Travel the World

Do you like sherry? Then this is the place for you. There are many tours in English, but be sure to sign up in advance. I wanted to see the horse show at the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art, but we didn't know it was closed on Mondays, so we missed the opportunity. The city is small, so getting around is easy and effortless. There are no parks to speak of and the food is just okay, definitely geared towards tourists which was very disappointing. They were very aggressive in certain areas and almost pressured you to eat in their establishment. They wrote additional charges on our check which we had to dispute because who wants to be taken advantage of. I only got my money refunded after saying I'd post the bill on social media. Since I don't speak/read Spanish, the waiter (who spoke perfect English) said the 2 euro charge was for our silverware - wait, what? I don't think so. Of course, there's always an "extra" charge for bread that you didn't order. We found a great Italian restaurant (Pizzeria La Roma) away from the center, so there are a few good places, but you need to take your time and read the reviews.

Three days is all you need here if you plan ahead. However, if you want to go on multiple sherry tours you may want to add more days.

Jerez de la Frontera Fortress

Jerez de la Frontera Cathedral

Lastau

We took a day drip to Ronda from Cordoba via train. A two day drip would have been more enjoyable but we saw most of the historic sights on a walking tour. We were lucky having only six people in our group so we felt like we received a more personalized tour. Our guide was excellent and her knowledge was invaluable so if you enjoy your “free” walking tour, please tip them well.

Plaza de Toros de Ronda

El Puente Nuevo

What a pleasant surprise. For some reason, I wasn’t expecting such a beautiful city. Plenty to do, lovely walking paths and great ice cream. That’s right, I’m prioritizing the ice cream. Delicious. Three days is plenty but we had crazy weather so adding extra days if possible is a smart move. Not as many parks in this city but all the walkways kind of make up for the lack of parks. Not as many English speaking people but we never had a problem getting information and getting around. Put this on your list of cities to visit while in Spain and enjoy the sights and history.

Mosque Cathedral of Cordoba

Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos

Jewish Quarter (Juderia)

Patios of San Basilio

Roman temple of Córdoba

Seville is one of my favorite cities in Spain, it’s just breathtaking. The city is vibrant, fun, stunning, historical and the food is delicious. Yes, it’s very touristy but hello, that’s why I went. The locals are extremely friendly, helpful and gracious with their knowledge and time. We spent a week here and never once thought it was too much time. If you are on a strict time table then a minimum of three days is necessary but you’ll be exhausted if you want to see everything. Wherever possible, make reservations for the sights you want to see because they do sell out and then you will be out of luck. The many parks/squares in Seville are a great way to enjoy lunch while people watching and relaxing after a morning of going to some of the most gorgeous sights and museums. Unfortunately, I don’t have all the photos I took because I lost my phone but below you will see enough to discover the beauty of Seville.

And yes, yes I did eat great food, drink good wine and eat ice cream to my heart's content because life is short so enjoy it all.

Glorieta San Diego

Palacio de San Telmo

Plaza de España

Torre del Oro

Plaza de Toto’s de La Real Maestranza

Metropol Parasol (Mushroom of Seville)

Palacio de las Dueñas

Casa de Pilatos

Alameda de Hercules

El Rinconcillo, Seville’s most ancient tapas bar since 1670

A charming fishing village without fishermen (at lease none I could see) of long ago. The town (village) is small but very appealing and quaint. The many restaurants are a testament that the tourist industry is alive and well catering to locals as well as tourists. The food is excellent and the service is fantastic, so they know how to charm their customers. We stayed in a newer hotel with a rooftop pool and bar which was enjoyable however there was a definite lack of charm. A total of one day is all you need to see what this place has to offer, if you want to stay longer, there are day trips to local islands which can be fun.