As the saying goes, you never really know what goes on behind the scenes when we speak of relationships, but I think the same rings true when travelling to new places. Only when you have the chance to really explore an area does it come alive, masked stories unwittingly extracted from old walls, hidden gems smoked out of the woodwork.   

The picturesque town of Sitges is a perfect example of seeing is believing, on the surface it is a sleepy sunny seaside town, but all you need to do is scratch a little beyond and so much more is revealed.

Only 30 minutes from downtown Barcelona, the area is a popular hot spot for locals, visiting Spaniards and other Europeans. Trafalgar Tours At Leisure itineary purposely chooses the area due to its multi-function ability to both allow guests a relaxed, holiday feel, while only a short drive for day trips to Barcelona.

Sitges, we learn from our Tour Director Javier is also considered to be the most liberal region in Spain, and hence why is known as the Gay capital of the country. Anything and everything goes, and we happen to coincide our stay during their annual Gay Festival. 

It is also the second largest business tourism destination in Spain, but with a maximum 5000 beds, locals strongly agree not to over expand the product offering and are adamant at ensuring the authentic seaside holiday feel is maintained.

The beaches, we are told by Javier offers something for everyone. There's the family style beach, which presumably he means is a fully clothed area, the semi naked beach, with which we hope he is referring to topless, and the full monty beach which happens to be directly opposite our hotel.  Always the gentleman, Javier offers his protection if we are to venture to the closest one for a swim, or will keep an eye out for us with the telescope he's packed knowing the balconies in our Melia hotel room all have water views.

Down by the marina is a great spot to enjoy an Al Fresco dinner, enjoy a cocktail at sunset or if you're so lucky, jump on one of the million dollar yachts parked, presumably owned by a wealthy (and here's hoping ladies, single and attractive) European. 

If you're up for a night cap, dancing, or well, in a town where anything goes head into town which is only accessible by foot, to access the "strip" full of bars, restaurants, night markets, gelato joints, all open until the wee hours of the morning. Like most of Spain, there's a sense of safety when walking back to your hotel at night, meandering past beautiful holiday houses and of course, the beach.

For more information visit www.Trafalgartours.com.au