Blog Description Copyright @AnthonyDotNet http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com Fri, 12 January 2018 15:51:41 Fri, 12 January 2018 15:51:41 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2018/holy-week-in-granada-semena-santa/ The History of Semena Santa The Holy Week in Granada is arguable the most celebrated festival for the community in Granada, and for Spain. Holy Week in Granada has a unique week devoted to Easter, and is known as one of the most historic and religious weeks of the year. The Holy Week has been declared a ‘Fiesta of International Tourist Interest’ of Spain as of 1981. The history of the Easter Holy Week known as Semena Santa is a famous tradition in Spain and especially Granada where there are over 33 Cofradias (religious brotherhoods). These 33 brotherhoods have more than two thousand bearers carrying fifty-eight processional steps which cross the main streets of the city accompanied by more than five thousand brothers and chambermaids. Photo by  timothy muza  on  Unsplash What to expect during the Holy Week in Granada If you are going to visit Granada during the Semena Santa you can expect the city to be much busier than usual, with many different activities going on. This might make it harder than usual to visit some of the main tourist attractions in Granada and you might also find some have restricted opening hours. During the Holy Week in Granada you can watch the 33 processions making their way through the streets of the city leading to the cathedral, where the ceremony for Penitence takes place, before the communities return to their home churches. Most of the processions are in the afternoon, except for the Brotherhood of the Solitude which takes place on Good Friday and all of Easter Sunday. For spectators of the processions, there is seating available in Calle Alhóndiga, and there is no need to reserve these seats. A collector comes past your seat and you will be asked to donate around 7 euros to the church and its community. Alternatively find a good spot anywhere to watch the parades and costumes. During this spectacular festival, visitors become part of the community’s processions that date back hundreds of years ago.  Transport during the Holy Week in Granada During Semena Santa, you are advised to pre-plan your travels. Public transport during this week will be disrupted and only run between certain times. For instance trams will be suspended after 3pm normally to give way for the afternoon parades, as well as other public transport; because parades occur in the afternoon. If you are going to travel to different parades during the Holy Week in Granada, it is advised that you travel in the morning due to the disruptions to public transport. If you are visiting during this spectacular festival please visit the local tourist offices to confirm each day’s processions and festivities. Normally, each parade begins and ends at the same church. The most devoted members usually go to each one of the exits and entrances and organise the schedules. These are very busy times and to be the first you should arrive at the church before the parade begins. Where to stay in Holy Week in Granada We hope to see you during Semena Santa! It is a once in a lifetime experience and our hotel is perfectly placed near to all the city sites and all the processions that take place during the Holy Week in Granada so you won’t need to bother with public transport. Book direct via our website to get the best rates! Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook for regular Granada updates. See you in Granada! http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2018/holy-week-in-granada-semena-santa/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2018/holy-week-in-granada-semena-santa/ Fri, 12 January 2018 15:51:41 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2017/granada-with-kids/ You’ll be spoilt for choice with plenty of fun things to do in Granada with kids! Not only are there historic attractions spread across this idyllic city, but there are water parks and museums too. Here are our personal favourite fun things to do in Granada with kids: Travelling to Granada with kids can be great fun as there are so many fantastic Granada attractions to explore: The Granada City Tour - the official tourist hop-on hop-off bus in Granada The perfect way to see the sights and save tired little legs from travelling.  Plus all the family get to keep their cool as all the buses have air-conditioning!  Children under 8 go free, and the glass roofs give everyone on board a panoramic view as you take in all the amazing Granada attractions!  Tickets are either for one day, or two consecutive days, and you can hop ‘on or off’ whenever you fancy exploring.  Check out the City Tour itineraries For other ways to get around Granada check out our blog Visit the Granada Science Park ( Parque de las Ciencias)    Just a short stroll from Granada city centre you will find the interactive museum, Parque de las Ciencias.  We love the spinning boulder at the main entrance, the Biodome with its animals and aquarium, and the Planetarium (although the commentary is in Spanish).  You can easily spend a whole day here!  www.parqueciencias.com Visit the Alhambra  The Alhambra is arguably the top of everyone’s list of Granada attractions to visit, and don’t feel you have to avoid it if you are visiting with children.  There are plenty cool rooms in the fortress to explore, and places to chill out in the gardens and grounds.  Make sure you book your tickets in advance.  Children under 12 have free entry, but you still need to book a ticket for them.  To find out more about the Alhambra and where to get your tickets check out our blog Aquaola – Waterpark One of Spain’s older water parks, much loved by local families and visitors from all around the world.  The perfect place to escape the city heat, with plenty of pools and rides to play on, and shade to relax under.  The park is reasonably priced and you can take your own food and drinks.  www.aquaola.com Explore the markets  There are plenty of markets in Granada , and children will love them as much as adults.  From Spanish fruit and vegetables, to meat and fish the sights and smells will fascinate them!  Try the San Augustin Market or Mercado de San Agustin Granada which is an indoor market right next to the Granada Cathedral.  It is the perfect place to stop off and sample some of the local delicacies! Go shopping for souvenirs Head on to the Alcaiceria or the Silk /Spice Market which is now a colourful tourist market in the maze of narrow streets between the Granada Cathedral and the Plaza de Bib-Rambla.  Once a Moorish spice market, it is now a great place to find souvenirs!   You can find anything from porcelain, clothes and jewellery to herbs, spices, Arabic silks and fabrics.  And do feel free to bargain! Hire bikes or a Segway If you are visiting Granada with older children then a really cool thing to do is hire bikes or a Segway!  There are even electric bikes for hire if you want to save your legs and they are a great way to explore the heart of the city! Bicicletas La Estacion rent out a range bikes with helmets and locks for just 12 euros per day, and will even deliver to your hotel on request. Eat some tapas Tapas is the perfect meal to eat with kids or teenagers, although some dishes can be very spicy!  It is a great way to experiment with new tastes and flavours as you can ‘mix and match’ your dishes, and you are sure to find something for everyone! Calle Navas or the “tapas street” is always a great place to visit, which is especially popular with locals and offers seafood specialities such as clams, squid and prawns! Catch a flamenco show If you are after a truly Granada experience then a flamenco show is a must.  The origins of flamenco can be traced back to the caves of Sacromonto in Granada and the tradition is still very much alive today.  We recommend: Venta El Gallo Near to the Sacromonte Caves Museum, this is a great place to experience flamenco in an authentic cave setting.  Even the journey there is an adventure with amazing views of the Alhambra on the way.  An unforgettable evening! 5 Barranco de los Negros, 18010 Granada +34 958 22 84 75 Casa del Arte Flamenco Located in an old auditorium near Plaza Nueva in the old town. Many clubs offer late-night shows but Casa del Arte’s relatively earlier shows (at 7.30pm and 9pm) are ideal for families. 11 Cuesta de Gomerez, 18009 Granada Spain +34 958 56 57 67 Visit the beach It is surprisingly easy to take a day trip to the beach from Granada, and let’s face it, all kids love the beach! We recommend La Herradura on the Costa Tropical, which literally translates as ‘The Horseshoe’.  It is a beautiful bay with 2km of sandy beach and clear blue waters which is safe for families.  It is just one hour from Granada by car or an hour and a half by bus - costing around 10 euros return.  Children aged 4 to 11 are half price and infants are free, but need to be booked. To find out more about Exploring Andalucía’s Golden Triangle read our blog here. If you are looking for family friendly accommodation in Granada, El Ladron de Agua is located on the Carrera del Darro in a great location for exploring the city centre.  We provide cots, high chairs and baby bath tubs for free, and if you give us a bit of warning we can also arrange baby sitters for you! We also like to remind visitors, the summer months in Granada can be very hot so do make sure you wear hats, and take plenty of water, snacks and plenty of sun-cream wherever you go.  Make you day relaxing and take some shady breaks in the heat of the sun. Book direct via our website to get the best rates!  Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook for regular Granada updates. See you in Granada! http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2017/granada-with-kids/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2017/granada-with-kids/ Thu, 02 November 2017 10:12:15 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2017/the-granada-art-scene/ The city of Granada in southern Spain’s Andalusia region, is famous for its Moorish and medieval architecture, and its rich cultural history that has long been an influence on the Granada art scene. Throughout the renaissance period, Granada was in a transition period from the Nazari Kingdom to the western Christian world. As these changes took place, artistic methods slowly adapted, and over time a style of Granada art was developed and Spanish artists such as Alonso Cano (1601 – 1667) gained world recognition. Cano went on to influence many other Spanish artists throughout the late 17th and early 18th century and Granada became a cultural hub. The beauty of the city itself and its fascinating architecture also helped to draw artists to visit and by the 20th century Granada was famed for its culture and as a beautiful and romantic city to visit. This period saw many styles of Granada art develop from the more traditional, to the avant-garde, to abstract, and these have all happily co-existed ever since. Today Granada has a vibrant art scene. Walk through any part of the city and you will come across markets selling art, hidden shops and galleries and art museums and institutions exhibiting art. Perhaps more surprisingly much of Granada’s art can be found in the streets themselves. Street Art Street art can be seen in a number of areas of Granada, but the most famous area is the Jewish quarter, the Realejo. Here a street artist called Raul Ruiz, also known as (aka) El niño de las pinturas, which translates as ‘The child of the paintings’ has turned bare walls and shop shutters into works of art. People come to the area just to view the art, and any shop or bar which is lucky enough to have an El niño work benefits from street credibility and recognition. Rather like a Granada version of ‘Banksy’ in the UK. If you are interested in viewing works by El niño de las pinturas, then make sure you visit a street called Molinos when the shops are shut and the shutters are down and some of the artworks are on the shutters themselves. . While you are in the Realejo, enjoy some tapas which the area is famous for and visit the Campo del Principe – a large plaza where you can see the statue of Christo de los Favores (Christ of the Favours). To see any latest news and artworks for El niño check out the El niño de las pinturas facebook page . Any fans of punk or The Clash should make sure they visit Joe Strummer square, or Plaza Joe Strummer which is nearby. The square was named after Joe Strummer, the guitarist from the Clash who loved Granada and moved to Spain in his later life. The song ‘Spanish Bombs’ was influenced by his time spent in Granada. Art Galleries As well as the street art, Granada has a number of art galleries and centres: José Guerrero Arts Centre Located next door to the Granada Cathedral in a beautifully restored building, this specialist centre houses José Guerrero’s own personal collection of contemporary art. José Guerrero was a Spanish artist who was born in Granada in 1914 and trained in Granada but then went on to travel around in Europe and eventually settled in America. He is famous for his abstract expressionist paintings and the centre has a fabulous collection. Address: 8 Calle Oficios, Granada 18001 Phone: +34 958 220 109 / 958 220 119 Granada Capital Galeria De Arte Located just around the corner from the José Guerrero Arts Centre you will find the GranadaCapital. A gallery with a variety of styles by a host of artists, such as: Victor Moscoso, Valdivieso, Socram, Roland Fade, Carmen Díez, Mari Mata, Manuel Arana, Aracely Alarcón, Jose Antonio Díaz Del, Ana Perpinya, and Chico Montilla. Address: 13 Gran Via de Colon, Granada 18001 Granada Museum of Fine Arts Located on the second floor of the Palace of Carlos V, in the Alhambra Palace the museum is free to visit for EU nationals or €1.50 for others. It has a wide variety of art from Gothic to more modern 20th century art and and features a number of artists from Granada. It is definitely worth a visit if you are visiting the Alhambra and you like art. Address: Palacio de Carlos V, 18009 Granada Phone: +34 958 56 35 08 Monasterio de la Concepción This small but charming art centre located within a working monastery in the Albaicin is somewhat off the tourist trail. The tours however are fascinating, and expect to learn some interesting facts about the history of the monastery and see some beautiful artwork. Address: 2 Placeta de La Concepcion, 18010 Granada Phone: +34 958 22 53 68 Art Exhibitions As an alternative to a purpose built art gallery, Granada also often finds itself home to various ‘pop up’ galleries and exhibitions. For example El Ladron de Agua, or ‘The Arts Hotel’ regularly hosts exhibitions to showcase local and Spanish artists in beautiful premises. Even as you approach El Ladron do Agua you can’t help to notice its connection with art, as you see the impressive fresco on the façade of this 16th century Nobel house. El Ladron de Agua The Ladron de Agua is keen to support local and regional artists and below are just some of the exhibitions and works of art they have exhibited over recent years. Feel free to drop by to see any of the exhibitions when they're on – click here to see what’s on now . Once you are inside the hotel you will also be able to enjoy an enormous mural by Pedro Garciarias in the main reception area. Painted in watercolours and acrylics the painting evokes the poetry and magic of Jimenez and takes you through the four seasons of Granada. Their library is also worth a visit as it is home to a closely guarded original edition of the ‘Forgotten Memories of Granada’, donated by Jimenez's family. It includes two unpublished poems: Truce and October in addition to the seven main poems. Jose Antonio Fernandez Arroyo – June 2017 A new exhibition born out of the journeys the artist has made during the last year but guided by the inspiration of Granada. Previously a sailor, the works of Jose Antonio Fernandez Arroyo often feature blue oceans of olive trees! Javier Korral – August 2017 Javier Korral’s work has always been a search. In the beginning his inspiration was surrealism but by 1999 he opted for impressionism / realism. From 2003 after several trials and experimentation of strokes and colours with different elements, in order to obtain various textures, he finally opted for Aqueous Painting (Dream Paint) Andrés Aguilera Teruel - 2018 Andrés Aguilera Teruel is a self-taught artist from Granada who specialises in painting, photography, poetry and sculpture. El Ladron de Agua will be exhibiting some of his works throughout 2018. Ariadna Barbero Wise  – May 2017 A very talented young artist, Ariadna Barbero Wise recently exhibited her work at El Ladron de Agua. Noemí Barberá - April 2017 Facebook: Noemi Babiloni Cartel MakanguiPY - March 2017 Facebook: MakanguiPY Instagram: MakanguiPY Blog: MakanguiPY Antonio R. Espinosa - October 2016 Art exhibition Facebook: Antonio Espinosa   and Antonio Granadabierta Google+:   Antonio R. Espinosa Gerardo Garrido - October 2016 Gerardo Garrido . Photography exhibition . Péter Böjthe - July 2016 Péter Böjthe . Exhibition of giclée prints on canvas. Isabel Martín - June 2016 Exhibition by Isabel Martin María José Puerto - April 2016 Painting exhibition by María José Puerto Borja Satrustegui - April 2016 Borja Satrústegu i Painting exhibition   Manuel Prados - March 2016 Manuel Prados . Painting exhibition Where to Stay If you are planning a visit to Granada to see some of the Granada Art, then we would recommend staying at El Ladron de Agua . Located at the foot of the Alhambra in the heart of the Albaicin it is the perfect place to explore the city and its unique art and culture. The street art of the Realejo and the art galleries around the Cathedral are all in easy walking distance. Plus it regularly exhibits art by local and regional artists, so you are sure to see something interesting during your stay. Plus in the evening they serve drinks in the library where you can meet other like-minded guests. Book direct via our website to get the best rates! Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook for regular Granada updates and details of forthcoming art exhibitions. http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2017/the-granada-art-scene/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2017/the-granada-art-scene/ Thu, 22 June 2017 10:52:19 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2017/markets-in-granada/ Exploring the narrow medieval streets of Granada, you are sure to come across colourful and bustling markets selling a myriad of products.  Granada’s warm weather and its hidden squares and ancient terraces all lend themselves to open markets with clusters of stalls selling anything from fresh fruit and vegetables, fish and meat, to artisanal gifts and souvenirs.  Take a little time to browse and barter with the locals, or find a nearby café and take in the atmosphere! Check out our recommendations below . . . Daily markets San Augustin Market or Mercado de San Agustin Granada The San Augustin Market or Mercado de San Agustin Granada is an indoor Granada market with a great vibe.  It has a number of undercover stalls selling predominantly locally sourced fresh meat and fish, but you will find other stalls selling fruit and vegetables, wine and olive oil alongside a number of places serving tasty traditional dishes.  The market is located next to Granada Cathedral and is perfect for a spot of lunch after a busy morning as there are plenty of places where you can sit and relax, enjoy a drink and eat the food from the stalls.  In the summer there is additional outdoor space where you can eat.  We recommend visiting before 2.30pm as some of the stalls start to close around then. Best for: Cheese, meat, fish, wine, olive oil and tapas Location:  Plaza de San Agustín, S/N, 18001 Granada, Spain The Silk /Spice Market Granada or the Alcaiceria Image credit:  Nicolas Vollmer Once known as ‘The Grand Bazaar’, the Alcaiceria is now a popular and colourful tourist market located in a maze of narrow streets between Granada Cathedral and the Plaza de Bib-Rambla.  The original Moorish Spice Market was sadly destroyed by fire and had to be rebuilt.  Today the Alcaiceria is still a great experience and a place where you can find all the usual tourist gifts such as porcelain, clothes and jewellery alongside some stalls still selling herbs, spices, Arabic silks and fabrics.  Feel free to bargain! Best for: Mostly souvenirs and some silk and spices Location: 1 Calle Alcaiceria, 18001 Granada, Spain Weekly markets Plaza Larga, Albaicín Market  The Plaza Larga, which translates as the ‘Long Square’ is a rectangular square, right in the heart of the Albaicín.  The square itself is delightful and worth visiting even when the market isn’t on as it has a lovely mixture of small bars, cafes and shops selling ceramics which are attractively displayed on the walls.  Every Saturday morning the square is taken over by a bustling cluster of stalls selling fresh fruit and vegetables, the perfect time to stop off for some refreshment and to watch the world go by! Best for: Fruit and vegetables Location: Plaza Larga, 18010 Granada, Spain La Marcha Verde Granada La Marcha Verde, or the ‘Green March’ is a large busy open air market, held every Sunday (9am to 3pm) in the northern suburb, Almanjáyar of Granada.  Traditionally the poorest area of Granada, this northern zone is seeing some regeneration and the market is away from some of the rougher areas, but we do still advise to keep your valuables safe.    Once there you will find a noisy and colourful atmosphere with a mix of locals and tourists.  Great for a bargain! Best for: Everything, fruit, vegetables, flowers, clothes, shoes, handbags, etcetera Location: Calle de la Casería de Aguirre, 18013 Granada, Spain. Zaidín Market A true local market in Zaidín, a southern district of Granada.  The market is great for experiencing a bit of local flavour and the journey from central Granada is also of interest with some attractions on the way.  To get to the market there is a 45 minute walk which takes you down the Acerca del Darro, the Calle de Andrés Segovia and the Paseo del Emperador Carlos V . The walk takes you past the Plaza del Humilladero with its iconic bronze fountain called Fuente de las Granadas which is worth a stop for a photograph.  Cross over the confluence of the rivers Darro and Genil over the picturesque Puente Genil, which is also known as the Puente Romano or Roman Bridge.  If you don’t fancy the walk you can take the LAC bus as far as the Humilladero stop (a five minute journey) where you can view the statue and cross the bridge.  Next take the S3 bus from the Poeta Manuel de Gongora 1 to the Emperador Carlos V 1 –Palacio Deportes (a ten minute journey). Saturday (9am to 3pm) Best for: Fruit , vegetables, clothing, shoes and accessories Location: Calle Torre de la Pólvora, 18008 Granada, Spain La Chana This popular market with locals is held every Wednesday morning in the North West district of La Chana.  It is a chaotic scene with vendors selling everything from flowers, fruit and vegetables to cheap clothes. Best for: Clothes, flowers and fruit. Location La Chana, 18015 Granada, Spain Monthly markets Organic Market or EcoMercado, Granada On the first Saturday of each month, on the terrace in front of the Palacio de Congresso you will find the EcoMercado or organic / farmers market.  This Granada market specialises stalls offering organic, slow grown and environmentally friendly products.  On the third Saturday of each month you will find the Ecomercado en Huétor Vega which is hosted by the same organisation.  It has a similar theme but features organic food and products all supplied by small local producers from Huétor Vega which is a municipality on the outskirts of Granada.  Each month the Ecomercado en Huétor Vega has a special theme, for example, products for children, recycling, bread making etcetera. Best for: Farmers market, organic food, organic produce, environmentally friendly products Location: On the Terrace or Esplanada at the Palacio de Congresso Mercado del Agua in Mirador de San Nicolas The Mercado del Agua which translates literally as ‘water market’ is up on the Mirador de San Nicolas and gets its name from the old Moorish brick water cistern called El Pilar del Aljibe which was part of a network of water courses which once supplied the city.  Every other month the Mercado del Agua takes over this pretty terrace alongside El Pilar del Aljibe with stalls selling 100% hand made goods.  The aim of the Mercado del Agua is to preserve the traditional arts and crafts that characterise the city of Granada and to promote an exchange of knowledge, skill and creativity between the artists themselves. The Mirador de San Nicolas isworth the visit even if the market isn’t on, just for the fantastic view over the Alhambra.  Best for:  100% Handmade crafts and jewellery Location: Mirador de San Nicolas, Calle Mirador de San Nicolás, 18010 Granada, Spain Made in Granada  Made in Granada is a market focusing on handicrafts and artistic design from the Granada area and is a great place to pick up original artworks and other handmade crafty products.  This Granada market is a weather dependent event but aims to be held on the third Sunday of each month.  The location is the wide and tree lined Campo del Príncipe where you will find a large and impressive statue of Cristo de los Favores (Christ of the Favors).  Made in Granada is run by Creando , a non-profit association whose ethos is originality, quality and design.  It is worth checking their Facebook page for the date of the next market and to see if weather is going to play a part! Best for: Comics, illustration, photography, toys, accessories, fashion, jewellery, ceramics etc…. Location: Campo del Príncipe, 18009 Granada, Spain Granada Pinta Bien Granada Pinta Bien translates literally as ‘Granada Paints Well’ and is a government initiative to promote local emerging artists.  It is held each month at either the Plaza de la Romanilla or at the Paseo de los Tristes.  Both venues are worth a visit even when the market isn’t being held.  The Plaza de la Romanilla is a lovely square with bars and cafes in the Cathedral quarter and is known for its palm trees the poignant statue of the ‘Watercarrier’.  The Paseo de los Tristes translates as ‘The Passage of the Sad’ named after the funeral processions that used to pass by.  Today it is a beautiful place to walk along with trees providing shade and street cafes to stop off at.  There is a wide pedestrian walkway with a terrace area overlooking the Darro River that offers fantastic views of the Alhambra.     Each month the Granada Pinta Bien takes over one of these locations and you will find a range of artistic products on sale from clothes and accessories to art and items made out of recycled materials.  Please check their Facebook page for the date of the next Granada Pinta Bien. Best for: Clothes, accessories, jewellery, illustrations, art, ceramics, recycled products and natural cosmetics Location: Plaza de la Romanilla, 18001 Granada, Spain or, Paseo de los Tristes,  Paseo del Padre Manjón, 18010 Granada, Spain Annual markets The Granada Book Fair or Feria del Libro, Granada In 2014 Granada was officially granted the status of a UNESCO City of Literature .  Granada has long held literature in great esteem and for many years the city has hosted an annual book fair which is traditionally held over the third week of April each year.  At this time the wide tree lined avenue of the Carrera is taken over with hundreds of books stalls and publishers and many of the local buildings host book related events.  You will find authors signing books, readings and much more.  The Feria del Libro, Granada is a must for anyone with an interest in literature. Best for: Books and Publishers Location: The Feria del Libro, Granada is spread over a number of venues and stalls can be found from la Fuente de las Batallas (the Fountain) and down the Carrera de la Virgen Granada Christmas market  If you are lucky enough to visit Granada in the run up to Christmas then head to the Plaza de Bib- Rambla around the corner from Granada Cathedral.  Here you will find pretty Christmas lights and Granada’s Christmas market with stalls offering a range of local and seasonal merchandise such as nativity scenes, Christmas decorations, wooden toys and candles.  If you find yourself hungry you can pick up cakes and biscuits made by local nuns, or hot churros from local vendors.  Best for: Nativity scenes, wooden toys, Christmas decorations, candles, gifts Location: Plaza de Bib-Rambla, 18001 Granada, Spain Where to Stay If you are planning to visit Granada and you are looking for somewhere to stay, then we recommend El Ladron de Agua located at the foot of the Alhambra in the heart of the Albaicin.  Within easy reach of most of the bustling markets of Granada and many tourist spots El Ladron de Agua is the perfect place to stay.  This 16 th century noble house has been skilfully restored to a boutique hotel with 15 individually styled rooms.  There is also a cosy library, the perfect place to enjoy a glass of wine and meet other guests.  As an arts hotels, El Ladron de Agua invites talented local or regional artists to feature their work in exhibitions in the gallery in the inner courtyard of the hotel. Book direct via our website to get the best rates!  Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook for regular Granada updates and details of forthcoming art exhibitions. See you in Granada! http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2017/markets-in-granada/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2017/markets-in-granada/ Tue, 09 May 2017 11:25:44 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2017/getting-around-granada/ The best way to discover and experience any city is on foot - and Granada is no different. In fact it is perfectly set up for pedestrians as the city centre has areas of traffic restriction due to its unique layout and historical heritage. Walking in Granada Walking in Granada is really a pleasure as the city centre is both beautiful and compact.  The Albayzin has retained its narrow winding streets which date back to its Moorish past, and provide fascinating strolls at any time of the day, perfect for browsing  the many spice stalls and souvenir shops.  Alternatively head for the city centre with its beautiful Cathedral and stop off at the Alcaiceria, the silk market, for that special gift.  If you need a break simply drop by one of the many coffee shops or tea rooms en route and enjoy some refreshment and let your feet have a rest – far away from any traffic noise and pollution that you may normally find in other cities… Cycling and Segways in Granada You may see people exploring Granada by bicycle or by Segway and these are certainly a fun way to see the city. There are a number of Segway and electric bike tour companies popping up and they are a great way to get a good overview of the city - especially when you first arrive. Most tours offer some tuition to start with and then you set off with your guide. Find yourself exploring the heart of the city and taking in some fantastic views as your guide fills you in on all the local history and provides you with useful tip bits of information along the way. If you want to be a bit more independent you can always hire a bike. Bicicletas La Estacion rent out urban bikes with helmets and locks for just 12 euros per day, and will even deliver to your hotel on request. Buses in Granada If your feet do get tired you can always hop on a bus . There is a central shuttle bus through the centre of the city run by LAC, or you might also want to explore outside the city centre and visit one of the shopping malls to stock up with bargains! You will need to buy a ticket before you get on the bus, and you can purchase these at the ticket machines located at the bus stop. You can also buy a ‘Credibus’ card from newspaper kiosks or tobacconists – as well as from some bus drivers (although not LAC bus drivers). The ‘Credibus’ cards can be topped up to any amount and have a refundable 2 euro deposit. You simply swipe the card on each journey and 0.83 euros is deducted for each journey. You can even share your card with other people in your party, just swipe the card for each person travelling. The main shuttle bus through the city centre is run by LAC and runs every few minutes. There are two main routes: The northwest to southeast line stops at: Cruz del Sur Juzgados Andaluces Fuente Nueva Padre Suárez Marqués de Falces (Gran Vía) Catedral Puerta Real Puente Blanco Violón Rotonda Aviación (NO STOPS) The southeast to northwest line stops at: Rotonda Aviación (NO STOPS) Palacio de Congresos Humilladero Acera del Darro Gran Vía Sagrado Corazón Triunfo San Juan de Letrán Caleta Cruz del Sur   Granada City Tour The Granada City Tour is the official tourist hop-on hop-off bus in Granada. With a fantastic daytime or magical night time route to choose from, the buses run every 15 to 20 minutes and you can hop on and off as often as you like. These are an informative way to see the city - especially for overseas visitors as there is an audio service available in 12 different languages. Buses further afield You can also get buses further afield in Granada. The out of town buses all have Wi-Fi, power outlets air-conditioning and toilets, so are really a comfortable way to travel. Why not visit the coast for the day? Jump on a bus to Almuñécar and in a little over an hour you can be having a dip in the Mediterranean followed by lunch with a sea view - all for a bus fare of around 16 euros. Taxis in Granada Taxis in Granada are cheap and plentiful and are another option to the many buses in Granada. You can either hail them in the street or find them in one of the many taxi ranks dotted around the city centre. They are not covered by the city centre restrictions so they can take you to places you can’t get to in a private car. They are especially useful if you have shopping or heavy luggage to carry. Cars in Granada If you are planning your trip to Granada and thinking about hiring a car, our advice is not to bother due to the car restrictions throughout much of the city centre. If you’re flying in to Federico García Lorca Granada-Jaén Airport you can easily get to the city centre by train bus or taxi. Alternatively if you’re arriving in the city by car there are plenty of car parks where you can leave your car for a few days and enjoy your visit without the hassle of driving. Where to stay in Granada If you are looking for accommodation which is in a great location for exploring Granada, El Ladron de Agua is perfectly located at the heart of the Albayzin, giving you easy access to the Alhambra and surrounding areas. All our rooms have been lovingly restored and individually designed, then carefully enhanced and brought right up-to-date with WiFi andFlat screen TVs. From our windows you can enjoy views of the Alhambra, the Darro River and the Plaza Nueva. If you are planning on visiting us by car we do not advise to arrive directly to the hotel as we are located in a part of the historic city centre which is a traffic restricted area. The San Agustín Car Park isnext to the Cathedral which is a five minute walk away and costs 26€/24h. The average price for parking in Granada is 20-22€/24h and you might also consider Parking Trex near Plaza de los Campos or Parking Puerta Real (close to El Corte Inglés store) which are a ten to fifteen minute walk or a taxi ride which is around 6€ or 7€. http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2017/getting-around-granada/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2017/getting-around-granada/ Tue, 11 April 2017 12:41:07 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2017/romantic-breaks-in-granada/ Perfect for Honeymoons, St Valentine’s Day or just for that special weekend away! If you are looking to arrange a romantic getaway with a loved one, then you should definitely consider Granada. Temperatures in the spring are perfect for sightseeing making it the ideal location for those celebrating St Valentine’s Day or looking to make the most of a spring holiday break. Romantic things to do in Granada As one of Europe’s most romantic cities, Granada is steeped in history and boasts the UNESCO World Heritage sites of the Alhambra, the Generalife and the Albayzin. You and your partner definitely won’t be short of culture and things to do as you wander through the narrow winding streets of the Albayzin visiting these great historic sites. Everything is compact and within easy walking distance of the city centre making it the perfect place to explore on foot with your loved one. Stop off en route for refreshments throughout the day in any number of great romantic restaurants or tapas bars which are scattered all over the city. You can find anything from top notch dining with stunning views over-looking the Alhambra, to cute little bars serving a fabulous selection of tasty treats when you order a drink. The city also has a lively music scene and you will often just come across musicians performing in the street. The Carrera del Darro and the area around Granada Cathedral are especially popular places to see street artists and buskers. There is also a great nightlife to keep you entertained well into the evening and again you will come across plenty of live music. As the night begins, bars push back tables and chairs and become impromptu dance floors and musicians and singers have their moment. If you fancy something a little bit different why not have dinner and catch a flamenco show while you eat? Sacromonte is the birthplace of flamenco after all, and there are a number of delightful places offering flamenco in both Sacromonte and the Albayzin. Another must for that romantic weekend away is a taking a Hamman. We recommend visiting Hamman Al Andalus where you and your loved one will be treated to a relaxing spa and a full body massage. What a better way to wind down, rejuvenate those tired legs, and get away for a bit of peace and relaxation! If you want to find out more about the history of Arabic bathing ‘The Bañuelo’ is a great little find and a place where people came to wash, socialise and to relax back in the 11th Century. These ancient Arabic baths are tucked away in a small house in Carrera del Darro and can be easily missed if you don’t keep your eyes open. They are original Arabic baths and still survive today as they managed to survive destruction by the Catholics, most likely because of their hidden location. Romantic places to stay in Granada We realise that finding that special accommodation is a key part of any romantic break and Granada is no exception. El Ladron de Agua is located on the Carrera del Darro and has an enviable location with stunning views of the Alhambra and within easy walking distance of all the key sites. The building is not only beautiful, but full of history, and is an exquisitely restored 16th Century noble house. Inside it defines itself as an Arts Hotel and is full of fantastic art and literature. It even has its own library with a unique collection of poetry – it doesn’t get more romantic than that! Every room has been uniquely decorated and themed to a poet, such as Garcia Lorca and Manuel de Falla and has original artwork on the walls, genuine wooden ceilings and cool terracotta tiling on the floor. Oriental rugs, warm inviting lighting and top quality bed linens all serve to make the rooms a romantic retreat from the bustling city outside. Most of the rooms have fantastic views of the Alhambra, the Carrera del Darro and the river, the al-Sabika hill or the Plaza Nueva. Imagine lying in bed with the beautiful sights of romantic Granada just outside your window! But what really sets El Ladron de Agua apart from other hotels in Granada is the attention to detail from the staff and the effortless charm of the place.  For example we have a little get together every evening in the library and serve a choice of Manzanilla Sherry, or a non-alcoholic drink, with crisps and olives to nibble on.  What better way to get to meet some of the other guests then kick off a romantic evening with your loved one?  We also serve a wonderful breakfast and we are on hand at all times to help with any queries you might have so you really can make the most of your stay.  Should you need a bit of down time away from the hustle and bustle of sightseeing, you are free to help yourself to a nice cup of tea in the library from 12.00pm to 23.00pm.  It really does feel just like home! Just check out what the visitors said in  their reviews of our truly romantic boutique hotel in Granada!   We do hope you have the opportunity to visit Granada for a romantic weekend this St. Valentine’s Day or sometime soon. Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook for regular Granada updates and checkout our blog for other useful informat ion about Granada! We look forward to seeing you soon! http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2017/romantic-breaks-in-granada/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2017/romantic-breaks-in-granada/ Fri, 27 January 2017 16:46:52 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2016/exploring-andalucía-s-golden-triangle/ Visit cities steeped in incredible history, admire the Moorish influence, and enjoy the superb beaches on the tranquil Costa Tropical.  Andalucía is the home of ‘tapas’ and the cities come alive in the evening with bars offering a whole host of local delicacies such 'La tortilla del Sacromonte' in Granada (a type of brains omelette), “Migas” breadcrumbs with melon or sardines) spinach with chickpeas in Seville, salmorejo ( thick gazpacho soup) in Córdoba. Granada   No trip to Andalucía would be complete without visiting the incredible city of Granada, boasting no less than three UNESCO World Heritage Sites.  We recommend you set aside at least three days in Granada to make the most of your visit.  The Alhambra and Generalife are Spain’s most visited tourist attraction, and you need at least one day to visit these alone.  We strongly recommend booking tickets   in advance as they can get sold out.  You can easily take another couple of days to visit other sites such as the Cathedral, the Albayzin,, The Bañuelo and the Alcaiceria (the silk market) - so you won’t be short of things to do.  There is also great nightlife in Granada to keep you busy in the evenings too!  Experience the amazing tapas, local bars and flamenco - all with the stunning backdrop of the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada mountains. Located adjacent to the Alhambra and in the heart of the Albayzin there is a 16 th century noble house which has been restored as the boutique hotel Granada – El Ladron de Agua .  It epitomises the Grenadine experience if you are looking for somewhere to stay when exploring this exciting city.   Choose from double or twin rooms up to the amazing Generalife Suite which is perfect for a honeymoon or for that special occasion.  El Ladron de Agua literally translates as ‘The Water Thief’ from an abstract poem written by Juan Ramon Jimenez, and this beautiful boutique hotel Granada also supports local and regional art in the community.  Córdoba Córdoba (also known as Cordova) is to the north west of Granada and has an impressive history of its own.  Established around the 8 th Century BC it is thought to have been the world’s most populous city by the 10 th Century AD.  Having seen both Roman and Islamic rule, it is most famous for the Great Mosque of Córdoba which is now a Roman Catholic Church - the Mezquita-Catedral - and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  If you’re happy to get up early, Córdoba is perfectly doable from Granada in a day.  You can either hire a car which will take a little over two hours each way, or you can get the bus or train which take a little longer - but only cost around 30 to 35 euros for a return trip depending on your ticket type. Seville Seville is the Capital of Andalucía and the largest city in the region, yet it is still relatively compact and easy to get round the city in a day or two.  Situated on the River Guadalquivir, like Granada, it boasts three UNESCO World Heritage Sites all within a couple of minutes’ walk from each other.  The Alcázar palace, Seville Cathedral and the General Archive of the Indies should all be on your list of things to see in Seville.   There are also plenty of other things to do in Seville , stroll through the cobbled streets of the old medieval quarter, visit the huge Plaza de España and the Giralda Tower, and take in the tapas bars and flamenco dancers. Seville is just under three hours from Granada by car or just over three hours by bus (around 30 euros return) or by train (around 50 euros return).  If you are visiting Seville from Granada and want somewhere to stay overnight we recommend the family run Hotel Alcoba del Rey , well located next to the Basilica of the Macarena.   Although not right in the centre of town, it’s not far to walk to all the main sites, and we think you’ll agree that it is worth it for this exceptional hotel. La Herradura Round off your visit to Andalucía with a visit to the coast.  The Costa Tropical is not well known compared to its Costa neighbours, which historically was due to the poor infrastructure in the area.  With a new superhighway giving better access, it is now gaining popularity.  Its small unspoilt beaches and coves away from the mass tourism of the Costa del Sol are making this a real gem of an area to visit.  If you’re looking for a little bit of paradise we recommend you visit La Herradura which is just one hour from Granada by car or an hour and a half by bus - costing around 10 euros return.  Literally translated as ‘The Horseshoe’, it’s a stunningly beautiful horseshoe shaped bay with a 2km sandy beach and clear blue waters . . . great for water-sports and arguably the best scuba diving in Spain. Either visit this pretty part of the coast as a day trip from Granada, or if you want somewhere to stop overnight we recommend La Caleta Bay which is a great little boutique hotel right across the road from the beach.  We guarantee you won’t be disappointed with the position, the rooms and the hospitality.   We do hope we’ve given you some ideas of some of the places you might like to visit and where to stay on your Andalucían adventure.  To find out more about Granada and the surrounding areas follow us on Twitter or like us on Facebook – and keep up with the latest! http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2016/exploring-andalucía-s-golden-triangle/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2016/exploring-andalucía-s-golden-triangle/ Tue, 20 December 2016 10:10:31 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2016/shopping-in-granada/ Granada is a great city for shopping as it is compact in size and there are plenty of great shopping options - all within walking distance of the city centre. Whether it be souvenirs, local produce, clothes, books or pottery you’re after, there is something to please everyone. Image credit: Nicolas Vollmer Hours Most shops in Granada are open Monday to Friday in the morning from 10.00am to 14.00pm and in the afternoon/evening from 17.00pm to 20.00pm. On Saturdays they are only open in the morning 10.00am to 14.00pm and they are mostly closed on Sundays - although you can find some small convenience stores and Opencor supermarket open on a Sunday. Larger stores and supermarkets tend to be open all day 10.00 to 22.00 Monday to Saturday. Gift ideas If you’re shopping in Granada for something to take home as a gift, there are plenty of local products worth considering: Local olive oil Local chocolate, biscuits and pastries Granada wine Ham Spanish scarves and fans Baskets Leather goods Pottery (Please check food import restrictions if you are travelling outside the EU) Traditional or Artisan Shopping The Albayzin If you are visiting Granada then make sure you don’t miss out on the Albayzin. With its ‘Moorish’ influence and narrow cobbled streets, it’s the perfect place for wandering round and browsing the Arabic style shops. Lose yourself amongst the interesting buildings and small squares with coffee shops and restaurants. Be warned that the streets are quite steep and can get slippery when wet - so do wear appropriate footwear. Fajalauza Pottery Potters settled in Granada in the late sixteenth century and the city has been an important area for Fajalauza pottery production ever since. The main area for production was the north of the Albayzin next to the Fajalauza Gate. The pottery is decorated in a distinctive style with strong blue and green colours and motifs of birds, flowers and pomegranates. There are many shops around Granada offering the Fajalauza style pottery. Alcaiceria Right next to Granada Cathedral this bazaar style market was once a silk market, however was damaged by fire back in 1843. It still retains its old style charm and has a variety of Arabic shops selling herbs, spices, perfumes and textiles, plus the usual souvenir type items. Calle Calderería Nueva and Calderería Vieja A narrow street near to the Plaza Nueva, Granada Cathedral and the Alcaiceria this is another interesting street to explore. Again it has the usual Moroccan and Arabic style shopping with plenty of tea houses and some restaurants if you fancy some refreshments whilst you are shopping in Granada. Clothes Shopping Granada is great for clothes shopping. There are all the usual department stores such as El Corte Ingles and chain stores such as Mango, Zara, H&M, Esprit, Kling and Aire Andaluz. There are also plenty of great little independent shops offering and great fashion at bargain prices. Check out Oh Oh July for real vintage clothing. Supermarkets You will find branches of Mercadona, and Carrefour across the city. El Corte Ingles also has a food hall if you are looking for something special. Alternatively Mariscal is a fantastic delicatessen and Al Sur de Granada is a great for local wine and cold meats. Opencor is owned by El Corte Ingles and has a smaller range than El Corte Ingles but at higher prices due to its convenience nature. It can be useful on a Sunday or when other shops are closed.  Image credit: Andrew Nash Bookshops If you are a fan of bookshops, then Granada won’t disappoint you. Named a UNESCO City of Literature in 2014 Granada is an important literary centre. La Tienda-Libreria de la Alhambra is a bookshop located on Calle Reyes Católicos near to Granada Cathedral and El Ladron de Agua Hotel and is a great place to visit and the staff there are really helpful. Other bookshops worth visiting are the Libreria Bakakai on Calle Tendillas de Santa Paula and the Liberia Babel on Calle San Juan de Dios. There is also a fascinating library here at the Hotel Ladron De Agua. We are lucky enough to have an original edition of the Forgotten Memories of Granada, written by the famous Spanish poet Juan Ramon Jimenez and kindly donated by his family. It contains two unpublished poems; Truce and October as well as seven main poems. We also stock a range of books and guides to Granada in Spanish and you are welcome to visit and have a browse. Pharmacies There are plenty of pharmacies in Granada. We recommend these central pharmacies which are open 24 hours a day if you need something in an emergency. Farmacia Zarco Rios, 2 Calle Puerta Real de España, 18009 Granada + 34 958 263 113 Farmacia Martín Valverde, en Reyes Católicos, 5, 18001 Granada +34 958 26 26 64 If you are planning on sightseeing and shopping in Granada, why not make your visit truly special and stay with us here at El Ladron de Agua . You will find yourself in the heart of Granada with great access to everything Granada has to offer. An oasis of calm in the heart of the Moorish Quarter, this really is the place to explore and unwind. We hope that you enjoyed learning more about the shopping opportunities in Granada. If you would like to know more about things to do and places to see, check our main blog page out. Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook for regular Granada updates. See you in Granada! http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2016/shopping-in-granada/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2016/shopping-in-granada/ Tue, 18 October 2016 12:07:04 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2016/things-to-do-in-granada/ Visit Andalucia’s Granada and you can’t fail to be awe struck by the Spanish Moorish architecture and incredible history.  A truly fascinating yet compact city - it is the perfect location for those seeking romantic breaks or looking for a honeymoon location.  From the stunning Alhambra to the narrow streets of the Albaicin (the old quarter) there is something to see at every step.  Just make sure you leave enough energy to go back out in the evening as the nightlife and Granada tapas bars are all part of the experience. The Alhambra, Generalife and Albayzin were awarded World Heritage Status by UNESCO in 1984. The Alhambra Historically both fortress and a palace, the Alhambra is packed full of history with the added bonus of beautiful gardens and spectacular views.  Arguably Spain’s top tourist attraction, visiting it really is one of THE things to do in Granada! As this is a heritage property there is a restriction on the number of tickets sold each day and they do become sold out so it is advisable to buy your tickets as early as possible – at least one month in advance.   There are different types of Alhambra tickets and different time slots so it is worth doing your research before you book.  Alhambra tickets can be bought through the Ticketmaster website :   It is also really worth reading TripAdvisor’s advice page before you embark on the booking process as it isn’t as straightforward as you’d hope. Children under 12 (ninos menos 12a) are free but they still need a ticket so make sure you still get them  when buying yours – you should also take some proof of age as you may get asked. Another option is to book over the phone on 902 88 80 01 if you are calling from Spain or on +34 958 926 031 if you are calling from overseas. Should you find Alhambra tickets are sold out on the day you might be able book one of the many guided tours of Granada operated by private companies.  These are more expensive than the Ticketmaster tickets and seem to get mixed reviews so again make sure you do your research. Finally the Alhambra and the grounds are really big.  Allow up to three hours for your visit and wear comfortable shoes so you can fully enjoy the timeless beauty and serenity of the Alhambra. Generalife The Generalife gardens are definitely not to be missed and best visited at the end your visit to the Alhambra.  They are covered with the same Alhambra ticket (there is an option to buy an evening ticket to the Nasrid Palaces and a morning visit to the Alcazaba and the Generalife Palace and Gardens on the following day).  The gardens are next door to the Alhambra Granada. They were originally built as a palace for Muslim Emirs and have been subsequently altered over the years. The gardens are a lovely tranquil place to visit and a place where the kings of Granada would go when they wanted to get away from it all.  Don’t miss the views from the balconies.   The Granada Cathedral Located off the Plaza de las Pasiegas the awe inspiring Granada Cathedral is in the pedestrian zone so can only be reached by foot or by the LAC bus (Gran Via stop). Built on the site of an ancient mosque the combination of Moorish influence and baroque style give it a truly stunning architecture and is definitely one of the Granada sights you should visit. Tickets don’t need to be bought in advance and can be bought at the Cathedral itself.  They are 5 Euros per adult and children under 10 are free.  Wheelchair access is available but not to the toilets or to the shop. Opening times – check the official website for the most up to date information as the Cathedral can sometimes have changes to opening times for example over the Easter weekend. This website is currently only available in Spanish, however using a translator tool should suffice. Should you need any help understanding this page, please ask our friendly reception team.   The Granada Royal Chapel (Capilla Real de Granada) Situated between the Granada Cathedral and the old Fish Market, the Royal Chapel was constructed between 1505 and 1517 by Catholic Monarchs for the burial of their bodies. Tickets can be bought at the Chapel and are 4 Euros each.   Again check the official website for the most up to date visiting information as the Chapel can sometimes have changes to opening times during religious festivals and NOTE - there is no visiting during daily mass. The Bañuelo The Bañuelo are well preserved Arabic Baths dating back to the 11 th Century.   They are located under a private dwelling and as such they are one of the few examples to survive destruction by the Catholics.  They are now a declared national monument of Spain. Entrance cost is €2,20 and access is via a small house at 31 Carrera del Darro, Granada which can be easily missed so make sure you keep your eyes open.  Because of their fragile structure, wheelchair access is limited. Opening times: Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 2pm  The Albayzin or El Albaicin Located on an opposite hill to the Alhambra the Albayzin is the old Moorish quarter of Granada and going here is definitely one of the best things to do in Granada.  Amble along the narrow labyrinth of streets and take in the Alcaiceria - silk market, the spice stalls and many shops and stalls selling Arabic souvenirs and Spanish tourist attractions.  Stop off at a tea room or one of the many bars to escape the crowds and enjoy some welcome refreshment. Hamman Al Andalus Granada Treat yourself to a full body massage and relaxing spa to rejuvenate tired legs and to get away from the general hubbub of Granada sightseeing.  You can choose your own massage oil and the professional staff at Al Andalus will talk you through the sensations and benefits of each.  Prices range for different treatments and reservations must be made in advance.  Definitely one of the more relaxing things to do in Granada! 16 Calle Santa Ana,  180090 Granada   +34 902 333 334 and +34 958 229 978  Where to eat CoCo’s Bar & Tapas Popular with locals and tourists CoCo’s has great Tapas and is reasonably priced.  Eddie and his team of friendly staff will really look after you in this gem of a bar. 4 Calle San Matías, 18009 Granada  +34 622 23 45 52 La Botilleria   Escape the hustle and bustle of Calle Navas (known as ‘Tapas Street’) by diving down Calle Varela where you will find La Botilleria .   A good quality ‘sit down’ restaurant with excellent service and generous portions.  Great if you want to sample the local cuisine. 10 Calle Varela 18009 Granada  +34 958 224 928 Terraza Las Tomasas A more pricey option but with spectacular views over the Alhambra, eating here is definitely one of the top things to do in Granada if you are on a romantic break or want to treat someone.  In the evening you get to see the sunset on Granada and the lights come on over the Alhambra which is just magical.   Terraza Las Tomasas  is located in the Albayzin or El Albaicin pedestrian area which is a World Heritage UNESCO site and a network of steep narrow streets so can be hard to find, but worth it when you get there.  You can make a reservation and ask to sit on the Terrace where it can be breezy and chilly in the winter months so make sure you take something warm to wear (although they do have heaters). 10 Carril De San Agustin, 18010 Granada  +34 958 224 108  Where to stay El Ladron de Agua If you are planning on visiting Granada why not make your visit truly special and stay with us here at   El Ladron de Agua hotel which is literally a translation of ‘The Water Thief.  Our beautiful 17 th century noble house has been restored and brought into the 21 st century with WiFi, Flat screen TVs, Bose iPad docks and Molton Brown goodies in every room. We are ideally located in the heart of the Albayzin giving you instant access to the Alhambra and surrounding areas.  As an Arts hotel our fully stocked library and arts collection is real bonus for those seeking a bit of ‘downtime’.  13 Carrera del Darro, 18010 Granada “Exceptionally Beautiful Place to Stay We spent 4 nights at El Ladron de Agua, and enjoyed almost every minute of our stay there. The hotel's employees were pleasant and helpful. Our room was excellent with a comfortable bed and large bathroom. The downstairs courtyard was designed in a modern motif which was extremely beautiful. The breakfast room and lounge were also well designed and beautiful. Art work is scattered throughout. It is an excellent location for a visit to the old city, the Albayzin neighbourhood, and the Alhambra,. The Plaza Nueva is 2 or 3 blocks downhill from the hotel, the Cathedral is 1/2 mile away, downtown stores were just as close, and the Alhambra is a 2/3 mile mainly uphill walk from here.”   PennyRick from California We hope we have given you a taste of some of the things to do in Granada plus some of the best places to go for tasty food and a great atmosphere.  We would love the opportunity to show you more so please do come and visit us soon, and don’t forget to follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook for all the latest information. http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2016/things-to-do-in-granada/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2016/things-to-do-in-granada/ Thu, 09 June 2016 20:26:18 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2016/granada-nightlife/ Granada is a beautiful Spanish city offering excellent food, wine and architecture in a stunning landscape. With its rich cultural history, there are lots of things to see and do, but when the sun begins to disappear behind the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the heat of the day subsides, this is when nightlife in Granada really comes into its own. Granada has a huge student population owing to the University of Granada which has four campuses that converge in the centre at the “Campus Centro”. The student population is a powerful driving force for Granada nightlife, but with everything from flamenco clubs to nightclubs and bars, there is something for everyone. Tapas Calle Navas is known as the “tapas street” and is an excellent place to start an evening. It’s great for bar-hopping and as most bars will serve tapas with every drink, it’s also a good idea if you want to pace yourself! We would especially recommend: Bar los Diamantes  – an excellent tapas bar which has been running since the early forties. It is incredibly popular with the locals and offers fish and seafood specialities such as clams, squid and prawns. 28 Calle Navas, Granada +34 958 227 070 12 Calle Rosario, Granada +34 619 787 828   Flamenco If you’re after a truly Spanish experience, the flamenco is an absolute must. Whilst Madrid is home to the largest commercial flamenco scene, its origins can be traced back to the caves of Sacromonte in Granada, where it is very much still alive. The flamenco clubs in Granada offer an ethereal rustic charm which simply cannot be found elsewhere. We would especially recommend – Venta El Gallo With a capacity of 140 people and near to the Sacromonte Caves Museum, this is a great place to experience flamenco in an authentic cave setting.  Even the journey there is an adventure with amazing views of the Alhambra on the way.  An unforgettable evening! 5 Barranco de los Negros, 18010 Granada +34 958 22 84 75 Casa del Arte Flamenco Located in an old auditorium near Plaza Nueva in the old town. For a passionate performance in an intimate setting it cannot be beaten. Many clubs offer late-night shows but Casa del Arte’s relatively earlier shows (at 7.30pm and 9pm) are ideal if you’re going on elsewhere afterwards. 11 Cuesta de Gomerez, 18009 Granada Spain +34 958 56 57 67 Bars If you want to savour more central Granada nightlife with authentic bars we would recommend: Huerto del Loro Perched on the hillside below the Alhambra this cave bar is located behind Santa Ana's Church. It is a charming place with a lovely terrace and amazing views. Sit and relax and watch the sunset over the roof tops of Granada.  Open Thursday to Sunday from 5.00 pm to 2.00 am. 4 Calle Cuesta de la Churra, 18009 Granada Spain +34 625 09 08 18 La Fontana Here you will be able to enjoy delicious cocktails, Andalucían tapas and a variety of wines.  On a spring day, if you can get a table in a sun trap, it is the best place in town to watch the world go by.  It is open from Monday to Sunday from 9.00 am to 1.00 am (Friday and Saturday till 3.00 am) 19 Carrera del Darro, 18010 Granada Spain +34 958 22 77 59 Clubs/concerts If you want to experience true Granada nightlife and are seeking more of a club / concert venue we would recommend: El Camborio  Granada is a large nightclub or after hours pub in the cave district / Sacromonte offering breath-taking views of the Alhambra. The club is separated into two rooms – the cave room which plays Spanish pop and a more modern room which tends to play hip hop. As with most nightclubs there are many different offers and discounts for example for Erasmus students, for those with flyers and even for those arriving by taxi.  Checkout El Camborio Granada  facebook page  for the latest deals and conditions. 47 Camino del Sacromonte 18010 Granada Spain +34 958 22 12 15 Planta Baja An alternative bar/concert venue well-known among indie music lovers and a great way to experience nightlife in Granada.  Open Saturdays and Sundays only.11 Calle Horno de Abad, 18002 Granada, Spain Mae West  is one of the city’s most well known nightclubs. A large, impressive oriental-themed club, it attracts a fashionable crowd and plays commercial dance music but also Spanish pop. The club has two floors and is split into a number of zones but can still become crowded on weekends. Drinks cost around €7 and entrance is €10 including two drinks. No sporty clothing is allowed.  98 C/Arabial, Centro Comercial Neptuno, Granada Spain +34 659 18 56 12 La Sala El Tren  is a huge out-of-town nightclub which may cost around €10 to get to from the city centre. However, the acts and the atmosphere more than make up for this extra expenditure. The club is renowned for its sound system and the events label, Substation, which routinely attracts internationally-recognised names in drum & bass such as Shy FX and Aphrodite. La Sala also plays reggae and dub and while it may be a warehouse-sized club, entry is still only €10 including either a spirit and mixer or two beers. 136 Carretera de Malaga, Nave 7 cp, 18015 Granada Spain There are a number of other options to experience the true essence of nightlife in Granada including  Ganivet, Forum Plaza, Aliatar Café and more. The tapas bars often stay open late and it’s not unknown for chairs and tables to be pushed aside to make way for a dance floor. However, the big nightclubs tend to stay open much later – until the sun rises, the shadows scurry away and Granada once again becomes a benign, noble and sensible city. Our hotel  El Ladron de Agua  is located on the Carrera del Darro a stone’s throw from the Plaza Nueva, the Alhambra and the Albayzin so you can truly experience Granada nightlife to its fullest. Follow us on  Facebook  and  Twitter  for all the latest information. http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2016/granada-nightlife/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2016/granada-nightlife/ Fri, 20 May 2016 12:07:04 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2016/01/wedding-in-granada/ There is no doubt that Granada is a beautiful city so we are not surprised that many couples decide to get married here. On one hand we can found couples in which one or two of them were born in Granada and live here or away. In this case, despite the fact that a great part of the family and friends have to travel, look for accommodation and buy expensive flights tickets because they must travel on a specific date, we can assure that getting married in Granada is worth it. On the other hand, there are some people who spent their university life in here and love the environment, people and decide to look for an excuse to come back. This is a less usual situation and happens normally among those who were Erasmus or exchange- program students. There is a tradition in which the bride should get married in her birth of place but nowadays, this is complicated because it is easier to organize a wedding in the place where bride and groom work. So if the bride was born in another province and work in Granada, she will know her fiancé in Granada, his family will live here also as well as most of their friends, so they will usually decide to get married here. At a first moment, it will be just a logistical question but after they will realize that there is a hidden reason: Granada is one of the most beautiful places to celebrate a wedding. And after some month of organizing the big day, they will notice that Granada, besides being a wonderful city is relatively cheap if we compare it with other Spanish cities. In Granada, all kind of weddings suitable for all kind of pockets can take place: urban weddings with views of the Alhambra or the valley. Rural weddings, weddings celebrated in a palace, or in a cave; religious and civil weddings, etc. And furthermore, Granada is not a big city so the expenses in transport are considerably reduced, in fact, sometimes the guests can walk or make a short trip by taxi from the church to the banquet place. One of the favorite places to get married in Granada is the Albayzin. Many couples choose the Church of Santa Ana in Plaza Nueva or the church of San Pedro y San Pablo in Carrera del Darro and after the religious ceremony, they celebrate the banquet in Palacio de los Cordova, in Carmen de los Chapiteles or in La Chumbera. All these places offer a unique environment, with the Alhambra as the main witness of nuptials. But, what happens with the guests? Where can they be allocated? And where do bride and groom stay on their wedding night? Our hotel, El Ladron de Agua is located between the Church of San Pedro and Santa Ana’s that is why many couples decide to offer our rooms to their guests. However there are many more couples who decide to book our Suite Generalife to spend the wedding night or before the wedding to get dressed, to make a photographic report, and go from here to the church We feel proud of having one of the best Suite rooms in Granada. It is our Generalife Suite. From its windows you can enjoy the fabulous views of the Alhambra, the Darro River and Plaza Nueva. It has enough space for bridesmaids, best man, groomsmen, photographer, etc. Who has not dreamed of waking up next to your love while you see the Alhambra from your bed? Good! Your dream can be true with us. We are very romantic at El Ladron de Agua hotel and we love couples came to stay on their night weeding at our hotel that is why we want to offer many gifts to our just married.   - For the wedding guests: Bride and groom will be able to make a previous reservation of rooms for their guests until a specific date. There is no need to prepay or provide credit card details initially. After that, guests can call to the hotel in order to formalize the reservation. That way, bride and groom have to worry about nothing. We will inform the guests about the hotel, location of the church, restaurants, we can also arrange taxis for them. And, if you book a minimum of 10 rooms, you will get 10% discount on each room!!!   - For the just married: Gifts in the room: a bottle of Cava and chocolates or fruit. We will prepare the room in a special way. If the couple’s friends want to surprise them on their wedding night, we will be your allies. For security reasons, it is not allowed to use candles in rooms, but music, electric candles, rose’s petals, flowers, etc. We will make it possible! Breakfast in room. Late check out (See conditions in reception when you make your reservation)     Now, you just have to relax and enjoy the big day and at night, the Alhambra will be the witness of you first night as husband and wife. http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2016/01/wedding-in-granada/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2016/01/wedding-in-granada/ Fri, 22 January 2016 16:44:52 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2016/01/olla-de-san-aton/ Traditions in Granada In January 17th, just when we tried to follow a diet after Christmas excesses, we celebrate San Anton’s day in Granada dedicate to Saint Anthony the Abbot, patron and protector of animals and shepherds. During these days, it is customary to taste a dish called “Olla de San Anton” (San Anton’s pot) which is delicious but it is recommended nevertheless for brave people only.   Saint Anthony the Abbot was born in the Lower Egypt and it is said that on his 20th birthday, he sold his properties and gave the money to the poor. After that, he settled at the mountains where he lived like a hermit. He looked after the animals and helped other people to follow a life dedicated to spirituality. For those reasons, San Anton is the saint patron and protector of animals and many towns at the mountains such as Monachil in Granada or Torvizcon in the Alpujarras. In other towns like Armilla placed in the area of “La Vega de Granada”, people set bonfires in his honor. On San Anton’s day eve, in Polícar, people go scavenging for wood and gather in the evening for a huge bonfire where they drink and eat. During these days, restaurants and bars in the city of Granada, prepare “Olla de San Anton”. This dish is a stew typical from Granada although it can be found in some places in Jaen and Murcia also. It is a delicious dish but its high calorie value makes it not suitable for people on a diet! Indeed it is fit for peasants who needed to be prepared for the cold weather in Granada in winter. Main ingredients of the “Olla de San Anton” are: broad beans, green beans and products from the slaughtering season, e.g. black pudding, chorizo (pork sausage), ham.  Nowadays, it is difficult to find a restaurant serving the original recipe because it is usually served a light version. Anyway, for those who wanted to protect themselves from the cold with this delicious stew, for those who fell nostalgic about Granada and would like to cook for more that two hours or simply for those being hungry, here you have the recipe!  And.. Bon appétit! Olla de San Antón Ingredients for 4 people • 1/4 Kg. of broad beans • 100 g of white beans • 1 onion • 1 pimiento choricero (capsicum annuum) • 1 head of garlic • 1 pork backbone • 1 hambone • 100 g pork ribs • 100g bacon • 1 pig’s ear • 1 pork tail • 100g. salted cured bacon • 2 cups of rice • 2 potatoes • Thyme • Fennel • salt First of all, we have to leave the broad beans and the white beans to soak on the day before. And on the next day, we are prepared to cook. Firstly, peel the onion and cut it in big pieces. Wash the pork back bones, ribs and hambones and place them with the rest of ingredients except for the rice, the black pudding and the potatoes in a pot with water and salt. Water must cover the ingredients. It is recommended to use a clay pot, but if we do not have it, we can use another kind of pot except a pressure cooker. The secret of this dish is to cook over a low heat. After one hour and a half, peel and cut the potatoes and add them to the pot with the rice and the black pudding. Cook for 30 minutes more a serve the stew of legumes, potatoes and rice in a plate and meat in another plate. This recipe goes well with a good win and pickels. http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2016/01/olla-de-san-aton/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2016/01/olla-de-san-aton/ Fri, 15 January 2016 19:17:49 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2015/new-years-eve-in-granada/ The Twelve Grapes to the chimes of the Clock at midnight on New Years Eve has been a Spanish tradition since 1909. In December that year, some vinegrowers from the Alicante area came up with "The 12 Grapes" as an idea to sell huge amounts of grapes from an excellent harvest. Since that time Spanish people have kept up the tradition as a way to celebrate New Year's Eve. On the last day of the year, the 31st of December, they wait until twelve p.m. Everybody has to have twelve grapes ready to eat when the clock starts to chime. It is traditional to listen to the clock from Puerta del Sol in Madrid and in other town squares around the country. In Granada you can take the grapes in Plaza del Carmen located at seven minutes only from El Ladron de Agua Hotel. When it is midnight in Spain on New Year's Eve, each time the clock chimes, people put a grape in their mouth. By the time the clock has finished chiming, everybody has to have finished their grapes and the New Year starts, but nobody finishes eating the grapes on time. Eating the grapes is very funny because everybody starts the New Year with a full mouthful of grapes. It's almost impossible to finish eating the grapes by the time the clock finishes chiming. Normally people still have all the grapes in their mouths, and they start looking at each other and have to laugh.You can imagine what would happens when they laugh with all the grapes in their mouths. It's really difficult to have a second to swallow them.The children almost never achieve it, but the adults compete to see who will be the first one to finish the grapes. If you manage to eat the 12 grapes then you will have 12 months good luck. This is a tradition in Spain, as well as in some Latin American countries. Once finished, it's time to dance, drink champagne and celebrate. The younger family members get ready for festivities that will keep them out until about 6 or 7 a.m. http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2015/new-years-eve-in-granada/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2015/new-years-eve-in-granada/ Mon, 28 December 2015 12:22:20 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2015/11/vegetarian-restaurants-in-granada/ Vegetarianism consists on voluntary non-consumption of the flesh of any animal and also animal derivatives such as milk or eggs. It has its origins in the civilizations of ancient India and ancient Greece and its practice was connected with the philosophical and religious principle of non-violence towards animals. Nowadays, vegetarianism is spreading in most of countries, especially among young people. Granada, as a cosmopolitan city where people of many ethnicities, religions and cultures meet and live in close proximity, counts on a large selection of restaurants offering vegetarian food. This is our TOP 5.   RESTAURANTE RAICES Restaurante Raices is located in Calle Pablo Picasso, 30 and was the first vegetarian restaurant in Granada. It opened in 1982. It is not actually in the center of the city but everybody says that it is worth to get there to enjoy a really good vegetarian meal. You can find vegan and vegetarian food, gluten free, lactose free, halal menu. The price of daily menu is 9.50 Euros per person but you can find many other dishes too such as: tofu pancakes, brown rice with mushrooms and seitan, couscous, pasta, vegetable cakes, soyballs. Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday 13.30-16.00 and 21.00-23.30.                        Thursday, Friday and Saturday 13.30-16.00 and 21.00-0.00                        Sunday 13.30-16.00     HICURI ART VEGAN Hicuri Art Vegan is located at 8 minutes from our hotel in Plaza Girones, 4, the area of El Realejo. It offers a delicious vegan menu from 12.80 Euros and many other dishes such as vegetables cream, seitan, salmorejo, gazpacho, vegan burger. Opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 11.00 to 23.00. Closed on Sunday.   PÁPRIKA Páprika is a vegan restaurant offering gluten free food too. it is located in Cuesta de Abarqueros, 3 at the end of Calle Elvira (8 minutes walk to the hotel) Its menu constist on dishes like hummus, guacamole, quinoa tabbouleh, Thai wok. Opening hours: Everyday from 13.00 to 16.00 and from 20.00 to 23.30.   TRASGU It defines itself as an interesting mix between food from Asturias (a nice region in the North of Spain) and vegetarian food.  In its menu you can find vegetable chop suey, rice tagliatelle. But tpas are also served. It is located at Campo del Principe, 12 Opening hours: From Tuesday to Sunday 12.00-16.00, 20.00-24.00.   OJÚ. Located in Calle General Narváez, 4. You can order tapas or meals such as vegan fabada, small sandwich with seitan and what they call "plato ojuleño" which is a vegan version of the tradicional dish "plato alpujarreno".  Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday from 13.00 to 16.00 and from 20.00 to 24.00. Sunday from 13.00 to 16.00.   Our hotel serves a vegetarian breakfast. We offer non-vegetarian food also but our breakfast service is a buffet consisting on fruit, vegetables, jams, marmelades, fresh orange juice, etc. We can serve gluten free and lactose free meals also for no extra fee. If you are interested in this options, please contact us. http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2015/11/vegetarian-restaurants-in-granada/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2015/11/vegetarian-restaurants-in-granada/ Tue, 24 November 2015 20:05:14 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2015/11/gastronomy-in-granada/ Gastronomy in Granada When we visit a city, we are interested in knowing everything about culture and traditions. Monuments, churches and museums are very important and sometimes, some of them are a must as happens in Granada. If you come to Granada for the first time, you have to visit the Alhambra. But there is a less formal side in the culture of a city which allows us to understand its cultural richness and its people’s personality. This aspect is Gastronomy. Through Gastronomy we can discover how the city is influenced by other people, religion or even wheather. It is well known that Granada is famous for the tapas. However, the visitor sometimes feels stressed in front of so many delicious dishes and he does not know what to choose. Finally he decides to order dishes that he has already tasted. In this post, we want to show you the tapas and dishes that you can mostly find at the restaurants In Granada. Granada is near Sierra Nevada so it is cold in winter. For this reason, the typical meals in this season are highest in calories. For example, the “Olla de San Antón” which is a kind of stew, “plato alpujarreño” (with eggs, fried potatoes and sausages) and bread crumbs.   Plato Alpujarreño   We can also find other delicious meals: fava beans with Serrano ham, kid in garlic sauce, trout of Riofrio and Sacromonte omelette (originally made with pig's or lamb's brains) In Easter, most of tapas bars serve Remojón, a delicious cod and orange salad. See recipe. Migas   Regarding desserts, there are many typical cakes and sweets in Granada but “Piononos” of Santa Fe and “Tocinos de cielo” of Guadix are my favourites.   Wine is a rising business area in Granada. For some years now, some wineries of Granada, Guadix, Baza, El Valle de Lecrín and the cost are producing really good wines. Please do not hesitate to taste our wines when you go out for tapas. You will be surprised. http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2015/11/gastronomy-in-granada/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2015/11/gastronomy-in-granada/ Wed, 11 November 2015 17:02:51 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2015/08/squares-in-granada/ Squares in Granada It is known that Alhambra, Albayzin, Sacromonte, etc are a must in Granada, but what is about the squares of Granada? Squares are a meeting point for local people and visitors. Everybody has his favorite square depending on the circumstances. The favorite squares for university students are Plaza de Gran Capitán and Plaza Einstein. The first one is located next to the Monasterio de San Jerónimo, at 5 minutes walk from the Faculty of Law and the Faculty of Translation and Interpreting, it is a great starting point if you plan to take some tapas. The second one is in front of the University Campus of Fuentenueva and is full of tapas bars and pubs. The favorite square for tourists is Plaza Nueva which is the starting point to the Albayzin. This square is full of bars and restaurants for all tastes, musicians and artists. There, you can catch the bus to get to the Albayzin also, or take a taxi to get to the airport, bus station or train station. In this post, we want to show you the best squares in Granada in order to focus on their history and not only on the bars and restaurants in them. Plaza Bib-Rambla. It was built in 1238 in the Nasrid period. It was an important place because of its proximity to Major Mosque and the commercial area of Granada made up by the Alcaiceria and Zacatin. In Moorish times, commercial exchanges were held here. Later, in Catholic Monarchs times, the King Fernando transferred the square to the city as to be used as a place to walk and business, since then, it suffered many changes. At present, there is a fountain in the middle of the square, Fuente de los Gigantes and it is surrounded by restaurants and cafés. Plaza de la Romanilla Since the Muslim period, it has been market, full stands of fruit, vegetable, dried fruit and nuts and spices. There was a place called “Caseta del Repeso” where frauds related to weight of foodstuff were denounced. For this purpose, they used a steel yard called “romanilla” which gave the name to this square. There is a statue of a water seller in it. Because of its proximity to the Cathedral and its stands of tea and spices, this square is a must.   Plaza Mariana Pineda I was built in the 20th century and it is dedicated to Mariana Pineda Muñoz, a Spanish heroine accused of belonging to a liberal conspiracy after she embroidered the words “Ley, Libertad, Igualdad” (Law, Freedom, Equality) on a flag. For this reason she was executed by garotte when was 26. There is a monument in her honor in the middle of the square. Every year, it is celebrated the anniversary of her death on the 26 th May 1981. At present, it is the perfect square to relax after a long day visiting the city or taking a break after work. Plaza de la Pescadería This square is next to Plaza de la Romanilla and it was used as a commercial center but in this case there were stands of fish. They were built in the same period. Nowadays, you can fish is sold in this square but not in stands but in restaurants. Plaza Nueva Plaza Nueva was built in the 16th century with the purpose of hiding the river Darro to create more space in the city because although there were many bridges which crossed the river, the movement of the people between the city and the Alhambra was so difficult. Plaza Nueva means new square and it was named that way because it was the first one that the Catholic Monarchs built in the city in the 16th century. It became one of the most important squares, festivals, jousts and executions were held here. The building of the Real Chancillería (Royal Chancellery) is from the 16th century, however the fountain was built in the 20th century. Plaza Larga In its origins (14th century) was just a small square called Rahbāt al-Ziyāda or square of the expansion which was joined to the Arco de las Pesas that was an arc where weights used by traders to swindle clients out were hung. Its current structure dates from 1571 after Moorish expulsion, when it was widened to build a slaughterhouse, some butcher’s shop and public wash house. Currently it is one of the more bustling squares of the Albayzin with many restaurants, cafés, tapas bars and a street market held twice a week. http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2015/08/squares-in-granada/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2015/08/squares-in-granada/ Mon, 17 August 2015 13:22:04 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2015/08/generalife-suite/ Generalife Suite The trip to Granada of the writer from Huelva Juan Ramon Jimenez with his wife Zenobia arose from his friendship with Federico Garcia Lorca and it supposed a deep experience that it would reflect on his Literature. In June of 1924 he decided to accept the invitation of the Garcia Lorca family to visit Granada. Once they were installed they walked around the most emblematic places of the city and centred their trip in discovering places like the Carrera del Darro, Paseo de los Tristes and the viewpoint of San Nicholas; to wander by the labyrinth of streets of the Albaicín or to visit the Cathedral and its Royal Chapel, the Carmen of Falla or the Antequeruela Alta.Absorbed by all this beauty they still marvelled in front of the Alhambra and the Generalife. Manuel de Falla was great guide of the married couple. The experiences lived in Granada and mainly his contact with the Generalife, caused in the poet a creative exaltation that will generate verses and stories of his play Olvidos de Granada. There, he reveals through texts that evoke places, characters or small events, traces of the literary perspective of the poet and the particular vision of the poet. “Generalife” is a poem which belongs to “Olvidos” and is dedicated to Isabel García Lorca, Federico’s sister. http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2015/08/generalife-suite/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2015/08/generalife-suite/ Fri, 07 August 2015 19:00:33 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2015/07/recommendations-to-enjoy-the-alhambra/ Recommendations to enjoy the Alhambra. Alhambra is the main attraction of Granada and one of the most visited Spanish monuments. The charm of this monument built along six centuries seduces its visitor with the great beauty of its gardens and palaces. There is nothing more exciting than enjoying its rooms’ colors and light as well as the amazing views of the Albaizin, Sacromonte and Granada meadow from the hill of La Sabika where Alhambra is located. Alhambra means red fortress in Arabic language. It was built over one of the highest points of the city, on the hill of La Sabika, in order to have a strategic situation. Later, it became the royal residence. The Alhambra is made up of different parts, the Alcazaba that was the fortress, the Nasrid Palaces –residence and administrative area- the Partal Gardens, next to the Nasrid Palaces, the Generalife – the gardens traditionally used as a summer residence of Muslim Monarchs- the Palace of Charles the 5th -built in the 16th century and was the residence of the Emperor Charles the 5th – at present it is the Alhambra Museum and the Fine Arts Museum of Granada, and finally the Monastry of San Francisco, current Parador de Turismo, built on an old Muslim palace of 16th century. The Catholic Monarchs graves were prepared in this place while The Royal Chapel, which would be used as a Royal Family mausoleum, was built next to the Cathedral. Alhambra is a must-see place in Granada but in some seasons, it is very difficult to get tickets. We want to nobody to miss it, so in this post, we will offer some recommendations. 1. WHEN TO GET THE TICKETS We recommend buying tickets in advance irrespective of whether it is high season or low season. If you plan to travel in high season (April, May, October, Christmas holidays, Easter, weekends and bank holidays) we recommend buying the tickets one month in advance. In low season, one week in advance is enough. It is allowed to buy tickets 3 months in advance only. Everyday Alhambra put on sale an indefinite number of tickets that must be purchased at the tickets office of the Alhambra. You will be able to visit the Alhambra on the day you buy the tickets, but it is not guaranteed that you will get them because as we said before, it is an indefinite number of tickets. 2. WHERE TO BUY TCKETS FOR THE ALHMABRA The official website to get tickets for the Alhambra is Ticketmaster . These are unguided visits. If you want to arrange a guided visit of the Alhambra with a group or a private tour, El Ladrón de Agua the Arts Hotel will be happy to help you. If you prefer to buy the tickets online, please take into account that you will be allowed to buy tickets for the next day only. Via online it is not possible to get tickets for visiting the Alhambra on the day you buy them. 3. RATES, SPECIAL OFFERS, DISCOUNTS AND PACKAGES. The price of the general ticket includes the Nasrid Palaces, the Generalife and the Alcazaba. The regular rate of the full visit is 15.30 Euros per person. You can also visit the Generalife only or making a visit at night. There are special discounts for EU citizens. There are special packages which include tickets for others monuments. One of these packages is Granada Card that offers the possibility of visiting the Alhambra without a previous reservation. “La Dobla de Oro” is another package which includes the entrance to some monuments in the Albaizin as well as the Alhambra. The tickets price for children under 12 is free but you must make a reservation for children also. If you have a special discount you must identify yourself at the tickets office of the Alhambra. 4. GUIDED VISITS It is possible to arrange a guided tour with a group. The price of these visits is 52 Euros per person. If you prefer to make a visit with a private guide, only for you and your family or companions, please, contact us, El Ladron de Agua, the Arts Hotel will be pleased to help you to arrange your visit. 5. I COULDN’T FIND TICKETS, CAN THE HOTEL HELP ME? Definitely! Tickets in Ticketmaster sell out quickly, especially in high season for that reason the Alhambra offers a number of ticket to our hotel and many establishments in Granada in order to make easier the way to buy tickets for the Alhambra for guests and clients. If you could not get your tickets of if you want us to arrange your visit, please contact us. 6. BUYING TICKETS AT THE TICKET OFFICE OF THE ALHAMBRA. We recommend buying the tickets in the way we have seen before, but if you planned a last minute trip, you can purchase tickets at the tickets office. Everyday Alhambra put on sale an indefinite number of tickets that must be purchased at the tickets office of the Alhambra or one of the tickets machines next to the tickets office. You will be able to visit the Alhambra on the day you buy the tickets, but it is not guaranteed that you will get them because as we said before, it is an indefinite number of tickets. 7. I NEED TO CANCEL MY TICKETS. WHAT CAN I DO? If you made your reservation on Ticketmaster, you will have to contact directly with them. Cancellation or any change in your reservation details will have to be made at least 72 hours before the visit. In case of cancellation, you will be refunded the total amount except for 1.40 Euros as management fee. 8. HOW TO GET TO THE ALHAMBRA. You can go walking, from Plaza Nueva, take street Cuesta de Gomérez, by bus, using the bus C3, by taxi or using the train Granada city tour. 9. I HAVE MY TICKETS ALREADY. WHAT NOW? If you have your tickets, you will have to print them in one of the office of “La Caixa”, at the bookstore of the Alhambra placed in Plaza Nueva or at the ticket office of the Alhambra. I you have a special discount remember that you must show your ID to identify yourself at the ticket office. As you can see on your tickets, you have a specific time for visiting the Nasrid Palaces. If you have a morning visit (8.30 – 13.30) you will be able to visit the Generalife and the Alcazaba at these hours. The same thing happens if you have an afternoon visit (14.00 – 19.30 in summer and 14.00 18.00 in winter) It is recommended to arrive in advance because the visit lasts 3 hours and after the deadline hour you will not be allowed to visit the rest of the areas included in your visit. BONUS RECOMMENDATION FOR AUSTRALIAN CITIZENS There are some problems for Australian citizens who want to make the Alhambra reservations on Ticketmaster. It seems to be a problem with Australian credit cards when you want to make your reservations online. That does not mean that you will not be able to pay with your credit card directly at the ticket office of the Alhambra, this problem concerns online purchase on Ticketmaster. If it is your situation, please contact us. http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2015/07/recommendations-to-enjoy-the-alhambra/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2015/07/recommendations-to-enjoy-the-alhambra/ Wed, 15 July 2015 09:44:58 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2015/07/summer-in-granada/ Summer in Granada The city of Granada offers different leisure plans during the whole year and also in summer. Flamenco shows, outdoors cinemas, night tours and visits and public swimming pools. So, do not stay at home and enjoy Granada in summer. Here you have our recommendations. 1.-A POET IN NEW YORK . Every year within the programme Lorca and Granada in the Gardens of Generalife we can enjoy a unique show based on Federico Garcia Lorca's work. Many artists such as Cristina Hoyos, Eva Yerbabuena, Blanca Li or Antonio Gades have taken part in this show throughout the years.  "A Poet in New York" will be the show presented this year and will be performed by the flamenco dancer Rafael Amargo. From 20 July to 29 August in the Generalife Theater. For further information,please click here: http://www.juntadeandalucia.es/culturaydeporte/lorcaygranada/ 2.- SUMMERS IN THE CORRAL DEL CARBÓN . Other interesting plan is what El Corral del Carbón offers: theater (16th Teatro para un Instante show), flamenco (17th Summers in the Corral del Carbón show), music (Lara bello, David Gómez and Heian) and Jazz (Granada Jazz Association)From 25th July to 12th September. Further information and sales:  www.alhambra-patronato.es >  AGENDA > VERANO EN EL CORRARL DEL CARBÓN. 3.- 5th FESTIVAL OF THE CAVES OF SACROMONTE 2015 . A great initiative to show new flamenco talents of Granada. on the 13th, 15th, 20th y 22nd july at 10.00 pm at the Museum of the Caves of Sacromonte. Further information:http://veranosflamencos.com/FESTIVALES/FESTIVALS/Festival-de-las-Cuevas/ CINEMA The best option to stand the heat in hot summer nights is to whatch open-air movies. Caja Granada Museum of Memory of Andalucía and the Museum of the Caves of Sacromonte present this interesting offer: 1.- CINEMA PLAZA . In Caja Granada Museum. Every Tuesday until the 25th August. At 10.00 pm.  Free admission while tickets last. Further information: http://www.entradascajagranada.es/view/event_group/ciclo-hoteles-de-pelicula-cinema-plaza/ 2.- MUSEUM OF THE CAVES OF SACROMONTE. Open-air cinema. A selection of great national and international movies in a magical environment, the Sacromonte. Tuesday and Thrusday at 10.00 pm. Price: 3.5€. Further information:  http://www.sacromontegranada.com/eventos-2/ SWIMMING POOLS   ACUAOLA. If you like the aquatic parks, Acuaola is the best option. It is located in a town near Granada called Cenes de la Vega but if you do not have your own car, do not worry! You can take the bus SN1 and stop in Avenida de Sierra Nevada- Parque acuático de Cenes. It is open from 6th September from 11.30 am to 7.30 pm. Price/adult: 16€. Price/child: 10€. Further information: http://www.aquaola.com/   TERRACES, TAPAS AND OTHER ALTERNATIVES. If you want to have a beer or some "tapas", there are many options in summer also. For instance, terraces with panoramic views sucha as  FORUM in Calle José Luis Pérez Pujades or UPPER CLUB 683 in Serrallo Plaza shoping center. If you prefer to take some "tapas" you can go to one of the bars placed in Plaza del Carmen such as “ Alameda ” and " Puerta del Carmen ", in Calle Navas area: “ Los Diamantes” o r “La Tana ” in Calle Rosario (In summer it opens from Monday to Friday only), in Plaza Nueva area: “La Cueva ” , "Bodegas Castañeda" and " Carmela ",  An after meal, what is about a night guided tour as Cicerone offers? Further information: http://www.ciceronegranada.com/espanol/web/visitasguiadas.asp http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2015/07/summer-in-granada/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2015/07/summer-in-granada/ Fri, 03 July 2015 17:19:49 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2015/06/flamenco-shows-in-granada/ FLAMENCO SHOWS IN GRANADA If you want to see an authentic flamenco show, Granada is the perfect city. You can choose among a show in one of the Sacomonte’s zambras, having dinner in one of the restaurants with flamenco show or visiting one of the charming places that offer flamenco in the Albayzin.   Caves of Sacromonte. Sacromonte is the birthplace of flamenco and one of the main attractions in Granada. It is an area full of caves where gypsies have been living since the 18th century. From there, you can enjoy an amazing view of the Alhambra, totally different that that you have from the Albayzin. Some people said that seeing a flamenco show in Sacromonte is an experience that will change your life, so are you going to miss it? These are the best caves in Sacromonte (in our opinion): Zambra María La Canastera. The word “zambra” has its origin in Arabic language and meant “party”. Nowadays, the word refers to a special dance performed by flamenco dancers in special occasions, such as weddings and other celebrations. Zambra María la Canastera is located in Camino del Sacromonte, 89. Cueva La Rocío. It is one of the most famous caves in Sacromonte. Michelle Obama herself fell for the charming people who live and work there. Cueva La Rocío is located in Camino Sacromonte, 70. Venta del Gallo. If you want to have dinner while you are seeing a flamenco show, Venta del Gallo is the best place in Sacromonte. They offer a delicious tapas menu that allows you to enjoy the traditional food made in Granada. Venta del Gallo is located in Barranco de los Negros, 5. How to get to Sacromonte. From Plaza Nueva, take bus number C2. Learn more about Sacromonte . Flamenco shows in the Albayzin. Jardines de Zoraya . If you are visiting the Mirador San Nicolás, one of the best places to see a flamenco show in the Albayzin, and where you can have dinner also, is Jardines de Zoraya. There is a nice garden inside where you can have a delicious menu before enjoying a good show. Jardines de Zoraya is in Calle Panaderos, 32. At 7 minutes walk from the Mirador San Nicolas. Casa del Arte Flamenco. If you have spent the whole day in the Alhambra, perhaps you will be tired to go up to Sacromonte but you do not want to give up a good flamenco show. In this case, Casa del Arte Flamenco is perfect for you.It is placed in Plaza Nueva at only 5 minutes from the hotel. Casa del Arte Flamenco is similar to a theatre in which you can explore different flamenco style during one hour. Casa del Arte is located in Cuesta de Gomérez, 11. Close to Plaza Nueva. Learn more about the Albayzin. Most of these shows are one hour long and they usually offer a drink with the price of the ticket. Special Flamenco shows in summer. Lorca and Granada in the Gardens of Generalife.   Every year there is a Festival dedicated to the Spanish poet and writer, Federico García Lorca in the Gardens of Generalife. It is an amazing flamenco show held in the Generalife, the wonderful gardens of the Alhambra. Could there be something more magical that this? Learn more about Lorca and Granada in the Gardens of Generalife here. Veranos del Corral. This old hostel for merchants where showed comedies is known for the different activities presented there during the summer where included Flamenco and jazz. The Corral del Carbon is located in Calle Mariana Pineda, 8. If you are interested in some of these shows but you are not able to decide, we will be pleased to help you! Contact to our team via e-mail: info@ladrondeagua.com or via phone: (+34) 958 21 50 40 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2015/06/flamenco-shows-in-granada/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2015/06/flamenco-shows-in-granada/ Wed, 17 June 2015 12:55:46 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2015/05/corpus-christi-in-granada/ From the 30th May and the 7th June 2015, Granada celebrates the Fest of Corpus Christi, a Catholic Holiday in honor of the institution of the Eucharist. Although Corpus Christi is celebrated in many parts of Spain, in Granada, it joins the annual fair. During a week there are many events in the city: processions, bullfighting, activities for children. The two major days are Wednesday and Thursday. On Wednesday the procession of la Tarasca walks through the streets of Granada. La Tarasca is a figure of a woman on a dragon. Children love this procession because it is accompanied by giants and other characters. The procession of Corpus Christi, held on Thursday, is more solemn than La Tarasca due to its religious origin. This tradition was used by the Catholic Monarchs, Fernando and Isabella, as a tool to Christianize the population that had been under Muslim rule for eight centuries. The Corpus Christi’s fair . The fairground is located in the northern part of Granada, in a district called Almanjáyar. There are three main areas in the fairground: The “casetas” (stalls) whose entrance is usually free and where you can enjoy traditional dishes, the attractions and the façade which is different every year. How to get there? - Taxi from Plaza Nueva. - Bus. There is a special bus service which links the city to the fairground every 15-20 minutes. Price: 1.80€ per person. http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2015/05/corpus-christi-in-granada/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2015/05/corpus-christi-in-granada/ Tue, 26 May 2015 12:37:18 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2014/11/top-10-tapas-bars-in-granada/ Granada is without a doubt, a city that has amazing architecture, a rich history and fabulous food which perfectly blends the Arab-Andalusian cuisine. Throughout the city, there is a wide variety of restaurants and bars that are capable of satisfying even the most demanding customers, all at reasonable prices. The flavourings used are a clear sign of the Arab influences in Granada, making the cuisine unique and interesting. Here are a few restaurants which will allow tourists and locals alike to have a taste of Granada’s rich cuisine and traditions. BODEGAS CASTAÑEDA Bodegas Castañera es a tradicional tapas bar in Granada. It is the starting point of a tapas tour. Location and getting there: At 5 minutes from the hotel, close to Plaza Nueva. Hours: From 11.30 am to 4.30 pm and from 7.30 pm to 1.30 am. Specialties: Wines, vermut and calicasas -a mixture of different wines- Contact details: Address: Calle Elvira / Calle Almireceros Phone: (+34) 958 215 464 PUERTA DEL CARMEN Puerta del Carmen is a symbol of design and elegance. They offer a delicious cuisine of Mediterranean inspiration Location and getting there: Placed in Plaza del Carmen, in front of City Hall Hours: Kitchen uninterrupted from 1.00 pm to 1.00 am. Specialties: Try the smoke tunafish and Trevelez ham Contact details: Address: Plaza del Carmen 1, 18001 Phone: (+34) 958 223 737 ALAMEDA The use of typical products of Andalusia made Alameda the perfect mixture between modern and traditional cuisine Location and getting there: Alameda is located next to the City Hall and Calle Ángel Ganivet. Hours: Everyday from 12.00 pm to 1.00 am Specialties: BurguerBull -A hamburger made with oxtail meat- Contact details: Address: Escudo del Carmen /Rector Morata Phone: (+34) 958 221 507 LA TANA La Tana is a small and charming place. It is well-known by local people because of the different wines and delicious tapas they offer. Location and getting there: It is located in El Realejo next to The Police Station at 5 minutes walk from the City Hall. Hours: Everyday from 1.00pm to 1.00 a.m. In summer it closes on Saturday and Sunday. Specialties: Salmorejo, black pudding and wines from Granada Contact details: Address: Rosario, 11 Phone: (+34) 958 225 248 CUNINI It is located in the heart of Granada next to the Cathedral. Cunini is one of the best places to taste delicious and fresh seafood and shellfish Location and getting there: It is placed in a charming square next to the Cathedral Hours: Everyday from 12.00 to 4.00pm and 8.00 pm and 12.00am Specialties: Ensaladilla and shellfish Contact details: Address: Plaza Pescadería, 14 Phone: (+34) 958 267 587 LOS DIAMANTES Los Diamantes is a traditional tapas bar in Granada specialized in seafood. It is very famous among the people all over the world and much of its fame is because of the quality of their tapas. Location and getting there: Los Diamantes is very well-known so it is very crowded but for that reason there are three “Los Diamantes” restaurants in Granada. Hours: 12.30 pm- 12.00 am Specialties: Fried fish. Contact details: Address: Navas 28 Phone: (+34) 958 227 070 Address: Rosario, 12 Phone: (+34) 619 787 828 Address: Plaza Nueva, 13 Phone: (+34) 958 075 313 CHIKITO Chikito was originally the Café Alameda, a place frequented by early 20th century intellectuals and artists such as Federico Garcia Lorca. Location and getting there: It is located next to El Corte Inglés store and Teatro Isabel La Católica. Hours: 1:00 – 4:00 pm, 8:00 – 11:30 pm Specialties: Broad beans with ham, and Nasrid sirloin steak Contact details: Address: Plaza del Campillo, 9 Phone: (+34) 958 223 364 CARMELA Carmela offers a traditional Mediterranean menu from an innovative perspective. Location and getting there: Between Plaza Nueva and Plaza Isabel La Católica. Hours: 8:00 am – 12:00 am Specialties: Black pudding croquettes with caramelized onion and Farmhouse scrambled eggs (scrambled eggs, potato sticks, black pudding and chorizo sausage) Contact details: Address: Colcha, 13 Phone: (+34) 958 225 794 CHATARELA Chantarela is synonym of quality and quantity. Tapas are abundant so you do not need to order other plates. Location and getting there: Although it is next to Puerta Real, this restaurant is located away from the crowded areas and that is means that this is not a place you would find by chance. Hours: From 1.00 pm to 4.00 pm, from 8.00 pm to 12.00 am. Close on Sunday and Monday. Specialties: Sirloin steak, grilled shrimps Contact details: Address: Aguila, 8 Phone: (+34) 958 252 068 ALACENA DE LAS MONJAS In the heart of the historical centre, one of the most important and well-known restaurants in Granada welcomes its customers with exquisite fifteenth century design and a 5 star modern cuisine, based on Mediterranean traditions and products. Location and getting there: Located next to the City Hall and the former Captaincy, it is quite easy to reach. Hours: The restaurant is open from Monday to Saturday, from 13:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and from 8:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. It is closed on Sundays. Specialties: Although based on Mediterranean cuisine, the Alacena de las Monjas also offers incredible traditional specialties at affordable prices. Here are a few examples of what customers may enjoy: Exquisite meats or tartar de atun Rojo (Red Tuna) Contact details: Address: Plaza del Padre Suarez 5 Phone: (+34) 958 229 519 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2014/11/top-10-tapas-bars-in-granada/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2014/11/top-10-tapas-bars-in-granada/ Sat, 08 November 2014 00:00:00 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2014/07/granada-local-buses/ Granada City Council has reduced the local buses in the center of the city since 1st July in order to protect the historic area. From now on, there will be only one bus in the city center called LAC. These changes could affect visitors who arrive by train or bus, thus we are sure that this post will be useful.  If you are traveling by train: Walk up the Avenida Andaluces till Avenida de la Constitución where you have to take the LAC till the city center. The nearest bus stop to our Hotel is Gran Via-Catedral. If you are traveling by bus: You must catch the bus N4 at the bus station till the stop in Caleta where you will have to take the LAC and stop in Gran Vía-Catedral. For further information you can download the map of bus lines or visit the Granada local bus website . http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2014/07/granada-local-buses/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2014/07/granada-local-buses/ Fri, 04 July 2014 00:00:00 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2014/05/the-most-romantic-restaurants-in-granada/ Granada is the perfect city to take a walk with your boyfriend/girlfriend but after spending all day walking around the city, there is nothing better than having dinner in a romantic restaurant. These are the Top 5 (In our opinion) El Trillo Restaurante. It is located at 7 minutes walking from the Hotel. The beautiful gardens, helpful staff and delicious food will make your night unforgettable.  Restaurante San Nicolás. It is located close to Mirador de San Nicolás. There is nothing more romantic than having a delicious dinner with a special person while enjoying the wonderful views to the Alhambra.  Alacena de las Monjas. This charming restaurant placed in Realejo is well-known among the celebrities. It's easy to guess the reason. Jardines de Zoraya. It is the best and most romantic place if you want to have a delicious dinner while watching a Flamenco show.  Carmen Mirador de Aixa. The "Carmen" is a ructic house with a garden with fruit trees. Here you will taste delicious traditional Granada dishes. http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2014/05/the-most-romantic-restaurants-in-granada/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2014/05/the-most-romantic-restaurants-in-granada/ Tue, 27 May 2014 00:00:00 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2014/04/how-to-get-to-granada-in-easter/ IMPORTANT INFORMATION!! HOW TO GET TO GRANADA IN EASTER. OUR RECOMMENDATIONS!   Dear Guests and future visitors, From the 13 th  April to 20th April, Easter parade will start in Granada. People usually try to find a place to watch the parade early in the afternoon, and the local Police closes the main streets of the town since 15.00 hours. Because of that, it is VERY IMPORTANT: If you are coming to the hotel by car and you will arrive after the time we mentioned above DO NOT TRY TO COME BYCAR, IT WILL BE QUITE IMPOSSIBLE, you must leave your car in Parking FUENTE DE LAS BATALLAS, next to EL CORTE INGLÉS (less than 15 minutes walking to the hotel)., as we show you in this access map. If you are coming with lot of luggage, for your comfort, we recommend you to put the essential items in a small suitcase or handbag, just for the first night. If you have any question please do not hesitate to contact us, we will be pleased to help you.   Ladron de Agua Hotel Staff http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2014/04/how-to-get-to-granada-in-easter/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2014/04/how-to-get-to-granada-in-easter/ Sat, 05 April 2014 00:00:00 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2014/03/cakes-in-easter/ Easter is certainly one of our most popular customs outside our borders, but this tradition goes far beyond religious beliefs. Easter means that Spanish kitchens are filled with homemade sweets such as “torrijas”. There are many recipes and different ways to make them: with wine and honey or milk and this one is what we want to show today Recipe for about 10 servings. Ingredients: 750 grams of bread for “torrijas”, if not found, just a regular baguette of the previous day. 1 liter of milk 200 grams of sugar Cinnamon stick Cinnamon  3 Eggs Olive oil How to prepare them: Cut bread into thick slices about two inches.  Pour a liter of milk (at room temperature) into a bowl with 50 grams of sugar and cinnamon (a couple of sticks). Beat the eggs. Dip the bread in milk and then in the beaten eggs. Fry each slice in oil. Place the slices on a plate with paper towels to loosen the excess oil. Mix in a bowl the remaining sugar with two teaspoons of cinnamon. Roll the slices in cinnamon and sugar. And they are ready! It is better to wait for them to cool completely but if you cannot wait, they are delicious anyway. http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2014/03/cakes-in-easter/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2014/03/cakes-in-easter/ Sun, 30 March 2014 12:00:00 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2014/01/the-magi-visit-granada/ The Magi are the three wise men coming from the East that visited Jesus, the child, after his birth. We only know about this fact in the Gospel of Matthew. But not all Christian countries celebrate it. Spain is one of these countries, the rest celebrates the Epiphany on January 6th, which commemorates Jesus' manifestation to the Gentiles, represented in the Magi (Melchior, Caspar and Balthazar) On Janurary 5th, Spanish children are prepared to Cavalcade of Magi, the traditional parade where the Magi and their page boys throw candies to children. The day after, on January 6th children wake up very early in the morning to open the Magi presents while tasting a piece of "Roscón" for breakfast. The parade starts in Calle Gran Capitán in Granada at 5.30 pm and ends at Plaza del Carmen at 10.30 pm. http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2014/01/the-magi-visit-granada/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2014/01/the-magi-visit-granada/ Sat, 04 January 2014 00:00:00 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/12/30/new-years-eve-in-granada/ The Twelve Grapes to the chimes of the Clock at midnight on New Tears Eve has been a Spanish tradition since 1909. In December that year, some vinegrowers from the Alicante area came up with "The 12 Grapes" as an idea to sell huge amounts of grapes from an excellent harvest. Since that time Spanish people have kept up the tradition as a way to celebrate New Year's Eve. On the 31st of December, they wait until 12 p.m. Everybody has to have twelve grapes ready to eat when the clock starts to chime.  In Granada you can take the grapes in Plaza del Carmen at seven minutes only from El Ladron de Agua Hotel. This one is a special year because we say goodbye to the year of Milenio del Reino de Granada, so everything will be broadcast on Canal Sur (the local TV) http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/12/30/new-years-eve-in-granada/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/12/30/new-years-eve-in-granada/ Mon, 30 December 2013 00:00:00 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/12/new-years-eve-in-granada/ The Twelve Grapes to the chimes of the Clock at midnight on New Tears Eve has been a Spanish tradition since 1909. In December that year, some vinegrowers from the Alicante area came up with "The 12 Grapes" as an idea to sell huge amounts of grapes from an excellent harvest. Since that time Spanish people have kept up the tradition as a way to celebrate New Year's Eve. On the 31st of December, they wait until 12 p.m. Everybody has to have twelve grapes ready to eat when the clock starts to chime.  In Granada you can take the grapes in Plaza del Carmen at seven minutes only from El Ladron de Agua Hotel. This one is a special year because we say goodbye to the year of Milenio del Reino de Granada, so everything will be broadcast on Canal Sur (the local TV) http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/12/new-years-eve-in-granada/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/12/new-years-eve-in-granada/ Mon, 30 December 2013 00:00:00 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/12/5-things-you-must-do-in-granada-in-christmas/ 1.- Taking a walk down from Calle Reyes Católicos to Puerta Real and enjoy Christmas lights. 2.- Going up to the Albaicin and Plaza Larga where you can buy traditional Christmas treats. 3.- Taking hot chocolate and “churros” at the PLza Bib-Rambla and visiting the Christmas Market. 4.- Listening to carol singers in Calle Mesones 5.- Making a tour of Nativity scenes in churches, the Ayuntamiento and Casa de los Pisa . http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/12/5-things-you-must-do-in-granada-in-christmas/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/12/5-things-you-must-do-in-granada-in-christmas/ Mon, 02 December 2013 00:00:00 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/11/traditional-products-in-granada-ii-taracea/ Taracea is the Islamic art of inlaying different wood combinations (ebony, walnut, mahogany) with bones, ivory or nacre. These materials form geometric patterns. The influence of Al-Andalus culture in Granada made Taracea the most important art in the city. Taracea is used in many objects like chess games, doors, table-tops, jewellery boxes, etc. but the place where you can mostly enjoy Taracea is in the Hall of Ambassadors in the Alhambra. http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/11/traditional-products-in-granada-ii-taracea/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/11/traditional-products-in-granada-ii-taracea/ Thu, 07 November 2013 00:00:00 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/10/traditional-products-in-granada-i-fajalauza-pottery/ Granada has been inhabited by humans for 2500 year that is why it is rich in culture and history. In the next few weeks we will posted information about the particular gastronomy and traditional products such as pottery or taracea. This week we will talk about the Granadine traditional pottery as well known as Fajalauza ceramics. The potters settled in the city gradually from the late sixteenth century until the present day, in the North of Albaicin area next to the Fajalauza Gate. The style of pottery takes its name from Morales, the largest factory in Granada. In time, all pottery production in Granada came to be known as Fajalauza pottery. The decoration used on Granadine pottery (the colours of blue and green, with motifs of birds, flowers and the pomegranate) comes from the workshops and Moorish traditions. Where to buy?: Fábrica de cerámicas y azulejos Fajalauza http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/10/traditional-products-in-granada-i-fajalauza-pottery/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/10/traditional-products-in-granada-i-fajalauza-pottery/ Sun, 13 October 2013 00:00:00 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/08/superior-room-la-luna-asoma/ The moon wakes When the moon sails out the bells fade into stillness and there emerge the pathways that can't be penetrated. When the moon sails out the water hides earth's surface, the heart feels like an island in the infinite silence. Nobody eats an orange under the moon's fullness. It is correct to eat, then, green and icy fruit. When the moon sails out with a hundred identical faces, the coins made of silver sob in your pocket. (Federico García Lorca, Canciones , 1927) Translated by A. S. Kline La Luna Asoma is one of our Superior rooms and it is based on a Federico García Lorca's poem. Federico García Lorca was the son of a well-to-do farmer, born in Fuentevaqueros, a village outside the Moorish city of Granada in 1899. He studied Law in Granada, before moving to the "Residencia de Estudiantes" in Madrid where interested in music, poetry and theatre influenced by Juan Ramón Jiménez and Machado. He was a part of the avant-garde of the 1920s, knew Buñuel and Dali, spent 1929-1930 in New York City, travelled to Cuba and then returned to Spain. During the last 10 years of his life, Lorca kept a summer house in Granada, where he wrote most of his major works. He was arrested and murdered by Nationalist soldiers near there, at the beginning of the Spanish Civil War in 1936. Passion, pride, love and tragedy are the markers of Federico García Lorca's work, in which folk themes and fables combine with a modernist sensibility of despair and the depth of soul or heart that is known as duende . During the summer of 1924 García Lorca family and Manuel de Falla invited Juan Ramon Jimenez to visit Granada. Juan Ramon Jimenez later wrote an abstract poem called the Water Thief or in Spanish "El Ladron de Agua" inspired by this trip. Juan Ramon Jimenez was captivated by the beauty and history of Granada and this poem later became part of a poetry collection called Forgotten Memories of Granada - "Olvidos de Granada". Superior room: La Luna Asoma Balcony of La Luna Asoma room. http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/08/superior-room-la-luna-asoma/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/08/superior-room-la-luna-asoma/ Tue, 27 August 2013 00:00:00 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/07/isabels-dream-a-nice-story-for-one-of-our-nicest-rooms/ El Sueño de Isabel (Isabel`s dream) is one of the nicest passages of Atlantis where Queen Isabella has a vision in which a bird picks her ring from her hand and throws it to the sea where an island emerges from. This island symbolizes the American continent. Atlántida (Atlantis) is an opera by Manuel de Falla (a famous Spanish composer) based on a Spanish translation of the Catalan poem L'Atlàntida by Jacint Verdaguer. Atlántida started in the 1920s as a cantata, but grew over 20 years to become a full opera.  Manuel de Falla died in Argentina before it was finished, leaving a loose collection of sketches. The long work of editing and completion was undertaken by Ernesto Halffter. When finally completed the opera appeared at La Scala, Milan, 1962, then in Berlin and Buenos Aires, and America conducted by Ernest Ansermet. The opera has three major singing roles: the narrator Corifeo (baritone) an old man who tells Colombus of the sinking of Atlantis, Queen Pyrene (mezzo), and Queen Isabella (soprano) who this room is dedicated to. http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/07/isabels-dream-a-nice-story-for-one-of-our-nicest-rooms/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/07/isabels-dream-a-nice-story-for-one-of-our-nicest-rooms/ Sun, 21 July 2013 00:00:00 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/07/francisco-bautista-toledo-the-art-critic-speaks-about-nieves-luzs-paintings/ Francisco Bautista Toledo - the art critic speaks about Nieves Luz's paintings in his blog "La odisea de los días" Nieves Luz expone en el Hotel Ladrón de Agua- Crónicas del Color   " Un torrente de luz, amplio, poderoso y condensado, se despliega en todas las piezas expuestas, óleos y acrílicos, sobre tablas o lienzos, en una técnica mixta que conjuga el festival de radiaciones, para explotar en la retina del observador..." (Francisco Bautista) http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/07/francisco-bautista-toledo-the-art-critic-speaks-about-nieves-luzs-paintings/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/07/francisco-bautista-toledo-the-art-critic-speaks-about-nieves-luzs-paintings/ Wed, 10 July 2013 00:00:00 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/06/gazpacho-recipe/ There is nothing like a gazpacho to beat the heat! So we will show you how to prepare the best Gazpacho at Andalusian style of course! 100g slightly stale crusty white bread, soaked in cold water 1kg very ripe tomatoes, diced 1 green pepper, deseeded and diced 1 medium cucumber, peeled and diced 2 cloves of garlic, peeled and crushed 200ml extra virgin olive oil 2tbsp sherry vinegar Salt, to taste 1 l.  Water 1.    Mix the diced tomatoes, peppers and cucumber with the crushed garlic and olive oil in the bowl of a food processor or blender. Squeeze out the bread, tear it roughly into chunks, and add to the mixture. 2.    Blend until smooth, then add the salt and vinegar to taste and stir well. 3.    Pass the mixture through a fine sieve, then add water to make a soup with te mix, cover and refrigerate until well chilled. For further information send us an email to: Violeta García: (Social Media Manager) violeta@ladrondeagua.com Booking Department: info@ladrondeagua.com http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/06/gazpacho-recipe/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/06/gazpacho-recipe/ Thu, 13 June 2013 00:00:00 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/05/rebujito-the-official-drink-in-corpus-fair-in-granada/ Rebujito is an Andalusian specialty mainly consumed at fairs and and other festive occasions, becoming more and more popular throughout Spain Now, we celebrate the Corpus Fair in Granada and it's very hot dureing the day, so Rebujito is a very good choice to stand the heat .  Rebujito is a wine coctail that was born at the April Fair (Feria de Abril) in Seville of a need to have a refreshing drink with a low alcohol content. Its etymological origin traces it back to the action of stirring (rebullir), which is, quite exactly, what the making of it is like. It's a delicious drink of fortified white wine mixed with lime-flavoured soft drink, such as Pepsi's 7 Up or Coca-Cola's Sprite, poured over a high ball glass full of ice and garnished with a spray of mint (herbabuena). The Andalusians usually mix one part wine to two parts of soft drink, but it's more like a question of taste. The wine used to make a good rebujito is typically, but not always, dry. Thus, it's el fino or la manzanilla (pretty much the same thing, both made from Palomino grape), but depending on an area to be in, it can get more specific.    From El Ladrón de Agua Hotel, we wish you a Happy Corpus Fair in Granada!! http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/05/rebujito-the-official-drink-in-corpus-fair-in-granada/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/05/rebujito-the-official-drink-in-corpus-fair-in-granada/ Fri, 31 May 2013 00:00:00 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/05/standard-room-la-jitana-prendida-por-el-sol/ "Mahoma, Boabdil, Falla, Federico, ¿y la jitanilla? ¿Dónde está la jitanilla sola? La rosa de los ecos de los vientos de poniente oyendo lo que no he dicho de voz, dice con ecos de matices, silbidos y penumbras ya: "Se habrá perdido en el sol, dido en el sol, ido en el sol, en el sol, sol". "La Jitana Prendida por el Sol" is one of our Standar room placed on the first floor. It is one of nicer rooms but what our guest like the  most is its long name. In order to understand why we use this name you must know more about Juan Ramón Jiménez. The trip to Granada of the writer from Huelva Juan Ramon Jimenez with his wife Zenobia arose from his friendship with Federico Garcia Lorca and it supposed a deep experience that it would reflect on his Literature. In June of 1924 he decided to accept the invitation of the Garcia Lorca family to visit Granada. Once they were installed they walked around the most emblematic places of the city and centred their trip in discovering places like the Carrera del Darro, Paseo de los Tristes and the viewpoint of San Nicholas; to wander by the labyrinth of streets of the Albaicín or to visit the Cathedral and its Royal Chapel, the Carmen of Falla or the Antequeruela Alta. Absorbed by all this beauty they still marvelled in front of the Alhambra and the Generalife. Manuel de Falla was great guide of the married couple. The experiences lived in Granada and mainly his contact with the Generalife, caused in the poet a creative exaltation that will generate verses and stories of his play Olvidos de Granada. There, he reveals through texts that evoke places, characters as "La Jitana" (the gypsy woman) or small events, traces of the literary perspective of the poet and the particular vision of the poet. Besides the city will appear sometimes "as quintessence of beauty and pure manifestation of the true life" /rooms/standard-room/ For further information about rooms at El Ladrón de Agua Hotel, please contact: Violeta García: violeta@ladrondeagua.com http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/05/standard-room-la-jitana-prendida-por-el-sol/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/05/standard-room-la-jitana-prendida-por-el-sol/ Sat, 04 May 2013 00:00:00 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/03/remojón-cod-and-orange-salad/ "Remojón" is a Spanish recipe which is usually made in Easter. It is easy to prepare you only need: 250g bacalao (salt cod) 1 tomato peeled, seeded and chopped 2 sour oranges peeled and segmented 1 red onion chopped garlic 4 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon wine vinegar 50g pitted olives chilli flakes Toast the fish, skin side up, over a flame or under a grill until it is lighlty browned, then put it in a bowl of water to soak while the remaining ingredients are prepared In a bowl, mix the tomato, onion, olives, minced garlic and the halved orange segments. Drain the fish and remove any skin and bones. Shred it into the salad. Pour over the oil and vinegar and mix. If you want to taste this and other typical plates from Granada, book at El Ladrón de Agua Hotel. http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/03/remojón-cod-and-orange-salad/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/03/remojón-cod-and-orange-salad/ Mon, 25 March 2013 00:00:00 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/03/what-to-do-in-easter-holidays-in-granada/ We show you some plans for both those who like Easter processions and those who don't and for rainy or sunny days. 1.- You can see the religious processions this week. Follow us on Twitter @ladrondeagua and view the itineraries that we'll show you everyday. 2.- If it's raining or if you don't like the religious processions, remember that most of the monuments and museums will be open this week, you can visit our new painting exhibition . Note that on Saturday March 30, 2013, from 03:00 pm until the end of the day visit that day some areas of the Alhambra will be closed for organizational and safety reasons due to the Santa María de la Alhambra procession. 3.- If you want to escape form the crowded city center, you can go out for tapas to Plaza de Toros or la Chana. 4.- If you prefer take a breath of fresh air, you must go to Las Alpujarras   o El Valle de Lecrín . 5.- If what you like the most is to stay at home we recommend some typical films for this week e.g. : Quo Vadis (Mervyn LeRoy) or Jesus of Nazaret (Franco Zeffirelli) Another option cam be going to the cinema. Check the movie showtimes here: http://www.granada.net/cartelera.html   Book at El Ladrón de Agua Hotel and don't miss it!! http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/03/what-to-do-in-easter-holidays-in-granada/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/03/what-to-do-in-easter-holidays-in-granada/ Sat, 23 March 2013 00:00:00 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/02/the-day-of-andalusia/ The Day of Andalusia is celebrated February 28 and commemorates the February 28, 1980 referendum on the Statute of Autonomy of Andalusia, in which the Andalusian electorate voted for the statute that made Andalusia an autonomous community of Spain. It signifies the importance of values of freedom, justice, equality and political pluralism within a framework of other autonomous communities of Spain In many municipalities and cities of Andalusia, people decorate their balconies with the flag of Andalusia and with bunting echoing its green-and-white bars. Cultural competitions are often held in conjunction with the day. The day before is often a day of celebration in schools where students color pictures that refer to the symbols and insignia of Andalusia, its history and customs, put on plays and sing the regional anthem, the Himno de Andalucía  Many people spend the day quietly with family or close friends. However, some people organize or attend private parties with traditional music, dancing, food and drink. Some municipalities hold communal meals with traditional foods, drinks and entertainment. Local politicians may present people with certificates or medals for service to the community. This year, Antonio Banderas, the actor, will be named "Favorite Son of Andalusia" The Day of Andalucía is a public holiday in the autonomous community of Andalucía on February 28. Public life is generally quiet and many businesses and other organizations are closed. Many stores are closed but restaurants and tapas bars are opened. http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/02/the-day-of-andalusia/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/02/the-day-of-andalusia/ Wed, 20 February 2013 00:00:00 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/01/the-legend-of-saint-valentine/ St. Valentine was a priest near Rome in about the year 270 A.D, a time when the church was enduring great persecution. His ministry was to help the Christians to escape this persecution, and to provide them the sacraments, such as marriage, which was outlawed by the Roman Empire at that time." Contemporary records of Saint Valentine were most probably destroyed during the Diocletianic Persecution on early 4th century. In the 5th or 6th century, a work calledPassio Marii et Marthaepublished an invented story of martyrdom for Saint Valentine of Rome, probably by borrowing tortures that happened to other saints, as it was usually made in the literature of that period. It states that St Valentine was persecuted as a Christian and interrogated by Roman Emperor Claudius II in person. Claudius was impressed by Valentine and had a discussion with him, attempting to get him to convert to Roman paganism in order to save his life. Valentine refused and tried to convert Claudius to Christianity instead. Because of this, he was executed. Persecuted and sentenced to death in Rome, the Saint was martyred on the 14th February, along the Via Flaminia, and buried very quickly to prevent riots by the Christians. The legend tells that three of his disciples managed to find the body and transfer it to Terni to bury the Saint in a sacred place. Before his execution, he is reported to have performed a miracle by healing Julia, the blind daughter of his jailer Asterius. The jailer's daughter and his forty-four member household (family members and servants) came to believe in Jesus and were baptized. In addition to this, Saint Valentine is said to have performed clandestine Christian weddings for soldiers who were forbidden to marry. The Roman Emperor Claudius II supposedly forbade this in order to grow his army, believing that married men did not make for good soldiers. According to legend, in order to "remind them of God's love and to encourage them to remain faithful Christians," Saint Valentine is said to have cut hearts from parchment, giving them to the soldiers and persecuted Christians, a possible origin of the widespread use of hearts on Saint Valentine's Day. There is an additional embellishment toThe Golden Legend, which according to Henry Ansgar Kelly, was added centuries later, and widely repeated. On the evening before Valentine was to be executed, he would have written the first "valentine" card himself, addressed to the daughter of his jailer Asterius, who was no longer blind, signing as "Your Valentine." This expression "From your Valentine" is still used to this day.John Foxe, an English historian stated that Saint Valentine was buried in the Church of Praxedes in Rome, located near the cemetery of St Hippolytus. This order says that according to legend, "Julia herself planted a pink-blossomed almond tree near his grave. Today, the almond tree remains a symbol of abiding love and friendship." There is no evidence of any link between Saint Valentine's Day and the rites of the ancient Roman festival, despite many claims by many authors.The celebration of Saint Valentine did not have any romantic connotations until Chaucer's poetry about "Valentines" in the 14th century. Popular modern sources claim links to unspecified Greco-Roman February holidays alleged to be devoted to fertility and love to St. Valentine's Day, but prior to Chaucer in the 14th century, there were no links between the Saints named Valentinus and romantic love. Earlier links as described above were focused on sacrificerather than romantic love. In the ancient Athenian calendar the period between mid-January and mid-February was the month of Gamelion, dedicated to the sacred marriage of Zeus and Hera. In Ancient Rome, Lupercalia, observed February 13-15, was an archaic rite connected to fertility. Lupercalia was a festival local to the city of Rome. The more general Festival of Juno Februa, meaning "Juno the purifier "or "the chaste Juno", was celebrated on February 13-14. Pope Gelasius I (492-496) abolished Lupercalia. Alban Butler in hisLifes of the Principal Saints(1756-1759) claimed without proof that men and women in Lupercalia drew names from a jar to make couples, and that modern Valentine's letters originated from this custom. In reality, this practice originated in the Middle Ages, with no link to Lupercalia, with men drawing the names of girls at random to couple with them. This custom was combated by priests, for example by Frances de Sales around 1600, apparently by replacing it with a religious custom of girls drawing the names of apostles from the altar. However, this religious custom is recorded as soon as the 13th century in the life of Saint Elizabeth of Hungary, so it could have a different origin http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/01/the-legend-of-saint-valentine/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2013/01/the-legend-of-saint-valentine/ Thu, 31 January 2013 00:00:00 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2012/12/eating-12-grapes-in-new-years-eve/ The Twelve Grapes to the chimes of the Clock at midnight on New Tears Eve has been a Spanish tradition since 1909. In December taht year, some vinegrowers from the Alicante area came up with "The 12 Grapes" as an idea to sell huge amounts of grapes from an excellent harvest. Since that time Spanish people have kept up the tradition as a way to celebrate New Year's Eve. On the last day of the year, the 31st of December, they wait until twelve p.m. Everybody has to have twelve grapes ready to eat when the clock starts to chime. It is traditional to listen to the clock from Puerta del Sol in Madrid and in other town squares around the country. In Granada you can take the grapes in Plaza del Carmen at seven munutes only from El Ladron de Agua Hotel. When it is midnight in Spain on New Years Eve, each time the clock chimes, all the people put a grape in their mouth. By the time the clock has finished chiming, everybody has to have finished their grapes and the New Year starts, but nobody finishes eating the grapes on time. Eating the grapes is very funny because everybody starts the New Year with a full mouthful of grapes. It's almost impossible to finish eating the grapes by the time the clock finishes chiming. Normally people still have all the grapes in their mouths, and they start looking at each other and have to laugh. If you manage to eat the 12 grapes then you will have 12 months good luck. You can imagine what would happens when they laugh with all the grapes in their mouths. It's really difficult to have a second to swallow them. I think you can imagine the rest of the story. Twelve grapes, one for each of the 12 tolls of the bell the last 12 seconds of the old year, ending another set of 12 months - throughout Spain, families await these sets of 12 with excitement and humour. It is a tradition in Spain, as well as in some Latin American countries, to eat a grape for each of the last 12 seconds of the ending year. Parents generally prepare dishes of grapes for family members. You can't miss this tradition unless you want to be unlucky for the next 365 days. Devouring 12 grapes in 12 seconds requires speed and experience, so it's always a time for laughter and joking between the family members who gather that night. The children almost never achieve it, but the adults compete to see who will be the first one to finish the grapes. The last second of the year ends with laughs, gasps and hope, and it is followed by shouts, hugs, kisses, good-luck wishes and maybe some tears - brought on by grape seeds caught in the throat. Then, it's time to dance, drink champagne and celebrate. The younger family members get ready for festivities that will keep them out until about 6 or 7 a.m. It consists of eating a grape with each bell strike at midnight of December 31. According to the tradition, that leads to a year of prosperity. http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2012/12/eating-12-grapes-in-new-years-eve/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2012/12/eating-12-grapes-in-new-years-eve/ Sat, 29 December 2012 00:00:00 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2012/12/christmas-time-in-granada-ii-typical-sweets/ The Christmas period of December 24th and January 7th is the time in which Spaniards, both young and old, look forward to eating the special sweet things that begin to appear on the supermarket shelves and in the windows of pastry and bakery shops in the Spanish Peninsula. Christmas time is all about sweets, thus one is certain to always find an elegant tray filled with homemade or store-bought Christmas delicacies in almost every Spanish house. Production of these Christmas sweets begins months before the holiday season in anticipation to the popular demands for them. The Spanish do and give in to sweet temptations... and so should you. Discover what these sweets are and serve them in your own Christmas table! The most typical sweets in this season are: polvorones, which are very popular because they crumble into an almond and butter flavoured powder (among others such as vanilla, cinnamon, etc), mantecados, a traditional "biscuits" very similar topolvorón for its crumbly, light consistency, but are made mainly from lard and sugar, turrón, a traditional Spanish nougat of Moorish origins is carefully elaborated using honey- roasted almonds and lots of caramel and mazapán made with eggs and almonds (the only ingredients left in their pantry) to confection a sweet almond paste that saved the town from starvation. Some may be stuffed with egg yolk or marmalade. One of the most famous places to by Chritsmas pastries in Granada is Casa Pasteles, in Albaycin but you can buy them also in convents. Many nuns in the convents of Granada earn their living selling sweets and confections. Their recipes come from the times of the Romans and Moors, which they have preserved over the ages. Unfortunately many convents are closing because they have fewer nuns. So this art may be lost in the future. Buying their sweets will help their convents and tourists can try something completely Spanish. The procedure for buying the sweets is very archaic, but very charming. You enter the convent to a very small room with a lazy Susan installed on the wall. You never see the nun with whom you do the transaction, since the nuns are cloistered and avoid direct contact with the public. On the wall beside the lazy Susan will be a pricelist. You look it over and decide which sweets you want to buy. Then you ring a buzzer on the wall. After a while you will hear the voice of a nun greet you and ask you what you want to buy. You tell her your order and after a few minutes the lazy Susan will turn and you will find your order on it. You then put your money on the lazy Susan and turn it so that the nun can get it. If there is change, the nun puts it on the lazy Susan and you then can get your change. The transaction is completely based on trust, and that is why it is so very charming. These are some of the convents and monasteries where you can by these delicious sweets 1. Real Monasterio de la Madre de Dios de las Comendadoras de Santiago Calle Santiago, 20 Specialties: Frutas escarchadas, mermeladas , y mantecados. 2. Monasterio de San Jerónimo Calle Rector Lopez Argueta Tel: 958-279-337 / 958-279-337     Specialties: Almíbares. 3. Monasterio de San Bernardo Calle Gloria, 2 Specialties: Mantecados, polvorones, nevaditas, batatines and quesito de Belén. 4. Monasterio de Santa Catalina de Zafra Carrera del Darro, 39 Tel: 958-226-189 / 958-226-189      Specialties: Roscos de vino, polvorones, mantecados and bizcochada de Gloria. 5. Monasterio de Santa Isabel la Real Santa Isabel la Real, 15 Tel: 958-200-688 / 958-200-688       6. Monasterio de la Encarnación Plaza de la Encarnación, 1 Tel: 958-279-135 / 958-279-135       7. Monasterio del Santo Ángel San Antón, 40 Tel: 958-262-653 / 958-262-653       8. Convento Santo Tomas de Villanueva Agustinas Recoletas Callejon Tomasas, 23 Tel: 958-279-575 / 958-279-575 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2012/12/christmas-time-in-granada-ii-typical-sweets/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2012/12/christmas-time-in-granada-ii-typical-sweets/ Thu, 20 December 2012 00:00:00 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2012/12/christmas-time-in-granada/ If you're expecting Christmas in Andalucia to be somewhat like it is back home, you're in for a surprise. Everything from the beginning to the end of the season is going to be different from anything you've ever experienced before. In Andalucia, as in the rest of Spain, there is a bit of a debate regarding how deeply foreign Christmas customs should be allowed to take root. This debate mainly centres on who should be allowed to bring the gifts: Father Christmas or the Three Kings? Traditionalists have it clear that the Kings should maintain their post and that Santa Claus had better watch where he treads. This however, does not stop millions of families from allowing "Papá Noel" to sneak past the sentinels. A lesser discussed issue is the competition between the Christmas tree and the nativity scene, called a "Belén" (Bethlehem) in Spanish. You can be sure that in most homes here the manger scene will feature more prominently and be treated with greater tender loving care than the tree will ever hope to see. At Christmas the streets of Granada are embellished with thousands of lights and Christmas decorations. The sounds of Christmas carols are heard in the streets, where people are very busy shopping, meeting friends or just taking a walk with the family to see the magical atmosphere that invades the city at this time. Children and adults enjoy visiting the many Nativity scenes (belenes) that spring up all over Granada and compete for the Town Hall reognition and awards.. Each year the Town Hall organizes a contest to promote this tradition and rewards the best "Belenes" in town according to three categories: artisanal, traditional and popular. This visual representation of the birth of Jesus is a tradition that comes from the thirteenth century or earlier. You can make a route to see the best "belenes" of Granada and enjoy the atmosphere in the city during Christmas and New Year Another Spanish Christmas tradition is the Christmas Lottery: "La Loteríade Navidad " (the biggest of the year). Is drawn on 22nd December and usually people follows the event on TV, or on the radio if they are working. It´s a classic.If you have a chance to watch it, you will see why is very entertaining (even if you can´t understand a word). This is the first day of the school holidays and marks the begining of the season Christmas Shopping - During All Chrismas There are several areas of Christmas shopping in Granada. Major clothing brands like Zara, H & M, Mango, Promod, .. are located near Puerta Real, There are also many small shops very interesting and original. Undoubtedly, you have to visit the following streets: Recogidas, Reyes Católicos, Zacatín, Mesones and Puentezuelas. If you're looking for toys, in calle Alhóndiga there is an interesting shop: Eureka.  During all Christmas, shops open on Sunday! Christmas Market - 22 December - 6 January Every year during the month of December until the 5th of January takes place in Plaza Bib-Rambla the traditional Christmas market. You can find traditional Nativity figures and everything you need to decorate your home, different types of crafts: leather, ceramics, silver, etc ... traditional Christmas sweets made in the local convents, wooden toys and some other things. http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2012/12/christmas-time-in-granada/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2012/12/christmas-time-in-granada/ Sun, 02 December 2012 20:36:00 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2012/11/parks-and-gardens-in-granada/ Granada is a city of lovely parks and gardens. Highlighted below are the four basic types: jardín real or royal garden; Carmen or villa; patio or courtyard; cueva or cave.  The first type includes the Alhambra and Generalife. Both have geometrically designed gardens with numerous fountains and pools surrounded by lovely flower beds. Fruit-bearing trees abound, and the flowers invade every nook and cranny with colour and aroma. A Carmen is generally a private villa on a small plot of land. Interspersed, we usually find fountains and terraces at different levels, with greenery that is occasionally purely ornamental and at other times produces shade and tranquil retreats. Balconies are adorned and the courtyards entice the visitor to rest amidst their silence. The Cipreses and the Purificación are two of the loveliest ones. When we use the term patio or courtyard, we are referring here to the ones in a convent or monastery. Although they may be small, they can be especially charming. Some have fruit trees bearing flowers and myriads of different plants. Two of the most famous ones are the courtyards of the Monastery of San Jerónimo and the Monastery of Santa Isabel La Real. Last but not least, we have the cueva or cave. Some of these humble, whitewashed dwellings are surrounded by eye-catching gardens maintained with great pride by their owners. http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2012/11/parks-and-gardens-in-granada/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2012/11/parks-and-gardens-in-granada/ Wed, 21 November 2012 12:34:00 http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2012/09/15-interesting-facts-about-granada-in-spain/ Ever considered a visit to Granada for your next vacation? Here are 15 interesting facts about this beautiful city that you might not know before. More than 2.5 million tourists from all around the world visit Granada every year. The Alhambra is one of Granada's key tourist attractions. The city hosts many popular festivals that draw attention from tourists all around the world. It's located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Granada was a Muslim Kingdom for 800 years, which is the longest Muslim rule in Spain. The population in Granada is about 300,000 people. City symbol is the pomegranate which is fitting considering that "granada" in Spanish means 'pomegranate.' Many different groups of people inhabited the city in different time periods so there's a very diverse culture. There are hidden gardens throughout the city. Three major industries in Granada are fishing, tourism, and silk. City was the last stronghold of Muslim Spain which fell to the Catholics in 1492. Granada has 250 days of sunlight with the average yearly temperature of 15ºC or 60º F Has six different districts with the city. Granada is right by the Genil River. It is the 13th-largest urban area of Spain. http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2012/09/15-interesting-facts-about-granada-in-spain/ http://ladrondeagua-bookings.elinapms.com/blog/2012/09/15-interesting-facts-about-granada-in-spain/ Tue, 11 September 2012 15:38:00