Happy Thursday! Today I'm writing from Santa Fe, NM as I slowly make my way to the west coast. I only have about 24 hours here, but I know from past experience that you can still see and do a lot in that short period of time. So before I explore Santa Fe, let's rewind a bit to October when I spent another whirlwind 24 hours in Seville, Spain.
I technically wasn't even supposed to go to Seville. My friend Sarah and I were going from Amsterdam to Granada, which had us flying into Seville and then taking a train to Granada. But it wasn't until our last day in Amsterdam when we realized we were going to lose a full day to traveling that we decided to shorten our time in Granada and explore Seville while we were there. We both agree it was one of the best decisions we made on the trip.
Seville is the capital of southern Spain's Andalusia region and according to myth, was founded 3000 years ago by the Greek god Hercules. Situated on the banks of the Guadalquivir River, this charismatic metropolis is covered in sunshine almost all year long (which means you'll want to buy a Spanish fan while visiting because it gets HOT). And while I didn't get to see and do nearly as much as it has to offer in the short time I was there, I know enough to say you want to add this gem to your list of places to visit. However long you stay, don't leave without checking out these things to do in Sevilla, Spain.
GO TO A FLAMENCO SHOW
Flamenco is in Sevilla's blood. No matter which direction you walk, you'll stumble on a touristy sign for a proper Spanish flamenco show. If you want to avoid a touristy version and find something that has a bit more grit, head to the old Gypsy district of Triana to Casa Anselma for a truly authentic backroom show. Some other great options? Tablao El Arenal and Casa de la Memoria.
GET LOST IN THE STREETS
One of my favorite things about Seville is that we had no agenda. We let ourselves get lost in the streets, wandering around anywhere that intrigued us (and pretty much ever turn did). Be sure to carve out some time to let yourself do exactly that (and be sure to look up at all the architecture when you do!)
TAPAS, TAPAS, TAPAS
It's no secret that tapas are a way of life in Spain. But in Seville in particular, it seems that dinner is rarely consumed all in one place. You can start snacking as early as dusk and keep going late into the night-- so don't be afraid to try different tapas at multiple places! So where can you find the best tapas in Sevilla? Check out these options that are full of locals, great atmosphere and delicious food:
EMBRACE MOORISH INFLUENCE
Given it's proximity to Morocco, Seville is known for Mudéjar style (which is a hybrid of Islamic-Christian architecture). The Alcázar (a royal palace that was once a Moorish fort), the Palace of the Marquis of la Algaba and the Archaeological Museum of Seville are all wonderful places to appreciate this style of architecture. But additionally, you'll notice the intricate mosaics all around and the fragrant spices pouring out of lots of the local shops.
Anything you loved in Seville that I missed? Let me know in the comments below! I'm off to explore a new city with these next 24 hours: Santa Fe! Stay tuned for more to come about my time here...
xx-
Whitney
