Favourite Spanish Places

Andalusia has started to become a firm favourite for a short break.  La Villa Marbella with its beautifully converted old town buildings and superb service from Marcos and his team means that we and others return again and again www.lavillamarbella.com/

There is plenty to do and see in this stunningly beautiful region of Spain think Moorish style buildings, Sierra Morena mountains, bull rings, flamenco, more sunshine than anywhere else in Europe and the classic towns of Cadiz, Seville and Ronda

Then of course there is the tapas. Its night one and our traditional first stop is La Taberna de Pintxo. We sit outside on high stools looking out on people strolling along the wide plaza and beyond that the
 sea. You help yourself to tapas inside from inside the bar picking from a wonderful wide selection.

In the more traditional cool narrow streets of the Old Town giant sherry barrels form the Tapas bar tables this feels authentic and more traditional. Octopus and thinly sliced serrano ham provide the perfect snack.

We had heard good things about Malaga old town in the heart of a sprawling modern city. The cathedral, palace, roman theatre and strenuous climb to the fortress filled an enjoyable few hours. The real highlight though was lunch.

Recommended by the marvellous Marcos, El Pimpi close to Teatro Romana was an amazing find. Packed tables inside and out, live music in the square and a general sense of fun and contentment. The baby squid was delicious and tiny deep fried whitebait served over melting red peppers and egg possibly the best dish of the holiday. We would return to Malaga for the El Pimpi experience alone.

Souks, Spices and Street Food

The sights, smells and sounds of vibrant Marrakech captivate and charm. There is so much to explore and experience. Visit early evening as the sun gradually sinks behind the Koutoubia minaret and the Medina in this walled city is bursting into life.

Snake charmers, musicians, acrobats, fortune tellers and henna tattooists entertain the throngs while the square becomes one enormous open air restaurant full of aromas to tempt and tantalise.

Behind the Medina is a shoppers heaven of the maze like souks. Ceramics, leather work, shoes, olives, mint, herbalists, wool, carpets, chickens and wonderful spices.

At dinner in the square we were crammed together on trestle tables watching the chefs at work while the smoke of the food stalls rises and music plays all adding to the mystical atmosphere

There was soft fresh bread, succulent olives and spicy tomato dip then aromatic vegetable couscous, and mixed kebabs all for a reasonable 140 dirham or £10 for two

Marrakesh is full of energy, colour and charm. The people are warm and welcoming. There is plenty in this walled city to fill a few days. Bartering in the souks is part of the fun and I am pleased with my purchase of these delicate tea glasses a reminder of a very enjoyable break in the sun.