Granada, Spain - beautiful, different, fascinating, surprising, interesting
There’s a vibrant social scene in Granada as it's a university city, and something of an intellectual town as well, so there are lots of things to do and it's not too hard to get to other parts of the country on train, plane, or coach. I went to a few other cities in the south of Spain - Seville, Cadiz, Malaga, Jerez, the Alpujarras and Almuñecar - but I didn't really have time to go on longer excursions. When you arrive, don’t forget that things will sort themselves out quickly, so don't stress too much if it doesn't go 100% according to plan straight away.
Granada has so much art and architecture, with sunshine nearly all year round, and loads of bars to take your fancy - I couldn’t have asked for better! One place you have to visit is the Alhambra, an enchanting structure of Hispano-Moorish art, historic palaces and breathtaking views over el barrio del Albaicín and over the city. Book a visit in advance as entry tickets do tend to run out very quickly! You should also go to the old Moorish silk market near the Cathedral. Apart from offering a very diverse and multicultural environment, you’ll find various craft stalls selling hand-made jewellery, silk gifts and shisha pipes. Make sure you check out the many chupeterías, with their 126 different flavoured shots—don’t head out too early though, as the party gets started at around 10pm over here! Go to ‘El Aguador’ for the best paella in town, although there’s thousands of tapas bars across the city. I sorted out my accommodation through university halls, staying at the Residencia Emperador Carlos V. Great for making friends quickly and sooo close to the Arts faculty!
Spain is known for its dancing, its passion, its cooking and its sense of theatricality. If you are one of the lucky few who’s made it to the Iberian peninsula, you should think about taking out some extra classes to help you get to grips with this captivating culture. Whether you’re working or studying, there is bound to be something to suit your tastes and timetable. ¡Arriba!