Euro Chronicles: Madrid - The Grand Kickoff

In July 2017, my European adventure commenced with a resounding crescendo in the lively heart of Madrid. The timing couldn't have been more perfect, coinciding with Gay Pride and World Gay Pride festivities. Madrid was ablaze with excitement, boasting an array of restaurants and a nightlife that left me utterly mesmerised. The city's allure was undeniable.

Rediscovering Madrid's Marvels

Madrid, possibly one of Europe's most captivating capitals, beckoned with its picturesque landscapes and meticulously preserved historic treasures. Its architectural grandeur, marked by breathtaking monuments and landmarks, was nothing short of astonishing. Surprisingly, my visit to Madrid wasn't solely about city exploration; it was an emotional reunion with my family.

Family Reunion: Emotions Anew

Emotions ran high as I reconnected with my flesh and blood in Madrid, after a staggering 20 years apart. Back then, I was a 19-year-old, wrapping up my final semester at Fashion School. Time had woven intricate patterns into the fabric of our lives. The day spent strolling Madrid's streets with my cousins, Luis and Paloma, was a beautiful testament to the enduring strength of family bonds.

Barcelona: A Cosmopolitan Interlude

From Madrid, my journey led to Barcelona, another jewel in Spain's crown. This vibrant city boasted a cosmopolitan ambiance, a plethora of cultural attractions, and the charm of bustling cafes and street performers. Having visited Barcelona before, I didn't dwell on sightseeing. Instead, I was bound for Sitges, where I'd join friends for a 40th birthday celebration.

Traversing to Tranquil Shores

Sitges, with its serene beauty and Bohemian atmosphere, was my chosen sanctuary for a tranquil beach vacation. A 30-minute hike through rocky terrain and along train tracks led me to XirinGay Beach Lounge, a pit stop before reaching the world's first gay beach, Playa del Hombre Muerto (Dead Man's Beach), dating back to the 1930s.

Portugal: Lisbon's Charms and Beyond

Lisbon, the Portuguese gem, held me in thrall. For those new to Europe, Lisbon unfurled a tapestry of wow moments. The city's affordability, delectable seafood, and unique charm set it apart. Bairro Alto, Lisbon's cultural and bohemian epicenter, transformed into a vibrant nightlife quarter after dark.

Pastries and Palaces: Sintra's Delights

Venturing beyond Lisbon, I dedicated a day to explore Sintra and Cascais, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Sintra, nestled amid the Sintra Mountains, enchanted with its colourful, romantic architecture. Yet, it was the Pena Palace that stole my heart, a real-life fairy tale castle perched amidst lush greenery.

The Edge of Europe: Cabo da Roca

Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of Europe, beckoned. The windswept cliffs, once believed to be the edge of the world, offered a humbling experience and a chance for self-reflection. Some journeys are tailor-made for soul-searching and forging new aspirations.

Beach Bliss: Praia da Bela Vista

No trip to Lisbon would be complete without a visit to Beach 19 or Praia da Bela Vista (also known as Beach 17). Portugal's most renowned gay nude beach, Beach 19 stretches along the golden sands of Costa da Caparica. It's an official nude beach with a liberal atmosphere, attracting sun-worshippers, nudists, and kite surfers.

Back to Spain: Andalucía's Allure

Surprise! I found myself drawn back to Spain, a land intricately tied to my family's roots long before they migrated to Melbourne, Australia. Spain felt like home in ways Australia never did. Andalucía, the southern Spanish region, was my next destination, a land infused with centuries of Arab, Roman, and Greek influences.

Seville: A Spanish Jewel

My adventures across Spain were nothing short of spectacular, and Seville stood out as a true gem. Its mesmerising beauty, intricate architecture, and warm-hearted Sevillanos made it unforgettable. Every street corner revealed intricately carved buildings, and the city exuded an irresistible charm.

Granada's Enigmatic Alhambra

My journey led me to Granada, where the awe-inspiring Alhambra Palace took center stage. Perched high above Granada, this masterpiece of Islamic architecture featured stunning Moorish carvings, a testament to Spain's rich history of Arabic rule.

Malaga's Beach Bliss

As my holiday neared its end, I basked in the sun at Malaga's picturesque beaches. A day trip to Torremolinos, crowned by a visit to Eden Beach Club, mirrored the seaside charm of Sitges. It was a perfect conclusion to my Spanish sojourn.

Solo Travel: Cherishing Life's Moments

Travelling solo across the world taught me to treasure life's highs and learn from its lows. This incredible journey bestowed upon me fulfilment, freedom, and sheer happiness. To all my fellow solo travellers, embrace the adventures, cherish the people you meet, and savour the atmosphere of ancient villages and beyond.

Andalucía's Finale: Sevilla, Granada, Malaga, and Torremolinos

The crescendo of my Euro trip was my visit to Andalucía. This region, with its rolling hills, winding rivers, and lush farmlands along Spain's southern coast, captured my heart. Sevilla's beauty, Granada's mystique, Malaga's charm, and Torremolinos' seaside allure marked the grand finale of an unforgettable journey.