Lauren's Locales: Getting Around Granada

By Lauren Bonney, Associate Reporter

Pedestrian's paradise really only begins to describe Granada, where walking is a way of life.

A good pair of shoes is a strong investment for anyone planning to go abroad here. I had a slight panic attack when I realized my new home was a good 30 minute walk away from the city center, a walk I would have to make every morning by myself.

The casual lifestyle of Granada is a stark contrast to my frenzied life in America. The people here are content with walking from place to place at a pace that invites one to slow down and really view what the streets of Granada have to offer. The pace here is much slower and relaxed. And it is surprisingly easy to adapt to this unhurried and leisurely lifestyle.

Every corner, plaza and alley offers a wonderful little glimpse into the inner-workings of the city. I am no longer afraid to simply get lost because I always stumble upon something completely new, different, exciting or beautiful. I wish it was like this in the U.S. The pace here allows someone to enjoy herself a little more. Is it a crime to just wander for the sake of wandering? Walking could be one of the easiest lifestyle choices to make and can be very rewarding.

The streets are a mix of cobblestones, marble tile and paved road. Each new street I walk on has a distinct feel under foot. I think I have received enough blisters on my feet during these first couple of weeks to confidently declare that my feet are now conditioned for the streets of Granada.

Contact Lauren Bonney at lbonney@scu.edu.