After a long and winding train ride through some incredible scenery (at times), the trip to Sevilla was a long anticipated getaway. Even after a short time in both areas, once again the stark contrast between north and south became apparent during my stay in Sevilla. I was fortunate enough to have the company of some friends I met in Barcelona, which always makes for a more enjoyable trip. I saw the major sites in essentially a day, which gave me plenty of time to soak in as much culture as I could in a couple days.

Located in the rolling hills of Andalucia, blanketed by a cloak of green meadows, Sevilla possesses a certain charm that I didn’t really want to leave. A small town ambiance allowed me to feel at home, without worry of pickpockets or any losing my gear. A large part of the culture, that I was fortunate enough to experience a few nights for free (at La Carboneria), is Flamenco. This is a very dramatic style of music and dance usually performed by three or four entertainers. There is at least one guitarist, and two people responsible for a rhythmic clapping and stomping, one of whom usually begins to dance at some point in the performance. I have to be honest, at first it is a little hard to grasp what they are trying to do, but after really submitting yourself to the performance, you can enjoy their dedication to the craft of Flamenco. Before you dive into the Flamenco, be sure to stop at one of the many locations that offers tapas. Tapas are a great way to relax, enjoy a few drinks, chat with friends, and enjoy some delicious traditional Spanish food.

While taking in the smells, tastes, and feel of Sevilla, don’t forget to stop at some of the sights. The major attraction to anyone in town is the Catedral. The third largest in Europe only behind St. Paul’s in London and St. Peter’s in The Vatican. Formerly a mosque that was constructed by the conquering Moors, the building was remodeled on several occasions due to the new reign of Christianity, this makes for an interesting architectural style. Admission is only 2 euro for students and 8 euro for adults. Take your time walking around admiring the large amount of decorative stone, then head to the connected bell tower known as the Giralda. Climb the 34 flights of winding ramps to reach the top and take in the amazing views of the entire city. Upon decent, you enter into the orange tree garden, a beautiful place to relax after the tiring climb up and down the Giralda. Near the Catedral is the Real Alcazar (Palace), which I never got a chance to see, but have heard great things, so you may want to check that out as well. The one place I wanted to see, even though the main event would unfortunately not be taking place, is the Plaza de Toros (Bull Fighting Ring). I crept my way past admissions to give myself a free tour. Not a whole lot to see without a fight going on! The arena was impressive if you could imagine a matador teasing the bull only before his imminent death. Defintely worth a quick stop as you stroll down the Canal de Alfonso. The main body of water near the city center is not actually a river, but is beautiful none the less. There is something about the proximity of water that is very calming. Along the canal I ducked into Parque de Maria Luisa, where I enjoyed some quiet time in an enchanting park right in the center of town. I got in a little reading, and let my mind wander about too many things. One side of the park in encompased by Plaza de Espana, a semicircular plaza with unique tiled benches to rest on.

Sevilla epitomizes the ending of my journey, calm, quiet and a great way to relax before heading home and facing new challenges. Take it slow in Sevilla and you will love every bit of your stay.