We headed off to visit Olav & May at their rental apt. in Nerja - took the bus first to Malaga, a bargain at 1.65 euro. We had time for a wander about - found a beautiful flower market on the meridian of a major street and a huge indoor fresh market with an amazing stained glass wall. Onto another bus to Nerja, an hour west, past hundreds of greenhouses then off in Olav's rental car to visit Competa. Twisty, narrow roads past olive, almond, mango & citrus orchards up into the hills. Market day so a bit more shopping (should have brought bigger suitcases!), beautiful woven carpets, lunch outdoors in the town square; paella & chicken curry & exploring the pretty white village. Spent the night at their rental flat then off on another road trip in the morning.
More windy mountain roads on the trip to a unique white village perched on the top of a mountain - Compare. A centuries old Moorish town, complete with a surrounding wall & entry gate. Lots of narrow streets & walkways with ceramic plaques outlining the Moor & Spanish history, including the 15th century church and a colorful cemetery. Breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Stopped for tapas & beer in an old restaurant & enjoyed watching the locals play dominoes & cards. As we wandered the town an older woman beckoned us into her home where she proceeded to "pitch" her wares - huge mangoes, grapes, almonds, figs & fresh cheese - we were happy to support her entrepreneurial efforts & thoroughly enjoyed our purchases.
We found our way back down from the mountains to the sea & to our hotel, leaving Olav & May until our next visit, having enjoyed our adventure together.
We followed Hurricane Patricia's path through Mexico on the Spanish TV, glad to hear that minimal damage was done. We had our own heavy rainstorm that caused quite the mess along the beachside walkway. We managed to pack our bags, including of course 2 leather jackets (one each!), and took our last stroll down the beach.
The trip home was brutal - we left our hotel at 6:45am, 3 flights, up for 27 hours then home, sweet, home at midnite after a 7 hour time change!
All told, a wonderful holiday, until the next one - still Living the Dream!
