Andalucía: back to solo travelling

I hadn’t been solo travelling for over two years. I knew I missed it, but it wasn’t until this week-long trip around Andalucía that I realised just how much travelling means to me.

First stop: Málaga

After a 2.5 hour flight with my ex where we caught up the whole journey, and even went for a beer after (I know, we’re being very mature about the breakup) I checked into my first hostel in Málaga. The following morning was set aside for a reunion. One of my friends from Colima who hosted a lovely Ukrainian Easter breakfast while we were out there, now lives in Marbella. So we went for brunch and caught up on the last three years of our lives where a huge lot had changed for both of us.

Second stop: Córdoba

From the beating sun and sea breeze, to a misty chill and drizzle – I’d arrived in Córdoba.

This part of Andalucía took me by surprise. It’s rich mix of Muslim, Christian and Jewish cultures gives it a unique character that adds to its charm. Plus, its patios are absolutely beautiful.

I was a little worried about staying on my own in hostels again as it’d been a while. But I couldn’t be more grateful for the people I met along the way. We ate, drank and visited beautiful places together. Hearing about their travels, home lives, cultures and beliefs just spurred me on to visit the world.

Last stop: Granada

Another city of reunions. Firstly, the beautiful Alhambra. The last time I came to the city was back in 2015. This year, I stumbled across certain points in the city from 2015 including a spot where I’d gotten lost, our cave house AirBnB, and a couple bars, bringing back lovely memories of a hot summer. One downside of that trip: my camera with hundreds of photos of Alhambra was stolen which was heartbreaking. So this time, my plan was to create new photos and new memories of both the palace and Granada itself.

The second reunion was with another friend from my Year Abroad in Colima. Catching up was an absolute delight. And it’s great that both him and his ex (the one in Marbella) live in Andalucía, making it all the more easier for me to visit again.

Which I’ll definitely do – solo, of course.

Lessons learnt: solo travelling will always be a part of me, hostel terraces are the place to be, and international friends are great.