Only 27° tomorrow. I suppose it is not too bad for the beginning of October 🍂 .
October is upon us
After 10 excellent days touring sunny southern Spain 🇪🇸, I am back home in time for the new month. I have no idea where September went.
I suspect October will be a quieter month, mostly spent at home. Nevertheless, quite a few things need doing. It is time for the yearly anti-flu shot, workers are due in for the installation of additional air conditioning units etc etc.
In the meantime, I am still experimenting with Artificial Intelligence (AI). I must admit it was very usefull in our recent trip to Spain and was a much easier way to search for places to visit and / or look for restaurants. I have not yet tried automatic bookings but am working on it.
Temperatures of up to 31c are announced for today and tomorrow which is a kind of record for the start of October.
One has to make the most of it and I certainly enjoy sitting outside.
MUSIC
Being the 1st of the month, I have just received my monthly statistic from my favorite music streaming app (Namely Deezer). It would appear that my top artist for that period was an old favorite of mine:
What’s on in France in October
🔸Well, many of the supermarkets in France host wine fairs during the month of October so it is an ideal time to go and discover.
🔸Taste Week: 16-22 October, 2023. In Paris and throughout France, a foodie event featuring original and varied cuisines.
Classic food
I had a great time eating all sorts of Tapas and sea food in Spain but I really enjoyed the typical French dish “Blanquette de veau” the day we got back home.
It is afterall the typical French dish par excellence.
Gadget SEAmagine’s submersible vessel, the Aurora-80. The company offers submersibles to wealthy clients looking to accessorize their yacht.
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Tagged AI, Blanquette de Veau, ChatGPT, Music, Taste Week
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Viva Espania
Made it to Spain for a planned tour of Andalusia. Some of the main towns we visited were:
MALAGA
Busy holiday seaside town even at this time of year. Loads of people, restaurants, bars, shops.
Almuñécar – Costa Tropical
Across the Sierra Nevada from Granada and on the coast. An ideal stop for a relaxing time on the beach and a bite to eat.
👉
Malaga
Back into the suburbs of where we started in a lovely hotel near the beach and a few minutes away from the airport
👉
Malaga 2023 II
Last evening of the holiday. Arrived at the charming hotel Picasso conveniently located 5 km from the airport in one direction and 5 minutes walk to the beach in the other direction.
We had a very pleasant afternoon lazying around the pool followed by a nice dinner at the beach and to finish off the holidays a few double double whiskys by the pool.
Back home
Almuñécar 2023
Sort stop en route to Malaga
Only 70km away from Granada we reached the so-called Costa Tropical within an hour after having crossed the Sierra Nevada and its magnificent scenery.
Time to spend some time on the beach before lunch and before driving on and back to Malaga for our last evening in Andalusia.
Back to home
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Granada 2023
Our appartment was on the first floor of this “ocre” building. Brilliantly located in the middle of the shopping and old district of town.
It is simply impossible to visit the Al Ahlambra unless you reserve tickets one month in advance.
There are however many other places to visit (see below) and in particular the Cathedral which happens to be the widest in Europe.
Went on the obligatory bus / train tour around town which was quite uncomfortable. We left it half way through and walked back down into town which was in fact quite pleasant.
Places to see
Granada is full of tapas bars and restaurants. We did like the atmosphere at the Plaza de Bib-Rambla
À few suggestions:
- Alhambra: A must-visit attraction in Granada, the Alhambra is a stunning palace and fortress complex with beautiful gardens. Make sure to book your tickets in advance as it can get quite busy.
- Generalife: Located adjacent to the Alhambra, Generalife is a beautiful garden filled with fountains, patios, and stunning views of Granada. It’s a perfect place to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
- Sacromonte: This neighborhood is known for its cave houses and flamenco shows. Explore the narrow streets, visit the Sacromonte Abbey, and catch an authentic flamenco performance for a unique cultural experience.
- Albayzín: Wander through the historic Albayzín neighborhood, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its narrow streets, white-washed houses, and stunning views of the Alhambra make it a charming place to explore.
- Sierra Nevada: If you’re up for some outdoor adventure, head to the Sierra Nevada mountain range. It’s a great place for hiking, skiing, or simply enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
- Costa Tropical: If you’re looking for a beach getaway, the Costa Tropical is just a short drive from Granada. Explore the beautiful coastal towns like Almuñécar and Salobreña, and relax on the sandy beaches.
Bars & restaurants
🍷SANCHO BURGUER:
(Just below the apartments, with the best hamburgers in Granada) I don’t think there is a granadino who hasn’t tried them…. 120% recommended.
🍷BODEGAS CASTAÑEDA (Calle Almireceros 1)-classic Granada tavern.
🍷IRREVERENTE (Mesones Street 15)
Homemade and different tapas. Everything exquisite and tasted first hand. They do not close the kitchen, which is also a point to take into account… Unbeatable service
🍷Entre Brasasas (Calle Navas) – bar specialized in charcoal-grilled meats.
Unbeatable attention from its owners Migue and Estefanía!
🍷LOS DIAMANTES (Plaza Birrambla and Plaza Nueva), a classic among the people of Granada, their specialty is fried fish.
🍷ROSARIO/VARELA(Calle Virgen del Rosario)- place with modern decoration and different tapas.
🍷BAR PATIO BRASERITO (Calle Virgen del Rosario) – typical Granadian bar.
🍷BAR AVILA(Calle Verónica de la Virgen)-bar very famous in Granada for its specialty, the roast ham.
🍷BAR PÖE(Calle Verónica de la Magdalena)-bar with tapas of international cuisine where the Erasmus students of the city usually meet.Tapas to choose from.
🍷LA SITARILLA(Calle San Miguel alta 7)- typical granadian bar with homemade tapas.
🍷BAR ALIATAR (Calle San Sebastián 2) Best sandwiches in the neighborhood and cheap.
🍷EL RINCON DE RODRI (Calle Músico Vicente Zarzo 3)-bar specialized in fish and seafood.
🍷POETAS ANDALUCES II(Calle Pedro An
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Sevilla 2023
The first time I was in Seville, a coupleof years ago, I was not impressed at all. I changed my mind this time. FIrst thing we did was to visit the Setas de Sevilla which is apparently the largest wood structure in Europe. It gave us a nice view of the town despite the grey but nevertheless warm weather.
Under the wooden structure some old remains were discovered and are now exposed to the public.
Next stop Cordoba
Finding a place to eat is not a problem in Sevilla, we had many choices within a couple of blocks from our appartment. The sais appartment located at Rivero 8 was very convenient, modern (maybe a bit too modern) but to be recommended nevertheless.
We tried to book tickets for the Real Alcazar but the queues were impossible. Furthermore tables were being prepared for a very large banquet for that evening.
We did however managed to get on line tickets for the cathedral for later that day. We had some time to spare so lunch was in order as well as a discovery walk around town.
The Cathedral
I did not know that Christopher Columbus was burried in there.
Cadiz 2023
Day I
Going to Cadiz has always been in the back of my mind. I drove past a few times but never actually stopped. This time we are there for 2 nights. We arrive in town a little bit too early to take possession of the appartment. Not a problem, the car is securely parked by the sea front, the appartment is a 100 metres from the main Cathedral and the plazza in front of the said Cathedral is full of tourists and bars and restaurants. We select one for a few drinks and tapas to share for lunch.
Our lovely appartment is located in a small side street a few steps away from the cathedral. The only inconvenient affects only me and is due to the steep staircases which I have difficulty in negotiating with my wobly knee.
I have to say that all bars were extremely generous with their Gin & Tonics and we made good use of that for each aperitif.
We do not have much difficuty finding a suitable place for dinner.
Day II
Later this morning, we are meeting some other UK friends who happen to be touring the area in their camper van. Before that we decide to go and explore the town and walk past a very interesting food market, mainly fish. Fresh food, much choice and cheap.
The cathedral is worth a visit. Some went up to the top. My knee prevented me to do that.
A late lunch was had where we had dinner the previous evening although this time we wanted to taste their paellas.
Day III
Today, after breakfast we are off to Sevilla
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Malaga 2023
Day I
Landed in Malaga airport on time early afternoon, it is a mile walk to the car hire parking lot where we picked up our reserved car. In fact we decided to upgrade to a larger model since we would be 4 with luggage for the week. We were given a DS7, at a cost of course.
It is not far to drive into town to our hotel. The quarter in town centre where our accomodation is located is full of road works. We find a convenient car park a few hundred metres away and deposit our luggage at the hotel.
It is then time to explore part of the town and mre specifically find a place to eat which is not difficult. It is a good thing the Spanish eat late. The tapas are good, the beer is excellent.
Time to go and do a little bit more exploring
Time to take possession of our hotel room and take a nap. It was an early start afterall
Time flies and it is soon time to find a place for evening aperitif and dinner
DAY II
Late morning we have to pick up at the airport our friends C&J arriving from the west country in England. Before that we have time to do some more exploring.
I unfortunately slip on a wet patch and fall down after having banged my knee pretty hard on the hard floor. It is not long before it swollows and make it painfull and hard to bend. Stairs are going to be fun in the coming days.
Anyway we make it to the airport, pick up our friends, drive back into town, park the car in the same place, go to the hotel so that they can check in and we are off for a similar agenda than the diday before. First priority is to find a place to eat lunch.
We then decide to catch an open top bus for a tour of the town. Usually a good way to discover a place. However I have to admit, there was not that much to see.
DAY III
After breakfast, time to head out to Cadiz which is our second stop over on this tour of Andalusia.
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Cordoba 2023
Cordoba, Spain is a beautiful city with a rich history and cultural heritage
We drive straight to our hotel the Paradores at the top of the hill. It is an “old fashion” hotel with nice rooms and a lot of facilities.
I was however a bit disappointed with the food
A must see is the Mosque-Cathedral (see 1 below) which not only is stunning but full of history
The old town has a lot to offer
Here are the must-see attractions in Cordoba:
1. Mezquita-Catedral de Cordoba: This stunning mosque-cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important Islamic structures in the Western world. Its unique architecture combines Islamic and Christian elements.
2. Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos: This fortress-palace was the residence of the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabella. It features beautiful gardens, Roman mosaics, and offers panoramic views of the city.
3. Juderia (Jewish Quarter): Explore the narrow streets of the Jewish Quarter, filled with whitewashed houses, flower-filled patios, and charming squares. Don’t miss the Synagogue, one of the few remaining medieval synagogues in Spain.
4. Roman Bridge: This ancient bridge spans the Guadalquivir River and offers picturesque views of the city. It is especially beautiful at sunset.
5. Calleja de las Flores: This narrow alleyway is famous for its colorful flower-filled balconies. It’s a great spot for taking photos and enjoying the ambiance of Cordoba.
6. Medina Azahara: Located just outside Cordoba, this archaeological site was once a grand palace-city built by the Caliph Abd-ar-Rahman III. Explore the ruins and learn about the city’s history.
7. Palacio de Viana: This 14th-century palace is known for its beautiful gardens and patios. It offers a glimpse into the aristocratic lifestyle of Cordoba’s past.
8. Plaza de la Corredera: This lively square is the perfect place to relax, have a drink, and people-watch. It is surrounded by colorful buildings and has a vibrant atmosphere.
9. Archaeological Museum of Cordoba: Learn about the city’s history and see artifacts from different periods, including Roman, Islamic, and Christian.
10. Flamenco Show: Experience the passion and energy of traditional flamenco music and dance at one of the many flamenco venues in Cordoba.
These are just a few highlights of what Cordoba has to offer. The city is also known for its delicious cuisine, so be sure to try some local dishes like salmorejo (a cold tomato soup) and rabo de toro (oxtail stew).
Next stage, drive to Granada
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