Rachel lives and writes Andalucia, one of her hopes is to explore all of Spain while reviewing each of the 91 Parador hotels. She is a Freelance writer in her adopted homeland and teaches English to Spanish children. She speaks Spanish but not as well as her three sons! She has a holiday rental home in Jaen amongst the olive groves. www.jaengrapevine.info. a spot for chilling out with fabulous walking country and ideal for day trips to some of the incredible cities of Baeza, Cordoba, Granada, Jaen & Ubeda.
She's busy working on her website www.Andalucia-for-holidays.com and blogs www.luxuryspaintravel.wordpress.com and www.luxuryspaintravel.wordpress.com, she hopes to take a GAP year or two before retiring age.

The Parador de Santa Catalina was built in 1965 as a replica of the 13th century Arabic fortress. It's impressive, waving flags greet your entry to the cobbled courtyard of the Parador, go in for coffee under the mighty 20m high vaulted ceiling. Then…"

If you love plants, pots and patios then the Cordoba Flower Festival or El Festival de los Patios Cordobeses is the place to be. Wander the cobbled narrow back streets and see the private patios that are open for the annual competition. From posh hou…"