Sevilla: Something For Everyone.
Written: May 17 '01 (Updated May 17 '01)
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Friendly people, beautiful weather, great nightlife and rich culture.
Cons: Very hot in the summer and sometimes difficult to find English speakers.
The Bottom Line: I've traveled through most of Western Europe, and would recommend Sevilla above all else. The beauty of Sevilla is that you can enjoy yourself sight-seeing, or doing nothing at all.
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| ericwe's Full Review: Sevilla |
I was lucky enough to spend a semester of study in Sevilla, though I could have spent a year there. I arrived in January of 1997, and for the next 3 1/2 months, felt completely at home. I've already made one return trip to the city, and I look forward to returning in the future as it is definitely one of my favorite places in the world!
The weather in Sevilla is almost always beautiful. During my stay, we had fewer than ten days without seeing that beautiful blue sky. It only rained a handful of times, and most of those were in the first few days after I arrived. The rainy months in Sevilla are during the winter, while traveling in the Spring and Summer promises a healthy dose of sunshine. I would recommend visiting March-May, though I would never discourage a visit at any time of the year. Temperatures in the summer will vault easily into the 100-110 degree range, as I found out in August upon my return to the city, when it was 112 degrees in the shade.
I truly believe that Sevilla has something for everyone. If you are a history buff looking for a rich cultural experience, you'll enjoy knowing that this city has housed thriving Roman settlements, been under Gothic rule from Northern Europe, was an important stronghold in the Moorish kingdom, all before being conquered by the Christians. Years later, Cristobol Colon (Christopher Columbus)received funding from Spanish monarchs for his journey to the new world, forever linking Spain and today's western civilizations. Be sure to check out Columbus' final resting place in the Cathedral of Sevilla.
For fans of great architecture, Sevilla is a dream! The Cathedral itself could keep you occupied for days. It sits on a foundation that was once part of the ancient Roman forum. The base of La Giralda, which is the bell tower, used to be the minaret of the Mosque during Moorish rule. Also saved from the ruins of the Mosque was el patio de los naranjos (the patio of the orange trees). Clear influences of Gothic, Romanesque, and Neo-classical architecture are also evident in the beautiful structure.
For those who are looking for a more leisurely visit, Sevilla is glad to appease. My favorite spots are along the Guadalquivir River, which winds through the Western end of the city. My host family lived in el barrio de (neighborhood) Triana, which is located directly West of the Cathedral, and across the river. Check out el Calle Betis, which runs along a large portion of the West bank. I recommend starting directly across from el Torre de Oro (the Tower of Gold), another Moorish structure built to defend the city from river attacks. Walk north along Betis stopping at any of the bars or cafes along the way. When you reach the bridge, cross over the river and walk south back toward the Torre de Oro. In the warm months, I remember spending many hours basking in the sun at one of the riverside bars, some of which are actually floating barges. Be sure to ask for a tinto de verano, a favorite summer beverage.
The nightlife is fueled by the spirit of the people. Spaniards love to party, and if you are up for it, you can easily find someone to join you until five or six o'clock in the morning. I would suggest checking out some of the bars along el Calle Betis. These bars are smaller and very popular as the weather gets warm. Behind the Cathedral, in el Barrio de Santa Cruz, the streets wind around revealing many wonderful bars and restaurants. My favorite is Carboneria. You may have to ask around to find it, as it is located deep in the heart of Santa Cruz, and there is no sign on the distinctive red door. In here you can watch flamenco dancers, listen to Spanish guitarists and vocalists, and socialize with native Sevillians (and any other tourists who can find the bar).
The phrase "Sevilla es una maravilla", ("Sevilla is a marvel"), as my Spanish host grandmother used to say to me, has stuck with me ever since saying "hasta luego" to my second home in the south of Spain. Whatever it is that you are looking for in a trip, I bet you can find it somewhere in this magical city.
Recommended:
Yes
Best Suited For: Students
Best Time to Travel Here: Mar - May
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Epinions.com ID:
ericwe
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Reviews written: 1
Trusted by: 0 members
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