Events in Europe
If you're planning to drive across to Europe for a holiday or short break, make sure you've done all your planning, from buying European breakdown cover to making the most of your trip. As the summer months approach, here are some ideas for you to explore.
Cutural
Spain
25 May 2008
One of the big hitters in the Spanish Catholic diary is Corpus Christi (body of Christ). While it's celebrated all over the country, Corpus Christi in Toledo is panning out to be pretty special. Dating back to the 15th century, this festival falls on 25 May this year and includes a procession, which takes places along streets perfumed with herbs. Dates for similar events vary throughout Spain, but all seem to centre around 21 May.
Italy
12–25 May 2008
Spanning four weekends in May, the May of Monuments is a celebration of all things architectural in Naples. Centreing around the castles in the area, there'll be plays, music and exhibitions on offer. Alternatively, there'll be tours to help you discover the lesser-known streets and hidden secrets.
France
14–25 May 2008
Hob-nob with A-list celebs and check out the coolest films (plus a few duds no doubt) set to hit the big screen at the Cannes Film Festival. Question: will president of this year's Cannes jury, Sean Penn be tempted to back his own film 'What Just Happened?'? It co-stars fellow acting stalwarts Bruce Willis and Robert De Niro.
Historical
France
1–8 May 2008
From spit-roasts to mead, enjoy the medieval festival that marks Joan of Arc's fight to free Orleans during the 100 Years' War. This period in French history spanned the 14th and 15th centuries and the celebrations are known as the Fête de Jeanne D'Arc.
11–12 May 2008
The picturesque port of Honfleur celebrates its seafaring history during the two-day Pélerinage des Marins. The Normandie town literally pushes the boats out with a procession down to the Seine estuary. Events are often free, plus there are stalls and perfomances dotted all over town.
Spain
10–11 May
If you're heading to the Catalan region, near Barcelona, check out Badalona's Spring Festival, in honour of Saint Anastasi. The festivities focus on an effigy of the devil being burned (Cremada del Dimoni), followed by dancing and fireworks.
Musical
Spain
8–11 May 2008
Originally inspired by Peter Gabriel, he of Genesis fame, WOMAD or World of Music, Arts and Dance holds an annual event staged in Cáceres, Extremadura. From worldwide delicacies to children's workshops, it'll be a celebration of global music and cultural influences.
16–18 May 2008
If you're into dance music and you're heading in the direction of southern Spain then the Andalucia Rocket Festival in Alhama de Granada may appeal. Nothing to do with rockets, this is an eclectic mix of DJs, bands, street performers, circus acts and more. For a touch of '80s nostalgia, you may even be able to catch SKA legends Bad Manners, so to avoid disappointment you'll need to book in advance for the event.
Italy
18 May 2008
If you're heading to the Italian capital and you fancy catching Bartok's only opera – 'Bluebeard's Castle' as part of a double bill, then head for La Scala. Booking starts from 18 May and the opera will be conducted by Briton Daniel Harding.
Sport
Switzerland
10 May 2008
You could be forgiven for thinking Grand Prix only featured supercars. The Gran Prix is also a road race that takes place along the streets of the picturesque city of Bern. And when you're done egging the runners on, you can turn your attentions to the stunning sights – for Bern is a World Heritage Site.
Monaco
22–25 May 2008
It's too early to tell, but Ferrari is currently sweeping the board on the podium and in the constructors'. But was that the beginnings of a nifty McClaren comeback in Barcelona? See whether the other teams can catch the Italians, or if they'll be left trailing Ferrari's dust at Formula 1's notoriously thrilling Monaco Grand Prix.
France
25 May–8 June 2008
The season of Grand Slams kicked off with the Australian Open. The tennis superstars now head to Paris for the French Open. Catch your favourites from last year's defending champ, Rafael Nadal, to this year's surprise challenger in the shape of Serbia's Novak Djokovic. And can Maria Sharapova continue her 2008 successes? Head to Paris to catch the next nail-biting instalment...
Wherever you're going, make sure you see everything your destination has to offer. And make sure you're prepared with European breakdown cover. Why not get a quote now?
