Ahead of places like Paris, Parma or the Caribbean, The Telegraph places Andalusia in the top 20 of the best places to live in the world. It highlights its climate, gastronomy, the warmth of its people, its culture and its historical heritage. In this article we give you 10 reasons to live in Andalusia, the best decision you can make:
1. The history
Andalusia is culturally rich. A Roman past, the Arab airs of Al-Andalus and the Christian era have marked the idiosyncrasy of this region. Moreover, the first Spanish Constitution was born in Cadiz, the expedition for the discovery of America was set up in Huelva, the lines of the Arab world were drawn from Cordoba and international trade was controlled from the Mediterranean.
2. The heritage
Andalusia's cultural wealth stems especially from its heritage. The Alhambra in Granada, a Moorish monument that has become one of the most important in the world, stands out. Also of great importance are the Mosque of Cordoba, or the Giralda and the Torre del Oro, in Seville.
3. The architecture
In Andalusia you will find architectural variety in every village you visit, such as Moorish lines, typical farmhouses or whitewashed houses. To visit the architecture you can stroll through the streets of Mijas in Malaga, or the villages of the Costa de la Luz in Cadiz. You can also visit the villages of Frigiliana or El Borge in Malaga., or the cortijos, which can be found in the interior of the region, such as in Cordoba or Seville..
4. The food
The Mediterranean diet is known to be one of the best in the world. Eating varied and healthy, with dishes such as paella, gazpacho, potato omelette or fried fish.
5. The traditional markets
In the Andalusian markets you will find natural and local products, of quality and typical of the Mediterranean diet. At the market you can not only buy food but also get advice from the shopkeepers on how to prepare it.
6. Tapas
Highlight the "the art of tapas" in Andalusia. Go to any bar in Malaga, Cadiz or Huelva and enjoy tapas of chorizo, cheese, squid or prawns. They are small portions of food that you can accompany with a good wine or a cold beer. Any corner of Andalusia is a good place to enjoy a tapa.
7. The beaches
Another of Andalusia's attractions are its beaches. On one side, the Mediterranean Sea and on the other the Atlantic Ocean. You are spoilt for choice. The Costa del Sol, with unbeatable beaches and all kinds of services within easy reach. And the wild beaches of the Atlantic, with fine sand and incredibly spectacular scenery.
8. The climate
Undoubtedly one of the most characteristic aspects of Andalusia is its good climate. Most of the year we have sunshine, so there is life in the streets and joy, one of the most valued things in the south. In addition, the temperatures are pleasant in winter, without being extremely cold. In summer they rise but with a good swim at the beach you can cool off.
9. The people
Joy invades the streets of Andalusia, probably thanks to the sun that accompanies us all year round. This energy is contagious. And the warmth of the people of the south has become a great tourist attraction. The friendliness and pleasantness of the people make visitors feel at home and integrate into the land they are visiting.
10. Flamenco
For tradition, art and culture, flamenco is the music you will hear most in Andalusia. You will find tablaos where artists sing, dance and play the guitar and cajón. To the rhythm of the Spanish guitar, the dancers display their polka-dotted and frilly costumes accompanied by the traditional manila shawl while the broken singing of this musical style tears the feelings of everyone who listens to it.
Andalusia is the best place in the world for the good life according to The Telegraph and this is not the first time it has been recognised as one of the best destinations. After these 10 reasons to live in Andalusia, and if you haven't yet visited this Spanish region, don't hesitate to organise a few days of relaxation in this land. Keep reading our blog to find out more about what it's like to live in Andalusia. Estepona or in Tariff.
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