Monkey Wrench

2019 planning

A monkey wrench was thrown into the Granada stop. Appears to be almost impossible to get tix to the Alhambra, which is maybe the premier spot in all of Spain. Too late getting tickets unless we opt for more expensive group tour. I would be perfectly satisfied seeing the Alhambra at a distance, from two sunset vantage points, then doing all the other things Granada has to offer. Then there's Ronda, a place I definitely want to see, but a bit of a logistical mess. Not as easy getting in and out there as it might look. Today I have been really studying up on this, and it has caused me to rethink order of cities. Right now, with a final decision needed, I can see this revised route:

April 28, Sunday, arrive in Malaga, then take first bus to Granada, stay four nights. If unable to tour Alhambra, consider a nice hike in Sierra Nevada. Monday is also a slow day (religious day?), and many things closed. So would mean two full days really in Granada.

May 2, Thursday, Granada to Seville by train, stay five nights.

May 7, Tuesday, take bus to Ronda, stay three nights.

May 10, Friday, return to Seville by bus from Ronda.

May 10 or 11, Seville to Southern Portugal (Algarve) by bus

Once in Portugal, explore Algarve for two full days, then take a train to Lisbon. Spent time there, in Sintra and hopefully Porto.

If we get tired of Seville, can add a day trip to Cordoba and another to Cadiz.