Monday, January 23, 2017

TAKE THE TRAIN THROUGH THE PLAINS OF SPAIN TO THE FASCINATING CAPITAL OF ANDALUCIA

If You Wanna Dance and Eat Well - Head for Seville

As we boarded the train bound for Seville, the small capital of one of the most endearing regions of Spain, Andalucia, I was taken back to my memories of train travel in Italy and France. I said, at the time, and I still say - These Europeans got this train thing figured out. Immaculate, comfortable and very fast, train travel in Europe, Spain included, is the best way to go from any point A to any point B. And it's very reasonably priced. The web site for RAIL EUROPE is easy to use to procure reasonably priced tickets, and, there are many other ticket sellers at various prices, higher and lower. As we pulled away from our three days in Europe's second coolest capital, we were so looking forward to more adventures, expected and unexpected. And, as expected, the trip via train was like riding on air - fabulosas!

A Quick 2+ Hours On The Train And An Interesting Cab Ride To Another AIRBNB Winner

We collected our luggage and hailed a cab. After getting in the cab, with his English and our Spanish, he entered the address of our AIRBNB in his I-phone. As usual, in most European cities, unless a place is on a central or main street, it doesn't really comply with Google Map requirements for specific locations not on a beaten path. As we are winding our way through narrow lanes, our driver is asking people for help in finding our place. After a few enquiries and several turns, we found the AIRBNB we would be in for the next three nights. Just a note for Interesting Vagabonds - If you are traveling in a country or region for a couple of weeks, I highly recommend staying in each place or city you visit a minimum of three days to get the feel and vibe of the place and truly enjoy what it has to offer.

We entered the access code and walked into the contemporary studio the yellowBox and, as with every AIRBNB we have stayed in, were highly impressed with the design and location  of the place and its surroundings. It was thoroughly modern, comfortable and aesthetically unique in every respect. It had all the basics covered - comfortable bed, great shower/bath and ample room to relax and read or plan our next venture out. In addition  to the interior design of original brick walls, modern furnishings and a complete kitchen, the neighborhood was in the middle of everything, yet very private. Another unexpected weekly happening every Friday was an open market in the small square which the studio borders. And, because its in Spain, there were many things for sale that you just don't find at home. We even bought some tiles which we plan to install in a small courtyard in our own house.

Not long after arriving, I texted the owner, who came by with goodies, cookies, fruit, o.j. etc. and showed us the many places and things we could enjoy in the area. Our time spent in this unique rental unit from AIRBNB was excellent in every way. And the price was $80 - $120, depending on when you go. As an architect and a demanding vagabond, it exceeded every expectation we had for a great, comfortable and low cost place to lay our heads and hang out between trips around town.
 
So - It's only January - get busy. With great exchange rates and economical options for everything in this great modern and history filled country, Seville is one place you don't want to miss. Next post - The Flamenco Experience in Detail.
 
Comer Tapas Un Poco - You'll Thank Me !
 
d.l.stafford
 
 



Lamata 24

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