Great Spanish Gifts

Lying on the eastern end of the Iberian Peninsula between Portugal and the Mediterranean Sea, Spain offers a variety of gifts that reflect the culture's rich history. Though Spain is roughly the size of the state of Oregon, the European country is comprised of distinct regions that add variety to Spanish gift choices. There are many options sure to please the Spanish enthusiast on your gift list.

Spanish Treats

Anyone who has traveled to Spain knows that ham is a ubiquitous culinary item. Jamon serrano, a ham naturally prepared in sea salt and air-dried for eighteen months, is a Spanish delicacy. Another market that Spain dominates is olive oil. In southern Spain, groves of olive trees are a common sight. Olive oil is a staple for the Mediterranean diet and often regarded as a healthy alternative to animal-based fats and vegetable oil. A bottle of authentic Spanish olive oil is a thoughtful, inexpensive gift. A Spanish gift for those with a sweet tooth is Spanish hot chocolate, which is served very thick and is ideal for dipping cookies or churros.

Spanish Wines

Spain's rich lands produce many highly regarded, distinctive wines, though only two regions produce wine that has been given the highest class distinction, DOCa--Denominacin de Origen Calificada, or Denomination of Qualified Origin. The Rioja region is located in the center of northern Spain and offers a variety of white and red wines. In 2001, the Catalan Priorat wine region achieved DOCa status. Such wines are suitable Spanish gifts for any wine aficionado.

Flamenco

Flamenco shows are the ultimate Spanish experience.

Flamenco music and dance originated from the gypsies, who lived on the margins of Spanish society for many centuries. Today, flamenco is enjoyed around the world. Spanish gifts related to flamenco are varied. Gift certificates for flamenco dancing lessons or flamenco guitar lessons would be gifts for people with a true interest in the subject. Tickets to a flamenco show or a flamenco CD are inexpensive and would be appreciated by anyone.

Spanish Decor

Spain is well-known for its artists. Popular gifts are prints of paintings by famous Spanish artists, such as Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dali and Joan Miro. If your budget allows, include a gift certificate for framing the print as well. Other options are decorated Spanish tiles or ceramics. Consider purchasing ceramics that represent a particular city. For example, ceramics from Granada often feature a pomegranate, as "Granada" literally means "pomegranate" in Spanish.