Spain Trip (11-27 Nov 2022)

Spain Trip from 11 to 27 November 2022
1 Contents
1 Contents .................................................................................................................................................... 1
2 Introduction .............................................................................................................................................. 4
2.1 Deciding on Spain ....................................................................................................................................... 4
2.2 Lack of Preparation ................................................................................................................................. 4
3 Overall Itinerary ....................................................................................................................................... 4
4 Flight In .....................................................................................................................................................7
5 Barcelona .................................................................................................................................................. 8
5.1 Google Map ................................................................................................................................................. 8
5.2 Attraction ................................................................................................................................................. 8
5.2.1 La Rambla ............................................................................................................................................ 8
5.2.2 Casa Batllo ........................................................................................................................................... 9
5.2.3 Cathedral of Barcelona ...................................................................................................................... 10
5.2.4 Barcelona History Museum .............................................................................................................. 10
5.2.5 Picasso Museum ................................................................................................................................ 10
5.2.6 Museu d'Història de Catalunya ......................................................................................................... 11
5.2.7 Barceloneta Beach ............................................................................................................................... 11
5.2.8 Montserrat .......................................................................................................................................... 12
5.2.9 Placa d’Espanya .................................................................................................................................. 13
5.2.10 La Sagrada Familia ........................................................................................................................ 14
5.2.11 Flea Market - Los Encants ................................................................................................................ 16
5.2.12 Hospital de Sant Pau ..................................................................................................................... 16
5.3 Food .........................................................................................................................................................17
5.3.1 Restaurante Mino ...............................................................................................................................17
5.3.2 Pastisseria La Estrella ........................................................................................................................ 18
5.3.3 Santa Caterina Market ...................................................................................................................... 18
5.3.4 Vegetalia Born ................................................................................................................................... 19
5.3.5 Can Sardi ........................................................................................................................................... 19
5.3.6 Gelati Dino Italia .............................................................................................................................. 19
5.3.7 Bar El Rincon ..................................................................................................................................... 20
5.3.8 Dumplings ......................................................................................................................................... 20
5.3.9 Bar Portanova ..................................................................................................................................... 21
5.3.10 Arc Iris ............................................................................................................................................ 21
5.3.11 Abirradero .......................................................................................................................................... 22
5.3.12 Coooffee ............................................................................................................................................. 22
5.4 Accommodation .................................................................................................................................... 22
5.4.1 Hotel Best Auto Hogar ..................................................................................................................... 22
5.5 To Next Destination ............................................................................................................................. 23
6 Granada Province – Mountain Villages .................................................................................................. 23
6.1 Google Map ........................................................................................................................................... 23
6.2 Attraction ............................................................................................................................................... 24
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6.2.1 Trevelez ............................................................................................................................................. 24

6.2.2 Trek from Trevelez to Busquistar .................................................................................................... 25
6.2.3 Portugos ............................................................................................................................................. 27
6.2.4 Capileira ............................................................................................................................................. 27
6.2.5 Orgiva ................................................................................................................................................ 29
6.3 Food ........................................................................................................................................................ 30
6.3.1 Trevelez - Restaurante Nuevo González ......................................................................................... 30
6.3.2 Portugos – Cooked Dinner and Breakfast........................................................................................ 30
6.3.3 Portugos - Restaurante Mirador de Portugos .................................................................................... 31
6.3.4 Capileira - Café Delicias .................................................................................................................... 31
6.3.5 Capileira – Restaurante el Asador .................................................................................................... 32
6.3.6 Orgiva - Breakfast ............................................................................................................................. 32
6.3.7 Orgiva - Tetería Baraka .....................................................................................................................33
6.3.8 Orgiva - Panadería La Tahona de los Galindos ................................................................................33
6.4 Accommodation .....................................................................................................................................33
6.4.1 Trevelez – Hostal Casa Fermina .......................................................................................................33
6.4.2 Portugos – La Placeta Guesthouse .................................................................................................... 34
6.4.3 Capileira – Hotel Rural Real de Poqueira .........................................................................................35
6.4.4 Orgiva – Casa Jazmin ........................................................................................................................35
6.5 To Next Destination ..............................................................................................................................35
7 Granada City ........................................................................................................................................... 36
7.1 Google Map ........................................................................................................................................... 36
7.2 Attraction ............................................................................................................................................... 36
7.2.1 Mirador de San Nicolas .................................................................................................................... 36
7.2.2 Alhambra ........................................................................................................................................... 37
7.2.3 Cathedral de Granada ....................................................................................................................... 38
7.2.4 Monasterio de San Jerónimo ............................................................................................................ 38
7.2.5 Walking Tour – Albaicin, Sacromonte (Muslim neighbourhoods) ............................................... 39
7.2.6 Flamenco at La Cueva de la Rocio .................................................................................................... 39
7.3 Food ........................................................................................................................................................ 40
7.3.1 Picoteca 3 Maneras ............................................................................................................................ 40
7.3.2 Casa Ysla ........................................................................................................................................... 40
7.3.3 Cooked Brunch .................................................................................................................................. 41
7.3.4 Cafetería Alhambra ........................................................................................................................... 41
7.3.5 Restaurante Teteria Marrakech ........................................................................................................ 41
7.4 Accommodation .................................................................................................................................... 42
7.4.1 Florentia Home Selection ................................................................................................................. 42
7.4.2 Smart Suites....................................................................................................................................... 43
7.5 To Next Destination ............................................................................................................................. 43
8 Madrid ..................................................................................................................................................... 44
8.1 Google Map ........................................................................................................................................... 44
8.2 Attraction ............................................................................................................................................... 44
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8.2.1 History Museum of Madrid ............................................................................................................. 44

8.2.2 National Archaeological Museum .................................................................................................... 45
8.2.3 Prado Museum................................................................................................................................... 45
8.2.4 Puerta del Sol and Grand Via areas.................................................................................................. 46
8.2.5 Viewpoint of the Palacio de Cibeles ................................................................................................ 48
8.2.6 Museo Geominero ............................................................................................................................. 49
8.2.7 Royal Palace of Madrid ..................................................................................................................... 49
8.2.8 Royal Tapestry Factory ..................................................................................................................... 49
8.2.9 El Retiro Park and Crystal Palace .................................................................................................... 50
8.3 Food ......................................................................................................................................................... 51
8.3.1 McDonalds.......................................................................................................................................... 51
8.3.2 Marina Ventura .................................................................................................................................. 51
8.3.3 Cafetería Tapas................................................................................................................................... 51
8.3.4 Faborit ................................................................................................................................................ 52
8.3.5 Cafetería Neila................................................................................................................................... 52
8.3.6 Retrogusto Bar – Ristorante .............................................................................................................. 52
8.3.7 Makis Coffee Shop .............................................................................................................................53
8.3.8 Granier Mariano De Cavia ............................................................................................................... 54
8.3.9 Estela Hojaldre .................................................................................................................................. 54
8.3.10 Quini .............................................................................................................................................. 54
8.3.11 La Desayunería .................................................................................................................................. 55
8.4 Accommodation .................................................................................................................................... 55
8.4.1 One Shot Prado Hotel ....................................................................................................................... 55
9 Flight Out ................................................................................................................................................ 55
10 Expenditure ............................................................................................................................................. 56
10.1 Expenses by Category ........................................................................................................................... 57
10.2 Spending Tips........................................................................................................................................ 57
11 Thoughts.................................................................................................................................................. 58
11.1 Travelling .............................................................................................................................................. 58
11.2 Food ........................................................................................................................................................ 58
11.3 Walkability ............................................................................................................................................ 59
11.4 Double Standard .................................................................................................................................... 60
11.5 Sleep ....................................................................................................................................................... 61
11.6 Supermarket........................................................................................................................................... 61
11.7 Safety ..................................................................................................................................................... 61
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2 Introduction
2.1 Deciding on Spain
It began with the easing of the border restrictions in the post-Covid world. While our last plan before Covid
was Sri Lanka, I think we were still looking at a more first world country. And maybe it’s also the “yolo”
mentality having been so travel deprived in the 2 years. So, Europe it was. We settled on Poland simply based
on prices (compared to Switzerland) and coming across places that are worth checking out (i.e. big interesting
cities, nice towns with mountain views, trekking options).
However, Janice became concerned about the Russio-Ukrainian war and the energy crisis in Europe. And
Poland having shared borders with Ukraine and the impression that it is not as developed and perhaps less
capable to tide over an energy crisis. I didn’t quite share those concerns and even asked if we should push the
trip down to 2023, as it felt rush to plan a trip in November 2022.
Nevertheless, we settled on Spain as an alternative to Poland.
November 2022 simply because Janice was already travelling in October 2022 and we wanted to avoid
December since it would be colder and prices would be higher too.
2.2 Lack of Preparation
In the lead up to the trip, I always felt very unprepared. For my first trip in Europe, I would have wanted to
read up more. Work was busy, and sometimes there are other plans on weekday evenings, like planning for
travel shouldn’t become too much of a chore, but it almost did.
I did pin various attractions on Google Map but didn’t read up much on specific attractions to determine the
must-gos or in planning the day to day in the few days we are at the same location. I also didn’t read up much
on the intra-city transport options. But all turned out well.
3 Overall Itinerary
Day Date Time Itinerary Accommodation

Barcelona
1 11 Nov, Fri 12.05am Depart Singapore (LX 177) Barcelona – Auto
6.10am Arrive Zurich Hogar x 4 nights
7.10am Depart Zurich (LX 1952)
8.50am Arrive Barcelona
12pm Managed to check in early to hotel
La Rambla
1pm Lunch at Restaurante Mino
2.30pm Casa Batllo
4pm Took the metro back to hotel to rest, with
intention to come out again at night, but
we both conked out
2 12 Nov, Sat 9.45am Breakfast at Pastisseria La Estrella
11am Barcelona History Museum
12.30pm Hot chocolate and churros at Santa
Caterina Market
1.15pm Picasso Museum
3pm Lunch at Vegetalia Born
4pm Catalunya History Museum
6.30pm Barceloneta Beach
7.30pm Dinner at Can Sardi
Gelato at Gelati Dino Italia
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3 13 Nov, Sun 9.36am Train from Espana
11am Brunch at Bar El Rincon
Day trip to Monsterrat
6pm Dinner at Dumplings
7.30pm Placa d’Espanya
4 14 Nov, Mon 8.45am Breakfast at Bar Portanova
9am Sagrada Família - Basílica
9.45am Tower on the Nativity façade
12pm Flea Market – Los Encants
1pm Lunch at Arc Iris
2.45pm Hospital de Sant Pau
Laundry
8pm Dinner at Abirradero
Pack
Las Alpujarra and GR7
5 15 Nov, Tue Taxi to Barcelona Airport Trevelez – Hostal Casa
5.45am Breakfast at Coooffee Fermina
7.20am Vueling Flight from Barcelona
8.50am Arrive Granada
Taxi to Smart Suites, deposit luggage,
bus to Granada Bus Station
10.45am Light snacks at Granada Bus Station
12pm Alsa Bus from Granada Bus Station
3.15pm Arrive Trevelez
4pm Dinner at Restaurante Nuevo González
7.30pm Power outage at night
6 16 Nov, Wed 9am Trek from Trevelez to Busquistar Portugos – La Placeta
4.10pm Bus from Busquistar to Portugos Guesthouse
4.20pm Arrive Portugos
Shopping at supermarket
6.45pm Cook dinner
7 17 Nov, Thu 9.15am Cook breakfast Capileira – Hotel Rural
2pm Lunch at Restaurante Mirador de Real de Poqueira
Pórtugos
4.20pm Bus from Portugos to Capileira
4.50pm Arrive Capileira
6pm Walk around town and went
supermarket
8 18 Nov, Fri 8.45am Breakfast at Café Delicias Orgiva – Casa Jazmin
10am 1st attempt to trek at Capileira (strong
wind and rain)
12.30pm 2nd attempt to trek at Capileira (strong
wind)
2pm Lunch at Restaurante el Asador
3.30pm Chill at hotel lobby
4.50pm Bus from Capileira to Orgiva
5.40pm Arrive at Orgiva
7pm Check in
9 19 Nov, Sat 9am Breakfast at Hotel Granada – Florentia
10.30am Yin yoga at La Fuente / Yoga Flow Anya Home Selection
2pm Lunch at Tetería Baraka
4pm Tea at Panadería La Tahona de los
Galindos
5.40pm Bus from Orgiva to Granada
6.40pm Arrive at Granada
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Granada
10 20 Nov, Sun 8am Breakfast at Mirador de San Nicolas Granada – Smart
9am Change accommodation (walk 550m to Suites x 2 nights
Smart Suites and deposit bags)
9.20am Walk 1.9km to Alhambra
10am Alhambra
11.30am Alhambra - Nazrd Palaces
2pm Lunch at Picoteca 3 Maneras
Went back to check in and rest
5pm Cathedral de Granada
6.45pm Desserts at Casa Ysla
Walk around, go supermarket
8.30pm Back at our hotel, laundry
11 21 Nov, Mon 10am Cooked brunch in hotel
11.30am Monasterio de San Jerónimo
1.30pm Desserts at Cafetería Alhambra
2pm Went back to rest
4pm Walking tour – Albaicin, Sacromonte
(Muslim neighbourhoods)
7pm Dinner at Restaurante Teteria Marrakech
8pm Flamenco at La Cueva de la Rocio
Madrid
12 22 Nov, Tue 7.12am Train from Granada to Madrid Madrid – One Shot
10.32pm Arrive at Madrid Prado x 4 nights
11.45am Breakfast at McDonalds
1pm History Museum of Madrid
4pm National Archaeological Museum
7.45pm Dinner at Marina Ventura
13 23 Nov, Wed 10am Breakfast at Cafetería Tapas
11am Walking Tour
2.30pm Prado Museum
5.30pm Salad dinner at Faborit
6.30pm Viewpoint of the Palacio de Cibeles
14 24 Nov, Thu 10am Breakfast at Cafetería Neila
11.30an Museo Geominero
1.30pm Royal Palace of Madrid
3.15pm Lunch at Retrogusto Bar - Ristorante
Went back to chill/ change
5pm Yoga at Numen Yoga via Classpass
6.30pm Walking around, went mall
Went back to put down stuff and
thinking of shopping/ eating
8.30pm Movie at Yelmo Cines Ideal
11.30pm Ended
15 25 Nov, Fri Checked out 2 markets but they are quite
closed
11am Brunch at Makis Coffee Shop
12pm El Retiro Park
1pm Royal Tapestry Factory
2.45pm Tea at Granier Mariano De Cavia
3.30pm El Retiro Park and Crystal Palace
4.30pm Underground exhibition/ Pastry at Estela
Hojaldre
Went back hotel to chill/ change
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6.15pm Yoga at Xano Pilates y Yoga via
Classpass
8.30pm Korean Dinner at Quini
9pm Walk around to Christmas market and
Grand Via
16 26 Nov, Sat 9am Breakfast at La Desayunería N.A.
11am Shopping at Primark
12pm Check out from hotel, tried Uber
3.20pm Depart Madrid (LH 1803)
6pm Arrive Munich
Dinner at airport
10.10pm Depart Munich (LH 790)
17 27 Nov, Sun 5.25pm Arrive Singapore
4 Flight In
It’s an interesting and fun start to our trip.

1. During the security check at Changi Airport, we both interestingly got prohibited items on our hand
carry. Janice had her toner and I had my swiss knife.
2. During our transit at Zurich, we couldn’t find our transit flight on the screen. It was there but we just
couldn’t find it.
3. After our arrival at Barcelona, we were directed to the baggage claim without immigration. It was
rather bewildering before concluding that that already happened at Zurich. Clearly my first time in
European Union with shared borders.
Waiting to board our flight at Changi
Our 2 meals on our 10h+ flight; dinner on the left and breakfast on the right. Chose our vegetarian options
when booking our flights.
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5 Barcelona
5.1 Google Map
A map that does show how walkable the city is. Other than Sagrada Familia and the day trip to Montserrat,
we literally walked everywhere. Then taking the train at the end of the day from Casa Batllo and Barceloneta
Beach.
5.2 Attraction
5.2.1 La Rambla
We walked from our hotel to La Rambla. The one place I note as the “famous street” and “note the
pickpockets”. The first impression I had is that the city is very walkable, and of course the weather plays a
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part. Without intending to, we already passed by a Gaudi site and another market as we navigate towards La
Rambla.
5.2.2 Casa Batllo
After lunch, we just walked around and saw the signage to “Casa Batllo”, and this is how we selected our first
tourist attraction to visit. The tickets were more expensive at €45 than I expected but decided to still do it. We
took the more high-end ticket with the audio tour. It is also the first of the Gaudi sites that we are visiting,
which I read about pre-trip and thought interesting; how one man or architect could have such a big impact
in one city. It was also cool how much emphasis that architect seemed to have at that point; talking about
engaging the best craftsmen in glass and wood at that time to make certain design possible. And there was no
mention of any engineer.
Throughout the tour, it’s also wondering how expensive it is to build everything. The glass. The wood. The
craftmanship. But it’s pretty cool.
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5.2.3 Cathedral of Barcelona
This shouldn’t be on the list, because we literally walked past it without going in. We thought to check it out
(since I have pinned it on the Google Maps) but was rather turned off by the crowd and just continued our
way towards the museum. Nevertheless, the Samsung advertisement as part of the construction netting
amused me, thus this photo.
5.2.4 Barcelona History Museum
Started our 1st full day of the city with a visit to the history museum. I guess the highlight is that it was built
at the actual archaeological site and its narrative was built from there. But as a museum with the name
“Barcelona History Museum”, its narrative seems lacking and incomplete. There was no introduction, no
ending, and ended at some random section of history.
5.2.5 Picasso Museum
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We chose this as the next attraction to visit – simply because it was something different (i.e. art) from our
previous visits (i.e. architecture and history). I went with low expectations and it was rather interesting to
learn about an artist’s work through various stages in his life, and from a very layman perspective. However,
it was an abrupt ending. There was no mention of how he died, his legacy or his impact.
Janice was saying how his life was quite predictable. Like how we always have this preconceived notion that
artists have all rags to riches stories. Picasso, in summary, trained as an artist and became an artist. Nothing
too dramatic, but famous and talented he still was.
5.2.6 Museu d'Història de Catalunya
This wasn’t a super must-do initially but we were probably too unsatisfied by the previous Barcelona History
Museum, that we needed a visit to the another history museum. It was a good choice. We enjoyed this museum
a lot more than the other history museum as it was more informative and educational. We spent quite a while
there and sat down several times throughout.
We also realized there seems to be this lack of mention about Madrid, which was quite amusing. Like Madrid
and Barcelona are not on good terms.
Some notes - Iberian. Roman. Christianity. Visigoth. Hispania. Muslim army in 711. 3 years civil war with
first air strikes. Franco dictatorship.
5.2.7 Barceloneta Beach
We headed to the beach after visiting Museu d'Història de Catalunya, only because it’s in the same area. I
don’t think I would go specifically to check out the beach. There were some buskers that we caught in action.
It was also the first time I saw… busking for sand sculptures, if that is what it is called.
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5.2.8 Montserrat
Queuing for the cable car up, it’s our most touristy activity to date.
Our plan to do some 3-hour loop trek failed. We were probably about 30 minutes in, reached some junction
with very confusing signage, and waited for passers-by to ask for help. Basically, we went the wrong way, it’s
either heading down the mountain, or going back the same way that we did. Thus, we just headed back and
having felt that we trekked enough (cos it was uphill on the way back).
We went back to check out the Basílica de Montserrat in the main area, before deciding on a simple and short
trek (20-30 mins one way) instead of taking/ paying for some funicular.
Our short trek to Creu de Sant Miquel
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Our picnic with our sad dry sandwiches
5.2.9 Placa d’Espanya
We literally chanced upon it. Since it’s on our way back to our hotel from Montserrat, and seeing it as a
transport node/ interchange, it definitely has to have something. We saw plenty of food options from Google
Map and was planning to just get dinner. Thus, the mall and nice streets were a pleasant surprise.
Arenas Mall with a rooftop view, converted from a bullfighting arena, which was pretty cool
Overseeing Placa d’Espanya from Arenas Mall
It’s apparently some famous town square. But we were simply admiring this elaborate roundabout with
multiple traffic lights. It must be tough to drive.
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5.2.10 La Sagrada Familia
The one famous attraction in Barcelona, although to be honest I only know of it after researching on Spain.
But I guess once you know it, it really becomes this Barcelona’s landmark. In Wikipedia, what left the deepest
impression was this building that is being built for 100 years and still being constructed in the years to come.
When Gaudi passed away, his work and vision were continued.
The exterior is definitely interesting and intricate. On the more practical side, it’s also looking at the birds’
droppings on the external of the building due to its many nooks and crannies. Wondering about its
maintainability as well as… fire safety.
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We took on the audio tour (and it’s really good!) and included the tour to the Nativity tower. The elevator
going up and the scenery were okay only. But I think what was more interesting was taking the stairs down,
and realizing they installed the lift within what was meant to be the bell tower.
Walking in, we are quite sold in a minute – in terms of understanding its architectural marvel as well as fame.
It’s also good that we went earlier, as we felt more crowd after coming down from the Nativity tower.
However, it’s also this time that there were more daylight coming in through the colour tinted facade.
There was also a museum, which we visited after the audio tour, and it really made me feel more appreciative.
It’s amazing how Gaudi was not only an architect employed by a client, but a visionary that was pushing
boundaries in terms of construction technologies at that time. He was not only a designer, but also a sculptor
that was inspired by his Christian faith. Architecture these days is very confined within regulations of our
built authorities and fire safety, and driven solely by sellable or leasable area.
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5.2.11 Flea Market - Los Encants
We were here because we needed something to do before lunch. And that something was not to be a museum
or church. And it’s not too far to walk to. For the last day in Barcelona, we have also hit most of the places we
wanted to check out. I never expect that a flea market could be that popular or crowded. The clothes were
acceptable, but some were just really old books strewn on the floor.
5.2.12 Hospital de Sant Pau
We were so full after lunch, and Janice suggested to walk. I thought we left a Park Guell (another Gaudi site)
to check out, but Janice wasn’t feeling up for that as much. Thus, without a destination in mind, and from the
map, we saw that there is this park connector equivalent route towards this tourist attraction instead. And we
heard of Hospital de Sant Pau in our visit to the museum prior. So there we go!
It’s rather pretty, like some university campus. There were also underpasses connecting the various buildings.
The design concept must have been really forward looking at that time. However, it was a rather under-
utilized hospital and it was again, a museum with a relatively incomplete narrative. There was only 1 building
that really showed how it was like as a hospital in the past. The ticket wasn’t that expensive, so at least it
doesn’t feel not value of money.
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We ended at this main entrance/ building, and realized it directly faces Sagrada Familia. Not sure if it’s
intentional that nothing obstructs in between. We learnt that these 2 big projects were being built at the same
time. Both were famous architects, but today, 1 is so much more well known than the other. Maybe this guy
was equally talented, but he just didn’t get that job with more funds.
5.3 Food
5.3.1 Restaurante Mino
Our 1st meal in this city. We trusted Google Reviews as we chose this place when we were at La Rambla.
Ordered the paella and tapas i.e. salmon tartare and clams. Janice was quite impressed, given her low
expectations/ bad experiences when she went Italy. I think it’s not bad, but nothing impressive.
Our 3rd most expensive meal during our trip, at SGD 35/pax.
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5.3.2 Pastisseria La Estrella
A breakfast place we walked past and it looks pretty enough to walk in. However, the meringue is too sweet.
5.3.3 Santa Caterina Market
Chocolate and churros! I wanted to check out their markets and we also needed a break (to sit down) from all
the walking. This was one of the… skinniest churros we had.
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5.3.4 Vegetalia Born
A vegetarian place with some fusion food. The menu seems interesting. Food was good, though the Pad Thai
was more of nice fried kway teow.
5.3.5 Can Sardi
A light dinner near the Barceloneta Beach. This was so-so, can’t remember what was wrong with the fish.
5.3.6 Gelati Dino Italia
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Gelato, to make up for our unsatisfactory dinner. Pistachio – this seems like a thing for me after going to
Australia.
5.3.7 Bar El Rincon
The one and only F&B at the foot of Montserrat. It does feel like Malaysia, and we keep referring to it as “the
rustic place”. The food was really… could-have-put-in-more-effort. I never had a drier bread/ sandwich. I
guess when you are the monopoly there… Still quite fun as an experience.
5.3.8 Dumplings
Our Asian food craving is here! My ramen wasn’t impressive though. The spicy soup was just some chilli oil
and the ramen had a strong yellow-noodles aftertaste that I didn’t quite fancy. Didn’t finished my noodles
and we added an order of veggies to get me happy.
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5.3.9 Bar Portanova
Our breakfast before visiting Sagrada Familia. We were running late (all the online information were
screaming “do not be late for your booked timings”) and wanted to take away. But the stall owner uncle
somehow managed to convince us to sit down.
5.3.10 Arc Iris
Lunch is usually the heaviest meal of the day. I read that in Spain, there are lunch set deals that are super
value for money. But they are usually not indicated on Google or as part of their official menu, just some
notice placed outside the shop. So I finally managed to bookmark this place that had the lunch set, is a
vegetarian place and has good reviews. Lunch at Euro 11.50/pax nett with 4 courses (soup, 1st dish, 2nd dish,
desserts), so awesome.
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5.3.11 Abirradero
Our last meal in Barcelona, found a place near our hotel while waiting for our laundry. We tried to be more
local and went for beer and tapas.
5.3.12 Coooffee
Breakfast at Barcelona airport before our domestic flight to Granada. Probably giving up on drinking milk
tea there.
5.4 Accommodation
5.4.1 Hotel Best Auto Hogar
Didn’t take any photos, as I guess it’s too typical a hotel room. They allowed for early check in near 12pm. I
quite like the location. It’s not smack in the middle but it’s near enough to walk to most places. I like that it’s
a slightly different neighbourhood.
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5.5 To Next Destination
Leaving our hotel super early via a booked cab that was quite expensive. For our domestic flight to Granada.
6 Granada Province – Mountain Villages
6.1 Google Map
To introduce geographically,
Spain (country): 17 autonomous communities and 2 autonomous cities
Andalusia (autonomous community): 8 provinces
Granada (province): 174 municipalities, where Granada is also the name of the city and capital
On the same day we arrived at Granada, we deposited some of our luggage in one of our hotels, and left on
the same day for Trevelez.
Our one whole day of transport on 15 Nov 2022 is thus: Cab to Barcelona airport > Granada airport > cab to
hotel > bus to Granada bus station > bus to Trevelez. Janice was quite restless that day, cos there were quite a
bit of waiting. Like needing to walk around, but I was actually quite comfortable sitting there and read
(downloaded an offline book).
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You will realize that our plan for a village-to-village trek became a village-hopping via buses.
Trevelez: There was a bit of rain and strong wind (if I remember correctly) the night before with a blackout,
but we woke up and went for our trek, instead of possibly sleeping in.
Portugos: We were tired from the trek, and the accommodation was so cosy that we decided to take the bus
to the next village instead.
Capileira: It’s the highest village in the area, so we tried to trek around. However, weather was not in our
favour.
Orgiva: We couldn’t find accommodation in the villages nearer Capileira so during pre-trip planning, we
were looking at bus or trek-bus to reach Orgiva already.
6.2 Attraction
6.2.1 Trevelez
Walking about the town and immersing in the mountain and autumn vibes. Was quite a small and quiet
town.
Blackout! Thank God that we are already back in our accommodation.
We were wondering if it’s just the hotel but our host came to inform us that it’s the whole village as some
strong wind destroyed some power line. She turned up to give us candles for us to use in our room. And after
snuggling in our beds for a while, we found out the hot shower is still available so we showered in candle-lit
brightness. It was quite fun talking to our host face to face (she lives down the corridor) and through
WhatsApp with Google Translate.
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6.2.2 Trek from Trevelez to Busquistar
Just spamming photos of our 6h trek.
From our Wikiloc record.
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Photos of Janice on sharp incline, steep slope down and a bridge…
During the steep section, both of us felt so done. It’s interesting how we are feeling the exertion differently
too.
Janice: lungs
Me: heart beating fast
Janice: ankle, feet
Me: calves, big toes, outer side of the thighs due to the load
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This is how well/ unwell marked the trail is. The “one red one white” lines, where their markings are at
inconsistent intervals throughout the trail. We also had a Wikiloc that GPS pinned the trail. We only had 1
detour. I would say both are quite necessary, especially for that peace of mind knowing you are not off trail.
So we decided to trust the GR7 trail to Busquistar (as the Wikiloc trail heads to Portugos), and waited for 1
hour for the bus to Portugos.
I guess we can’t really compare a mountain trekking versus a village trekking (that happens to be a little on
the higher altitude). But our Japan trip and trek still wins hands down, in terms of scenery and value (rewards
of good views versus efforts put in).
6.2.3 Portugos
The town where we chilled the most simply because it had the nicest accommodation and hosts. We cooked
for our dinner and breakfast. In their supermarket, we found 出前一丁 instant noodles and milk, which were
so lacking in Barcelona.
6.2.4 Capileira
My data did not work in Capileira, so could only connect to WiFi.
The highest village that we visited
1. Had nice breakfast.

2. Sudden change of weather, but still headed out to the trailhead. Put on down jacket. Put on poncho.
Walked further. Gave up.
3. Went back hotel to hide and chill.
4. Realize we can’t spend the whole day indoor (as the bus to the next town was only in the mid-
afternoon).
5. Headed out to trek the 2nd time, and gave up the 2nd time.
6. Walked around town (which we already did) but there was nothing else to do.
7. Lunch.
8. Check out and took bus to next town.
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We were looking at this 3h loop trek. We tried twice, and gave up twice. The 1st time with rain and the 2nd
time without rain. But the wind was so strong that we had to stop and turn our back to the wind, never quite
experienced something like this before, and it just seems impractical, unpleasant and unsafe to trek. There
were 1-3 other pairs of trekkers we saw that gave up before us. They seemed more well dressed with trekking
windbreakers, and they turned back earlier. We continued for perhaps a 20-50m more, so to be fair, we are
giving ourselves efforts marks!
Proof that we really tried to trek and was hit by bad weather.
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Shots from the bus leaving the village.
We were both feeling a little carsick. And I was quite annoyed at this person talking in front of us. Like it
wasn’t loud, but must he keep talking to his mum for that 1 hour. Like he was talking a lot more than his mum,
and his voice was more audible than his mum.
6.2.5 Orgiva
It’s a quaint town, and we can’t put our finger on it. Maybe it’s how our first stop in the town is the Airbnb
and meeting Ibrahim; his parents are from Morocco, he grew up in… Netherlands (or some other European
country), and he moved to Spain a few months ago, buying this property and starting this Airbnb. Waiting
for him to open the gate, walking across the whole front garden and pool to get to his property, it’s like… being
in some rich man’s house.
Maybe it was influenced by Ibrahim or being introduced to Orgiva by him, we could feel that slight hippie-
ness or spirituality of Orgiva. He was saying that Orgiva is known for its spirituality/ dowsing. There are
also random vegan/ alternative wellness shops scattered around town too.
The next day, we followed Ibrahim to Yin yoga. It’s like those house-converted-to-studio, and the class is by
donation. The yoga teacher, Enya, has a website too, and she’s some expat too, having lived in several countries.
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Then after yoga, this lady who was in the class approached us, because she previously worked in Singapore
and was so thrilled to recognize our accent.
After which, we met her and her group (2 other friends and 1 dog) at some local small market. And we met
our host again. Then at lunch (that 1 famous vegetarian restaurant in town, it seems like), our host was there
too! Like how small is the town that you just meet people in that several few places that people can only go to.
We walked around town and felt a bit confused by the elderly and the hobo. It does feel like this town that
people are drawn to and intentionally move to, compared to other towns where it’s locals who grew up there
or just people who are working in the tourism businesses.
I think it’s in this town that we got to talk to more people, as few as it actually is. It’s funny how they asked
how we came to be at Orgiva, and probably expecting a more spiritual answer, but we literally chanced upon
Orgiva because we couldn’t find any other accommodations in any town up North, and we just needed another
stop/ night from Capileira before heading back to Granada. So this town was actually the last to be confirmed
in our itinerary.
6.3 Food
6.3.1 Trevelez - Restaurante Nuevo González
Food was so-so. Like okay to taste, but it’s a bit too much for just 2 to share each dish. Like too much of the
same thing.
6.3.2 Portugos – Cooked Dinner and Breakfast
Instant noodles from Singapore (courtesy of Janice’s) and locally bought frozen spinach and eggs. This also
reminds me that there’s hardly any fresh fruits and vegetables in their small supermarket. Quite a bit of canned
food instead, which makes me feel that I might not be able to live in a small town like this. I wasn’t that keen
to cook at first. But I think it turned out way better than I expected.
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Our breakfast consisting of chocolate milk, eggs, spinach and tomatoes (harvested at the common gardens).
So nutritious.
6.3.3 Portugos - Restaurante Mirador de Portugos
These were bad. The potatoes were drenched in oil (didn’t know it came with meat), and the fish was a bit
uncooked (and we didn’t know it also comes with potatoes).
6.3.4 Capileira - Café Delicias
A really good and hearty breakfast to start our trek (failed attempts though)!
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6.3.5 Capileira – Restaurante el Asador
This was surprisingly good/ better, considering the food standards in the villages so far.
The previous 2 restaurants at Trevelez and Portugos were a combination of limited restaurants in town, and
Google reviews showed that they are the only ones with more reviews and higher ratings. This was literally
walking past, realizing it’s open and seems inviting enough inside. Due to the strong winds, everyone is dining
indoor and the doors are closed/ tinted and you really can’t tell it’s open.
And it feels like it’s the first time since we left Barcelona that we saw so many people (locals/ tourists) in 1
setting). There is the re-appearance of the potato dish, mainly because we are left with few options without
meat. Green vegetables are rather non-existent. Though they really need to be more creative with their
potatoes.
What was more epic is when we took 2-3 wefies all in 1 go, and by the last shot, we somehow managed to
capture the attention of other diners and they are all looking/ smiling at the camera.
6.3.6 Orgiva - Breakfast
Our one and only time where breakfast is provided by our hotel/ Airbnb. Cooked by the host himself.
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6.3.7 Orgiva - Tetería Baraka
Typical good café food but the cheesecake was awesome!
We chose to dine outside but the wind was a bit too much at times. It’s like the one (and only) famous
restaurant in town, as with other towns.
6.3.8 Orgiva - Panadería La Tahona de los Galindos
Our order of chocolate drink became some white chocolate version that was too sweet for me. But it seems
like a nice place with locals hanging out in groups. Not many youngsters around.
6.4 Accommodation
6.4.1 Trevelez – Hostal Casa Fermina
Janice loved it, once we entered. Clean. Homely. Nice blankets. Can tell the owners put their thoughts to it.
I was generally more neutral about it. My 1st blackout experience in a 1st world country, I think.
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6.4.2 Portugos – La Placeta Guesthouse
The nice accommodation that we cooked 2 meals at and spent a significant amount of time chilling. Our host
is Manolo, and it just felt like we haven’t heard so much English for so long. They had a website that could
be traced/ easily stalked to their social media accounts, and they were a gay couple that kind of settled in
Portugos. So it’s pretty cool.
Our living area with a firewood fireplace. It’s my 1st time using it too.
Toilet and bedroom – the bed was quite small though. And contrary to how nice and cosy the place was, we
both didn’t sleep well that night, which is rare for either of us. I even moved to the sofa in the middle of the
night but didn’t sleep well there too.
Our porch and common garden, where it’s dog-friendly for all guests/ neighbours.
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We also had super big difficulties with the door and locks. Both the main door and the side door at the porch.
I never knew this needs so much skills. Like this first world problem where my handyman skills are non-
existent; like I wouldn’t even be able to live alone here in the 1st month cos I can’t lock my door.
6.4.3 Capileira – Hotel Rural Real de Poqueira
No photos because it’s quite a typical hotel.
6.4.4 Orgiva – Casa Jazmin
The rich man’s house
The bedsheets were clean but could tell they were well used. The shower (with no door) and sink are in this 1
big room/ space, while the toilet (water closet) is in another room. Really big toilet-to-room areas. And the
one and only place with tissue provided (is this an Asian thing?), and it’s the owner where he’s also a foreigner.
Waiting for the bus to Granada

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7 Granada City
7.1 Google Map
Changed accommodation only because we tried but couldn’t book at Smart Suites for 3 nights, so had to find
another option. Janice warned about Florentia being “on a hill”, and the whole Granada city is rather hilly.
7.2 Attraction
7.2.1 Mirador de San Nicolas
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Mirador basically meant “viewpoint”. It oversees the town, and faces Alhambra, and it’s right outside
Florentia Home Selection.
And we walked past it again when we had the walking tour.
7.2.2 Alhambra
The one famous attraction in Granada, like people come all the way to Granada just to visit it. It’s also one
(of 2) ticket that had to be bought in advance, with strict timings to adhere to. There were more crowds of
tourists here too.
We didn’t take the audio tour, maybe just not feeling like it. There was this free app that acts like a limited
audio tour, which we used instead. I think it’s partly because it’s so unclear what’s the difference between all
the various options and price packages.
In my own layman interpretation, basically it was the palace during the Muslim rule, so it’s known for the
history and also Islamic architecture. Perhaps we did miss out on a better tour option, but I didn’t get to
appreciate Alhambra as much as Sagrada Familia in Barcelona.
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7.2.3 Cathedral de Granada
This cathedral is rather near our place, and we also downloaded a free app/ audio tour that comes with the
ticket. Compared to Alhambra, this audio tour was super long and detailed and I just always zoned out half
way.
It’s a Catholic church, and it’s a lot of paintings, and part of the audio tour explains the purpose of those scenes.
I am not quite sure if it’s specific to Catholic churches or just in Spain, but I have never quite seen a church
like this. It’s quite interesting.
7.2.4 Monasterio de San Jerónimo
What was more memorable about this place was not so much of the destination but the journey walking there.
It’s a bit further out and it felt like we reached a more local and livelier town where you see schools and shops
that people run their errands at. This was a bigger compound as nuns used to stay here, but we could only visit
L1.
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7.2.5 Walking Tour – Albaicin, Sacromonte (Muslim neighbourhoods)
My first walking tour. A little of the light rain throughout the whole session, and there were this U.S. lady
travelling alone, family from U.S., family from Mexico, old couple from Israel, and young couple from
Indonesia.
We opted for the Muslim neighbourhoods tour compared to the other city tour, and I think it’s a good choice
because it explains more of the Muslim history of the city.
Here are the notes I took, which I am too lazy to put into paragraph and not confident at all if I can deliver
the history accurate enough.
− Lost to French (Napoleon wars) and lost the colonies.
− People moved out. Property prices dropped.
− Granada has the only bathhouses used by both Catholics and Jews. Left the Royal one and the one
converted to some laundry.
− Live in Islamic house but need to show you are a good Christian.
− In those days, Christian names are bought.
− Granada was 1 of the last Muslim strongholds, such as when Seville was failing.
− The Nasrid family built the Alhambra to secure power, to be right in the view of the commoners.
− Granada has the first court of law in Spain; with a church every 50m.
− 1609 expulsion, 100 year later conquest (okay, I have no idea what this was about already).
− The problem of living in the caves was the humidity.
− In 1960s, under Franco’s rule to promote tourism, gypsies near areas to be developed were kicked out.
The final fun fact is that our guide told us not to learn Spanish history from Spain, but perhaps through those
independent researcher/ biographer or Netflix. I just thought that it’s quite interesting, like always thought
that Asia like to cover their dark past, and beautify the history, but clearly this happens worldwide.
7.2.6 Flamenco at La Cueva de la Rocio
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Flamenco is the typical tourist must-do when in Spain, then I found out that this place has quite good reviews
and it’s in the cave which brings the performer closer to the audience compared to other stage settings. Janice
was not quite up for it after reading a review of asking everyone to dance together, but that did not happen.
It was quite different from what I expected, although I am not sure what I was actually expecting.
− I think I expected more of a performance/ show with more dancers interacting. This felt like just 5
dancers taking turns to solo?
− There was less music than I expected. Mainly a singer and guitar, I think. I saw some photos and
expected more percussion.
− Flamenco… seems to be mostly tap dance. And it’s really intense, like the dancers were all sweating/
panting really hard after a few minutes.
7.3 Food
7.3.1 Picoteca 3 Maneras
Our 2nd most expensive meal during our trip, at SGD 39/pax.
7.3.2 Casa Ysla
The one on the right is a thing! It’s called a Pionono, and I can’t remember how it tastes like.
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7.3.3 Cooked Brunch
Cooked brunch with instant noodles, eggs, long beans, milk and raspberries.
7.3.4 Cafetería Alhambra
Hot chocolate and churros!
7.3.5 Restaurante Teteria Marrakech
A Moroccan restaurant. Google rating is 3.8 but I think it deserves more. Warm bread. Warm crepe (not in
photo). We quite like it!
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7.4 Accommodation
7.4.1 Florentia Home Selection
This is the one where Mirador de San Nicolas is right outside. It’s a bit like Airbnb at a private apartment
and we didn’t meet any host/ housekeeper/ staff.
This was the most unsafe hotel to date, but half due to paranoia than actual security breach.
Building door (to building/ whole apartment): pin code (which felt more easily leaked than a physical access
card being stolen)
Door to our unit: they left the key hanging in the key hole, there wasn’t that manual/ double lock from inside,
so people with the master key or who can pick lock….
Toilet window: first noticed half way during my shower at night there’s no blind or frosting, and it’s not a
top hung window, but a side hung casement window, which is unusual, and I freaked out! Then I kept thinking
there’s a spy camera and continued my shower trying to hide behind the wall.
The next morning, I finally mustered the courage to investigate. Strange how much the sun and natural
daylight gives the sense of safety. Basically, the door from the bedroom and the window from the toilet links
to this… large open area surrounded by 4 walls, and it’s only accessible from our unit. Is this some smoking
corner? I really don’t understand the design. Or is it some sad GFA regulation or some planning rule?
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7.4.2 Smart Suites
Refer to the photo at the most right, this is our failed laundry attempt. The dryer didn’t work much, or we
just couldn’t didn’t select on the right buttons. So, we just air it around, based on Janice’s knowledge that a
dry environment works well for drying clothes.
This is one of our most spacious units we stayed in. The properly is also interestingly kept warm and has a
lot of daylight coming in. Quite nice! And it’s a super good experience because 1 day in, and I am convinced I
will never want to stay in a loft unit.
Arriving at Madrid from Granada via train
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8 Madrid
8.1 Google Map
8.2 Attraction
8.2.1 History Museum of Madrid
Notes that I took:

− Madrid chosen by Philip II 1500s as capital of Hispanic communities
− Factories – glass, porcelain/ chinaware, silverware, fan making
− 1808 Peninsular War (Napoleon)
− Urban planning of straightening streets; this was quite interesting
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− Seemingly 2 societies: daytime of labourers, night time of the wealthy

− Coffeehouses, bull fighting theatre, summer escapes
8.2.2 National Archaeological Museum
Notes that I took:

− Prehistoric ppl. Hispanic then war between Rome and Carthage. Then Roman civilization, which
introduced writing, coins, laws and radical transformations.
− Pottery. Glass became everyday objects. Bronze.
− Grave goods. Roman-Hispanic cremate the dead. Ashes in urns.
− Fall of Western Roman empire in 476. Germanic kingdoms fought.
− Visgothic Kingdom of the Toledo in 500, which is Christian.
− Islamic invasion in 711 to end of Muslim rule in 1492, known as Al-Andalus
− Some Jewish community
Basically, I don’t know a lot about Europe or Spain history. I was also quite curious why so many of the large
paintings don’t get destroyed in the wars.
8.2.3 Prado Museum
There was no photos allowed which I didn’t realised until a staff approached me. So out of courtesy, I blurred
all the artwork in this uploaded photo. It’s really quite tiring. The place is really huge and I just wanted to
cover all rooms, just to know what there is and gave up reading on any of the signages.
My observations and limited take-aways:
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− Different artistes had different styles. And how they each influence the Spanish and European art.
For example, Goya started the concept of family portrait.
− In L1, a lot of paintings were just (a) baby surrounded by people; and (b) naked people. I like the
Goya section more, as it seems like there’s more context.
− In L0, there’s an earlier version of Mona Lisa, which was quite cool. Like not a mimic copy, but the
draft copy before the final Mona Lisa.
− In L0, there are more gothic paintings, murals, paintings of history, romantism. realist landscape,
and also Goya black paintings.
− I also saw an artiste in action trying to mimic/ paint a Goya piece, which is really quite cool. He was
using a red colour base, which I didn’t quite get how it works.
8.2.4 Puerta del Sol and Grand Via areas
The Orchard Road equivalent, that we keep passing by in the few days we were in Madrid.
Where we gathered for the walking tour
Plaza Mayor, where in the past, it was where there were executions. The Christmas market also started in the
middle of our stay there, and I wasn’t very impressed. Felt like it was a lot of the purchase of those Christmas
trinkets that is and can only be used during the Christmas season.
Plaza Sol, and there were Christmas lights around. Plaza Sol is like the most prominent place in the city centre,
and where their countdown happens.
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There was still extensive construction going on (they are retiling the whole plaza) and the walking tour guide
was saying how the construction is now delayed and can’t make it before New Year, and the mayor is very
upset. At some point where it was crowded, there was this skid loader trying to make its way to somewhere
with a traffic controller in front and behind, but still surrounded by pedestrians all around. Such a stressful
construction site.
Where I went for the yoga, and where we went for the movie, it just felt like it’s that same area.
We made sure the movie, Wakanda, was in English with Spanish subtitles. But I didn’t expect the film to
have several other foreign languages which only had Spanish subtitles, so yup, no English to listen to or read.
Near Plaza Sol, feeling the crowd and there were also some demonstration going on.
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At Decathlon and shopping at Primark along Grand Via.
Along Grand Via
8.2.5 Viewpoint of the Palacio de Cibeles
Another time where it is useful to just pin places onto Google Map. I wouldn’t have specifically wanted to
check this out, but just realised we were having dinner nearby and this is literally on the way back. And
managed to catch it around sunset too.
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8.2.6 Museo Geominero
I actually wanted to learn more about the geology of Spain, and the mountain formations, but there weren’t
much of that and almost everything is in Spanish. There were a lot of student groups across different age
groups though, so it was quite fun to people watch.
8.2.7 Royal Palace of Madrid
The walking tour guide also shared with us some controversies/ scandals of the Spanish royal family, after
which I went to read the Wikipedia, and it’s really quite dramatic. Google them:
− The abdicated King, Juan Carlos I
− His son in-law, Iñaki Urdangarin, that went to jail
There are very specific rooms for various functions and themed in different designs e.g. porcelain room,
yellow room. We took about 1h 15mins, and it’s definitely not a tour of the 3000 rooms. It does feel very
incomplete and front-of-house only. On hindsight, I think I am more interested in the building itself than the
design of interior spaces. Didn’t get to see the toilets, how laundry is done, where the staff/ servants slept,
where the fireplace is etc.
We also managed to catch the “changing of the guard” during our walking tour, and we both had the same
sentiment after it ended. They weren’t the most synchronised and you could see the soldiers side eyeing what’s
happening around.
8.2.8 Royal Tapestry Factory
Rug: on the floor

Tapestry: on the wall, benefits of aesthetics and also acoustic/ thermal insulation
Didn’t take any photos here, but it’s quite cool how they are trying to preserve the local crafts and it’s a live
workshop here too. The person that brought us around is like the director/ boss and can tell she’s really quite
passionate. She can probably charge a higher fee or not do it herself, if it’s purely just for profits.
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8.2.9 El Retiro Park and Crystal Palace
The left and middle photos is just showing how photographic skills can be so different. The right photo is just
what I edited. I was like “okay, this is nice, help me take too”. Then it turned out like this. It was quite amusing
because I was just a bit stunned how it can be so different.
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8.3 Food
8.3.1 McDonalds
Why is Macs such a universal taste, crosses all age groups and nationalities? Bring people together… The fillet-
o-fish is really expensive though (compared to their beef burgers), so I just got the empty buns with the spread.
8.3.2 Marina Ventura
Our 1st most expensive meal during our trip, at SGD 52/pax.
This place is known for the paella and we ordered this soupy one, which was quite interesting. They charge
the paella at $/pax, and it’s for minimum 2 pax. And the portion is super large, like definitely can’t finish. So
I am not sure what operations logic this is.
8.3.3 Cafetería Tapas
Breakfast in the neighbourhood!
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8.3.4 Faborit
When we split up at Prado Museum, I went off to get late lunch first. And the first thing I thought of was
salad. Guess that’s the first thing I miss.
8.3.5 Cafetería Neila
Breakfast in the neighbourhood part 2! Love how we always animatedly order our food to communicate with
the shop owners.
8.3.6 Retrogusto Bar – Ristorante
We saw this restaurant nearby and decided to find it, then thought it was closed. And we took a 30s, to figure
out if it’s really open or not.
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We ordered 1 set of that value-for-money lunch set and another item ala carte. Quite like the red bean and
cabbage soup! Not sure if it’s a legit dish or just some dish that the chef came up with.
8.3.7 Makis Coffee Shop
The day of trying to find breakfast in their markets, but their markets were mostly closed and not what we
expected, so ended up settling in a café instead.
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8.3.8 Granier Mariano De Cavia
A break from all the walking! Where I have finally given up on getting tea, and ordered coffee.
8.3.9 Estela Hojaldre
Some snack before yoga!
8.3.10 Quini
Korean food for dinner after yoga! We had to walk around before waiting for it to open for dinner.
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8.3.11 La Desayunería
Our last breakfast in the city! American breakfast~
8.4 Accommodation
8.4.1 One Shot Prado Hotel
The place where we stayed for 4 nights. I think we took 1 day to realize the TV. We just thought it was a
mirror, because it is so slim. Then, Janice finally noticed the remote control.
9 Flight Out
Some dinner at Munich airport.
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Dinner and breakfast on the flight
10 Expenditure
Summary (SGD)
1,200 Pre-trip (air tickets and insurance), excluded from chart above
800 Accommodations, average of SGD 53/ night for 15 nights
1,500 Expenses there (some tickets and transportation were bought pre-trip)
Total at SGD 3,500
Pre-trip (SGD), excluded from chart above

1,095 Return air tickets, transit in European cities, Lufthansa
54 Insurance, FWD
55 Insurance for Covid cover, FWD – contemplated if the top up was necessary and decided to play safe.
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10.1 Expenses by Category
All in SGD.
583 Food – okay, 3 meals above SGD 30

− 52 Dinner in Marina Ventura, Madrid (22-Nov-22)
− 39 Lunch in Picoteca 3 Maneras, Granada (20-Nov-22)
− 35 Lunch in Restaurante Mino, Barcelona (11-Nov-22)
356 Transport
− 99 One-way domestic flight from Barcelona to Granada
− 72 One-way train from Granada to Madrid (the higher speed one)
− 43 Barcelona transport card, unlimited for 96 hours (4 days)
− 33 Barcelona, Montserrat train and cable car, return trips
− 30 Barcelona, cab fare from hotel to Barcelona airport
− 22 Granada, cab fare from airport to Smart Suites (to deposit luggage)
320 Ticket
− 63 Barcelona, Casa Batllo
− 51 Barcelona, Sagrada Familia
− 35 Granada, Flamenco show
− 24 Barcelona, Picasso museum
− 21 Granada, Alhambra
− 21 Granada, walking tour
− 21 Madrid, Prado museum
167 Shopping
− 74 Madrid, food from supermarket
− 56 Madrid, Loccitane, Christmas gifts
− 30 Madrid, nougats
40 Others
− 21 SIM card
− 14 Yoga (2 other classes were booked via Classpass, so those expenses are not reflected here)
− 5 Laundry
10.2 Spending Tips
Overall, I think I was prepared to spend more for a trip to Europe, so SGD 3,500 seems very good and
reasonable. Didn’t encountered any scams or theft too. And I can understand how the expenses can vary
higher or lower.
Tourist attractions: We spent a lot lesser in the mountain villages, as there were less to do. I can imagine if
we stayed in the cities longer, and went to more tourist attractions, the expenses would definitely increase.
The tickets also range from less than SGD 10, to more than SGD 50. And at each tourist attraction, there are
also various price packages.
Public transport: We totally overpaid for the Barcelona travel card; SGD 43 for unlimited travel for 4 days.
But we mostly walked around everywhere. Consequence of not reading much ahead. Before that, I knew there
is this 10-trips pass that was the most value for money, but the machine didn’t sell them.
I suspect it’s some… like we exited the airport to go the metro, and all the tourists were just queueing at these
machines selling only unlimited passes for 2/3/4/5 days etc, and there was a staff helping. So, we just followed
along. But I suspect this is still the airport compound (being sold by the airport business), but the actual metro
ticketing would sell the other more affordable passes.
So, after that, we just bought our transport card with minimal values.
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Private transport: As with Singapore, cab fare can easily become the big-ticket items. We only took it a few
times when we had all our luggage with us. It was also quite interesting that cabs are plentiful and their ride-
hailing app i.e. Uber is not that… prevalent yet. Cheaper, but maybe not that accessible.
I think we took Uber twice, but both were quite tedious.

− From Granada airport; we couldn’t find where’s the pick-up, because apparently they can’t turn into
the carpark, and he couldn't wait along the road, so felt a bit bad for the driver.
− From Madrid hotel to airport, it was 17 Euro, we approached 2 cab drivers and they verbally quoted us
50 Euro. The difference is quite scary. But we waited for like at least 15/20 mins for the Uber driver to
reach us; the jam was so bad, and he would come nearer, take another turn, and went further away. I
am not sure because there was some demonstration going on, or parts of Madrid is just impossible to
drive around (all the one way alleys). At some point, I regretted using Uber, then it reached the level
of feeing so bad for the driver that we even tipped him after the ride.
Food: Food expenses were interesting. Their lunch sets are super value for money, SGD 10-20, and makes me
feel that we definitely can’t get such price value in a café/ restaurant in Singapore. After updating the expenses,
and realizing we only had 3 meals above SGD 30, it seems reasonable. I guess I don’t usually walk in to any
restaurants in town to eat either, but it’s easily the kind of price in Singapore. And when you travel, and have
to eat everyday, it just adds up.
There were also a few times we ate 1 late heavy lunch, and hardly ate another proper meal again. It wasn’t to
save money, but to suit the meal times in Spain, so I guess it was a way to save money.
11 Thoughts
11.1 Travelling
People have asked how was the trip. But I think a lot of what I enjoyed was not specific to Spain per se, or
because it’s Europe. In a crude way, it’s perhaps just the idea of not working. Having enough sleep. Waking
up and thinking of where to go for breakfast. Simply having that kind of time.
Being to new places every single day. Being engaged in a variety of activities through food, history museums,
art or architectural museums, public streets, and social spaces. Simply allowing ourselves to immerse and
experience what a new place has to offer, and be stimulated. And it does feel comfortable as much as it is
privileged to be able to have the time, money and resources to travel.
This trip also reminds me how I like to travel.
When I travel, I usually would highlight that I like the suburban and countryside areas, but I still find the
city and urban development fascinating. How Spain is half a globe away from Singapore, and the cities could
have both such similar and unique features. The signage at the metro stations. The lack of tissue boxes and
room slippers in all our hotels. Some of their local shops (as opposed to being flooded by Apple, Starbucks and
McDonald stores). The absence of milk in their supermarkets. The minimal penetration of bubble tea shops.
The small trivial details.
11.2 Food
Janice mentioned it several times throughout the trip that the food wasn’t that fantastic. Like sometimes, they
don’t even heat up the bread/ pastry. Janice gave a good example and comparison of how in Japan, we could
just be at the train station, walk into any bakery, and it can pleasantly surprise you. I didn’t feel it as strongly
as her, but when looking at the food photos in this post, and trying my best to comment. Yes, it seems quite
50-50. Food in Asia is better.
And I have a super Asian appetite, and just need veggies. I think we had paella for 2-3 times throughout the
trip and I don’t think it’s something I would really order. Like I think it’s just rice with no veggies and I just
want my veggies. I do like and crave their hot chocolate, until perhaps when I realize it’s more unhealthy than
soft drinks.
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11.3 Walkability
Streets of Barcelona
Streets of Barcelona
Streets of Granada
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Streets of Madrid
Streets of Madrid
I loved how walkable it was during our entire trip. I didn’t think we intend to, or expect to walk that much,
but often we just ended up walking to various places.
− I credit it largely to the weather, where it’s not humid and cool at around 10 to 15 degrees Celsius.
− It’s the streets that are very built-up, so it’s not 1 main road where one walks up and down. It’s usually
alley after alley, with shops on both sides and people around.
− There’s the novelty of exploration, being in a new place where walking offers more sights and
experience.
− The city is compact, and tourist attractions and food places are commonly located 1km one after the
other. This is more so for Barcelona than Madrid.
11.4 Double Standard
I guess Spain might not be among the most developed countries in Europe, but I wonder if we are always
having this double standard. Like if people would to see such scenes in China, there would be way more
negative comments.
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Example 1: When we were sitting at a coffee place in Barcelona, I realize that the hygiene level is not the best.
In terms of the staff wearing masks and gloves. In terms of separation of food handling and money handling.
Example 2: The train stations and interchanges are really bare in their finishes. No barricade. Nothing too
modern and clean looking.
Example 3: In the few trips where we took cab and Uber, almost all the drivers are using the phones (mounted)
when they are driving. There were drivers replying text when we are at the traffic lights, just having
conversations, and even playing the World Cup match.
11.5 Sleep
There was this period that I notice I have been sleeping early, perhaps by 11pm. I think this was in Barcelona
when the network speed seems slower at night. And I end up waking up earlier to use the phone and to plan
our itinerary; train timings, ticket combos, lunch places etc. But it’s still waking up later than going to work
in Singapore, like 8am to 9am. Thus, basically, I have been having more than sufficient hours of sleep almost
every night and it does feel really good, being well rested.
Which is always interesting. Back home, you always feel that lifestyle and habits are so hard to change. Yet,
in a different environment, these changes seem to occur so naturally.
11.6 Supermarket
It started with me wanting to buy milk, then realizing that they don’t sell milk much in their convenience
stores. And when we see it, it’s in 1 litre packaging. There are can drinks, yoghurt drinks, yoghurt, but milk
itself is less common. So, it becomes this task in every new place we went.
11.7 Safety
We were paranoid about pickpockets, and both of us bought 2 phones on this trip. I noted down accounts and
passwords in case my primary phone got stolen and I needed to login and access certain things on my spare
phone. I also had credit cards’ number and hotline ready in case I needed to report them missing. Thankfully,
nothing eventful happened.
Safety at night is always interesting to experience for oneself. I would always read up on that prior, but because
personal safety and our assessment of risks can be so relative. Dinner in Spain is late, so the safety of “streets
after dark” must have been less of a concept to begin with. Where we were at, streets at nights were crowded.
There was always a main road/ alley followed by all the smaller ones in the grid city planning.
I think I can only remember that 1 street in Barcelona (with only parked cars on 1 side, and street lights
available, but no pedestrians around) where we had to walk through it (100m?) to get to our dinner place, and
asking Janice if she is comfortable or to change our dinner place.
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In Madrid, we are always in the same area at night. It’s crowded and makes me wonder if every weekday
night is that crowded or it’s simply some 1-month-before-Christmas crowd with the lights up.
Page 62 of 62

Spain Trip (11-27 Nov 2022)

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Spain Trip (11-27 Nov 2022)

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Spain Trip from 11 to 27 November 2022

6.2.1 Trevelez ............................................................................................................................................. 24

8.2.1 History Museum of Madrid ............................................................................................................. 44

2.1 Deciding on Spain

Nevertheless, we settled on Spain as an alternative to Poland.

2.2 Lack of Preparation

Day Date Time Itinerary Accommodation

Day Date Time Itinerary Accommodation

Day Date Time Itinerary Accommodation

Day Date Time Itinerary Accommodation

It’s an interesting and fun start to our trip.

Waiting to board our flight at Changi

5.1 Google Map

5.2.2 Casa Batllo

5.2.3 Cathedral of Barcelona

5.2.4 Barcelona History Museum

5.2.5 Picasso Museum

5.2.6 Museu d'Història de Catalunya

5.2.7 Barceloneta Beach

Our short trek to Creu de Sant Miquel

Our picnic with our sad dry sandwiches

5.2.9 Placa d’Espanya

Overseeing Placa d’Espanya from Arenas Mall

5.2.10 La Sagrada Familia

5.2.11 Flea Market - Los Encants

5.2.12 Hospital de Sant Pau

5.3.1 Restaurante Mino

5.3.2 Pastisseria La Estrella

5.3.3 Santa Caterina Market

5.3.4 Vegetalia Born

5.3.5 Can Sardi

5.3.6 Gelati Dino Italia

5.3.7 Bar El Rincon

5.3.9 Bar Portanova

5.3.10 Arc Iris

5.4.1 Hotel Best Auto Hogar

5.5 To Next Destination

6 Granada Province – Mountain Villages

6.1 Google Map

Blackout! Thank God that we are already back in our accommodation.

6.2.2 Trek from Trevelez to Busquistar

Just spamming photos of our 6h trek.

From our Wikiloc record.

Photos of Janice on sharp incline, steep slope down and a bridge…

My data did not work in Capileira, so could only connect to WiFi.

The highest village that we visited

1. Had nice breakfast.

Shots from the bus leaving the village.

6.3.1 Trevelez - Restaurante Nuevo González

6.3.2 Portugos – Cooked Dinner and Breakfast

6.3.3 Portugos - Restaurante Mirador de Portugos

6.3.4 Capileira - Café Delicias

6.3.5 Capileira – Restaurante el Asador

6.3.6 Orgiva - Breakfast

6.3.7 Orgiva - Tetería Baraka

Typical good café food but the cheesecake was awesome!

6.3.8 Orgiva - Panadería La Tahona de los Galindos

6.4.1 Trevelez – Hostal Casa Fermina

6.4.2 Portugos – La Placeta Guesthouse

6.4.3 Capileira – Hotel Rural Real de Poqueira

No photos because it’s quite a typical hotel.

6.4.4 Orgiva – Casa Jazmin

The rich man’s house

6.5 To Next Destination