Sevilla/Córdoba

Let's start out by saying both were FABULOUS! If I had to choose, I think I'd say Sevilla was my favorite of the two. It seemed like there was a bit more to see and do there, but I was also pretty exhausted by the time we got to Córdoba so that might also have something to do with it. Both are definitely must-sees, but I think it's safe to say we found that people are a bit more inviting towards tourists here in Granada than they were in Sevilla or Córdoba. Overall, it was a great experience and I'm grateful to all the people who planned it so well. Yes, it was a lot of walking and a lot of listening (i.e. trekking through cities and trying to understand our guide in Spanish...they were very animated, so it wasn't impossible), but if you're going to do Sevilla and Córdoba each in a day our itinerary is the way to go. PRO TIP: if you plan to go out at night, take an ice bath or a nap or both during your break. Accept the fact that you're going to be exhausted no matter what you do, but remember that coffee is your friend and how many times do you get to party with Spaniards? The following are four things in particular that I really liked about these cities.

1) The view from the top of the cathedral in Sevilla. A picture is worth a thousand words, so...

I promise, 35 ramps to the top is not as bad as it sounds.

2) Getting to see the Procession of the Virgin Mary. Unfortunately for those of you who will visit in the nearish future, this procession only happens once every 50 years. Fortunately for us, it literally went right by our hotel! People in surrounding apartments didn't seem to happy about all the noise, but it was definitely very cool to see.

3) Fun fact about the Mezquita in Córdoba: it's gone through quite a few significant transitions. It was first built as a Catholic cathedral, then was converted into an Islamic mosque, and now it's a cathedral again. The current building is constructed right on top of the first, and there's a small section (not well photographed by yours truly, so apologies), where you can actually see that!

4) Wading in a fountain in Sevilla's Maria Luisa Park. It was hot, we were tired, and the water was delightful. This may not be a must-do per say, but we thought it was a great way to spend part of our two hours of free time. Plus other Spaniards were doing it so clearly its a legit cultural experience. 

P.S. The Spanish king abdicated today! This would be a huge deal for any country, but King Juan Carlos also happens to be the first king of Spain to abdicate, and the king who is known for helping the country transition to democracy in the 70s.