Fad*ish- fashion and design

The New Years is here, making one think about the more important things in life. Travel has for years been the escapism that keeps me sane. So it is no surprise that my New Years resolution is to travel more. One of the most inspiring places I’ve visited was the Alhambra in Granada, Spain. The remains of its Moorish predecessors, the palace stands regal, though it wasn’t always thought to be that way. We have a history of knocking down old architecture, and replace it with shiny condos--so thank G*d no one has yet had that inspiration.



How do you find it? It has a prime spot in the middle of Granada--it’s not hard to find ask anyone (if you speak Spanish). Or you can do as I, and just start heading uphill. It is my contention that most city center in Europe are either at the top of something or on the bottom of something. Ok worst case scenario, you just say Alhambra and smile and a Spaniard is sure to take pity on you-- though you might not understand their directions.



What will you see once you arrive? -- normally a really long line. Arrive early so you have no chance of getting caught in someone’s siesta. I saw some people jump the fence -- but you didn’t hear that from me. We waited, for about an hour in one of the surrounding (and expensive) restaurants located on the periphery. They stared at us while we ate freezer burnt ice cream, and glorified potato chips. The important thing isn’t all the tourist crap on the outside but the vast grounds on the inside. And the most important part--the Palace of Nasrid--can only be viewed on appointment (so check your tickets for the time).



The best time of year to go is in the spring or fall, because Spain enjoys 45C˚ days during the summer. We had the unfortunate circumstance to visit in July, which basically means a suntan, on arrival, and a sunburn as a going away present. But hopefully what you will take away is an experience that could literally take your breath away. It is indescribable, but one can just say it is the essence of what inspiration itself is inspired from. For those who prefer not to be vague, check out more information at http://www.alhambra.org/.

*it’s jil baby

*Originally Published in Jil Mag: December- Warmth issue; 12/27/06

Labels: Travel