Sevilla, Espana!

Climbing the Giralda, visiting the Alcazar and the Barrio de Santa Cruz, shopping in Sevilla, going out for tapas, experiencing the local culture at night, and of course, getting to know some of the people who live in this amazing city were highlights.

Quick Tips:

Try to pick up a newspaper in the morning to find out what is happening around the city (papers are often handed out for free near bus stops). In terms of money, I found that an ATM card was the most convenient thing to use. If you need change for large bills (most small stores will not take large amounts of money) head to an "American" chain (Starbucks, Burger King, etc.) because they are the most willing to make change for you (you don't even have to buy anything).

Best Way To Get Around:

I found that walking is the easiest way to get around downtown Sevilla. Nothing is too far, and it is beautiful to see the city on foot. Personally, I would not recommend renting a car because the streets are very narrow and somewhat confusing; a car seems to be more trouble than it’s worth. The public transportation is generally good, but I would still suggest walking. Use caution walking in the summer, however, because the heat will easily overwhelm you if you're not prepared. Never be ashamed to whip out your map, but realize that most maps of Sevilla are missing many of the smaller side streets and thus are only helpful some of the time. The locals are usual willing to help you get where you're going (especially if you at least attempt to ask in Spanish).

The Plaza de Espana is one of the main tourist attractions in Sevilla. With the big fountain in the middle and the beautiful architecture, the plaza is breathtaking. Along the edge of the plaza, there are mosaics representing each of the autonomous regions of Spain, which are incredibly interesting to look at. On a side note, some scenes in the newer Star Wars movies were filmed in the Plaza de Espana. This stop will not take long to see, but it is worth a short visit if you are in the area. Also, the nearby Parque de Maria Louisa is great to walk through, and there are many museums within a short distance. Use caution because pickpockets often hang about the plaza especially when it is crowded.

The tallest building in Sevilla, the Giralda makes for an interesting stop. If you choose to climb to the top (don't worry about stairs - it's all ramps) the views are breathtaking. Also, the cathedral is located in the same place, making it easy to see them both in one trip.

The Alcazar is a beautiful building that mixes different types of architecture to create a masterpiece. It allows the visitor to see how different cultures have mixed in the history of Sevilla and today still serves as a royal residence when the King is visiting Sevilla. The surrounding gardens are also lovely to walk through and if you look hard enough there is an underground chamber housing an incredible reflecting pool. If you have the opportunity to take a tour, do so because the different styles and religious movements seen in the Alcazar's structure are fundamental in truly appreciating it. Avoid the gift shop, it's over priced and most of the same souvenirs can be purchased in smaller shops around the city. The Barrio de Santa Cruz is right nearby, along with many other sightseeing opportunities.

The Fashion Cafe is a typical Calle Betis bar: American tourists and the Spanish men who want to meet them. They play mostly American music. However, the beer is very cheap and the bartenders are very nice, so the best plan is to head to the Fashion Cafe to buy a drink and practice your Spanish with the bartenders, and then take your drink outside and sit along the river. This would actually be my recommendation for all the bars along Calle Betis (the street runs along the Triana side of the river). Many, however, are overpriced, so take care.

El Tunel is a heavy-metal bar located in the Triana section of Sevilla. A diverse selection of metal (mostly in English, although some Spanish) is played throughout the night, with videos playing on TVs. The drinks are cheap and there is always someone interesting to strike up a conversation with (if you speak Spanish, as the bar is filled mostly with Sevillanos). Make sure to take the time to talk with the bartenders, and if you go, on certain nights they cook food (one night, for instance, they made burgers for everyone, just for kicks). The bar isn't big, but it's the place to go if you want to enjoy heavy metal with the locals.