So last week's post was a little more philosophical, this week: I'm going to tell you my top five must do's in Málaga. 

Málaga is a brilliant place for those who love art, history and culture. While I love all of those things, I'm a little happier these days to read the information online and make the most of the space while I'm there. Namely, on the go or in a restaurant OR the beach (my personal number one). Especially as someone who spent time in the country and studied languages at uni, you get to know your way around a little quicker.

So here are my top five:

1. Go to the Castillo de Gibrálfaro - early. Yes ok, I said I'm more of the read online type, but this one is a must, simply for the views of the town! Built in the Phoenician era, the Castillo takes breathtaking to a whole new level. Take a wander up (early to avoid queues and traffic) and take in the sites. *Remember sun cream, water and your camera.

2. Have churros con chocolate and a cafe solo at Cafe Aranda.Look closely or you may miss this one. Down the Calle Herreria del Rey, the only reason I saw this cafe was because I was walking slowly. When I think of Spain, I think of these tiny cafes, tucked into unimaginable corners with bustling camareros. The smell of churros mixed with coffee and the loud, open conversations of the locals. If you have to ask for a menu, "you're obviously not from there", ask for three churros con chocolate with a cafe (con leche if you need something smoother). I was hooked and had most of my breakfasts here for a little over €3.

3. Visit one of the many beaches.The further away from the port, the better so you don't get caught in the gusts - trust me it's not pleasant when you're trying to make the most of the sun out. You can hire an umbrella and two sun loungers for €10 - I was just as comfortable with a beach towel and boater. Have your sun cream ready and the best afternoon snack is Lay's crisps.

4. Eat way too much tapas at El Pimpi. You can't know Spain, if you don't try properly made Spanish food. I've tried various Spanish restaurants in London but nowhere really nails it like the Spaniards of actual Spain. A couple of people recommended the El Pimpi restaurant to me and I was not disappointed. We ordered four tapas between three of us and were stuffed! I'm pescatarian so I can recommend the boquerones and tortilla española if you're new to tapas. 

5. Wander-it’s a beautiful city for a Sunday morning stroll and beautiful to get lost in. Stay away from Starbucks, avoid anywhere that advertises "Full English Breakfast". Take an afternoon to meander through the many streets and see what you can find. Maybe you'll find another Cafe Aranda? Maybe you'll nail that Instagram shot? Or even discover a little more history than the Internet. It's worth it!

*Other recommendations - from what I've been told, but didn't do this time - are: go to the Pompidou museum, watch a flamenco show (but you have to book in advance) and take a bus to another town (I went to Mijas and Fuengirola a lot as a kid).

There you have it! 

As my friend said to me, the Spanish are happy with a roof over their head, good food and a great view. Which for me, is the essence of these must-do's. Personally, I cannot stand going to such countries and rushing. It somehow interrupts a natural flow.

Would you add any to the list?

Han x