As part of a 7 week independent cycling vacation in Andalucia my wife and I from Calgary, Alberta, Canada were able to spend 4 nights in the gorgeous renovated apartment of hard working Premier Hosts Rafael and Marisa. We have been to Europe 24 times now and have done over 160 rentals….our evaluation reflects this very fortunate context of European travel.
The apartment is in El Perchel Sur…..a historic part of centro Malaga named for its fishing heritage…..hanging fish out to dry……Perchel.. We did not see any fish drying but were privileged to see our beloved Europe at work and play. From our perch we could see the regulars at the cafe below us and a vibrant street scene with many services.
We spent our time in quiet leafy upscale El Limonar barrio and the working class Huelin barrio with its superb Museo Automovilistico and Moda.
After many km of walking each day we were treated to a centrally located, upscale superbly located apartment where you can walk to Calle Larios and melt a credit card shopping or have your fill of Palmas and Playas in Caleta, Malagueta or Misericordia…all within walking distance. The famous Spanish department store El Corte Ingles is minutes away on foot. Malaga’s iconic Churro shop Los Valle is right around the corner…..valued calories for the Canadian cyclists. :)
Most of all the kindness, generosity and help of Rafael and Marisa were astounding. After 12 hours of flight time, 2 flights and 30 hours of no sleep they played a pivotal role in getting our missing luggage from Amsterdam to the apartment…..they are miracle workers.
This apartment has it all…..modern, renovated, superb location, authentic barrio, no tourists, tons of services nearby and superb experienced hosts……a rare find in Europe holiday rentals.