I've always espoused the value of Me Time and today I had a lovely midday break in amongst my busy schedule. I took time out to head to the cinema, unfortunately I couldn't stretch to enough time for lunch too. I went to see the movie 6 Ways to Santiago. It’s about 6 different people … Continue reading A Little Me Time – The Camino
Spain
GOODBYE ECIJA
Friday night saw me bidding a sad farewell to the last group of my lovely students who have been a part of my life since last September. I have to admit I shed a little tear (and so did some of them). My walk home, after handing in the keys to my boss, was filled … Continue reading GOODBYE ECIJA
Exploring the Albayzin – Granada, Spain
The school year is drawing to a close, at least here in Europe, which means so too is my time here in Spain. I'm making the most of the last few weekends and have been to Granada, Cordoba and Seville this month. Distances are not as vast as at home in Australia, so even though … Continue reading Exploring the Albayzin – Granada, Spain
Granada Part 2 – The Alhambra
The Alhambra must surely be the jewel in the crown of Andalucia, a province that is rich with monuments, yet there is something that extra bit special about this historic citadel that overlooks the city of Granada. Nestled against the breathtaking backdrop of the snow-capped Sierra Nevada, the Alhambra, rises as a majestic fortress over … Continue reading Granada Part 2 – The Alhambra
Granada Part 1 – evoking memories of my childhood
My recent weekend in Granada (1st weekend in May) was a poignant reminder of my Middle Eastern childhood. A lot of things here in Spain remind me of the days in the Middle East – gas stoves, flat roofs where washing gets hung out and kids play, cobbled streets, fresh fruit and vegetable stalls, sunflower … Continue reading Granada Part 1 – evoking memories of my childhood
Granada – here I come!
I've dreamt of visiting Granada since I was a young girl reading novels set in the days of Muslim rulers, and then in the period of Isabella of Spain. My dream is finally coming true! Getting organised to make this trip has been no mean feat! Student timetables had to be rejiggled so I could … Continue reading Granada – here I come!
Malaga – a city of contrasts
The drive from my current home town of Ecija to Malaga yesterday was. much to my surprise, so picturesque. Very green, peppered with olive groves, scenic hill tops dotted with the occasional houses, dramatic drops and finally the views of the Mediterranean sea sparkling in the distance. A big shout out and thank you to … Continue reading Malaga – a city of contrasts
Semana Santa
The haunting sound of a mournful drum beat has pervaded my little flat each night for the last couple of weeks. Somewhere, close by, someone is practising for Semana Santa, a weeklong event that commemorates the death and resurrection of Christ. It’s the equivalent of our Easter, but on a much grander scale. Each of … Continue reading Semana Santa
Andalucia Day – 28 February
A gorgeous sunny day today as we mark Andalucia Day and the final day of February. Temperatures are on the rise so I'm a happy little Vegemite. My laundry is fluttering on the rooftop, I’ve thrown open all the windows, turned off the heating and moved back into my office as opposed to doing all … Continue reading Andalucia Day – 28 February
BACK IN SPAIN
Today is my fourth day back in Spain; I arrived Wednesday night and have been lucky not to have suffered from jet lag despite the very long trip. It was straight back to work Thursday morning so it’s nice to have this weekend to chill out. I spent yesterday checking out the rebajas - yep, … Continue reading BACK IN SPAIN
Michelle Hanton OAM - Dragon Sisters 