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A Piece of Spain
Besides the beauty of the culture and people, Spain was a pretty beautiful place! There was so much to see, do and eat. Below are some of my favorite places and experiences in Santander, Spain!
Sunset behind El Centro Botin
I used to always walk to this area and watch the waves whenever I was having a bad day. Needless to say sunsets from this location was beyond beautiful! If you ever want to wind down, I definiely recommend going here. There are always families and their pets around.
View of the city from El Centro Botin
Inside El Centro Botin is a museum that exhibits various artforms. Below is a cafe and a gift show, and on top you a have access to see Santander from a very high point! You can look out into the city or sea from this location for free.
Sardinero beach
During July, there was a carnival celebrating the marine culture in Santander. This carnival is very popular at night and getting a taxi or on a bus that night is very difficult, so plan accordingly if you want to go!
Memorial
If you walk along the coast, there are many art pieces that act as a memorial for individuals who have shaped Santander.
Playa de la Magdalena
Santander has many beautiful beaches! The water is so clean and beautiful (but also cold). Magdalena beach is definitely a walk, but very worth it.
Path to the elevators
Santander has HILLS! The city is very steep, and there's an elevator that leads you up without having to take the stairs. This was a quick picture I took on the way to the elevator.
Palacio de la Magdalena
This palace is one of the most visited spots in Santander! It's locatred in a scenic area and has much to offer from its rich history to its beauty.
Parque de Agua - Santander
This relatively new park overlooks the center of the city near the train station. There are plaques that offer historical context of some of the exhibits and is located in a very quiet area.
El Puerto de Santander
Santander is a port town that exports merchandise constantly. My host family lived right next to the coast so I was able to see this view at every meal!
a cafe
I actually never went to this cafe but I would always pass by it on my way to La Playa de Sardinero. The sea was very important for the inhabitants of Santander, as seen in this artwork.
Traditional Spanish Food
Spanish food is more than empanadas and tapas (even though both are very good). In my host family, we ate a LOT of carbs (bread and potatoes almost daily) which I thoroughly enjoyed. Here is one dish I would eat often.
Spanish Cafe
Cafe life is very popular in Spain. I realize that Spanish cafes are more social, with less people doing their homework or finishing any assignments.
La Plaza de Ayuntamiento
The town hall of Santander. This area is always bustling with people and is a good place to just hang out with your friends. There are many shops and bars nearby as well.
El faro
Leading up to the lighthousue is a trail along the coastline. The lighthouse is a very popular tourist destination and every locals love it! The host dad of the family actually recommended I go here and it's worth the hyep! It is so beautiful and even the process to get there provided so much beautiful scenery.
Camargo, Espana
I actually didn't have enough money to take a bus so at the end of my trip, I walked to the airport. Although grueling, I was able to pass by smaller towns around such as this one. The life here were so different, having a more intimate and friendly ambiance.
Brittany Ferries
As mentioned before, Santander is a popular port with ferries coming in and out almost daily. One of the main ferries (if not, the only ferry I saw) was Brittany Ferries. Everytime they would set off, families would line up along El Centro Botin watching it set off.
El Centro Botin
One of the most important locations for me in Santander was the Botin Center. Inside there is a museum, cafe, and gift shop. If you climb up you are able to see the city and ocean for free. There is also a "outdoor movie theatre" event during the summer where families and friends aggregate to enjoy a free movie.
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