Christmas in Spain: A Scenic Drive from Seville to the Cliffs of Gibraltar

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We spent 4 days and Christmas in Seville. We were told we would be closed. However, we were pleasantly surprised and delighted to find they were wrong during Christmas in Seville. Initially, we were warned that many establishments would be closed during the holiday period. However, to our pleasant surprise, Seville proved to be bustling with life and activity, defying our expectations. We were thrilled to discover that the city was very much alive, with vibrant markets, lively streets, and a palpable sense of festive cheer. It was a wonderful revelation that only added to the joy and magic of our holiday experience in this enchanting Spanish city.

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Seville was the largest city on our tour of Andalusia. So we upgraded our hotel to a nicer one. And dug our heel in for a quiet holiday. Thankfully, it was exactly the opposite and we got a real good look at the people and how they spend Christmas in this amazingly beautiful country.

Seville & Gibraltar
Christmas in Seville 

Christmas in Seville. What’s there to complain about? We’ve stayed in some nice hotels since arriving in Europe, but the suite at the Hotel Meliá Seville was definitely an upgrade for the Peters family. Our original accommodations were much more modest, but after seeing the small room’s proportions, we quickly traded up to a suite that included breakfast, free Wi-Fi access, video games, and two flat screens to play them on.

Siesta Time

Siesta reigns in the big city too. Businesses close early in the afternoon to take a midday nap and eat the largest meal of the day with their families. Everything opens back up around 5 pm, but many restaurants don’t serve dinner until 8 pm or later.

The Old City

The maze of narrow alleys, hidden plazas and pretty window boxes brimming over with cascading flowers evoke romance. We strolled around the narrow streets, no larger than an alley back home, giving way to expansive plazas dominated by the chalk lettered menus of the pretty outdoor cafes, horse-drawn carriages and strolling guitarists.

Something unexpected happens around every corner. We found ourselves shaded by a large umbrella while a Faedo singer serenaded us. The moody, soulful melody, wafted through the air, was filled with passion. We sipped cocktails and ate tapas. Seville is where we really discovered the laid back tapas lifestyle.

I Love Tapas

Tapas are not a particular food; they are snacks, canapés, or finger food that fills the void between lunch and dinner. We loved that we could try new ones every day and that we were satisfied but never full.

Where we Stayed

Melia Sevilla It was a beautiful hotel located next to Plaza España in central Seville. We upgraded to a suite at a significant increase, at the hotel’s suggestion, which was fine. The room we originally booked was for 4 but the hotel staff said we should upgrade because my son (who stood next to me while I was checking even though I kept telling him to sit down) was obviously older than 12.

Okay, so I was trying to “get over” by spending less money. I should have taken that out of his allowance. After seeing the two rooms it was a no-brainer. Our upgrade included unlimited concierge service, 24 hr Internet, game and game consoles, and daily breakfast, which was pretty expensive but extensive– they had everything I could have ever wanted for breakfast.

The Rock of Gibraltar

“That” was completely underwater? I can still remember saying when I first saw the Rock of Gibraltar tower above the road in front of me. Gibraltar is comprised of limestone or coral. It’s a grand sight that seems to teeter on the edge of the European continent. Gibraltar is a self-governing British territory less than 1 square mile. It relies on the UK for matters of defense and foreign affairs. Cruise ships, leisure boats, and visitors like you and me contribute to its economic welfare.

It was once a substantial British naval port. Gibraltar has become the place people come to ferry over to Morocco. They visit with the semi-wild Barbary Apes. Outdoor enthusiasts spelunk the more than 140 caves that shred “The Rock.”

If you decide to visit the Gibraltar Ape Sanctuary, it’s crucial to refrain from feeding or attempting to touch the apes. Engaging in such actions could result in receiving a hefty £500 fine. As a result, it’s essential to respect the rules and regulations to ensure the well-being and safety of visitors and the sanctuary’s inhabitants.

Where we Stayed
Holiday Inn Los Barrios  We only for one night; can’t beat $60 for two rooms.

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