On Day 5, I spent my morning continuing to explore Malaga. I decided I would head to some old ruins of a castle, situated on a high hilltop. It was a bit of a hike to get up there, but provided fantastic views along the way. The castle itself was really neat as well. You were able to walk around the top on all sides, and see different views of the water and the city. It was such a beautiful day with great weather, and having those awesome views just topped it off. Afterwards I headed back down to the city, doing a bit of shopping and heading to the local market. I bought some really nice cheese and bread, along with some strawberries for a delicious lunch. It only came to 2.75 euros! What a steal!
I then took the train back to Madrid to spend the evening there for New Years! I had some time to kill before the celebrations, so I took to explore another area of the city I had not spent much time in, near the opera. I met this really cool artist doing some paintings on tiles in the street, so that was interesting to watch. I also bought one as a souvenir!
It was then time to head to Puerta de Sol. This is the area in Madrid where everyone celebrates new years. The tradition in Spain is that at midnight, you have to eat 12 grapes, with the sound of the clocks bells. Apparently it all started in the 1900's, when there was a surplus of grapes, and they wanted to find another way to sell them. The tradition of eating grapes at midnight has continued since then. Cool eh? People were walking around selling packs of twelve grapes, in additon to lots of other things including beer, champagne, wigs, and flashing accessories. I'm not sure why, but people in Spain on new years wear crazy wigs, of all different colours and types, so that was different to see! At midnight, it was really hard to eat all the grapes fat enough, especially since they had seeds. I had met some people from Australia and Chicago, and we all struggled to get the task done. I was also literally showered in champagne from everyone spraying their bottles - everyone was having a great time! It was a super fun night, and one that I will certainly remember.
Here are some pics!
On my way up to the castle. Self timer worked again!
Another pic of the awesome views!
I finally got to use my telephoto lens. Here is the bullring seen from up on the hill!
Explore the castle ruins.
Here is a pic of the slide from my hotel!
Next hotel in Madrid. Hotel Liabeny. Very close to all of the action!
Me at Puerta de Sol getting pumped for all the action!
Me and some furry creature ... possibly a star wars character? I have no idea! He just kept saying I love you, and I love whiskey. Good times!
The square packed with people, and filling all of the adjacent streets.
Twelve grapes to eat at midnight, not an easy task.
Me and some people I celebrated with, from Chicago, Australia, and Spain. Fun group!
Me and my new flashing ring after midnight :) Happy new year!
Hi Whitney... I have loved reading your recent update and how you celebrated NYE with new friends and 12 grapes! I am anxious and excited to read more as you continue your adventure into Africa! Love always, Mom xo
ReplyDelete