Madrid

Staying at an Airbnb for the first time made me wonder why it took me so long to try this amazing option for holiday rentals! An elegant, clean and spacious apartment just off Grand Vie was the perfect location to explore the incredible city of Madrid! Just 5 minutes from the breathtakingly beautiful Royal Palace, the apartment was close enough to hop back for a siesta when things got too hot!

 

 

Another must do on my list was an ebike ride around the fabulous and massive El Retiro Park, with lush green trees (including the oldest tree in Madrid) monuments, statues and gardens. It was the perfect way to spend a morning! Warm people, rich history, stunning architecture and delicious food … I enjoyed meeting tourists and Madrilenos over a tapas tour organised by Airbnb- my favourite.. gambas at La Abaceria and the view of the Grans Vie at night from the rooftop bar at Picalagartos!

 

 

 

Seville

My charming AirBnB in Santa Teresa was situated in the historic heart of Seville. A charming gated community filled with flamenco bars, cafés and street shops around narrow cobbled walkways, made exploring on foot fun. Walking distance from the Royal Alcazar, Plaza Mayor , the cathedral and the river , it was the perfect place for a quick stop over in this gorgeous city.

 

 

A tour on an electric scooter turns out to be a fun way to take in all the sights and experience a day in the life of Seville. Ended my day with a meal by the river, watching the historic bridges light up as the sun went down.

 

 

 

Mallorca

Surf, sand and a dash of clear blue sky has always been the perfect holiday recipe for me ! A quick pit stop at the stunning seaside destination of Mallorca before heading to my final leg of #travelwithrehan through Spain. My hotel in Paguera is scenically situated on a hill between two lovely beaches. A three minute walk leads me to the Main Street of this coastal town . Beach vibes and the salt on the air make the perfect condiment for my delicious meal of grilled salmon burger at Mar Y Mar. It's a lazy two days in an otherwise hectic vacation that I wouldn’t do any other way.

 

 

Barcelona

It's 'Gaudiful' days in Barcelona at the end of my visit to Spain. Once again my Airbnb is fabulous and located in the heart of the city, making it easy to explore and hop back for quick siestas. A fully equipped kitchen inspires me to make breakfast on a lazy morning.

 

 

The city leaves an unforgettable imprint on me - from the vibrancy and rainbow light that streams through the stained glass at Sagrada Familia to it’s unique exterior - it is truly a masterpiece born of Gaudi's dedication over 4 decades. I enjoy visiting his other works at Casa Batllo and  at Pak Guell.

 

 

The stunning mountains of Santa Maria de Montserrat and the magnificent Black Madonna are equally but differently captivating. People watching and shopping at La Rambla is enhanced with amazing food - I try grilled Octopus for the first time and delight in the ramen and sushi also.

 

 

Strains of Freddie Mercury at his operatic best with 'Barcelona' play in the background as I write this.. and I think that a city like this deserves such a dramatic and moving performance!