In Spain, there are two ways to express your love.
After discussing with many a Spaniard the meaning of these phrases, I am still confused.
This is my own opinion on the matter:
"Te quiero" literally translates to "I want you." This is a kind of love you can have for your boyfriend, your chihuahua, or your favorite tapa. For me, it is a less serious, friendly, beginning of a relationship love.
"Te amo" is the more oficial, old-fashioned, in love with you, never let you go type of love.
Love for life, love for adventure, and love for speaking a language that gives me two different ways to express that love!
¡Te quiero, España! Or is it te amo?