Granada and the Alhambra

Our next destination was Granada, we had four days here and we stayed in a great centrally located apartment. It was so interesting to see how the further South we got in Spain, the more of a North African and Islamic influence and flair there is.

Granada was very interesting (to say the least). We were in a very uncomfortable situation in Sacromonte where two men were approaching us and clearly going to try and remove our belongings from us (I think we almost just got robbed!). Luckily, we hightailed it out of there ... or rather ran like hell to safety!!

Our time here was spent wandering through the many different neighbourhoods, alleyways and squares. We had several pitchers of Sangria and glass of wine - to keep hydrated ;) and because you get free tapas when you order a drink in Granada.

As far as sights to see, Granada isn't that exciting (in our opinion). It's the neighbourhoods you want to explore. Walking through the many neighbourhoods (such as Sacromonte and Albaycin) allows you to just take in Spanish culture, life and people. For example, during our wanderings we came across many lovely murals, some Flamenco caves, beautiful Spanish doors and a man in his speedo standing in the middle of a Plaza bahhhhing repeatedly to the sky. (It was certainly an experience.)

I celebrated my 30th Birthday in Granada. My travel buddy, A booked us in at the Banyos Arabs where we had a scrub massage and spent some relaxing hours in the hot, warm and cold baths. It was wonderful!!

Finally, a visit to Granada isn't complete without a tour of the Alhambra. The Alhambra was spectacular, it's something that you just cannot put in to words, so I will let the photos below do the talking for me. We enjoyed our time at the Alhambra and tried to see as much as possible. I have to admit that Granada looks quite beautiful from the Alhambra watchtower.

Granada

This is what backpacking looks like (waiting for the sweaty packed in like sardines bus from the bus station to our apartment):

Sangria and Mojitos:

Banyos Arabs (Happy Birthday to Me!):

Walking around Granada (Sacromonte, Carrera del Darro, Albaycin):

Should we be worried in this neighbourhood?

The Cathedral:

Get. In. My. Belly.

View of the Alhambra from Plaza S. Miguel Bajo:

Being serenaded in Plaza S. Miguel Bajo:

The Alhambra

The Alhambra ... will let the photos do the talking:

View of Plaza S. Miguel Bajo from the Alhambra (can you see all of the people taking photos of the Alhambra?):

Granada looks beautiful from up here!