Malaga, a spotless city, tourist section and beyond
Leaving Italy and headed to Malaga, Spain. I really didn’t know what to expect besides a different language’ not that I would recognize it anyway. The people were helpful and very friendly but what struck me was how prideful they seem. I was struck at how utterly spotless the city was. I can’t imagine that it’s happenstance. The city actually shines, since the trash is put in receptacles that open to underground collection areas. It seems like something simple but seeing the cleanliness of the city, you have to admire this environmental brilliance.
It’s a city that truly shimmers with sleek tiles on not just the sidewalks, but the streets, alleys, and gutters too.
As far as tours, I decided on a couple. First was a climb up to Alcazaba, an ancient fort just outside the city. It was not too strenuous, but will get your heart pumping. It was interesting from an architectural and historical point of view. Following that climb, I would suggest to continue further up the hill to Castillo Gibraltaro. I found out later that there is transportation that will save you some of the climb. This walk was strenuous and I suspect during the summer it might be miserable. That being said, the views are worth every step. You will have great views of the city, bull ring, mountains, football stadium, port and the beach. I learned that Pablo Picasso was born in Malaga and spent his childhood there. Therefore, the next tours were Picasso’s museum and a visit to Picasso’s birth home. The Picasso museum had a lot of his work and was very interesting but not overwhelming. The childhood home was only a few euros, but they gave you plenty of cash grab options before you left. It had one of a kind items, pictures and clothing that made you feel the significance of the place where he spent his formative years.
When people travel, let’s face it, we want to eat. What we really want to know is where the locals eat. There are several good restaurants and tapas bars in old town, you really can find some great places. Atarazanas market is where you will find where the locals eat seafood and the market will awaken your senses. Bar Mercado Atarazanas, is the restaurant of choice for locals. The grilled tuna and shrimp pinchitos -skewers are 3.50 Euros each. They are perfect, you will find yourself back for more daily, you will see.
Take care and and start planning to get lost!