Quique Dacosta, is not to be missed, especially the grand reception area that leads to the glass-domed Palm court, where breakfast and afternoon tea are served alongside a Champagne bar serving first-rate bubbly and caviar. The Madrid Edition. Design lovers are sure to appreciate The Madrid Edition's modern aesthetic, which welcomes guests with a magnificently sculpted spiral staircase that leads to the sleek spaces inside. The hotel's 200 rooms, including 23 suites, are all dressed in fashionable white and cream, with backlit headboards inspired by the 18th-century baroque portal out front and glam elements like faux-fur throws and head-to-toe drapery. The Lobby Bar, the nucleus of the hotel, is offset by a pool table made with a slab of white marble and a cobalt blue top, while a pink-kissed corridor leads to the first of two restaurants, Jerónimo, where Mexican-inspired cuisine is served in four distinct settings. Other notable design features include a double-long green bar, canary yellow banquettes, and specially designed light fixtures. Terraza at The Principal Madrid. Classic in look and essence and with just 76 rooms, The Principal Madrid welcomes guests in a space designed for both comfort and leisure. Built in 1917, the building is filled with artwork, furnishings and knick-knacks that pay tribute to the turn-of-the-century architecture that inspired it. The color scheme—a fusion of muted greens, golds, taupes and splashes of red—alongside Ramón Freixa's plush Ático restaurant and a private-use wellness suite add elegant touches of splendor. The star of the show, however, is the grand rooftop terrace, offering arresting panoramic views over the city's main thoroughfare and the Broadway of Madrid, Gran Via, and emblematic buildings like the Círculo de Bellas Artes and the Bank of Spain. Guests can opt for a traditional cocktail at the olive-tree-lined La Terraza or enjoy a bite at the bistro-inspired La Pérgola. Picos Pardos Sky Lounge by Martini at the Bless Hotel. Bless Hotel Madrid is located in the elegant Salamanca district, neighboring the city's most exclusive shops and restaurants. The property comes highly recommended by Tice, who touts its surrounding area as top-notch: 'Staying at Bless Hotel allowed me to enjoy afternoon tea while staying close to the shops and enjoying the walkability of the beautiful area,' she says. Bedrooms here are bright with hardwood floors, oversized beds, patterned rugs and a hint of whimsy from the nature print wallpaper, while public spaces continue the eclectic feel with a cozy spa, virtual training room and the speakeasy-style cocktail bar Fetén. The property's crown jewel is its stylish rooftop sky lounge, complete with an emerald-tiled swimming pool that is sure to refresh after a long day on the town. The wellness area is an intimate space highlighted by a rectangular circuit pool fitted with paneled woods and neutral patterned walls. Neoclassical on the outside and with a modern interior, Urso Hotel & Spa preserves its rich architectural history with elements like stained glass windows and a fully functional antique elevator. The 78 rooms here are bright and inviting, with hardwood floors, full-length curtains and comfy deluxe bedding—all in a serene area of the city that's not far from the sights. 'The hotel is just on the outskirts of the city's busy-ness but close enough to walk to old town charm,' says Tice, who often recommends Urso to clients. Wellness is the standout here—the property's tranquil facility comprises a tiny techno gym, a Turkish hammam with aromatic eucalyptus scents and four treatment rooms. Premium spa brands Natura Bissé and Comfort Zone are used for all services, and treatments are customized and can be purchased in packs of up to 15 for future use. The vibe is at once eccentric and sumptuous with its maze of sitting rooms packed with plush furnishings and offbeat decór. Only You Boutique Hotel sits near the heart of Madrid's bustling Chueca district, lined with bars and clubs. Inside, the energy continues with an eccentric and sumptuous atmosphere: A maze of quirky sitting rooms packed with plush furnishings and whimsical décor (think: a faux rhino head and a suitcase wall) greets guests as they enter. Bedrooms in this former 19th-century mansion are a touch more subdued while still echoing the grandeur of common areas with framed vintage Madrid maps, velvet headboards, geometric rugs and giraffe-print robes. The unconventional feel continues with Asian-inspired massages at the Thai Room, a 24-hour gym and the white Patio of Platos, a courtyard stacked with chinoiserie-print plate wall displays that triple as a lounge, dining area and event space. The rooms have been remodeled to reflect the hotel's storied heritage. Inaugurated in 1912, the The Palace exudes history: Formerly known as the Westin Palace, it was the go-to hangout spot for Spanish creatives like Salvador Dalí and Luis Buñuel in the 1920s before becoming a field dressing hospital during the Spanish Civil War. Recently taken over by Marriott's Luxury Collection, the hotel still offers a storied atmosphere that can be found everywhere you look, from the 17th-century tapestries in common areas to the La Rotunda Restaurant's crystal chandelier and ornate stained glass Art Nouveau cupola. The 470 rooms, of which 50 are suites, have been meticulously remodeled to reflect the hotel's heritage and are bathed in ivory with period wallpaper art, bespoke furnishings, marble fireplaces and a pop of modern color. The splendid LobByto Bar is a design marvel featuring art deco-style leather, velvetback furnishings and a bronze-trimmed island bar. Another historic property, Madrid's Gran Hotel Inglés is the oldest hotel in Madrid and has hosted no shortage of legendary artists, including Henri Matisse and Virginia Woolf, since opening its doors in 1886. Continuing the artistic theme, the property's central location in Barrio de las Letras is steps away from tons of art galleries and bohemian haunts (Ernest Hemingway went on many famous bar crawls here) as well as the popular Paseo del Arte. The hotel's décor, particularly the LobByto Bar, is something to behold: Featuring Art Deco furnishings and a bronze-trimmed island bar with a hanging liquor cabinet, it feels like it dropped into the building right out of a time machine. The generous space multitasks as a discreet guest check-in area, themed live music host, afternoon tea service and a weekend brunch hot spot that artsy guests are sure to appreciate. Rooms have classic furnishings, ambient lighting and contrasting woods, reflecting a sophisticated style reminiscent of the property's aristocratic backstory. A short distance from Calle Serrano, the city's most exclusive shopping street, and a 20-minute strut to Gran Via's fast fashion boutiques, the 44-room Hotel Único Madrid welcomes visitors looking for a quiet respite in a boutique setting. The property's refined elegance is showcased in the common area library and its classic winding staircase spotlighting a vividly red sculpture. Rooms are filled with traditional furnishings, ambient lighting and contrasting woods, reflecting a sophisticated style inspired by the property's aristocratic backstory. Treatments at the spa feature luxury skincare brand Natura Bissé in the indulgent face and body treatments, while the well-equipped gym can provide personal trainers to keep fitness schedules on track. The Forbes Vetted travel team has researched, written and published dozens of hotel guides featuring cities across the globe. We selected the top contenders based on personal stays as well as extensive research. My name is Astrid Taran and I'm the senior travel editor at Forbes Vetted, where I oversee hotel coverage. I have covered travel for almost a full decade as both a writer and editor. Along with extensively writing about hotels and airlines, I have also written multiple destination guides as well as long-form features on luxury travel, adventure travel, wellness travel and more.
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Travel + Leisure
7 hours ago
- Travel + Leisure
I'd Never Go to Spain Without Packing These Essentials
I've covered a lot of ground in the three and a half years I've lived in Barcelona, Spain—crisscrossing the Balearics, road-tripping across Andalucía, making regular trips to Madrid to visit my in-laws, and cheering on pilgrims from the steps of the Santiago de Compostela cathedral. As I've toured around, I've also gotten more efficient at packing. Before I moved here, I (wrongly) assumed that there was no art to packing for Spain and that I could expect sunny days and mild temps no matter where I was. Not so. However, if you're planning a trip in the coming months, you will want the lightest, most breathable threads in your closet. Here are 13 summer-friendly items I'd recommend for visitors—and would always take with me as I tour the country—from breezy linen trousers and a chic swimsuit to the humble travel laundry line (because dryers are actually few and far between). A day in Spain can take you in many directions. Here in Barcelona, a typical Saturday might start with coffee and pastries at a neighborhood café, segue into a run along the beach, an afternoon gallery visit, and end with a sunset hike up Montjuïc—where friends gather to share a bottle of wine al aire libre with panoramic views of the city. With that kind of range, the key to packing for a Spanish holiday is versatility, and you should always throw a light windbreaker in your bag (whether you're sightseeing in Sevillle or heading down to the Costa del Sol at the height of summer). And even if your itinerary is all business in Madrid, don't forget a swimsuit—many of the city's best hotels boast rooftop pools or lavish spas with pools (I see you, Four Seasons Madrid). Locals rarely show up there in beach cover-ups so pack something smart for a night out. My recommendations focus on the tried-and-tested styles in my closet; meanwhile, male travelers will want to consider stocking up on dressy polos, tailored slacks, linen button-downs, and plenty of smart casual staples. Boarding the ferry to Ibiza. Credit: Everlane If you're planning on traveling to Spain in the summer months, you'll want to stock up lightweight apparel, ideally options made from natural moisture-wicking materials. In the summer months, when the heat and humidity soars in Barcelona, I live in my Everlane muscle top. I own it in multiple colors, and I'll find new ways to wear it each day—with a loose skirt, matching linen trousers, dressy beach sarong, you name it. What I like about it the most is that it's made from 100 percent sustainably grown European flax linen and has a super relaxed fit, so it never clings to your body, even in sticky August heat. Credit: Everlane I love a breezy dress as much as the next person, but I have found I get a lot more use out of dressy, high-waisted pants like this breathable option from Everlane. I've worn mine for a fancy dinner out at the Six Senses Ibiza, for a friend's post-wedding brunch in Seville, and for rooftop drinks with friends at El Palace Barcelona. Paired with a matching linen top, it manages to be both effortless and elegant at the same time. And as a bonus, these trousers can be easily popped in a cold wash, making them perfect for low-maintenance travel. Credit: Toco Most people know that Spainards tend to gravitate toward more barely-there swimsuit styles. This is especially true in the Balearic islands, like Ibiza and Formentera, where topless sunbathing is the norm. Personally, I like a little bit more coverage on the shores while still feeling sexy and prepared for water sports, like swimming or sailing. This one-piece option from Toco checks all the boxes and, in the bright-red Salsa color, it certainly turns heads. Just be aware of your tan lines—the Spanish sun is strong, and those crisscrossing straps will leave their mark. Credit: Monday Swimwear View on One of my favorite things about Spanish beach culture? The chiringuito . These relaxed, often family-run seaside restaurants are the heart and soul of summer on the coast, serving classics like seafood-topped paella and refreshing pitchers of tinto de verano . Dress codes are virtually nonexistent; it's perfectly acceptable to stroll in straight from the shore in your bikini, flip-flops, and a breezy cover-up. My go-to is a linen sarong in a chic miniskirt cut: it's breathable, wrinkle-proof, and folds down to nothing, making it ideal for tossing into a beach tote. Just tie it around your waist and you're instantly chiringuito-ready. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Amazon View on Amazon View on If there's one product that I urge friends and family to pack when they're traveling to Spain, it's a windbreaker. I can't tell you the number of times I've been on holiday—even in sunny spots like Ibiza or Cádiz—and it's started to unexpectedly pour. And if you're headed anywhere in Spain's north, like Asturias, Galicia, or Cantabria, this is a non-negotiable. My go-to windbreaker is this fitted option from Orvis, which is made from recycled polyester and features a vented back to allow for air circulation. I also love that it has an interior sunglasses pocket, allowing me to keep up with Spain's sometimes-yoyo shifts in weather. Plus, the adjustable cinch waist is equally as flattering for hiking trails as navigating the style conscious streets of Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure In Spain, style is all about the details—truly. Women often gravitate toward bold, statement-making jewelry and accessories, while men (especially Andalucians) aren't afraid to sport a flamboyant pocket square or a wide-brimmed straw hat. Footwear, in particular, gets a lot of attention—perhaps not surprising given Spain's long and storied tradition of shoemaking. The same goes for handbags. On the fashion-forward streets of Madrid's Salamanca district, for instance, you'll see women carrying a kaleidoscope of impeccably crafted bolsos , from hands-free crossbody bags and phone purses to designer shoulder bags. Credit: Castañer View on Amazon View on Bloomingdales View on Neiman Marcus In Spain, the humble espadrille is an object of high fashion, with homegrown luxury brands like Loewe and Manolo Blahnik designing formal styles perfect for weddings and soirées. Personally, living in Barcelona, I'm partial to the made-in-Catalonia Castañer brand, which has done collaborations with designers like Yves Saint Laurent over its hundred-year history. Their Mary Jane style is especially chic; in my opinion, the little strap gives them a little more mileage than the classic slip-on style and makes them just as right for early fall or late spring as in summer (thus justifying the high price point). And for weddings, I recommend their wedge espadrilles, which will give you a bit of extra height and are especially eye-catching in their blend of chestnut leather and jute. Credit: Bloomingdale's $160 $152 at Amazon View on REI $160 at Nordstrom Here in Spain, we do a lot of walking, even when we don't have somewhere we need to go. Just consider the paseo, that very Spanish custom of pouring into the city streets in the early evening to go for a leisurely stroll and greet friends. To do like a local, you'll want to pack your most comfortable pair of sneakers, like these low-top Veja trainers, and explore Spain's alluring cities and charming pueblos by foot. Not only are these sneakers super comfortable, with solid arch support and no rubbing, but they also feel a bit dressier than your average sneaker. Mind you, these aren't what I'd wear to go hiking or do other sporty activities, but I do find they work in 75 percent of the other scenarios I find myself in on vacation. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Amazon If there's one accessory that can take you from a morning of sightseeing to a sunset vermouth, it's a crochet handbag. As much as I love a hands-free crossbody or canvas tote, I've found the crochet bag to be the ultimate all-day companion in Spain. It has a breezy, Mediterranean feel that suits the setting, and it's roomy enough for those inevitable spontaneous purchases (like a bottle of local vermouth, perhaps, or a bar of Arquinesia soap from Mallorca). I always stash one in my beach bag, just in case we end up at a chiringuito and I want something chicer than a tote to hold my phone and wallet. No joke—I almost never leave home without a sun hat. After one too many times getting caught off guard by the Spanish sun and having to cut my day short to dash home for a hat and some sunscreen, I've learned my lesson. My go-to is a soft, lightweight raffia style like this one from Jenni Kayne; it folds easily into a bag and keeps its relaxed shape. While I love a good statement hat (and in Spain, bold colors reign supreme), I usually stick to classic colors like straw or black when I travel since they go with everything and make packing way easier. A sunny summer day in Seville. Credit: Raen $150 at Amazon View on View on Anthropologie I'm all for a stylish pair of sunnies, but in Spain, function comes first. Look for sunglasses that are polarized, offer 100 percent UVA/UVB protection, and are durable enough to withstand gusty winds, salty air, and being tossed in and out of your bag all day. I'm a huge fan of these editor-approved Raen Keera Sunglasses, which have a subtle cat-eye shape and deliver on all the aforementioned criteria. Plus, the nose bridge is snug enough that it's not necessary to constantly adjust if reading on the beach or playing padel outdoors with friends. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Spain may be known for its tapas and traditions, but it's just as much a paradise for thrill-seekers. Whether you're hiking the Camino, wine tasting in Lanzarote's volcanic vineyards, or discovering Galicia's hidden Islas Cíes, you'll want to be ready for a little adventure. So pack accordingly! In addition to your walking shoes and weather-appropriate layers, don't forget the practical must-haves: a universal adapter, noise-canceling headphones for long train rides, and a portable charger to keep your phone powered through every beach, hike, and pintxo crawl. And, while I sport a carry-all backpack for the majority of my trips, my Spanish friends are just as likely to show up to a group vacay with a rolling duffel or checked suitcase (particularly for longer holidays) so your favorite suitcase to fill all the gear is up to you. Credit: REI $70 $61 at Amazon $70 at REI View on One of my essential packing items for Spain, especially if you're planning any coastal adventures, is a good dry bag. The Sea to Summit set is my go-to: it comes with three ultralight, roll-top bags (3-liter, 5-liter, and 8-liter) that keep valuables safe from humidity, salt spray, and unexpected splashes. I've used mine along the Camí de Ronda in Costa Brava, a cliff-hugging trail that lets you walk up the coast from one crystalline cove to the next, with stops for kayaking, sailing, and swimming. It's also a must for more rugged coastal routes like the Camino del Norte in the Basque Country or Galicia's Ruta dos Faros, where the weather can turn quickly and dry gear is a must. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Cotopaxi $225 at Amazon $250 at REI $250 at Backcountry If you're accustomed to traveling in Europe, you know that checking baggage can be a serious headache (not to mention, a massive expense) and that carry-on travel is the way to go. This is especially true in Spain, where budget carriers like Vueling and Volotea will make you pay big time for additional baggage. It's for that reason that I opt for this roomy Cotopaxi Allpa Travel Pack whenever I travel. Whether I'm heading to Madrid for a work trip or pintxo-hopping in San Sebastián with friends, this backpack fits the bill: roomy enough for my laptop, five days' worth of outfits, and a couple pairs of shoes, yet compact enough to slide into the overhead bin on planes and trains. Even when it's packed to the brim, it never feels too heavy thanks to the padded shoulder straps and supportive waist belt. And with plenty of outer compartments—including a stretch water bottle pocket—I'm not left rummaging around for my keys or passport at every turn. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Amazon Here in Spain, we live in smaller apartments, pay steep energy prices, and enjoy sunshine nearly year-round—so it's no surprise that most people air-dry their clothes. While fancy hotels typically offer laundry service, if you're staying in an Airbnb or more budget-friendly spot, I highly recommend packing a retractable clothesline. My favorite is this compact, heavy-duty version that comes with 12 colorful clothespins and 13 anti-slip clips. It takes up barely any space in your bag and works like a charm. I've strung it up between trees while hiking the Picos de Europa, used it to dry swimsuits on a Costa Brava camping trip, and even rigged it on a Mediterranean cruise balcony. It's saved me countless trips to the laundromat—and spared me the desperate move of drying socks on a radiator. Sightseeing in Palma de Mallorca. Planning a trip to Spain with a specific adventure or itinerary in mind? It's worth doing a little extra research to make sure your packing list matches the realities on the ground. Here are just a few top-level scenarios that require gear beyond the usual sandals and sundresses. If you're walking the Camino de Santiago: While I've never done the Camino, I've heard from friends that anti-blister socks, a water-hydration backpack, and comfortable, broken-in hiking boots are just a few of the essentials you'll need for conquering Spain's most famous pilgrimage. While I've never done the Camino, I've heard from friends that anti-blister socks, a water-hydration backpack, and comfortable, broken-in hiking boots are just a few of the essentials you'll need for conquering Spain's most famous pilgrimage. If you're skiing in the Sierra Nevada: Europe's southernmost ski resort is famously one of the only places on the continent where you can ski in the morning and swim in the Mediterranean by the afternoon. Along with the usual ski essentials, one item I always pack for the Sierra Nevada is a pair of high-quality goggles with 100 percent UV protection—the sun at the summit can be intense and blinding. This particular pair is also known for its anti-fog technology, which comes in handy when you're squinting to spot the African coastline on a clear day. Europe's southernmost ski resort is famously one of the only places on the continent where you can ski in the morning and swim in the Mediterranean by the afternoon. Along with the usual ski essentials, one item I pack for the Sierra Nevada is a pair of high-quality goggles with 100 percent UV protection—the sun at the summit can be intense and blinding. This particular pair is also known for its anti-fog technology, which comes in handy when you're squinting to spot the African coastline on a clear day. If you're cala -hopping in Mallorca: I've spent a lot of time on Mallorca—the largest of the Balearic Islands—and I'm always surprised by how underprepared travelers are when exploring the island's pebble-strewn beaches and rugged, cliff-lined coast. Save your toes from the torture and invest in this pair of quick-drying, sock-like water shoes, which have 3D non-slip treads to keep you on your feet. At a cala in Mallorca. Spain is made up of 17 autonomous regions, each with its own distinct identity, traditions, and style, so it's tricky to lay down universal rules about what not to wear. What flies in Seville might feel out of place in Bilbao, and even just comparing Madrid and Barcelona shows how varied fashion sensibilities can be. In Madrid, you'll often see a more colorful, preppy aesthetic, while in Barcelona, the vibe leans more low-key and monochromatic, with darker palettes, sneakers, and utilitarian accessories. That said, if you want to avoid standing out as a tourist, there are a few guidelines I've picked up after years of living here. Skip the loud foreign logos, destination tees, or anything emblazoned with oversized slogans. Stick with sensible footwear, especially during the day when you might be walking on cobblestones or exploring on foot. Spaniards tend to dress neatly even when casual, so you'll feel more in sync with the locals by opting for smart, well-fitting basics. In front of the Arc de Triomf in Barcelona. Spain's weather is remarkably varied, so it's worth checking the forecast for your specific destination before you travel. Broadly speaking, northern Spain (think Galicia, Asturias, and the Basque Country) has a wetter, more temperate climate, with plenty of rain and cooler temperatures year-round. The Mediterranean coast—home to cities like Barcelona and Valencia—enjoys hot, humid summers and mild, relatively sunny winters. In central Spain, including Madrid, you'll find a more continental climate: dry and intensely hot in summer (often climbing above 100 degrees Fahrenheit), and surprisingly chilly in winter, with crisp, blue-sky days. Down south, in Andalucía, winters are sunny and pleasant, but summers can be extreme, with temperatures regularly soaring as high as 114 degrees Fahrenheit. As for Spain's islands, both the Balearics (like Mallorca and Ibiza) and the Canary Islands see milder, more stable weather. The Canaries, located off the northwest coast of Africa, are a popular escape among sunbirds, thanks to the warm weather and plentiful sunshine. On Ses Illetes beach in Formentera. Given that Spain is one of Europe's most popular destination wedding spots, it's no surprise this question is the question I'm most frequently asked. While there's no single dress code that applies to every Spanish wedding, there are a few general guidelines to keep in mind. Since Spain is traditionally a Catholic country, more conservative attire is often encouraged, especially for church ceremonies. Think dresses with sleeves or bringing a shawl or wrap to cover your shoulders. Wearing black is typically avoided, as it's associated with mourning. That said, non-religious or more modern couples—especially those hosting coastal or countryside celebrations—often adopt a relaxed, Mediterranean-inspired dress code, with more freedom in both style and color. As for footwear: Spanish weddings tend to be quite formal, so heels are welcome (and often expected). Don't worry about blisters: if there's a dance floor, it's common for hosts to provide flip-flops or other comfy shoes so you can keep going late into the night. At the cliffs of Formentera. Siobhan Reid has lived in Spain for three and a half years and, as a full-time travel writer, she's constantly on the move in search of stylish hotels, under-the-radar adventures, and lesser-visited corners. This has given her a deeper understanding of life beyond the big cities—and impressed upon her just how important it is to pack smartly for Spain's incredible diversity of landscapes, climates, and cultures. This packing list includes actual products she owns and would recommend to friends and family visiting the region. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
