Alhambra Tour and Beginning of School

Alhambra Sunday January 16^th

It’s difficult to describe in words the beauty of the Alhambra. Imagine an intricate palace that took decades to build. Every corner is embellished with marble, ceramics, and religious imagery. There are breathtaking views of the city from all around. The best part of the Alhambra was saved for last: the Generalife garden. I’ll post pictures because describing it in words doesn’t do it justice. 

The tour of the Alhambra lasted a quick 6 hours with a short lunch break in the middle. My senora packed my lunch, which included more than half a loaf of Italian bread as my sandwich with a few pieces of thinly sliced ham, 2 mandarin oranges, and a coca-cola. Score.  When I came back to the apartment, I was exhausted and sore, but definitely worth the pain. I highly recommend visiting the Alhambra if you ever come to Granada.

First Day of School, Monday, January 18

I had my parents skype me their time (12:00 a.m.) in order to wake me up at 7 a.m. my time. I bet they’re glad that I finally got an alarm clock.  The first day of school was pretty relaxed and I had a huge break in the middle. Mondays and Wednesdays I have class 11-12:30 and 4:30-6 with a very large siesta in the middle. Tuesdays and Thursdays I have class from 9 a.m. straight through until 2:30. After that last class, I’ll book it home for lunch and have the rest of the day free! Friday, por supuesto, there is no class which leaves plenty of time to do some traveling on the weekends. 

Last night I went out with my amigas to a tapas bar. While it was a bit confusing/stressful to choose a place and all meet in one spot, we finally sat down to order a drink. My friend Mary Kate ordered a tinto de verano, which sparked my memory about a suggestion from a friend back home. He told me to try this drink, while it was a tad bit girly, because it will be the best drink of your life. Not sure if it’s the best ever, but it’s up there. 

Point of interest: I believe I walked nearly 10 miles, if not more today. Me duele el culo.

Tuesday, January 19^th

Used my new phone alarm this morning without a problem! Woke up early to get ready and walked to my 9 a.m. class. I think I’m starting to get used to a 30-minute walk each way. No wonder Europeans are so in shape!  They walk everywhere! I had class from 9-2:30 and I’ve never walked faster in my life. I know one thing is for sure, my stomach is not used to eating a small meal at 8 a.m. and then waiting until 3 p.m. for lunch.  It gets a little embarrassing when other classmates can here your estomago growling.

**One thing I learned about Granada today: If you step in dog poop (caca), it is considered great luck!  Good thing there are tons of stray dogs J