First weekend excursion: Cordoba

This past weekend, I went with some friends to Cordoba, a city that is in the southern region, Andalucia.  It was BEAUTIFUL.  It has an older part of the city that is absolutely gorgeous.  The weather was in the low 50s, and it was perfect weather to stroll through the narrow, cobblestone streets.  Cordoba is known for it's wonderful patios (gardens) and balconies full of flowers.  Even though todo el mundo (everyone) tells me that it is the most beautiful in the spring months, I still thought it was so pretty.  It was so peaceful, calming and overall, like a different time.  Loved it.  Also, the architecture is incredible in Cordoba.  People probably thought I was strange for just taking pictures of random buildings that are normal to them---but the elaborate detail in the tiles, structure and colors is just so beautiful.  Sometimes I think people in the U.S. are too into beige, white, black and brown.  The colors here were so bright and enlightening.  Sounds lame haha but it's true.

One of the main streets in the newer, more modern area of Cordoba.

Yay new friends!  Jennie from Indiana (woooo midwest!!) and Thomas from California. 

The birthday girl, Jeannette, and me! 

Check out the hombre (man) on the roof getting his flores (flowers) all ready for the nice weather.

This is a normal residence.  How beautiful.

A tile that was at a shop (I just said a shop---the British English is getting to me over here!!).  I love it---it says:  I have decided to do what I like because it's good for my health. How true it is!?

This is part of the famous mosque in Cordoba.

I had to control myself at the little shops because the beautiful tiles and wall-hangings are so awesome.  I want all of them.

This mosque is ENORMOUS and the artwork and designs are so incredibly detailed it gives you chills walking through.

This pipe organ kicked ass.

I want this ventana (window) in my future home.

Gotta love the classy Burger King in the middle of the old ciudad (city).  I'm telling you, Spain, you hate on America for apparently eating fast food everyday...but....

So beautiful.

One of my favorite pictures.

This little flamenco dress was absolutely adorable.

ok no really, I want this balcony.

Cordoba has many teterias, which are like little cafes with long lists of different teas.  They portray the Arabian feel of the city from years ago.  Very bohemian, very relaxed.  I loved it. They played gitano flamenco music, which just added to the calm atmosphere.  I want to open one of these places up in downtown Columbus....who's down???  I'm serious, I want to spread this culture when I go back to the states...Americans need to learn to relax and enjoy life more.  We are always so busy and don't make enought time to spend time with friends.

The dark blue ceiling made it so relaxing...it's weird how colors can really affect your mood.

One of my favorite places in the whole city---one of the main plazas.  The weather was perfect---I absolutely love how so many people just sit outside, drink with friends and just enjoy life.  People don't worry here...especially about the things they cannot change.