Having a coffee & a chat about life in general revealed a friend’s wish to practice speaking Spanish. I had been taking tentative steps to learn myself leading us to throw caution to the wind & book a trip.
Both of us had travelled a bit but not together so this would be a totally new adventure. My friend kindly took on the role of organiser which was handy. As at the time I was about to embark on a road trip to the USA I was grateful.
Viva Espana
Leaving the hubby’s behind we planned to fly fromBristol & head for Seville. My friend had previously been there so I was happy to be guided by her.
She had booked a great little apartment in the city centre which provided a great base. From here it was easy to explore the many interesting & historical places on offer.
We couldn’t help but indulge in the delicious local food either. Especially because this gave ample opportunities for my companion to try out her phrases.
I mainly just listened fearing my limited knowledge from a language app might not cut the mustard. One of the challenges I have been given is to learn Spanish.
Although I have made a start taking lessons is a little way off as there is only so much a person can learn at one time!
At the moment my guitar lessons take priority. Though my teachers partner is Spanish so who knows might try combining them!!
Flight & transfer went smoothly & we arrived at the apartment late in the evening. So decided to get some sleep & be up and about early the next day.
The weather was spectacularly warm for October. It was great to just be able to saunter down the narrow streets absorbing the sights & sounds.
Good Food
After investing in a map we found navigating a little easier. Between us & we unearthed some little gems of places to sit & watch the world. Often combining this whilst eating or drinking something good.
Seville is stuffed full of history stretching back in time. It almost overwhelmed us at times looking at the different architecture & plaques recalling events of the city.
The Cathedral in immense & very popular so we sadly didn’t try to queue to go in. It’s one to put on the ‘to do’ list for another visit.
We took a peek at a collection of unusual guitars then wandered in and around the beautiful public gardens of the Plaza de Espana. Only stopping to have iced lollies under some vines.
Dancing
The evening saw us venture to an evening of traditional Flamenco music & dance in an almost secret location.
A bland garage door masks the enchanted bar that bursts into life in the evening. Her you can sip sangria & tap quietly in time to the music.
The music & dancing is taken very seriously. It was severely frowned upon to make any kind of noisy disruption while the musicians & dancers performed. Which I thought was very respectful.
With limited time we decided to visit the Setas de Seville on the second evening. Here we could view the key iconic landmarks floodlit as we walked around the undulating walkway.
On the last day as we set off on foot heading towards the bus station & airport. We literally stumbled upon The Case d Pilatos. Arriving as the doors opened we were among the first in.
Here we saw an astonishing colourful array of intricately patterned tiles that lined the walls.
We totally resisted the urge to do the famous dance around the base of the Macarena Gate. I am sure it’s probably been done before.
Sadly by the time we arrived at Basilica de la Macarena as it had closed for the afternoon. We walked on until we found a great restaurant & a fantastic meal before getting to the airport.
Use link to visit the Seville City Guide to find out more about the city