Getting reacquainted with the big Man upstairs

Everyone knows that the Spanish are a big Catholic nation (well if you didn't, now you do) and nowhere is that more true than in the more traditional areas and Andalucia is no exception.

Malaga has a gorgeous Cathedral which is less of a tourist attraction and more of a functioning church for the locals. But once you're inside, you can't help but feel pretty humbled. The gold finishes also do constantly remind me how rich the Catholic church is, but that's another story!

The lighting was really low in there - with the exception of strategically placed stained glassed windows which beam down on some important part of the church/statue or the like. So I had some challenges taking pics to show you since I didn't bring a tripod. Anyway, you'll just have to imagine the rest, but trust me when I tell you, it was impressive :)

Under the hot, hot sun

It gets hot here. Really hot. So it is technically Autumn, but it is 36 degrees. Ouch! So the locals have found ways to deal with the heat.

And yes, it includes the beach but mostly what I've found is that the laneways are really close together and then the buildings cast lots of shade in them so that you can find respite from the sun. All the bars and eateries are in these alleyways and they are packed. Can't imagine what they'd be like in the thick of the tourist season.

You also see lots of greenery. Everything I remember about Andalucia involves flowers of some description. It's quite dry, even though the ocean is near, but you find lots and lots of red flowers & green plants popping up all over the place. And red flowers are used for everything. Table decorations, hair decorations, garden decorations, put one in your pocket.... the list goes on.

Malaga is also the home to Alcabaza; a fortress/palace constructed in the 16th century. I went for a sticky beak and it is pretty phoenomenal. And in true Spanish style, there is very little concern/paranoia for safety so you can climb onto the ledges (with no handrails or fences) and look over the city. Lucky for me I was wearing my trusty flat sandals and don't have vertigo. Otherwise you'd be screwed.