Quirky Traveller's Tales

In the fourth of our series of interviews with Holiday Homeowners from around the world, British expats Boz and Polly Cannon share their secret to a more laidback and active lifestyle and offer an insight into their new life in Frigiliana, in beautiful southern Spain.

 After working for 23 years in the Royal Navy then spending 5 years commuting from Petersfield Hampshire to London working in high pressure IT environment, Boz Cannon and his wife Polly, an NHS administrator, decided it was time for a change. In 2002, they bought a luxurious two bedroom apartment in a small complex in Frigiliana, Costa del Sol, with incredible 360 degree views from the balconies and roof terrace, both down to the sea and to the mountains.

After returning to London, Boz found out his  CEO had been fired, so that very same night they decided to cash in all their investments, sell the flats and move lock, stock and barrel to Spain. Less than three  months later they arrived for good.

1.  What first made you fall in love with Frigiliana and why should people come here?

We fell in love with Frigiliana, in southern Spain for so many reasons, it just seemed to have everything we could have ever dreamed of.  We had always loved the outdoors, so with the hills of the Sierra Tejeda and the Almijada Natural Park on our doorstep, the Mediterranea Sea  ten minutes away and the Sierra Nevada ski resort just 90 minutes away we could now play to our heart’s content. After our previous hectic lives, the moderate pace of life, lack of road rage,  low crime levels, lack of materialism and the fact that the Spanish have maintained family life and values, was a true joy to become part of.

 2.  What’s the ‘best kept secret’ you would tell any visitors not to miss?

This one is very easy. El Acebuchal is a small aldea (hamlet) about 5km from Frigiliana which was an old staging post on the trade route from the coast into the province of Granada. During the days of the civil war, the village was abandoned and  fell into ruins but back in 1998 Antonio Garcia “El Zumbo” and his family, who now own and run the restaurant there and who lived in the village as children, decided to renovate some of the family properties, which sparked off a full scale renovation of the village. El Acebuchal has now been reborn as a beautiful whitewashed pueblo with lovely cobbled streets and a wood fired oven in the main street, where Antonio will often cook a whole roast lamb or suckling pig.

3.  Where’s the place to go to just hang out, people watch and generally soak up the atmosphere?

In terms of just hanging out, there is no better way to get a feel for the life and soul of the village than to take  an evening  ‘paseo’ (wander) through the village. Join in with the locals as they parade through the narrow alleys and winding lanes, often with four generations of the same family in tow. Great grandparents with their walking sticks down to babies in pushchairs, they all stop to chat to their lifelong neighbours and friends.

4.  What would you recommend visitors either treat themselves to while they’re there, or take home as a souvenir?

A visit to Frigiliana would certainly not be complete without sampling some of the local delicacies. There’s the locally produced Frigiliana wine, made of the moscatell grapes that are harvested in August, taken to the local press in the village and then transferred to huge barrels where the juice is left to ferment for three months or more with no additives whatsoever. Another  favourite is the locally produced cane honey, still made in the original factory in the village. For the carnivor, a plate of ‘Choto’ (goat) in garlic and almond sauce is an absoute must.

5.  Finally, what are the most ‘quirky’ things to do, see, eat, visit or experience in this place?

The Axarquia region of the Costa del Sol plays host to a vast array of adrenalin fuelled adventure sports. There’s canyoning, a relatively new sport to Spain, but also parascending, skydiving, climbing a ‘via ferrata’ and kayaking. There are also dozens of caves in the area, including the world famouse Nerja Caves, that take the visitor to a whole new subterranean world with immense galleries, wierd and wonderful rock formations, and prehistoric cave paintings reputed to be almost 20,000 years old.

Frigiliana apartment owners Boz & Polly

Holiday Homeowner Q&A is brought to you by HomeAway.co.uk, the UK’s leading holiday rentals website with over 320,000 properties worldwide. From cute studios and city apartments to rural cottages and country homes, large luxury villas, quirky conversions and more, there are thousands of unique places to enjoy a more authentic and unusual holiday.

The journey from Gran Canaria airport to the south is via a drab, grey volcanic landscape, interspersed with occasional prickly pear plants.  Not the most prepossessing of starts to a holiday, so we were delighted when we arrived at the luxurious timeshare Holiday Club resort of Sol Amadores.  Our huge, two-bedroom, two bathroom apartment with its modern open-plan kitchen lounge area, had all mod-cons; I needn’t have brought the portable kettle.  The boys jumped around with excitement when they saw our large terrace with the big blue Jacuzzi.  It was their favourite place to chill out at all times of the day and night …

My 15 year old son, his best mate and I had escaped England for a week’s holiday in Amadores in the south of Gran Canaria, one of the Spanish Canary Islands off the west coast of Africa.  I wanted somewhere with guaranteed  sunshine and the boys wanted a pool with some activities to keep them occupied.  The view from the terrace was very impressive – down the valley (fifteen minute walk but the resort has a courtesy bus – much needed in the heat) to the curvaceous sweep of palm-bedecked Amadores beach. 

It’s got gloriously golden sand, jumbled ranks of beach brollies, sunbeds and the Aqua Park – a green play area of inflatable trampolines and slides that kept the boys happy most days – at €5 for 40 minutes well worth it.  Spread out along the edge of the beach was the usual collection of tourist restaurants serving up reasonably priced meals with cheap beer and a few local delicacies to tempt the more adventurous palates.  We spent one very pleasant evening at Ciao Ciao, an Italian restaurant serving the boys’ favourite pizzas.   Sunsets are stunning here.

We had a really memorable meal at Memsaab Fusion.  The smell of Indian cooking wafted across the road, past the palms and cacti, onto the long, curving sandy beach and drifted out over the Atlantic Ocean.  We were delighted to discover this classy restaurant, with its mix of Asian, Mexican and European food, right on our holiday doorstep.

The pool area at Sol Amadores was a welcome escape from the busy beach.  People of all ages enjoyed the sunshine, from babies in the paddling pool, children laughing happily during  the organised activities, teenagers playing pool and darts, mums reading Kindles, dads swapping stories in the bar and older holidaymakers simply relaxing in the sun.  Belinda and other bar staff served us freshly made baguettes, tasty meals, ice cream and drinks – my favourite tipple was a tall glass of rum & coke with lots of ice …

Although predominantly British, there were also French, Dutch and Germans staying here.  It seems that timeshare is not only really popular with all ages and nationalities but has a lot more variety than I had realised.  People staying in the apartment next to us had recently exchanged one of their weeks for a stay in a villa in Finland and another family were looking forward to a break on a houseboat in Venice.  Everyone we spoke to really enjoyed the flexibility and standard of accommodation and local people said it benefitted the economy as visitors spent more in the shops and restaurants than the ‘all-inclusive’ package deals.

As well as our time by the beach and the pool, we visited nearby tourist hot spot Puerto Rico, very popular with families and younger people on Gran Canaria.

The highlight of the holiday for the boys was a scuba diving session with the excellent team at Top Diving Puerto Rico; really well-organised and lots to see in the clear blue Atlantic.  We went on a fascinating VIP tour of the mountainous interior of Gran Canaria and I overcame my fear of heights to drive our hire car over along the very windy, cliff road to the pretty fishing village of Puerto de Mogan.

It’s known as Little Venice because of the tiny canals that link the harbours.  Luxury yachts look down imperiously onto little fishing crafts and during the day there’s a steady stream of tourist boats from all around the island.  Bougainvillea drapes colourfully from all the buildings.  Souvenir shops and restaurants line the quaint quay.  Eating out in Spain is always a pleasure and the boys loved the tasty tapas we had for lunch; grilled octopus, baby squid, mussels and canarian potatoes.

On our last night on Gran Canaria, Isabel, one of the trio of incredibly helpful and friendly reception staff, took us all out to see the silky soft sand dunes at Maspalomas and then on to chic Meloneras to see the lighthouse and artisan market.  We heard a lively performance of traditional songs and music and bought some lovely craftwork from the little stalls.  As we ate our ice creams and watched the sun setting across the ocean, my son said, “This is the best holiday I’ve ever been on …”

Many thanks to everyone at Holiday Club Sol Amadores for making our stay so special.  They are members of the timeshare trade body Resort Development Organisation and their owners can stay in a wide variety of different properties around the world.  We thoroughly enjoyed our time in Gran Canaria – watch out for more articles on this popular Spanish island.

Although Spanish cuisine may vary by region, one thing always remains the same – that Spaniards adore their food and drink, and lots of it. You’ll need to bring a hearty appetite with you when you’ve got your cheap flights to Spain but to make the most of the fantastic local flavours, you should know how to eat like a local too.

We Brits are often told that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but this couldn’t be less true for Spaniards whose breakfast, or ‘desayuno’, may consist only of a pastry and juice. There’s good reason for the light breakfast however, which is that Spaniards take their main meal of the day at lunchtime. 

This meal, ‘Comida’ is eaten after 2pm and comprises of several courses, followed by coffee or numerous shots of liqueur. For the most authentic Spanish lunch experience order the ‘Menu del Dia’, a fixed-price menu on which you’ll always find the freshest local dishes.

Say Yes To Siesta

With so much food consumed, it’s no wonder that lunch is followed by a siesta until 4pm! Be aware that the majority of local establishments will be closed during this time while the owners take their naps, so as the old saying goes if you can’t beat them, join them.

This mid-afternoon break means that Spaniards seldom take their lighter evening meal, ‘cena’, until 9pm. In the summer it’s not unusual for dinner to be served as late as midnight, but if you can’t wait that long why not head to the restaurants early to beat the local crowds.

Drink to Tradition

All that food is sure to make you a little thirsty, and as the Spanish have been polled as the fifth-highest consumers of alcohol in the world it’s never the wrong time of day for a drink! Like everything in life though, Spaniards drink slowly, so linger over a great glass of Spanish wine or ‘cerveza’ (beer) while you watch the world go by.

On the other hand if you’re avoiding alcohol or just want to enjoy a refreshing Spanish beverage, try some horchata, a blend of rice, almonds, cinnamon and sugar that is sure to be a hit especially with younger visitors on cheap flights to Spain.

Author Bio: Victoria Cawthorne

Victoria is a travel blogger with a passion for music, theme parks, bikes, sewing, vegetarian food and road trips in camper vans. She has travelled extensively through Europe and North America and even lived abroad too, and has a natural passion for penning her experiences along the way.

The article is brought to you by Jet2.com

This photo brings back so many memories … My Dad bought a flat in Menorca in the 1980s and absolutely loved the island.  He was a passionate sailor and chose it because it has wind most of the year round.  Therefore it’s great for sailing and does mean it doesn’t always have the all-round great weather that nearby Majorca and Ibiza.  However, it has more lovely beaches than both those islands put together and is perfect for families – and sailors.

For many years I have been taking my son out there on holiday to stay with my brother who moved there after Dad died – so we still enjoy its beauties and impressive sights.  This photo was taken in July when brother and friends hired a pedallo and took Alex (see the hat!) out for a pedal round a quiet bay.  Happy days …

In high summer, a city break chock full of cultural tours and high-energy activities might not be what you’re after. But European city breaks don’t have to mean nonstop sightseeing and packed schedules. Laidback lounging is what continental cities do best.

Clement climates mean pleasant public parks, wide piazzas for people-watching and ample roof terraces for a sneaky siesta. So sit back with a little sangria or a small aperitif and plan your next stimulating but meditative city break.

Rome

This is one of those sparkling cities where anything can happen. With fascinating architectural ruins on every corner and shrines to Catholic saints adorning every back street, wandering aimlessly with no destination in mind will reap you many rewards.

Of course The Vatican, the Coliseum and the Pantheon, all within a short bus or taxi ride of each other are must-sees. Don’t visit in scorching July and August. Rome hotels will have many vacancies, but once the locals make their mass summer exodus to the seaside the city is unusually quiet.

Berlin

Berlin is a wild and wonderful city for sampling elegant museums, contemporary galleries and surprisingly good cuisine: if spicy sausages are your thing, you won’t be disappointed. Berlin is a malleable melting point of Turkish, Vietnamese and Italian cultures which means fresh kebabs, notoriously good noodle soup, excellent coffee and creamy handmade ice-cream are widely available throughout the city. The upmarket Mitte district teems with young professionals, tech hipsters and Japanese sushi joints.

Barcelona

Spain holidaysare usually filled with Miro, margaritas and moonlit magic. The tapas everywhere is excellent, especially grilled seafood on Las Ramblas, but it isn’t cheap. To get more for your money, consider renting a cheap villa. A shared self-catering apartment with a pool in a beautiful location offers excellent value for money especially if you’re holidaying in a big group.

San Sebastian

If you’re facing a city versus beach holiday dilemma, this might be just the ticket. The northern part of Spain might offer an alternative beach experience. Cities in the gourmet Basque country, like San Sebastian, are great options for a fun-filled break by the sea with a more rural feel.

Lisbon

With some of the best seafood in Europe on every street corner, Lisbon is one of the most popular destinations. Turn up in November and you’ll be in for one of the warmest winters in Europe. Nautical museums and seaside motifs abound, especially in Portugal hotels which are charmingly rustic. Aim for one with a view of the 16^th Century Jerónimos Monastery.

This article is brought to you by Hayes & Jarvis.

Jutting out into the entrance of the Mediterranean Sea from the Atlantic Ocean, the famous rocky port of Gibraltar has been a haven for many a tired ship for centuries. Greek sailors saw it as the end of their known world, while today’s tourist knows it as a tax haven making its stores really popular.  Gib, as it’s affectionately known, has been British since being captured by British and Dutch Marines in 1704, but has a history of Moorish, Arab, and Spanish occupation, explaining the multicultural society and building styles that prevail today.

Photo by sylvia@intrigue

Top 5 things to do on the Rock

1. Top of the Rock

A trip up to the heights of the rock itself is an absolute must. Local tourist guides in their ubiquitous minibuses will negotiate the roads that go right along the narrow spine of land at the very top, where the rock falls away on one side to the Mediterranean and to the Atlantic on the other. Expect breathtaking views of Morocco and Spain from the summit. 

2. The Barbary Apes

The taxi drivers will know the best places to see groups of the Barbary apes, which roam free on the rock in their hundreds. These are the most entertaining creatures, often seen with young clinging to them, but it should be remembered that they are wild animals and should not be touched or fed. They can cause horrific injuries if provoked!

Photo by Dianne Pike

3. Great Siege Tunnels

Dug out by the British in the late 18^th century when France and Spain held Gibraltar to siege for 4 long years. The tunnels were dug to allow the guns to fire sideways at the forces entrenched too close to be hit from exterior locations. These tunnels were extended in 1940 to create a great fortress under Churchill’s orders. Both sets of tunnels, an amazing 50 km of passages, are now open to the public and audio tours are available.

Photo by woto

4. St Michael’s Cave

These stunning caverns, caused by natural hollowing of the limestone rock by rainwater, with their towering stalactites and stalagmites, an underground lake, and even a concert hall, are an incredible sight.  Photography is allowed so the journey inside the rock can be remembered. Tickets can be purchased as part of the rock tours or at the caves.

Photo by Greenshed

5. Main Street

This is the shopping street stretching from the famous Casemates Square up to the Governors Residence. The street is stacked to the brim with jewellers, liquor stores, souvenir shops, electronics stores and perfumeries. A great place to pick up bargains galore. Taxi drivers will obligingly drop you here after your rock tour if requested!

The 6.5 square kilometres of Gibraltar is a unique experience, which really must be experienced while you travel Europe.  If you are backpacking around Spain don’t forget that car hire comparison sites can offer competitive prices to get from one area to another. This can allow you to get around areas less well served by public transport.

Linda is a freelance writer and bookseller who, following 19 years in IT for a large airline, loves to write about the places she has visited. She also adores her other job as a bookseller in a local bookstore.