Granada is a gem among gems in Spain’s culturally rich southern autonomous community of Andalucía. Locals often refer to the city as Graná, cutting off the final syllable of the word, which is commonly done for various words in Andalusian accents. I spent a week in Granada in August of 2020 while working from a hotel to get out of Madrid on a “fake-cation” of sorts. I know what you may be thinking – Granada in August?! Yes, Granada was HOT…But so was Madrid, haha. Plus, having an air-conditioned hotel room to work from doesn’t hurt! (Can’t say the same about my room in Madrid 😂). Throughout my week in Graná, I got to know the city itself beyond just the world-renowned La Alhambra. So, I’ve compiled a list of my favorite sights in Granada that will help you appreciate everything this Andalusian jewel has to offer! Continue reading “My Favorite Sights in Granada: Beyond La Alhambra”
Weekend in Ronda: Bridges, Bull Rings, & Bottles of Wine
Ronda, known as the largest of Andalucía’s “white towns,” or pueblos blancos, is a cozy little spot in the province of Málaga. A weekend in Ronda is a must while in the south of Spain! We visited Ronda in December of 2018 when we lived in Bucharest to enjoy the mild Andalusian winter (i.e. clear blue skies, temps in the 50-60s Fahrenheit, and los naranjoooos.) Continue reading “Weekend in Ronda: Bridges, Bull Rings, & Bottles of Wine”
Where to Eat in Granada: Tapas, Teterías, y Todo
In August of 2020, I spent a week in Granada – a world-renowned gem of Spain’s southern autonomous community, Andalucía – working from a hotel to get in a little summer “fake”-cation trip. Although Granada is no doubt a scorcher in the summer, I really enjoyed my week there! Since I had lots of time to spend and meals to plan, I was able to sample a variety of Granada’s culinary treats, from its famously generous tapas that accompany any beer or wine to pastries at Moorish-style tea houses. Below is my guide for where to eat in Granada – enjoy! Continue reading “Where to Eat in Granada: Tapas, Teterías, y Todo”
Patios de Cordoba: A Floral Feast for the Eyes
Córdoba is one of the many gems of Andalucía, the southern autonomous community of Spain, along with Sevilla, Málaga, Granada, and Cádiz, to name the most well-known. The Patios de Cordoba festival is unique to Cordoba and features what is, quite literally, a floral feast for the eyes. The festival is usually held in the first half of May, when the city’s patios burst in full bloom. Continue reading “Patios de Cordoba: A Floral Feast for the Eyes”
Palaces in Sevilla: The Unparalleled “Casa Palacios”
I’ll be honest: there is nowhere in the world like Sevilla. Sevilla’s most popular attractions are probably the Alcázar, the cathedral, and the Plaza de España. However, if you spend a few extra days in the city and really dig into what it has to offer, you’ll discover some lower-key sights that will rock your world, like the city’s beloved “Casa Palacios,” or palace-mansions. These palaces are perfect microcosms of the city’s cultural, historical, artistic, and architectural legacies. Some of the most beautiful of these palaces in Sevilla are Palacio de Las Dueñas and Casa de Pilatos, which I describe below; however, Palacio de la Condesa de Lebrija and Casa de Salinas are still on my list! Continue reading “Palaces in Sevilla: The Unparalleled “Casa Palacios””
Arcos de la Frontera: A Picturesque Pueblo Blanco
Arcos de la Frontera is a treat. Located in the province of Cádiz, in Andalucía, this makes for a great day trip or one-nighter if you’re in the South of Spain. We visited by driving from Sevilla when we lived there. Continue reading “Arcos de la Frontera: A Picturesque Pueblo Blanco”
10 Best Things to Do in Malaga: Moorish Castles, Modern Art, & More
Malaga is a jewel of the Costa del Sol in Spain’s autonomous community of Andalucía. The city’s #tranquilotropical vibe had me right away: you can feel how the ocean and the warm weather energize the city, where timeworn Moorish ruins meet renowned modern art. Places like Sevilla and Granada may compete for top honors as Andalucía’s greatest city, but Malaga is definitely in the running with its compelling arts scene, culture, history, and, unlike the aforementioned cities, its BEACHES. Continue reading “10 Best Things to Do in Malaga: Moorish Castles, Modern Art, & More”
La Feria de Abril in Sevilla: A Spanish Wonderland
La Feria de Abril is one of the most special events in all the world. It’s simply a dream. I’m lucky enough to have gone the past two years with my sevillano friends and boyfriend, so it’s time I give a breakdown of what goes on at the Feria in the hopes of conveying all its glory.
Continue reading “La Feria de Abril in Sevilla: A Spanish Wonderland”
Sevilla: A Weekend Itinerary to Do as the Locals Do
Planning a weekend in Sevilla? I got you covered. After six visits to Sevilla over the past year with my boyfriend and friends, all sevillanos themselves, I’d like to think I have a pretty good idea of what to do and see in the capital of Andalucía. Continue reading “Sevilla: A Weekend Itinerary to Do as the Locals Do”
Cadiz: The Hidden Gem of Andalusia
Cadiz is the hidden gem of Andalusia. Cadiz may not be as well known as some of its Andalusian counterparts, like Sevilla and Granada, but I highly recommend a visit. It is a perfect spot for a day trip or a weekend while visiting the south of Spain. Continue reading “Cadiz: The Hidden Gem of Andalusia”