Feel the Beat of Spain
Granada
Granada smells of thick history, flamboyant art and rich culture. Deep in the heart of Andalusia, this is where flamenco and bullfights flourish. Having packed my bags over and over again, I’ve explored the world in search of a place to call my own – and here I’ve found home. Follow me on a trail through the eclectic streets of Granada, as we take in its sights and sounds of the alluring city.
1. Gypsie Quarter of Albayzin
Through the white-washed houses and narrow paths, it’s easy to get lost amidst the tranquil labyrinth of Albayzin, the bohemia center of the city. I might have threaded these paths over and over again, but never once would I encounter the same corner or path. Each time is like a new experience. Along the way, you would come across gypsies playing Spanish guitar, or perhaps hippies in dreadlocks smoking a joint or two.
2. Catch Flamenco in the Sacromonte Caves
The narrow slopes of the Albayzin lead to the Sacromonte, dotted with caves built decades ago. Many have been converted to Flamenco tablaos or bars with a view. In some of these bars, you can enjoy some tapas and watch a flamenco performance at the same time. By night, La Chumbera transforms into a modern club with flamenco-electronics fusion.
3. The Alhambra Palace
One of the most visited monuments in Spain, the Alhambra is an ancient Moorish palace built centuries ago during the reign of the Arabs. Overlooking the city on the hilltop, wandering through its red-rose walls and Muslim gates, you are literally walking back in time. For the best view of the city, stay at the nearby Alhambra Palace Hotel or sip coffee at its alfresco café/bar.
4. Arabic Teahouses
Any trip to Granada is not complete without a visit to the Arabic teterias (teahouse) perched along the slopes of the Albayzcin. Due to ancient Moorish influence, Granada offers a lot of Moroccan flavors reflected in the numerous Arabic teahouses and local markets in the old city center. These exotic and dimly lit teashops exude a mysterious feel.
5. Tapas Bar Hopping
The city is reputed for its tapas bars – not just that, but the free tapas that come with the drinks you order. At every street corner, you’ll find yourself stumbling upon tapas bars. Pop into any one of them, order a drink and you’ll be served a free platter of bocadillo de jamon (cured ham sandwich) or empanada or even a small dish of paella. D’Cuadros at Plaza Trinidad and El Reventaero at Camino de Rhonda are one of the best in town.
More about this Guest Blogger
Nellie Huang is a Singaporean travel writer who shares her passion for wild junkets with readers through beautiful words and images. She writes for Food&Travel magazine, Lifestyle, WEND and Travel+Leisure Asia blog. Obsessed with languages and an unpredictable lifestyle, she's always on the move. She now calls Spain home. Where's she off next? Read about her perilous adventures on her blog, WildJunket. Find out about what she eats on the road at Have Food, Will Travel, or find her on Facebook and Twitter.
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