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The Best of Seville Spain in 1-3 days Seville, located in the sunny region of Andalusia, Spain, is a city rich in culture and history with Moorish and Christian influences.  The city saw a transformation in its culture, economy, architecture, crafts, and religious tolerance. The Moors (Arabs) conquered Seville from the early 8th until the 13th century.  The city experienced significant transformation in its culture, economy, architecture, and religious tolerance. You will find tilework, carved stucco, and well-manicured gardens throughout the city.  Flamenco is part of the cultural life in Seville. The dance originated in Andalusia with moves carried by the Arabs.  Tapas are said to be the best in Spain. Many local bars and restaurants offer free tapas, and small plates of Spanish delicacies, with each ordered drink.   Walking through the picturesque narrow streets, enjoying bar hopping and sampling tapas, or getting lost in the alleys of the Jewish quarter make Seville an extraordinary place. Best time to visit: March to April and  September to November. Hotel prices are lower; temperatures are mild.  Easter is the Holy Week when religious parades take place throughout the city. I visited in April; it was very comfortable. Where to stay: Click here for information. Helpful tips:  Using eSim card will give you coverage worldwide with one provider and one payment.  Click here for info. Where to eat: Restaurants with ratings and reviews.  Click TripAdvisor. Travel Insurance: Click here for information. Why I need Travel Insurance. From the Airport: Seville Airport is 10 kilometers from the city, off the A-4 motorway. You can get on the EA line from the airport to the city center by bus. The trip takes about 35 minutes and costs 4 euros (6 euros return) . The journey takes about 30 minutes by taxi and has a fixed price of €24.98. By road, you must take  the A-4 on a 25-minute trip. Getting around on a bus: Seville’s city buses usually run from 6 a.m. to 11.30 p.m. There is a one or 3-day tourist card with unlimited travel—best times to visit: March to May. 1 Day plan: Basilica de la Macarena Metropol Parasol Casa de Pilatos Barrio de Santa Cruz Alcazar Cathedral de Sevilla & Giralda Tower 2 Day plan: (add) Muse de Bellas Artes de Sevilla Iglesia Colegial del Salvador Archivo de Indias Real Plaza de Toros Plaza de España Parque Maria Luisa Cathedral de Sevilla & Giralda Towe All the sites are withing walking distances.  Seniors; you can find helpful information by clicking: Traveling Seniors. 3 DAYS VISIT DAY 1 1.  Basilica de la Macarena, also known as Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Esperanza Macarena,      Houses the famous statue of the Virgin Mary known as “La Macarena.” The facade has delicately carved figures representing the lives of Jesus and the Virgin Mary. The center of the church is decorated with marble columns.  It has beautiful glass-stained windows. The altars are well decorated. The Mary statue was created from wood in the 17th century. The statue is so well done that it is life-like. It is dressed in embroidered garments and adorned with jewels. Click here for tours and activities. 2. Metropol Parasol, also known as Las Setas de Sevilla or the Mushrooms of Seville A modern designed structure built from Birch wood and designed by the German architect Jurgen Mayer. It is a futuristic design contrasting the medieval architecture of Seville. There is a terrace on the rooftop; an elevator takes visitors to the top, where they can enjoy the Seville vistas.  They can also enjoy the bar and restaurant on top, below a public square where events and activities take place. Click here for tours and activities.   3. Casa de Pilatos, also known as the Pilate’s House Was built in the 15th century by the Enríquez family, a Spanish noble family. It depicts beautiful Andalusian architecture. Rich in its design and decoration. A legend claims the house was built on the spot where Pontius Pilate was born hence the name. Pilate presided over the trial of Jesus. The magnificent courtyard is adorned by ornate arches and beautiful azulejo tilework representing scenes from the bible.  The interior was decorated with detailed plasterwork and handcrafted woodwork. The rooms bear witness to the extravagance of the owners with paintings, tapestries, and sculptures. Click here for tours and activities.     4. Barrio de Santa Cruz, also known as the Santa Cruz neighborhood, Whitewashed houses, winding narrow streets, and a vibrant atmosphere that makes the area attractive to locals and visitors.  Its history goes back to the Arab medieval times. The Jewish quarter was busy with merchants, artisans, and scholars until the Catholic monarchs expelled the population during the Spanish Inquisition, and the area fell to neglect.  It was renewed in the 18th and 19th centuries to what we see today, as a vibrant and desired place. The Moorish influence is throughout the neighborhood, which gives it a unique charm. Gardens, plazas, and parks are in the area.  Cafes, restaurants, and bars are where people gather to socialize.  Click here for tours and activities.   5. Alcázar of Seville  Alcazar was built by the Muslims in the 10th century as a fort and defensive structure.  The renovations over the years present a mixture of Moorish, Gothic, Renaissance, and Mudejar architectural styles. Like other structures in Seville, there are tilework and detailed decorations. The designs are called azulejos which is Andalusian art.  Gardens outside with fountains, pools, and geometrically planted and trimmed hedges provide a tranquil corner. In the Alcazar sits the Palacio de Don Pedro or the Mudejar Palace.  Mudejar comes from the Arabic word Muhajir which means immigrant.  These Muslims stayed after the Arabs were defeated and pushed back to North Africa. They became known for their artistic architecture, evident in the Palacio.  Also in the Alcazar is The Sala de los Embajadores, or the Hall of Ambassadors, with very artistically crafted wooden ceilings.  Click here for tours and activities. 6. The Cathedral of Seville and the Geralda Tower, also known as

The Best of Granada Spain in 3 Days. Granada is a city in southern Spain, in the province of Andalusia. It sits under the Sierra Nevada mountains.The Arabs ruled for over 700 years, and their influence can be seen throughout the city.In architecture: The Alhambra, the Generalife Palace, and Albaicin neighborhood are examples of the Arab architectural influence of the time.In Cuisine: Arab influence can also be seen in the cuisine of Granada, which features a blend of Moorish and Spanish flavors. The Arabs influenced music and dance. Flamenco is believed to have originated from the gypsy community that lived in the Albaicin neighborhood. It features elements of Moorish music and hand clapping.Their influence in Granada has left a strong mark on the city’s cultural heritage, making it special blend of Islamic and Spanish traditions. Granada is a vibrant city with delicious cuisine. It is known for its tapas with a number of restaurants. For restaurants advice click here TripAdvisor. Best time to visit: September-October and April-May. I have been in April during the Easter holiday. It is a special time in Granada. Religious parades take place throughout the week. Three days are recommended to enjoy Granada and soak up all that it has to offer. I listed below the itineraries for 1, 2, and 3 leisurely days. Review the 3 days plan for site details and description. Few things you might need for your trip: eSim card provides you cell phone service worldwide click Airalo. For travel insurance check my article “Why I need travel insurance“.   Travelex insurance is a good option, click here. 1 Day plan: The AlhambraThe Palacios NazariesThe Generalife PalaceThe Alcaiceria BazaarThe Palace of Charles V,The Granada CathedralThe Alcaiceria Bazaar All the sites are within walking distance. 2 Day plan: La Cartuja MonasteryAlbayzín (also known as Albaicín)The Ermita de San Miguel AltoSacromonteSacromonte Abbey All sites are within walking distance. 3 DAYS VISIT DAY 1 1. The Alcaiceria Bazaar Is a lively historical market in the center of the old city. Built-in the 15th century as a silk market. Since it has developed into offering a variety of goods and souvenirs. Many vendors are of North African origin immigrants.Walking through the narrow, winding streets of the Bazaar, surrounded by lively vendors peddling spices, handcrafted leather goods, and ceramic gifts reminds me of a Moroccan bazaar. It is a maze-like layout with detailed Moorish designs. The bazaar was partially destroyed by fire in the 19th century but rebuilt to its former beauty. It is still one of Granada’s treasures. It is a great place to spend an afternoon and sample the local cuisine include tapas. |Click here for tours and activities. 2. The Granada Cathedral also known as the Cathedral of the Incarnation, is a magnificent Roman Catholic cathedral in Granada. It is considered one of the most important examples of Spanish Renaissance architecture and a prime example of the religious architecture of the Renaissance era.The church was built in 1523 on a site occupied by a former mosque. It took 180 years to complete the construction.The exterior is very intricate an ornate and elaborate facade. The bell towers 300 feet over the church.The interior of the church is just as striking as the exterior. Adorned with works by Spain’s greatest artists.In the cathedral is the Royal Chapel, which houses the tombs of Ferdinand and Isabella. The main chapel is home to an enormous altarpiece created by Alonso Cano.It houses a museum housing a collection of religious artwork and artifacts, including tapestries, sculptures, and paintings.The cathedral stands as a testament to the legacy of Spain’s Catholic monarchs. Click here for tours and activities. 3. The Alhambra A palace and fortress complex. Built during the 13th and 14th centuries by the Nasrid dynasty, which was the last Muslim dynasty to rule in Spain before the Reconquista.The Alhambra is known for its intricate architecture, beautiful gardens, and rich history.The complex consists of several buildings, including the Nasrid Palaces, the Alcazaba (fortress), and the Generalife (summer palace and gardens). Click here for tours and activities. 4. The Palace of Charles V Also known as the Palace of the Emperor, a magnificent Renaissance building in the heart of the Alhambra fortress. Built by the Holy Roman Emperor Charles V in the 16th century as a residence for himself and his wife Empress Isabella of Portugal. The palace construction began in 1527, designed by the Italian architect Pedro Machuca, who combined Renaissance and Spanish Gothic styles in the building’s design. The Palace of Charles V is an example of Renaissance architecture in Spain.   The palace has a square floor plan with a central courtyard, surrounded by two floors of galleries with arcades. The court yard is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, featuring a circular fountain in the center and a series of columns supporting the arches. The upper floor of the galleries is decorated with sculptures, including busts of Roman emperors and other historical figures. The interior of the Palace of Charles V is divided into two sections, the ground floor, which houses the Museum of Fine Arts, and the upper floor, which contins the Museum of the Alhambra. The Museum of Fine Arts contains a collection of Spanish paintings and sculptures from the 15th to the 20th century, the Museum of the Alhambra houses artifacts and exhibits related to the history of the Alhambra fortress. The palace was never finished due to a lack of funds. In the 20th century the building was completed and restored. Click here for tours and activities. 5. The Palacios Nazaries It was built during the 14th century by the Nasrid dynasty, the last Muslim rulers of the Iberian Peninsula, and is considered one of the finest Islamic architecture in the world. Several interconnected buildings and courtyards with different unique designs. The Court of The Lions features intricate carvings, stucco, and tile work. The center is adorned by a fountain supported by 12 marble lions.There are two halls, the Ambassadors and the Two Sisters. Decorated by beautiful honeycomb vaulted ceilings

The best Paris sites in 7 days or less. Paris is a city of lights with beautiful architecture, excellent museums, and rich history. It is one of the most visited cities in the world.  Home to the best-known landmarks: the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, the Notre Dame church, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Champs-Elysee. To get around Paris quickly, you should understand how the city is divided into “arrondissements” and the Metro system. Arrondissements: Paris is divided into 20 administrative districts, known as arrondissements. Each arrondissement is identified by its number based on its location within the city, with the 1st arrondissement located in the center and the 20th arrondissement located in the east. The arrondissements are arranged in a spiral pattern, with the Seine River forming a natural boundary between the right and left banks of the city. The odd-numbered arrondissements are located on the right bank, while the even-numbered ones are on the left bank. Many visitors navigate the city using the arrondissements numbering. The central arrondissement has the main tourist attractions. Metro: Paris has an extensive metro (subway) system that covers the whole city. I recommend using the metro to get around.  The Métro is the cheapest, easiest, and fastest way around Paris. There are 16 metro lines and 300 metro stations; the entrance is indicated by a large yellow letter, ‘M.’ Metros start running daily– including public holidays – at around 6 a.m. and stop at about 12.45 a.m. (from Sunday to Thursday) or 1.45 a.m. (on Friday and Saturday). The frequency at which metros run depends on the time and day: metros run every 2 minutes at peak hours.  Where to buy a metro ticket: Metro tickets cost € 1.90 each (€18.60 for 10 [ask for ‘un carnet’]). You can buy tickets at automatic ticket machines in metro stations, in tabagies (cigarettes and magazine shops). Each line has a distinctive color and number shown on signs and maps. Best time to visit Paris: Peak tourist season, June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, is exceptionally crowded. This is when the city is bustling, and prices are high. The best times to visit are Fall or Spring. Most of the sites are within walking distance of each other. Visiting Paris by bike is a quick and cheap way to get around the capital. , it is also a great way of exploring Paris outdoors and making the most of the weather when it is good. Click here to book a bike “BikesBooking.com” I have visited Paris regularly for business and pleasure; there is always something new to discover. Whenever you get the opportunity, try to get lost in the back streets away from the tourist center, and you will be rewarded.  Below is a plan for a seven-day leisurely visit to Paris with details for each site. I also listed the sites you should visit if you stay for 1, 2, 3, or 4 days. There is enough free time in the itinerary to allow for time to sit outside a cafe and do people-watching. You will notice that many cafes place their chairs facing the street. You can find cuisines from all over the world in Paris. Check Google ratings to find your favorite. While in Paris, I recommend taking a Wine Tasting Tour. Click here for a reservation for a “Wine Tasting Tour.” If you require storage for luggage while waiting for a room or flight, Check “RadicalStorage.” A river cruise is recommended; you can see most sites as you cruise along.  There is a hop-on, hop-off cruise. Click here for information. One-Day visit: (all within walking distance) Champs Elysee Arc de Triomphe Eiffel Tower Place de la Concorde Louvre museum Notre Dame Two Days visit: Add the following to the one-day visit: Sacre Coeur church and montmartre. Opera Garnier Alexandre bridge Pont Neuf Latin Quartier Luxemburg Gardens You could use the metro to reach Sacre Coeur at Montmartre if you don’t feel like walking a long distance. The rest are within walking distance. Three Days visits: Two days plus the following: Grand Palais Petit Palais Musee D’Orsay Pantheon Four Days visits: Three days plus the following: Champs de Mars Place Versaille (requires public transportation) Galeries Lafayette Printemps Grevin museum. Seven Days visit: Day 1 The Champs-Élysées  The Champs-Élysées is a truly lovely avenue: a picture postcard scene. Nearly 2 kilometers in length, this historic boulevard runs from Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe. It has become the world’s most beautiful boulevard.  There is something for everyone in the Champ_Elysees, from High-end designer stores to beautiful cafes and restaurants.  The Arc de Triomphe From The arc you can look down the Champs-Elysees, It was ordered to be built by Napoleon I in 1806 to honor the victories of his armies. It carries the names of battles and generals from the revolution and the first Empire. Every evening the flame is lit on the tomb of the unknown soldier. You can purchase tickets to go to the top of the arc.  Click here for information. The Eiffel Tower  It took over 2 years to build at the end of the 19th century the engineer Gustave Eiffel. It was designed to live for 20 years. It became a huge success, becoming the French symbol worldwide. It is visited by 7 million visitors a year. You can buy tickets to the top by clicking here. Champ de Mars A large public park situated at the foot of the Eiffel Tower. The area is about 24.5 hectares (60 acres). It was created in the 18th century and was originally used for military training exercises. Today, Champ de Mars is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. It offers spectacular views of the Eiffel Tower and is a great place for a picnic, a walk, or a game of soccer or frisbee. One of the most iconic events to take place at Champ de Mars is the annual Bastille Day military parade. On July 14th,

why i need travel insurance? There are many good reasons why you need travel insurance before going on a trip: Medical Emergencies: If you get ill or get injured during your trip, travel insurance can cover the cost of treatment and hospital stay. Especially; if you are visiting a country where the charges are high. Trip Cancellation or Interruption: It covers the cost when surprises will force you to cancel or interrupt your trip. Such as illness, injury, or death of a family member. It also pays for your return home early.Lost or Stolen Belongings: Coverage for the cost to replace damaged, stolen, or lost personal items during your trip. Flight Delays or Cancellations: If a delayed flight requires you to pay additional charges, such as a hotel room, transportation, and meals, it can help cover those extra expenses. Emergency Evacuation: covers the evacuation from remote areas in case of an emergency. Travel insurance will pay for transportation and medical care. Highly rated VisitorsCoverage insurance company covers all aspects of travel insurance, rated 4.6 by Google and 4.6 rating by Trustpilot. Compliance with the law: Some countries require visitors to have travel insurance coverage to enter the country VisitorsCoverage provides the required documents for visas. If you do not meet the terms of your policy, you may be violating the law and may not be allowed to enter the country. Travel insurance provides peace of mind and can help you save thousands in unplanned emergency charges. A relative of mine broke his hip in a foreign country, he was flown back home by the insurance company accompanied by a medical assistant. The cost was $28,000, fortunately his travel insurance covered in full. It is extremely critical to understand what is covered. What are the different types? There are several types of policies available to protect you during your travels. The most common type has complete coverage as listed below. The “only medical” coverage type is less popular. Some of the most common types of travel insurance include: Trip cancellation/interruption insurance: This type of insurance will reimburse you for any non-refundable expenses if you have to cancel due to reasons that are covered by the plan., such as illness or natural disaster.  Medical travel insurance: This type of insurance covers only medical expenses incurred during your trip, such as hospitalization, emergency medical treatment, and emergency medical evacuation.  Baggage and personal belongings insurance: This type reimburses you for stolen, or damaged baggage and personal belongings, such as cameras and laptops. Flight accident insurance: This type covers compensation in case of death while traveling on a commercial airline. Rental car insurance: If you have to rent a car this type provides coverage for rental car damage, theft, and liability.  Adventure travel insurance: If you are planning on your trip to enjoy extreme sports or adventure tourism. These types of activities are not covered by a standard insurance policy.  It’s important to carefully review the terms and conditions of each policy before purchasing to ensure that you understand the coverage and any exclusions. What is a pre-existing medical condition and how does it affect my coverage? Pre-existing health issues are medical conditions that you had before purchasing travel insurance. Examples of pre-existing health conditions are heart disease, diabetes, asthma, and cancer. Pre-existing medical conditions might affect your coverage in several ways. Some plans will not cover your pre-existing medical condition. This means that any expenses incurred related to a pre-existing condition will not be covered. There are companies that will cover pre-existing conditions for extra fees, but you must disclose your condition and meet specific requirements. Please, disclose your pre-existing medical condition to the insurance company when purchasing travel insurance, not doing so will cause your policy to be canceled and your claim rejected. Read your policy carefully and contact your insurance provider if there are any issues before you travel. Can I purchase it after booking my trip? It is advisable to purchase your travel insurance when you make your first payment or deposit for the trip. such as booking your flight or hotel. It covers any emergencies before or after you leave on your trip, such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, lost or delayed baggage, and other unexpected situations. When you purchase your policy early you can be sure to be covered if an unexpected situation comes up. If you have to cancel your trip in case of illness, death in the family, or any other situations that are covered by the policy. Some plans will provide certain benefits within specific time frames. You can buy travel policy after you book your trip. It is very important to purchase your travel insurance as soon as possible before the travel for the reasons mentioned above. Is it covered by credit cards? Depending on your bank, higher-level credit cards offer travel insurance coverage as a perk. The coverage and the limits are not the same, banks and cards have different benefits.  Some credit cards will cover trip cancellation and interruption, emergency medical and dental coverage, baggage loss or delay, travel accident, and rental car insurance. It is very important to review what is covered by your credit card insurance policy. You might have to supplement the credit card coverage by buying extra coverage on your own.  Generally, credit cards require certain items to be purchased with the credit card, such as tickets, car rentals, and hotels to provide coverage. How do I submit a claim? The process of making a claim depends on the providor and the type of policy you purchased. The following are steps you could follow to submit your claim: Contact your insurance company: Contact the company as soon as possible after injury or loss. The company’s contact information could be found on the policy on the company website. Gather documentation: You have to have proof to document your claim, keep all documents. This may include police reports, medical reports, receipts, and any other documents related to your injury or loss. Fill out a

Rome for seniors Italy starts in Rome, It is the beating heart of Italy. There is so much to see and experience in Rome, a week will not be enough.  My last trip was one week, it was too short to satisfy my thirst for Rome. What are the must-see attractions in Rome? Rome is my favorite city in Europe. It is the most popular tourist destination in the world and has an amazing number of attractions that highlight a very rich history, architecture, culture, and food. Here are some of the most popular attractions in Rome: Colosseum: This ancient amphitheater is one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks and was the site of countless gladiator battles and other public spectacles. Vatican City: The smallest sovereign state in the world, Vatican City is home to some of the world’s most famous art and architecture, including St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums. Pantheon: A marvel of ancient engineering, the Pantheon is a temple that has been in continuous use for almost 2,000 years and boasts an impressive dome and intricate marble and bronze artwork. Roman Forum: The Roman Forum was once the center of political and social life in ancient Rome and contains a wealth of historical ruins, including the Temple of Saturn, the Arch of Titus, and the Temple of Vesta. Trevi Fountain: This Baroque masterpiece is one of Rome’s most beloved landmarks and features a massive statue of the sea god Neptune surrounded by other mythological figures. Spanish Steps: These iconic steps lead up to the Trinita dei Monti church and provide a great vantage point for people watching and admiring the city’s stunning views. Piazza Navona: This lively square is home to three beautiful fountains, including Bernini’s famous Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi (Fountain of the Four Rivers). Villa Borghese: Rome’s largest public park is a great place to relax and enjoy nature, as well as visit the Borghese Gallery, which houses some of the city’s most important art collections. These are a few of the popular sites in Rome. When I am in Rome I try to go deeper into the back streets and the neighborhoods where Romans live. There is something new to see in every corner of Rome.  If you prefer a guided tour try “GetYourGuide“ How can I avoid crowds and long lines at popular tourist sites? Here are some strategies to avoid crowds and long lines at popular tourist sites: Visit during the off-season: Most popular tourist destinations have a high season and a low season. Try to visit during the low season when there are fewer tourists, and you’ll have a better chance of avoiding crowds and long lines. Plan your visit for early morning or late afternoon: Many tourists prefer to sleep in or enjoy a leisurely breakfast, so consider visiting popular sites during the early morning hours or later in the day. This strategy can also help you capture some beautiful light and avoid harsh sunlight. Book tickets in advance: Many popular tourist attractions allow visitors to book tickets in advance online. This can help you avoid long lines and ensure that you get to see the attraction when you want to. You can buy advance tickets and skip the lines by clicking here Tiqets. Use a tour operator: Tour operators often have priority access to popular sites and can help you bypass long lines. They can also offer insider tips and knowledge about the attraction you are visiting.  If you prefer to have a self-guided by listening to the audio on your phone tour check “WeGo trip”. For guided tours, check  “GetYourGuide“. Choose lesser-known destinations: Consider visiting off-the-beaten-path destinations that are not as popular with tourists. These places may still offer unique experiences and attractions but will likely have fewer crowds and shorter lines. Stay nearby the attraction: If you’re staying nearby the attraction, try to get there early or late in the day when there are fewer crowds. You could also ask your hotel concierge for recommendations on the best times to visit. Check “Expedia Stays ” for rooms. Is Rome accessible for people with mobility issues or disabilities? Rome has made significant strides in recent years to improve accessibility for people with mobility issues or disabilities. While there may still be some challenges, many popular attractions, public transportation, and public spaces are now accessible. Check my post Traveling Seniors. Here are some things to keep in mind if you are planning a trip to Rome with mobility issues or disabilities: Public transportation: Rome has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses, metro trains, and trams. Many metro stations have lifts and ramps to make them accessible for wheelchair users. However, some older buses and trams may not be fully accessible, so it’s important to plan your route and check with the transport company. Sidewalks and street crossings: Rome’s historic center is characterized by narrow streets and uneven cobblestones, which can make it challenging for wheelchair users and people with mobility issues to navigate. Some street crossings may not have curb cuts, so be prepared to plan your route and allow extra time for travel. Attractions and landmarks: Many of Rome’s most famous landmarks and attractions, including the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Pantheon, have made significant efforts to improve accessibility. However, some older buildings may still present challenges, such as stairs and narrow doorways. It’s a good idea to check in advance for accessibility information and to contact the attraction or landmark directly if you have any specific needs or questions. Accommodation: Many hotels in Rome now have accessible rooms with features such as roll-in showers, grab bars, and wider doorways. However, it’s important to check in advance to ensure that the hotel meets your specific needs. Overall, Rome is becoming more accessible for people with mobility issues or disabilities, but it’s important to plan your trip carefully and do your research in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. What are some