Andalusia - Seville - Aaji's Thaali

If you are a travel-addict like me, you probably have a wish-list of cities you want to visit. Of course, that list keeps increasing with every passing year as you watch travel shows or read articles. Seville featured in my list for many years. It wasn't at the very top but it was there, under the heavyweights, patiently waiting for its turn. In January, when the weather got me down, I decided that I needed some sunshine and positive temperatures. I scanned over my list quickly and arrived upon Seville. I had read a couple of articles and seen a few travel shows but none of them did justice to this magnificent city. Seriously. I feel a little foolish now for having waited this long to go here. This article is going to be pictorial more than words because I feel in this case, it's needed.

But before we get started, here are a few quick facts and tips -
1. Seville is the biggest city in Andalusia and also the warmest in continental Europe in the summer.
2. There is an airport shuttle from the airport to the city and also, all the way to the bus depot which is at walking distance from the Metropol Parasol.
3. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and walk with bottles of water. This is a walking city with narrow lanes which need to be explored. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
4. If you want to go to the Cathedral or Alcazar, book in advance. The queues are long.
5. The Flamenco performances are mostly in and around the Triana neighbourhood. Some places allow walk-ins and some need you to reserve. Ask your hotel/host for recommendations.
6. There are enough food options for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians in the city and also several good options away from the centre.
7. Food is well priced and you can budget about 100 euros a day for a couple with healthy appetites eating breakfast, lunch, dinner and 4 drinks per day at a regular place. Of course, if you choose to go to a higher end/ ranked restaurant, prices will be higher. But on an average, most tapa bars, eateries and bakeries are affordable.

8. For shopping, get away from the main streets into the small lanes to discover the real Seville. Most shops here are family-run and have been around for over 4 decades. We found an old pen shop and picked up a beautiful fountain pen in an unusual shade of blue.
9. If you want to try authentic Spanish biscuits and sweets, visit Ines Rosales. It is located in a lane behind the cathedral. You can also find some (but not all) of their products in supermarkets.
10. Do not leave this region without trying their Turron/Torrone. It is a nougat made of egg whites, sugar, honey and toasted almonds. They also experiment with different flavours so take your pick!