Gems of Andalucia

[Skye]

Anyone going on this river cruise on 12 July? The excursions look fabulous.

[SusanGoldfinch]

I am going on the August trip

Do share your experiences when you go

Susan

[Skye]

Will do, Susan.

[Skye]

Lots of pros & cons, I'm afraid.

Firstly, it's not really a river cruise. The boat cruises to Cadiz on day 2 (5 hours), and back on day 4. The rest of the time it's moored at Seville. Just a floating hotel, really.

Secondly. it's HOT!!!. 45 degrees every afternoon. Much too hot to sit on deck, and the excursions are something of a test of stamina. I'd recommend missing the trip to the bull farm on day 3, you're sitting in the blazing sun for ages while the host gives a long commentary in three languages. (By the way, it's a French boat, and we were the only Brits on board. Not a problem, except for having to sit through the commentaries three times).

On the positive side, I did enjoy it. We had a lovely crowd, got on so well. And most of the trips are great. Cordoba was the highlight for me, definitely not to be missed.

Take plenty of sunscreen, insect repellant, and a hat, and you'll be fine.

Enjoy! Let me know if you need any more info.

[RosieMo]

Hi Skye!
Thanks for this feedback. I'm doing this trip in October so hopefully the weather will be a bit more comfortable.
I didn't see any mention of a trip to a Bull farm - was it an extra when you got to the boat? (Doesn't sound that fascinating in any case).
What was the "dress code" for the boat - in particular, for the evenings? How posh?
Was there plenty of time to look round Seville - I am quite happy to wander round on my own during the day, and I do want to spend quite a bit of time in the city.
Did you take the trip to Granada - if so, how long was the coach journey? I may give this a miss, I have been to Granada before, a lovely city but no burning desire to go again. Cordoba, however - definitely on the list!!
Thanks, RosieMo.

[Skye]

Hi RosieMo

The trip to the bull farm is on day 3. You have a walking tour of Cadiz in the morning (two and a half hours), the boat mpves to El Puerta Santa Maria (not far), then you have the visit to the farm. It's billed as bull-breerding, but in fact most of the time is spent watching a display of dressage on horseback, with, as I said, a long commentary in three languages by the owner. The horses are lovely, but there's a much better display the following day during the visit to the wine cellar in Sanlucar. That one's well worth seeing, lady dancing flamenco round the horse and rider - spectacular.

I didn't go on the Granada trip either, it's three hours each way, so I used that day to explore Seville. There's not a lot of free time at all if you do all the trips, that was one of the gripes. Definitely don't miss Cordoba though. It's one and three-quarters each way.

There's a free afternoon on day 6. The billed tour of the .national park didn't take place, instead we visited Carmona, a white village, and then an olive farm. Most of us didn't do anything that afternoon though, it was too hot.

It should certainly be cooler in October, so it will be much more pleasant for you.

Enjoy!

[Skye]

One thing I forgot to mention: Wine and soft drinks are free with meals, no restrictions. But to buy drinks between meals, even water, you have to buy a drinks card for 30 euros. You can't use cash, plastic, even your cabin card in the bars. The value of your drink is deducted from your drinks card, and at the end they refund any value remaining, or you can use it for tips.

Must confess, I was a bit suspicious to start with, with every other cruise I've been on, everything was charged to the cabin card. But it did work, and there was no problem with getting a refund on the last day.

[RosieMo]

Many thanks for this info, it's always useful to have an insider's knowledge!
It's good to know about the drinks card as well - I suppose if you spend over 30 euros you can just top it up?
RM.

[Skye]

No, you have to buy a new card - another 30 euros!

[SusanGoldfinch]

It was really great to read your review of the trip, together with the hints and tips!

My trip is now only 3 weeks away, so I am getting excited!

Is ther anyone else out there travelling on 23rd August?

Susan
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