Showing posts with label spain. Show all posts
Showing posts with label spain. Show all posts

Andalucia Travel Guide: The history of Andalucian food





Whether you live in Andalucia, or you visit Marbella, Puerto Banus, Seville or Cordoba on holiday, you will find a vast range of local foods to sample. Known to be quite salty, Andalucian chefs also use an abundance of garlic and fresh herbs to flavour their food.

Recipes go back as far as the 9th to 12th Centuries when the Arabic influence in Andalucia introduced yeast soup, baked calves head, honey baked sweets, couscous dishes, wild game and the ever-popular ´guiso de lentejas´ or lentil stew, which is still served widely today. Aubergines were also used extensively in early Andalucian cuisine, and it is thought that ´Aubergines baked with honey´ originated from the Moorish influence in this part of Spain. Fish is also served widely, as Malaga literally has the Mediterranean on the doorstep.

Andalucian food is often prepared very simply, but with clever use of olive oil, garlic, herbs and sea salt, the results are delicious. One of the favourite dishes in Malaga is ´Fritura Malagueña´, or Fried Fish, which, served with fresh lemons and ali-oli, garlic mayonnaise, is simply delicious. Often served with a side dish of salad, this is a favourite dish in beach bars, and often includes squid, rosada, rapé, prawns, clams and boquerones.

The three most important ingredients in Andalucia are olive oil, garlic, and wine. The most widely used herbs are thyme, rosemary, fennel, oregano, bay leaf, plenty of parsley, and, in areas where there was a significant Muslim presence, mint. Andalucia is made up of eight administrative provinces, each with its own distinctive character, fitting into the four culinary zones. The culinary identity of each is dictated by geography and also  by the degree to which Muslim cooks were in charge of the historic kitchen. Folklorists say that many Andalucian dishes travelled north to France when Eugenie married Napoleon III in the nineteenth century.

The original Andalucian kitchen was influenced by the geography of the region and also by the Arabs, who ruled here for centuries. The weather also had a great say in home kitchens, as it was thought too hot to cook on a stovetop indoors, and most residents cooked outside. Fuel usually included dried grape twigs or picon, which was charcoal, and any fuel which burnt smoke free.

Spanish omelette, or tortilla, although a simple dish to make, is absolutely delicious. This potato, garlic and onion omelette is often made with fried or sautéed potatoes, which add to the flavour.  I have also eaten pea and green bean omelette in Murcia which sounds boring but was delicious.  Simple flavours are made tasty by using fresh produce and plenty of seasoning and garlic.  One of the best omelettes I ever tasted was a Spanish omelette with peppers and peas, served with a dash of fresh mushroom sauce.  This was in a wonderful tapas bar in Seville, near the cathedral, called Tapas Robles.  If you are ever in the area, try it!

Enjoying a fabulous warm climate, with over 320 days of sunshine a year, Andalucia is home to the world-famous chilled soup, gazpacho. A personal favourite, gazpacho is made with fresh tomatoes, olive oil, onions, garlic, peppers, and is usually served with chopped vegetables and bread.  Simple, healthy and delicious and very refreshing on a warm Summer´s day. Cold almond soup with garlic is another favourite.

Being so close to the Mediterranean, fish features on many menus on the Costa del Sol, and you can see the catch coming to shore at the fishing port in Marbella and Fuengirola.  Many of Puerto Banus´s top restaurants specialize in fresh fish and seafood, including the wonderful Marina side restaurants such as the Red Pepper.  Santiago´s in Marbella is another king among fish restaurants.

Eating in Spain is taken very seriously, and the quality of the food is paramount.  Whether you want to sit at one of Malaga´s top tapas bars with a dozen fresh oysters, or you fancy some fried squid in a beach bar, you will find it all, and more in Andalucia.  So eat like the locals.  Enjoy your food, relax and soak up the atmosphere. Jamón Serrano, a mountain ham, is eaten widely throughout Spain and is made from the meat of different breeds of white pigs such as duroc, landrace, or large white.  The animals are fed mainly cereals and the ham is cured for between 7 and 16 months.  There are almost 2,000 producers of Serrano ham in Spain, and the name jamón Serrano is now controlled by the European Union, which protects the processing of the product.

Jamón Ibérico, Iberian ham, is only made from the Iberian pig, the breeding of which is unique to southwestern Spain and southeastern Portugal.  This king amongst hams is produced from pigs who roam the countryside and feed on acorns.  The ham is cured for between 14 and 36 months.

So revered is the jamón in Spanish culture, that there is even a chain of Museos de Jamón, ham museums, around Spain.  Some regions which are famous for their jamón are Trevelez, in the the Sierra Nevada, Girona province in the region of Cataluña and the Soria province in the region of Castilla-Leon.

Manchego Cheese is made in the La Mancha region of Spain, with milk from manchego ewes, and aged for at least 60 days.  The cheese is made from pasteurized or unpasteurized milk, depending on whether it is hand-made, from ewes raised on registered ´Denomination of Origin´ farms.

The harsh, dry climate of La Mancha encourages tough plants to grow, which are then eaten by the manchego ewes, and the resulting cheese is both unique and delicious.
Tradition states that manchego cheese was first eaten many centuries before Christ, and the cheese-making methods were probably very similar to those of today.  A similar cheese used to be made with the milk of a race of sheep said to be the ancestors of the modern manchego breed.  This race of sheep would roam the land for centuries, accustomed to the rocky region of La Mancha. This delicious, milky cheese is enjoyed widely in Spain, and nowhere more so than in the restaurants and bodegas of Andalucia.

There are several different stories about the origin of tapas.  Some say they were first introduced in Granada, and served with every drink, to stop thirsty workmen getting drunk before dinner.  Another popular tale states that tapas (which is the Spanish word for covers) dates back to the time when plates were used to cover food to protect it from flies on the bar.  Hmmm …. That´s an interesting one!  You can still see uncovered food in most of today´s tapas bars, and for some reason, it just adds to the attraction.  One thing is for certain.  Tapas are still given away free in many bars in Granada, and it´s not unusual to be served crisps, olives or nuts with your drinks in other regions of Andalucia.

Wherever you travel in Andalucia, whether it is inland to the more rural regions, or to the beach bars of the Costa del Sol, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to eating out. Try the chringuitos of Marbella, the five star luxury of Puerto Banus, or the superb tapas bars in Sevilla, for a real taste of Andalucia

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Spain Travel Guide: Getting from Seville to Algarve




Thanks to the easy access between the two countries, combining Spain and Portugal in one trip is a popular option amongst travellers. Located on the bottom end of Portugal, Algarve is just across the border from Seville car hire making it easy to hop from one country to another. Although Huelva is closer to the Portuguese border, Seville is a bigger city popular among tourists, thus making an excellent base for tourists to travel between the two countries.

Algarve is a gorgeous region in Southern Portugal consisting of various coastal towns (such as Faro, Lagos and Portimão), top-quality resorts and stunning beachside cliffs. For those with a tight schedule but who want to add Portugal to your Spain trip, travelling from Seville to Algarve would be a great option due to their close proximity.

The cheapest way to from Seville to any town in Algarve is by bus – they are fast, punctual and easy to take. The bus routes serve most of the major towns along the coast and make for a scenic ride.

Otherwise, if you've got time to spare, take your time to slowly explore other parts of Portugal as well to get a good sense of the country. Besides travelling directly from Seville to Algarve, there are many other ways to get from Spain to Portugal.

There are no flights or trains from Seville to Algarve due to the short distance. The main airport of Algarve is in Faro and many budget airlines fly there from the UK and Madrid.

By bus

Buses are the best way to get from Seville to Algarve, stopping at Faro, Lagos, Albufeira and Portimao. Two main bus companies run the route. Eva Bus, the Portuguese bus company, has two departures a day – one at 7.30am and another at 4.15pm. Tickets cost 16euros each way to get from Seville to Faro. Return tickets are 27.20euros. The journey takes around 2 hours. The other bus company is Dama from Spain, departing at the same time. One-way tickets are 20euros and buses leave from Plaza de Armas station in Seville.
Note: make sure to look for "Lisboa" in the drop-down list.

By car

Renting a car is one of the best ways to get from Seville to the Algarve if you prefer to have freedom and want to explore at your own pace. It’s a great weekend getaway. The driving distance between Seville and Lisbon is 200 km and the journey takes about 2hours. You'll be taking A-49 and A-2. Both are toll roads.


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Shopping addict welcome to Alicante


Alicante has something to offer everyone when it comes to making purchases, regardless of whether you want to buy clothes, shoes and homewares designers trendiest or pottery, or looking to do brisk business among local artisans.

Shoe shops located in Alicante 

shopping alicanteIf you like shoes, you need to try the shops and stores along Avenida Maisonnave (Alicante) and surrounding streets, you will certainly find your happiness. Another cool place is around the corner of Calle Castaños, a pedestrian street next to the Rambla Méndez Núñez.




Top Shopping Malls of Alicante?
shopping alicanteThe city centre and old town offer several shopping malls, offering many choices for all, for shopping and for leisure. The mall Panoramis is particularly interesting and attractive, it is located on one side of the sports marina. There are several restaurants and chains of the most popular in Spain.

Have you never been to a typical Spanish market?
shopping alicanteIf you've never been to a typical Spanish market, why not go to Alicante Central Market (Mercado Central). There are all kinds of food, fresh fish, meat, fresh fruit to nuts, bread and desserts. Enjoy the atmosphere lively and colourful as you discover new fruit or watch the live seafood. Every Thursday and Saturday, various districts of Alicante offer outdoor markets, from 8:00 to 14:00. You will find them in the districts of Benalúa, Carolinas and Babel. On Sunday morning, just in front of City Hall, Plaza de Ayuntamiento hosting a flea market and philately.

Why not rent a car to move around Alicante?

shopping alicanteCar-2rent.com compares the different car hire supplier of malaga to find you the best rate 365 days/years. Please check Alicante car hire rate.

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Picasso Museum Malaga (Spain)




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Malaga is a beautiful city, but it's often overlooked by tourists who are more interested in the larger cities of Madrid and Barcelona. If you're looking for a vacation spot that's less crowded than Madrid or Barcelona, then Malaga should be your next destination.










Who is Pablo Picasso?

Pablo Picasso was born in Malaga on October 25, 1881. It is therefore fitting that the city be made a museum in honour of the Spanish genius. Since 2003, the Picasso Museum is housed in the twelve rooms of the Palacio de Buenavista, a Renaissance palace. Picasso is one of the most influential figures in art history.

Most people know his name, but few can tell you much about him or his work. His paintings are famous and valuable, but they don't hold a candle to what he did with sculpture, printmaking and ceramics. He was also an amazing draftsman and a prolific creator of prints making more than 1,000 etchings that were widely distributed throughout Europe during his lifetime.

What Pablo Picasso Museum has to offer?

The Picasso museum in Malaga has over 500 pieces of art from one of the most famous artists to have ever lived. This amazing collection includes paintings, sculptures, drawings and ceramics from his early years all the way up until his death at age 91. To reach the museum from Malaga airport we advise you to rent a car with our partner : https://www.car-2rent.com/spain/car-rental-malaga-airport


The base collection includes over 244 works from, mostly, a gift from Christine and Bernard Ruiz Picasso, the painter's heirs. All techniques and styles experienced by the artist are represented. There are paintings, drawings, sculptures but also ceramics and engravings. Among the major works exhibited include Maya with doll (1896-1897) and Portrait of Olga in mantilla (1917).


How to book a ticket for Picasso Museum Malaga ?

Practical Information
The Picasso Museum is located at 8, Calle San Agustín, Málaga.
Tel. (34) 952127600.
http://www.museopicassomalaga.org/

»Opening Hours:
Tuesday-Thursday, Sunday and holidays from 10am to 20pm. Friday and Saturday: 10h to 21h.
24 and 31 December: from 10h to 15h.
Closed Mondays, January 1 and December 25.

"Rates:
Full rates:
Exposure: 4.5 €. Collection: 6 €. Exhibition and Collection: 8 €.
Discount Rates:
Fares are half price for those over 65 and students under 26 years. Free for children under 18.


"Warning: Group tours require advance reservations of at least 10 days in advance.


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Ibiza the beautifull island of Spain !


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She is now the symbol of wealthy and connected tourism; nightclubs (including the famous Pacha) host the most famous DJs in the world, and its nightlife is the international rendezvous for the jet set's most eccentric.

The chief town of the island is Dalt Vila, dominated by its citadel which housed the castle and the cathedral. Its characteristic old town offers a maze of alleys in the bend where you fall on lavish homes of Gothic and Renaissance. Ibiza airport car rentalPort Eivissa, a synthesis of what is available in Ibiza, with its futures market, the fish market, pavement cafes and restaurants open all night and it's fashion boutiques where the signatures of famous designers.

Travelling to Ibiza

We all know that the weather in Ibiza is amazing, but it can be hard to find a good hotel at a reasonable price. The best hotels are always booked up months in advance, and if you're looking for last-minute deals they are usually overpriced or low quality.

That's why we created this website! Here you will find great deals on Ibiza holidays from verified accommodation providers with reviews from real travellers like yourself. It doesn't matter what kind of holiday experience you're looking for, whether it's a luxury villa with a pool or something more basic - we have an option for everyone! Our booking service allows you to book your stay directly through our site without any surprises when checking out (no hidden costs). You don't even need to worry about changing money because everything is done online and payments are accepted globally via credit card. No more searching around trying to find the right place; just use us as your one-stop.

Getting Married in Ibiza

Getting married in Ibiza is an amazing way to create memories that will last a lifetime. However, it can also be stressful and expensive if you don't plan well.

While planning your wedding might seem like the most important thing in your life right now, there are lots of things to consider before you say "I do." From finding the perfect location on a beautiful island to booking vendors who can make sure everything goes smoothly during the event itself, there's no shortage of details for couples looking to get married in Ibiza.

Ibiza wedding is here to help! Our local team has been working with brides and grooms from around the world for years and we're experts at helping couples find their dream venue and vendors for their special day. Whether you want something small or big, traditional or unique, our goal is always to help you have exactly what you've always dreamed about on your special day!
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Language course in Malaga


Learning a new language is hard. It's even harder when you don't have the right tools to help you succeed. 


We suggest you do a language course in Malaga to take Spanish classes. In Sprachcaffe, we believe that the best way to learn a language is to travel to the country where the language is spoken. With this in mind, we offer you the opportunity to experience the culture of Andalusia and visit museums and monuments in Malaga, while taking Spanish classes! You can rent a car in Malaga Airport to be free during your stay in Spain.

Why you should avoid app to learn a language

Language learning apps and software are expensive, and most of them just aren't that good. They're full of bugs and they really only teach you how to speak like a robot or translate from English into Spanish (or whatever). And it can take years before your brain starts actually thinking in another language.

Learn Spanish in Malaga

Most people never pick up another language because they find the process too difficult and frustrating. They don't realize that learning a new language can be easy and fun if you have the right tools to help you out. 

The Malaga Spanish course offers an all in one solution for anyone looking to learn the basics of Spanish quickly and easily without spending hundreds of dollars on classes or software programs. Our course was designed by experts who know exactly what beginners need when starting to learn a foreign language from scratch. You'll get everything you need from our online Spanish courses including interactive lessons, audio pronunciation guides, visual flashcards, quizzes with feedback, free mobile apps for practising your skills as well as access to native speakers so you can practice your newly learned Spanish with real people! We've made learning Spanish fun again!


If you plan to take an intensive course during your vacation, you prepare for exams or if you simply want to learn Spanish in a pleasant environment, our school in Malaga assures you to learn Spanish in a relaxed. During your language course in Malaga, you will also have the opportunity to share your day with the locals to put into practice the knowledge acquired in class. Enjoy your stay to discover Andalucia and Malaga visit!


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