MONASTERIES OFFER RARE GLIMPSE INTO TRUE ESSENCE OF SPAIN

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- Imagine spending the night in an historic monastery in a secluded village nestled in the majestic Pyrenees mountain range or dining al fresco on a private balcony overlooking the rugged Costa Blanca. You can visit centuries-old castles and explore miles of hidden Spanish beaches while enjoying the comfort and care of welcoming monks and nuns.

The Guide to Lodging in Spain's Monasteries is an extensive compilation of accommodations from Andalucia to Valencia. The book contains detailed descriptions and photos of the monasteries, complete amenity information and accounts of nearby towns, attractions and local history culled from in-depth interviews and research.

"Staying at a monastery is a remarkable travel experience based on a centuries-old custom of hospitality," says the book's author Eileen Barish, an award-winning travel writer and author of The Guide to Lodging in Italy's Monasteries, winner of the Ben Franklin Award for Best Travel Book presented by the Publishers Marketing Association.

Photo-Filled Guide Includes Everything Needed to Make a Reservation

Lodging in monasteries is the latest trend in European travel and the new book not only provides a comprehensive list of available accommodations but also includes detailed instructions on how to make reservations at more than 150 monasteries, convents and casas across Spain. The book even contains a sample reservation letter in Spanish and English to make booking a reservation simple.

"More than just lodging particulars, the book is full of history-laced vignettes that offer travel information not readily found in guide books," says Barish. "These spectacular places are often unspoiled by tourism and many have remained unchanged for centuries."

Open to All Denominations with No Religious Obligations

The monasteries detailed in the book are open to travelers regardless of religious denomination. The Guide to Lodging in Spain's Monasteries contains all the information necessary to plan a trip, including rates, address, telephone, fax, e-mail address and website where available, contact person and descriptions of the accommodations.

"When you stay in a monastery you are ensconced in the flavor of the local area," explains Barish. "You feel as if you're staying with friends in a warm, nurturing environment."

Most Cost Less Than $20 a Day--Including Meals!

One of the most significant aspects of lodging at a monastery is the low cost of accommodations. Rates range from a voluntary donation to an average of $20 per night, often including meals.

The Guide to Lodging in Spain's Monasteries (ISBN #1-884465-17-X) is available for $22.95 at all major bookstores or from the publisher (Anacapa Press) by calling (800) 638-3637. For additional information visit www.monasteriesofspain.com.