Gastronomy Andalucian Style

In the area around Malaga, birthplace of Picasso, are villages scattered amongst the inland mountains referred to as the Aljapuras region.

Other specialties of this region include the famous snow-cured hams and the Costa wines, which are quite fine.

In Spain the main meal is served during the midday break, and can be quite extensive with lots of wine and brandy to wash the meal down. This of course calls for a typical siesta of two to three hours for recovery, before returning to work for the afternoon.

Continue reading

Gazpacho From Andalaucia

This is famous peasant fare, originating as a simple concoction made for the poor fieldworkers from local fresh ingredients. Gazpacho became a standard offering after the Spanish brought tomatoes back from the New World. Traditionally olive workers and farmers out in the fields all day would bring quite the spread of home made goodies along for lunch, and often the entire family was along during harvest season, so food was served al fresco, in the fields. Gazpacho is also quite easy to prepare, with everything mashed together in a mortar and pestle and left standing in a cool spot alongside the fields. Pour it into a bowl, smother it with garnish and munch your way through a refreshing lunch. Continue reading

Grenada

See Grenada Hotels!


The timeless Alhambra

Grenada is an industrialized region at the foot of the Sierra Nevadas. It’s crowded, noisy, polluted, but full of life! The main attraction to the area is the famous Alhambra, a moorish palace that still retains its awesome beauty after many centuries.

Grenada was founded in the 8th century by the Moors and was a major seat of power for Moorish Spain until 1492, when the Spanish conquest wrested the city away for the Moors. During the Moors rule the city was a major center for art, literature, science and trade.

Ronda

There are many interesting towns and villages throughout the Andalucian countryside. Ronda is a picturesque day trip (68K) from Marbella, and well worth a visit.

The road up into the mountains that surround Marbella is winding with breathtaking views. Take advantage of the turnouts to take a break, checkout the vistas and even take a walk into the woods.

Continue reading

Driving over Lemons: An Optimist in Spain

Driving over Lemons: An Optimist in Spain by Chris Stewart Chris Stewart was once the drummer for Genesis, and this is the story of how he purchased a farm house in Andalucia, without electricity, running water, or even a road. It’s a very well-written, funny tale of expat life, filled with all sorts of cultural problems, and interesting people. This book is a top ten hit in the UK, as I’m sure many there can relate to trying to relocate in Spain. Great holiday reading!