I have taken the bus from Granada to Malaga. I am eager to explore this new home of mine, for the short term anyways. Not having done a whole lot of research, here are my first impressions of Malaga Spain.
Big City Feel
Not realizing just how big the city is, I really feel those big city feels here. People are in a rush, cars honking and running lights. Piles of garbage on the streets and an empty, somewhat cold feeling. I find myself naturally more anxious here, needing to be extra vigilant of my phone and purse. This always makes me realize how my unconscious has been affected before I am even aware of what is going on sometimes.
Commercialized
The city seems very commercial, stores, shops, restaurants everywhere. Its almost like much of the history has disappeared over the years. Money talks. Of course, there is the cathedral and plenty of churches, but I have yet to see a whole lot more than that.
Homeless
I have seen more homeless people in Malaga than anywhere else I have travelled since visiting Turkey, this time last year. I only see males and they are asleep in the doorways to shops, on benches, and many in the parks. This is definitely lending to the ‘big city feeling’ I have been getting.
Pedestrian Friendly
The old core specifically, the streets are all vehicle free except for taxis and delivery trucks. This offers visitors a safe and easy way to explore the neighbourhood and take in all of the festive lights and decorations.
This historical centre is kept really clean, the streets being washed in the wee hours of every single morning. It’s a great area to explore on foot, wandering down every alley and into each plaza.
Street Art
There is a lot! I haven’t seen this much in quite some time so I will be a happy traveller, snapping photo’s and trying to document as much as I can. This city seems alive with expression and creativity which is nice to see.
So far, my visit here in Malaga is going well. My Airbnb has been a little chaotic, as the original booking is being repaired because of damage from the DANA (floods). I have been placed in a temporary location across the river, until my actually apartment is ready. This is great, offering me the chance to get to know two different neighbourhoods. Big city vibes, not what I usually enjoy but it should be fun being here during the holidays.
