Americans “Doing” Spain

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22/04/2023

Hola friends

My love affair with Spain dates back to 1988, when I arrived in Malaga late one September evening. I had no idea then and am still in awe how this country would become an intricate part of my life. I knew nothing when I arrived! Absolutely nothing! I’ve had problems, made mistakes, left, came back, left again, and now am up to six months a year in Spain, and plan to make the final move soon!

How did I get here? My parents made the decision to retire to Italy in Spring of 88. They had no idea where in Italy, just Italy! Soon they were to learn that as an immigrant buying property had many restrictions in this country. Restrictions they were ill equipped to navigate.
However, they said they were leaving so they, one way or another, were going somewhere, that was not Edinburgh!

Shortly after that setback my mother and sister were shopping in Edinburgh city center when they came across an estate agent window displaying pictures of an ancient, white, village in the mountains of Andalucai, Spain. They did not know at the time, but this was to become our home. Not only did they not know it would be our home, they did not know where Andalucia was!

They returned home dripping wet from the cold rain, but warm from the excitement of their new discovery. Within the hour the decision was made! The entire family was moving to Competa, East of Malaga, in Andalucia, Spain. C O M P E T A, a village with 2,500 hundred people in 1988 with fewer than 20 people who were not native. Now in 2023 it’s closer to 4,000 with 40% being immigrants from over 50 different countries.

This is a long story as 35 years have passed since the big decision was made. Tomorrow I’ll share about the journey, from getting there to home buying, great friends, Spanish culture, and lots lots more.

Hasta Manana

07/08/2021

Canones de Sil Galicia

06/08/2021

Bagpipes in Santiago de Compostela.

06/08/2021

Galicia looks so much like Scotland.

06/08/2021

A week in Galicia.

04/08/2021

Enjoying the Summer in Competa, Malaga.

04/08/2021

Camping in Galicia.

04/08/2021

9 1/2 hours drive from Malaga, in the South to
O cebrieio in Galicia.

02/08/2021

Granada is a three hour bus ride from Seville. A scenic drive through Andalucia.
Apart from the historic Alhambra, there are lots of interesting things to do and see in Granada. Sacramontes, the area where the Gypsy‘s live and perform the hypnotic Flamenco in caves after dark. This is one experience not to be missed.
Granada is also famous for the authentic tapa. The tradition here is that you are served a “bite” with every drink. If you plan on going for dinner be careful. These ”bites” can often be quite filling.

02/08/2021

Ronda
Constructed around a deep gorge, Ronda is a truly breathtaking destination. When you visit, you can see right in and around El Tajo Gorge, and you can admire the blue waters of the Guadalevín River cutting right through it.
(touropia.com)

02/08/2021

Arcos de la Frontera
The small town of Arcos de la Frontera can be found south of Seville and a mere five minutes from the nearby Jerez de la Frontera. Arcos de la Frontera was created atop a sandstone ridge for protection against attack, but today that location is known for its sweeping vistas.
(touropia.com)

02/08/2021

Jerez de la Frontera.
Situated south of Seville, Jerez de la Frontera is a city with a diverse and epic history. Jerez de la Frontera has been under Moorish rule as well as Christian rule, and its proximity to Africa has also influenced the development of the city.
(touropia.com)

02/08/2021

From Seville it is possible to take day trips to many fascinating places.
map- touropia.com

30/07/2021

This site may help answer some questions.
https://www.frommers.com/destinations/spain/planning-a-trip/health--insurance

Here's a guide to health & insurance in Spain - everything you need to know.

30/07/2021

I had someone ask me about travel insurance for a few months in Spain traveling with a child. I am no expert, but asked around and friends in Spain recommended ASISA.

You of course can look up online, but to save you all the leg work I found this site from the “consumer advocate.org

https://www.consumersadvocate.org/travel-insurance/a/best-travel-insurance?bundle=sem&pd=true&keyword=travel%20insurance&gca_campaignid=777663508&gca_adgroupid=61007986251&gca_matchtype=p&gca_network=g&gca_device=c&gca_adposition=&gca_loc_interest_ms=&gca_loc_physical_ms=9028050&gclid=CjwKCAjwxo6IBhBKEiwAXSYBs3gnxuGRCCbltvhUDyOqMlgIgMx1_--B_e9EEkJd63IKiMHTUfl9xBoC1nMQAvD_BwE

Protect your trip with coverage for delays, illness, lost luggage, and natural disasters. Learn about coverage and benefits from Allianz, WorldNomads & m...

30/07/2021

Barrio Santa Cruz - Seville Old Town
The old town, city center & the Jewish quarter of Seville Spain

A long time ago, Seville had the largest Jewish community in Spain. When Ferdinand III of Castile conquered the city from the Almohads in 1248, he handed over this district to the Jews. In this district, they could live with relative freedom. (Sevillecityguide.com)

The neighborhood is a maze of narrow streets and alleys, where you can wander around or enjoy one of the many (touristy) restaurants or attractive squares. Nowadays, this district and old town, with its many white houses, is the tourist centre of Seville.

Located behind the Catederal.
Images Seville city guide.com

30/07/2021

Free walking tour in Seville! Walking 🚶 and Bicycle tours are available in the city, but what price is better than free?

Freewalkingtourssevilla.tours offer some great informative, fun tours, showing lots of historical sites while offering interesting talks in both English and Spanish.
These tours are busy so book as soon as you arrive!

30/07/2021

Weather: Seville is lovely Spring and Fall. Avoid August if you don’t like the heat!

30/07/2021

Seeing the Catederal in Seville is a must do!
This majestic Cathedral dates back to the 15th century and claims to be the third largest building of its kind in the world.
(TripAdvisor.com)
There are many people selling tour tickets. The vary in Price for the same tour.
People i. The know can get a tour, and skip the lines for about $15.
A five star ⭐️ tour!

30/07/2021

Seville is a vibrant city with lots of great architecture and history. Art is everywhere you go, but the most exciting thing is the easy access to incredible Flamenco! Of course there are lots of free shows, but the most amazing performances are at the “El Museo de Baile Flamenco”. Music, dance, ambience, drinks, and a small audience makes for a great experience!
You can also visit the small museum for a fee.
The cost of the Patio show is $30 and can be booked three months in advance. Or you can buy tickets on the day, if available!