22/12/22 - 22*C
The title perfectly describes this whole trip or holiday, not sure where to class it. We do not celebrate Christmas and we definitely do not love Boxing day madness. So, we were desperate to find the opportunity - any, even the little one to escape. Those who know me, I am a planner. I plan everything to the detail. I cannot just go to bed without knowing what to do tomorrow or vice versa. Could have not been more different this time. A week left till half term and my husband decided to throw a curve ball - he booked the plane tickets and left the rest for me to sort out. But I must say - it was one of the best decisions made. Leeds - Malaga -Seville -Malaga -Leeds. The best trip we had in a long time. I felt that we kind of lost the passion and love for traveling, but this holiday changed it all. Spain!!! We have been to Spain before, but this time was magic. The weather , the food, the atmosphere, the sea, the sun, the palms. I could just simply put words on a paper and it would perfectly describe Spain. The trip did not start smooth though :) We were sitting on the runway, getting ready to take off, when pilot suddenly hit the brakes halfway @) ... me - am horrible with flying, but I realize I must conquer my fear, so I do...anyway, plane had to be taken for repair, we had to wait 2 hours for different plane...long story short, we got to Spain 4 hours later. Even with the tiredness, hunger and little anger, but gratefulness (hamdouallah) for a safe flight, we were so excited and surprised. December, but there was no winter there (huge mistake going dressed in winter clothing). For whole 8 days, there was no cloud in the sky...end of December, and we walking in T shirts, girls absolutely loved it!!!
So, after good night's rest, we were ready to explore Malaga. I could write pages and pages of what to see, where to eat and how to spend time (night or day, cos it is totally 2 different places then :), but I will just give a little insight. To keep the mystery , so to say...Alcazaba is a must, La Malagueta, Spagos pasta, just a few of many incredible gems.
Obviously it would not be me, if I stayed in one place. I always take the opportunity to explore nearest towns and cities if possible of course and the distance is not too far. So, guess what - Sevilla it must be then. 2 hours 30 min on a comfortable bus (ticket for 4 people £130 return) and it is different world. So much history, old town with tiny, little, narrow streets like a labirynth, gorgeous cafes and restaurants, lights at night that made this city feel like a fairy tale about princesses. Incredible and impossible to forget. Up till this day, we talk about it around our dinner table. La plaza de Espana (where boat ride for 4 people 30 min cost only 6 euros), Giralda, Helados la abuela, Sabor a Espana...I still see the streets, smell the sweets and feel the warmth. Thank you Spain.
So, little summary. The total cost (4 people, 8 days, including everything, but not splashing out) around £600 - 700.
Tips: do not take winter clothing. Even if it rains a little or there is no sunshine, it is still pleasantly warm. Walk for longer to find the best eateries. Cafes and restaurants in the centre, that seem so busy and inviting, are not always the best. Try to speak even a little Spanish, will get you more smiles. Do not rush.
Must visit places :
Malaga - Spagos pasta, Alcazaba, La Malagueta beach, Picasso museum
Sevilla - Giralda, Helados La Abuela, Al Wadi restaurant, Maria Zambrano Station (more like high street shopping centre than station), Sabor a Espana, Old town, La plaza de Espana
I am in love with travelling again. I found that passion again. I want to go again. Soon.