The last day in Chiang Mai had arrived, and I checked out of my room at Art Mai Gallery Hotel with mixed feelings. On one hand, I had completely fallen in love with Chiang Mai – its cozy atmosphere and culinary offerings had won me over. But on the other hand, I was excited for the next adventure. Don’t they say, “All goodbyes lead to new hellos?” 😁 But at the same time, we must remember that goodbyes are simply reminders of good moments and the possibility of a reunion, right? 😉😜
The last two days? Shopping, shopping, and… oh, more shopping! Shocking, I know 😂
Yesterday’s adventure took me back to Centro Comercial Miramar, a huge shopping center in Fuengirola. I was here last year with my brother, so I figured – why not revisit and see if there’s anything exciting waiting for me? But first things first: sleeping in, of course. Priorities. 😆 I eventually rolled out of bed and started the day with a very light breakfast at Civeta Grill (aka, my second home at this point).
Once I made it to Miramar, I spent a few hours browsing, but somehow, the shopping gods weren’t on my side – I didn’t really find anything I liked. Tragic. But hey, it wasn’t a total loss because lunch was an absolute winner. I stopped by Pasapalo, an Argentinian-owned spot, and got their Veggie Bowl – a glorious mix of avocado, roasted sweet potatoes, hummus, fried chickpeas, and fresh veggies, all topped with a delicious curry-lemon dressing. It was heaven in a bowl – filling, flavorful, and exactly what I needed 😍
After lunch, my energy levels hit critical low, so I did the only logical thing – went back to the hotel, grabbed a spot by the beach, and just let the waves work their magic. There’s something about the sound of the water and the salty breeze that fixes everything. Beaches can heal just about anything, I swear 🥰
For dinner, I revisited an old favorite – PadThaiWok, where I had dinner last year as well. Stuck with my usual red curry with veggies, and let me tell you – it was just as good as I remembered. No regrets, only good spice. 🔥 After dinner, I returned to Civeta to just soak in the evening atmosphere, which is super cozy – people hanging out, enjoying the view, striking up random conversations. Honestly, these slow, peaceful moments? That’s the dream.
And today.. Determined to make the most of my last full day in Fuengirola, I actually got up early (shocking). And it was so worth it because I got to watch the sunrise over the beach – an absolutely stunning way to start the day 😍🌞🌅
After that? Breakfast at Civeta – again 😅 I know, I know, I should branch out, but when something works, why change it? 😂 And honestly, pan con tomate is undefeated (right up there with bread and sambol in my world) 😋😋
Then, it was off to Málaga for round two of shopping, this time at El Corte Inglés Málaga Centro. Unlike Miramar, this time I actually found some great clothes – finally, a successful shopping trip! 🎉 Also, a useful fact: if you’re a tourist, you can get a Tourist Card, which gives you discounts for five days. Five days is plenty – I mean, how much shopping can one person do in five days? (Don’t answer that 🤫😂)
Post-shopping, I headed back to Fuengirola for a final feast at Cafetería Paseo del Mar, where I had crispy veggie bhajjis and a fantastically delicious veggie paella. My taste buds were very, very happy 😍😍😍
Now? I’m sitting at Civeta one last time, watching the sea, soaking in the view, and just enjoying this perfect little moment. Tomorrow, I’m off to Málaga for five nights! Yes, I’ve been there a bunch of times already, but this time, I’m staying there – just to switch things up 🤣
Today was dedicated to unwinding – no rushing, no plans, just pure relaxation. And honestly? It was much needed after the past few days of adventures. The day kicked off at a very questionable hour (breakfast? Lunch? Who even knows at this point? 😂) at Civeta Grill, right next to my hotel.
This place has quickly become one of my favorite spots – not just because of the delicious food but also because of the fantastic atmosphere. A super friendly Argentinian guy works there, and his energy is something else. He’s one of those people who radiates positivity and optimism, the kind that just rubs off on you. It fits perfectly with both the Argentinian and Spanish mentality, where the focus is on enjoying life, savoring every moment, and not sweating the small stuff. Honestly, the rest of the world could take a page out of their book! 😉
After a lazy but delicious breakfast (let’s just call it brunch and move on 😂), I hopped on the C1 train to Málaga, feeling no particular rush. Once there, I stopped for a refreshing glass of gazpacho, because honestly, nothing hits better than a cold, flavorful, tomato-based soup when it’s warm outside. It was light, fresh, and exactly what I needed before heading to the highlight of my day: Hammam Al Ándalus.
Now, if you haven’t experienced a hammam, let me tell you – you’re missing out. These traditional Moorish baths date back centuries, blending Arab and Andalusian culture to create a deeply relaxing and purifying experience. It’s not just about cleansing the body but also about soothing the soul. The combination of warm waters, aromatic steams, and complete tranquility makes for the ultimate escape from reality. And today? I treated myself to a full hour of massage, followed by some hours of relaxation in the hammam, floating between warm, hot, and cold baths in the most peaceful atmosphere imaginable. It was absolute heaven, and my tired muscles definitely thanked me for it! 💆🏻♀️
Feeling completely refreshed, I wandered through Málaga’s charming streets and found myself at Casa Mia, a lovely little spot near the Catedral de Málaga. I perched myself at a cozy table and ordered a perfectly balanced margarita – cold, tangy, and just strong enough to keep the relaxation going.
As the evening crept in, I made my way back to Fuengirola, feeling light, happy, and absolutely at peace. And where better to end the night than back at Civeta Grill? The Mediterranean breeze, the golden sunset reflecting off the sea, and the laid-back atmosphere made it the perfect way to close the day. There’s something about sipping a good cocktail in a beautiful city after a hammam session that just feels… right. No stress, no rush – just good food, great vibes, and pure contentment.
Back from an unforgettable (and absolutely scorching) hike through Caminito del Rey! As I’ve mentioned before, this is easily my favourite place in all of Europe – not just because of the insane views, but also the thrill of walking on those narrow walkways that make you feel like you’re walking the line between adventure and suspense. I thrive on that adrenaline rush! 😅 My mum calls me a “monkey” for loving these kinds of challenges, but hey – what can I say? I was just born this way! 😂
Like last year, the day started with a bus pickup, followed by a short coffee stop in Ardales before continuing to the trailhead. Once at Caminito del Rey, we had about two hours to explore on our own. This time, I felt much more relaxed, having already done the route before. It was a lot easier to pace myself, stop to enjoy the stunning scenery, and even take in some vultures soaring at one of the highest points of the trail (don’t worry, they’re not interested in a snack-sized human 😜)
Having learned my lesson from last time, I packed some snacks and drinks – a game-changer, as it gave me time to sit, eat, and soak in the surroundings. There’s something incredible about being out there, in such an awe-inspiring place, all by myself. It’s moments like these that make me realize I’ve gotten a lot better at enjoying life – and the moment – on my own 😊
Once we all finished the hike, we were driven back to Fuengirola, where I treated myself to an early dinner at Verona Restaurant, a cozy spot near the hotel that blends Indian and Mexican cuisine. I went for the mixed vegetable curry with rice, which did the job of filling me up, though I must admit – it didn’t quite live up to yesterday’s veggie feast. But hey, hunger’s hunger, right? 😅
And yeah – here I am, happy and with a pair of dirty shoes 😂
Now I’m exhausted, so I’m off to bed. Good night, world! 😴
Back after what feels like an Olympic-level shopping marathon at Plaza Mayor! 🤣
Okay, maybe that’s a slight exaggeration – but it was a long day. Well, sort of. Truth be told, I actually woke up late, skipped breakfast, and then finally took the train from Los Boliches to Plaza Mayor, where I sensibly started the day with a delicious lunch at Tagliatella – because everyone knows shopping requires fuel. My order? Fresh olives, garganelli all’uovo with Vera Napoletana – Tomato sauce napoletano, Mozzarella di Bufala PDO tartar, basil, pesto pearls and basil oil, – and a cold Coke. Hydration and carbs? Check. Now we’re ready to go 💪🏾😆
Then came hours of wandering through the shops, doing that thing where I pick things up, consider them for ten minutes, then put them back down because “I’ll think about it” – only to immediately regret not buying them. Classic. It was also ridiculously hot, so my productivity level in the shopping department wasn’t exactly record-breaking. But no worries – I still have plenty of days left for retail therapy! 😂💸
To cool down, and for a small break in the heat, I grabbed a fresh orange juice and paired it with pan con tomate – because, let’s be honest, I could eat pan con tomate all day. Simple, delicious, and a lifesaver in this heat 🍊🥵 – and then ready for more shopping again for an hour, before heading back to Los Boliches with the C1 line 😅
Back in Fuengirola, I grabbed an indian dinner at Cafetéria Paseo del Mar – a creamy mixed vegetable curry with rice 🍛
Now? Time to kick back and do absolutely nothing for the rest of the day.
But tomorrow – oh, tomorrow is a big one! I’m heading to Caminito del Rey, aka my favourite place in all of Europe – the thrilling cliffside hike in Málaga, offering stunning views of El Chorro gorge. Known for its dramatic, restored path, it’s a must for adrenaline seekers and nature lovers alike!
I went last year and instantly fell in love. If dramatic cliffs, breathtaking views, and a bit of adrenaline sound like a good time, then trust me – this place delivers. Hiking in the most stunning surroundings? Yes, please! 😍😍😍
