Looking for a more authentic Spanish holiday? Look no Further!
When people think of Spain, they usually immediately associate the beautiful country with Barcelona, or even Madrid. Many however, are unaware of the beautiful gems that lie in close proximity to the southern coast of Spain, especially tourists from Asia. Here are some tips and recommendations to make your Spanish vacation richer in culture, nature and authentic food experiences in Spain.
Having lived in Spain recently for a year. There are so many smaller second tier cities which incite an even more authentic Spanish experience, compared to what Barcelona and Madrid have to offer; with great people, rich culture and authentic tapas at dirt cheap prices (anywhere from 2 euros per plate).
Grenada
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The first place that I would recommend to anyone travelling to Spain is Grenada, Gorgeous Grenada. Grenada is a small city with a population of 232,000 residents that offers a warm welcome with the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains always in the background of your explorations (snowcapped during winter might I add).
The city of Grenada is situated within the Andalusian province of Spain and is home to the Alhambra Palace, a World UNESCO Heritage site. The attraction even made international headlines as it became the setting along with the City of Grenada for the Korean Drama series: ‘Memories of the Alhambra’.
For those who love shopping, Grenada has a vibrant high street offering many international brands and flagship stores away from the crowded madness of shopping in bigger cities, as well as smaller local shops for those interested in local products.
Grenada is also known for its churches at almost every turn. One of the most famous churches outside of the Alhambra is the Granada Cathedral. Centrally located, the Cathedral towers above the surrounding neighborhood being the most iconic standing architecture in the area and carved out from other commercial and residential zones for preservation.
Malaga
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Next on the list is Malaga. The seaside port city is a popular summer holiday destination with the Europeans whilst being situated along the Costa Del Sol coastline. This city offers great flexibility and an option for various types of travelers with different interests. Malaga, offers a vibrant nightlife scene, similar to everywhere else along the coast during the summer months.
Part of the uniqueness of the southern coast is that the entire coastline is covered by black sand from the volcanic processes occurring not far from the coast, a welcomed change of scenery to your typical beaches in South East Asia.
The port has become more popular in recent years increasing cruise traffic to the city. Tourists get to explore a more intimate city influenced by a mix of modern and traditional art with several art galleries and Museums in the city center.
Ronda
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Of course, saving the best for last is Ronda. An hour’s drive away from Malaga, the small city is built elevated on a plateau of 2,400ft. The city’s height is breathtaking and a magnificent sight to behold, looking from afar where the cliffs at the periphery of the city drop several hundred foot down.
This city is most iconic for its traditional architecture of bridges. What makes this town so picturesque is the small Guadalevin River that runs under the city’s biggest bridge separating the city in half. The city also provides a rustic charm with small white houses and a grand view of the surrounding plains and local wineries.
For many who don’t know, the famous violent and cruel sport of bullfighting was born in the town of Ronda. Therefore, it is only natural that one of Ronda’s main cultural attractions is the country’s first neoclassical bullfighting stadium called Plaza del Toro which translates to ‘bull ring’ constructed in the 18th century.
Spain has some of the best food in the world with Tapas and Paella being the most globalized representation of its rich food culture. Allow me to widen your palette to other dishes that are either as tasty, or even more authentic in their own right. Be sure to try these foods as they have been tried and tested should you be planning to visit Spain for a couple of days.
- Porras – the Spanish version of an American Churro, dipped in a cup of hot melted chocolate. The perfect breakfast or dessert on a cold winter’s day.
2. Gazpacho – A chilled tomato and cucumber based soup to refresh yourself under the summer heat.
3. Jamon – Best eaten on a charcuterie board or with bread. Spain exports some of the finest cuts of cured ham in different styles and flavors to suit each palette.
4. Pimientos de Padron – Grilled green peppers over an open flame, filled with rich flavours and a myriad of textures.
5. Pisto – Similar to a ratatouille dish, it is more of a gravy with all sorts of diced vegetables and covered in thick tomato sauce. Great for a meal with bread, rice or with eggs.
