After a short visit to Seville, I have changed destinations again. This time, taking the bus down to the southern coast, where I will call home for the next little while. Here is a short recap of my overland trip and my first impressions of Tarifa Spain.
Comes Bus
The bus journey from Seville to Tarifa is three and a half hours. I had purchased a ticked ahead of time, in person, at the bus station for €24.50 or $37 CAD. I didn’t realize at the time, but I was designated a seat number, just like on an aircraft. If I had of know, I would have requested a window seat.
The Comes bus is clean and comfy and the driver professional and friendly. I was seated in the front row, an isle seat. I was able to take a few photos through the front window of the pastoral scenery. The bus makes a few stops along the way, one pit stop at the half way mark for the driver to have a cigarette.
The undulating motion of the bus over the roads was harsh on my back, when I finally arrived in Tarifa my spine was screaming. Other than that, the ride was perfectly fine if a little boring.
Windy
Oh my gosh, I knew Tarifa had the potential to be windy, as I had seen images of kite surfing when I googled the area. Nothing quite prepared me for how windy though. 💨
Walking from the bus station to my Airbnb in the old part of town is a 20-minute walk. At times, while dragging my suitcase over those bumpy sidewalks, I thought the wind might just blow me right over. 😂
Beautiful
Especially inside the ancient stone walls. The old town is gorgeous, whitewashed buildings, ornate iron balconies and bright blue sky are a completely stunning Mediterranean combination. I could and do walk in these charming streets and feel surrounded by beauty and warmth.
Inexpensive
Having done a little grocery shopping to stock my kitchen, I have discovered not only a Lidl here, but another discount grocery store as well called Supeco. The prices of the food at both places are surprisingly affordable, even for a budget traveller such as myself.
I have managed to purchase steak for the very first time in probably 10 years! What a treat. Two small ones for €4.41. I cannot express enough, how wonderful it feels to be able to afford healthy food. After living in Canada for years, with virtually no meat or fresh produce, I feel so very fortunate here.
Historical
Almost everywhere I walk, I see history, it is glorious. The old city fortification is almost complete, I’m not sure I have ever seen that before. There is not one but two castles here. There are military bunkers on the hillsides and beaches.
This little piece of southern Spain predated the Romans, so I cannot wait to see what else I can find.
Beaches
One of the biggest reasons for my visit here? The beautiful beaches of course. I have access to the widest and longest beach I have ever had the pleasure to walk upon. The sand is fluffy and soft and the views absolutely breathtaking.
As I settle into my new home, I am thrilled to be here in Tarifa Spain. The feelings I have are of safety, beauty and buckets full of nature. I cannot wait to get out and explore all that this area of the country has to offer.
