There are as many options for walks and strolls as there are ways to imagine them. Depending on where we live, we can create unique experiences for our walks, and when they take place at night, they have a special magic.
As those of you who have been reading my blog for a while know, I love night-time walks. I used to be unable to go on them for safety reasons. It wasn’t safe to go out even in broad daylight, especially at quiet times, and of course even less so at night. I remember that when I realised I could no longer walk freely, or that it was risky, and even more so after I’d been robbed twice on the bus, I knew I no longer wanted that; what I wanted was freedom.
And when I arrived in this city where I now live, the first word that sprang to mind on the very first walk I took, and I remember it was a Sunday, was ‘freedom’. That walk was very close to the place I’m telling you about today, only back then there was bright sunshine, a cool sea breeze and clean, fresh air. I remember it as if it were yesterday.
But now, despite certain concerns that have arisen recently due to the rise in illegal immigration, it is still possible to go on these evening strolls that I love so much,especially because the city lights are a sight to behold and it’s lovely to wander amongst them, with the beautiful architecture, the fountains and the many spaces designed to ensure a pleasant experience. The city is ready to welcome tourists all year round, and the festive season is fast approaching.
This walk began whilst I was sitting down, yes, I was sitting there admiring the ‘Palm Grove of Surprises’, which has changed quite a bit in recent years with the addition of a large market there. But as I couldn’t get a good view, I got up and started walking.
At the back of this beautiful park, which lies opposite Pier One, there’s an avenue lined with palm trees, perfect for a peaceful, solitary stroll, leading me to the end of the promenade and, from there, to illuminated views of the city and the marvellous buildings in the city centre.
The Plaza de la Marina looked lovely with that fountain where the water jets change colour and take on different shapes. Of course, the surrounding area is spectacular.
And when I reached the famous and ever-busy Calle Larios, I realised, or rather, it dawned on me, that the light show marking the start of the Christmas season would soon begin.
People stroll along this street, one of the city’s most famous, lined with shops, some of the most expensive here, but offering great quality and style. That said, what interested me was the walk itself, and as you know, I love street lamps; the ones on this street are absolutely beautiful.
I could see the decorations they’re putting up for this year, and they’re a bit different from last year’s, but as the upper section isn’t ready yet, they’ve left me feeling curious and full of anticipation. I suppose they’ll be putting them up over the next few days, as the famous switching-on of the lights takes place at the end of the month.
Thousands of tourists stroll down this street all year round; sometimes that strikes me as incredible, I always see an impressive number of people, and they all seem to head for the same spots. Actually, I really like to mix things up on my walks, although I must admit that Calle Larios has something special, a certain magic. It’s so brightly lit that it feels like broad daylight.
On that street and in the surrounding area, I popped into several shops; some caught my eye because of their products, such as the ‘Sabores de España’ shop, which sells some delicious sweets, and clothes shops, where I spotted some sleeveless waistcoats perfect for winter.
One shop had some very original Halloween decorations. Of course, there are plenty of shops selling fans or decorations featuring Spanish motifs and designs.
But there are also plenty of shops selling Argentine empanadas, one of my favourite foods.
The walk was peaceful and relaxed; I enjoyed looking at the shop windows, the lights and the lovely autumn weather, which feels like summer but is a bit cooler. The streets look lovely, and it’s been a while since I’ve been out for an evening stroll. I enjoyed it immensely.
Thank you very much for joining me on this Wednesday stroll; warm regards to you all. See you soon.
Amonet.
All photographs are my own.
