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Come and discover the breathtaking landscape of Southern Spain aboard the luxurious Al Andalus Train, also known as the Palace on Wheels of Spain. This exciting 6 day journey takes you to discover Spain's most beautiful sites earning the prestigious title World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Visit Cordoba's historical Old Quarters, the romantic Gardens of Generalife, Spain's oldest bullfighting ring - Plaza de Toros de Ronda and the National Park of Donana to name a few. The trains carefully designed itinerary, combined with delectable cuisine and impeccable service will surely reward you with a journey of a lifetime.
You can find a lot of information here and can make your reservations online also. If you want, please download a brochure for your reference.
All the luxury train journeys in Spain may be found at http://www.spaintraintours.com
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- Welcome to Seville
Córdoba (also Cordova) is a city in Andalusia, southern Spain, and the capital of the province of Córdoba. A Iberian and Roman city in ancient times, in the Middle Ages it was a capital of a Islamic caliphate and one of the largest cities in the world. Today a moderately-sized modern city, the old town contains many impressive architectural reminders of when Córdoba governed almost all of the Iberian Peninsula. One such masterpiece is the Great Mosque of Córdoba, which contains columns that date back to the Roman and Visigothic periods, primarily constructed during the Umayyad period (its construction started in 784). It was converted into a Cathedral after the Reconquista. Tourism is especially intense in Córdoba during May because of the weather and as this month hosts three very popular festivals.
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Seville is the artistic, cultural, and financial capital of southern Spain, and capital of Andalusia. The Cathedral of Seville is now arguably the largest church in the world when compared using the measurement of volume, and is also the final resting place of the remains of Christopher Columbus. La Giralda is a large and beautiful minaret tower, originally intended for the chief mosque, but now is the magnificent bell tower of the Cathedral and prominent symbol of Seville. The Real Alcázar is a beautiful palace, built in Mudéjar (Moorish) style in the 14th century. With its myriad of rooms, extravagant architecture, lavish gardens with many courtyards, ponds and secrets to be explored, it is a fascinating place to visit.
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You are welcomed and received at the Santa Justa train station in Seville at noon. Board the Al Andalus Train and enjoy a delicious meal as the train travels to Cordoba. Upon arrival, visit the Historical Quarters, hailed as a World Heritage Site since 1994. The tour includes visit to the Alcazar, the famed Mosque and the Jewish Quarter. The rest of the afternoon is yours free to explore this historical city. In the evening, dinner is served at a local restaurant, where you have the opportunity to taste the cuisine of Cordoba. Spend the evening on-board, as the train remains stationed in Cordoba.
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Baeza is a town of approximately 16,200 inhabitants in Andalusia, Spain, in the province of Jaén, perched on a cliff in the Loma de Baeza, a mountain range between the river Guadalquivir on the south and its tributary the Guadalimar on the north. It is chiefly known today as having many of the best-preserved examples of Italian Renaissance architecture in Spain.
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Córdoba (also Cordova) is a city in Andalusia, southern Spain, and the capital of the province of Córdoba. A Iberian and Roman city in ancient times, in the Middle Ages it was a capital of a Islamic caliphate and one of the largest cities in the world. Today a moderately-sized modern city, the old town contains many impressive architectural reminders of when Córdoba governed almost all of the Iberian Peninsula. One such masterpiece is the Great Mosque of Córdoba, which contains columns that date back to the Roman and Visigothic periods, primarily constructed during the Umayyad period (its construction started in 784). It was converted into a Cathedral after the Reconquista. Tourism is especially intense in Córdoba during May because of the weather and as this month hosts three very popular festivals.
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Granada is a city and the capital of the province of Granada, in the autonomous community of Andalusia, Spain. The city of Granada is located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, yet only one hour from the Mediterranean coast, the Costa Tropical. The Alhambra, a Moorish citadel and palace, is in Granada. It is one of the most famous items of the Islamic historical legacy that makes Granada a hot spot among cultural and tourist cities in Spain. Granada is also well-known within Spain due to the prestigious University of Granada and, nowadays, vibrant night-life.
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The train arrives at Linares-Baeza this morning after breakfast. Today, visit the Museum of Olive Oil, the old town of Baeza and the International University of Andalucía. Continue on to Ubeda, and discover the Monumental City with its preserved Renaissance style churches and palaces. Following lunch, you have some free time to discover the surroundings of this magnificent city at your own leisure. Return to the train and enjoy dinner onboard as you travel to Granada.
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Granada is a city and the capital of the province of Granada, in the autonomous community of Andalusia, Spain. The city of Granada is located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, yet only one hour from the Mediterranean coast, the Costa Tropical. The Alhambra, a Moorish citadel and palace, is in Granada. It is one of the most famous items of the Islamic historical legacy that makes Granada a hot spot among cultural and tourist cities in Spain. Granada is also well-known within Spain due to the prestigious University of Granada and, nowadays, vibrant night-life.
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This morning, visit Alhambra - a palace and fortress complex constructed during the mid 14th century by the Moorish rulers of the Emirate of Granada. Continue on to the Gardens of Generalife, a romantic garden remarkable for its location and diversity of its flowers, plants and fountains. Proceed to the city Sierra Nevada and discover the Quarters of Albaicin, Sacromonte, the Cathedral and the first Renaissance church in Spain. Enjoy some free time in the afternoon as you discover the hidden treasures of Granada. Dinner is served at a local restaurant followed by a remarkable Flamenco show. Return to the train and spend the evening on-board in Granada.
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- Day
4
- Granada, Ronda, Cadiz
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Granada is a city and the capital of the province of Granada, in the autonomous community of Andalusia, Spain. The city of Granada is located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, yet only one hour from the Mediterranean coast, the Costa Tropical. The Alhambra, a Moorish citadel and palace, is in Granada. It is one of the most famous items of the Islamic historical legacy that makes Granada a hot spot among cultural and tourist cities in Spain. Granada is also well-known within Spain due to the prestigious University of Granada and, nowadays, vibrant night-life.
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Ronda is a city in Spanish province of Málaga. It is located about 100 kilometres (62 mi) Northwest from the city of Málaga, within the autonomous community of Andalusia. Its population is aproximately 35,000 inhabitants. It is situated in a very mountainous area about 750 m above mean sea level. The Guadalevín River runs through the city, dividing it in two and carving out the steep, 100 plus meters deep El Tajo canyon upon which the city perches. The Spanish Fir (Abies pinsapo) is endemic to the mountains surrounding Ronda.
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Marvel at the magnificent view of the mountain ranges as the train travels to Ronda. Explore this amazing city, and discover its famous bridges- the Puente Romano, Puente Viejo and Puente Nuevo. Ronda is also the cradle of “Bullfighting.” Once a year, a unique and historical bullfight events take place at Spain’s oldest ring - Plaza de Toros de Ronda. After lunch, board the train as you travel to Cádiz – the oldest city in Western Europe preserving a remarkable historical heritage. Discover the fascinating architecture of its monuments, massive stonewalls and forts as you stroll along its impressive streets. Dinner is served at a local restaurant before returning to the train for an overnight stay in Cádiz.
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- Cadiz, Jerez, Sanlucar, Jerez
Jerez de la Frontera is a municipality in the province of Cádiz in southwestern Spain, situated midway between the sea and the mountains. Jerez is known as the capital of sherry wine, the horse, and flamenco. It is the home of the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art, a riding school comparable to the world-famous Spanish Riding School in Vienna. Jerez, the city where flamenco singing began, is also proud of its Andalusian Centre of Flamenco. The old quarter of Jerez, dating from medieval times, has been named an "Artistic Historic Complex". The Easter week celebrations in Jerez are of "National Touristic Interest", and its remarkable Horse Fair (Feria del Caballo) in May is an event of "International Touristic Interest".
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Enjoy breakfast onboard as the train travels to Jerez – home of “Sherry” wine and historical buildings. Visit a wine cellar where you have the opportunity to learn about the elaborate process of wine making and taste some of their products. You then proceed to the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art and marvel at the show called “How the Andalusian Horses Dance.” Continue on to Sanlucar de Barrameda, a city located at the mouth of the Guadalquivir River and in front of the National Park of Doñana, the largest nature reserve in Europe. The reserve is a protected area and declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site since 1994. After lunch, cruise along the Guadalquivir River and enjoy the magnificent view and wonder of the nature. Return to Jerez in the afternoon and spend the rest of the day at leisure exploring this magnificent city. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant and spend some time mingling with your new friends at the farewell party. The evening is spent onboard as the train remains stationed in Jerez.
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- Day
6
- Return to Sevilla
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Seville is the artistic, cultural, and financial capital of southern Spain, and capital of Andalusia. The Cathedral of Seville is now arguably the largest church in the world when compared using the measurement of volume, and is also the final resting place of the remains of Christopher Columbus. La Giralda is a large and beautiful minaret tower, originally intended for the chief mosque, but now is the magnificent bell tower of the Cathedral and prominent symbol of Seville. The Real Alcázar is a beautiful palace, built in Mudéjar (Moorish) style in the 14th century. With its myriad of rooms, extravagant architecture, lavish gardens with many courtyards, ponds and secrets to be explored, it is a fascinating place to visit.
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After breakfast, the train arrives Seville, the capital of Andalucia and Cultural Center of Southern Spain. This morning’s tour includes visit to reputed World Heritage Sites such as the great and beautiful minaret tower - La Giralda, the famous Cathedral, the beautiful palace of Alcazar, the 13th century tower Torre del Oro and the Archivo General de Indias. Return to the Santa Justa train station where the train crew awaits to assist you with your luggage. Bid farewell to your new friends as you continue your onward journey.
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Lounge car on board the train
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Sevilla
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Sevilla - Cathedral
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Cordoba Mosque
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Cordoba - Patios
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Dining car on board the train
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Dining - Bar car on board Al-Andalus train
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Dining car on board Al-Andalus train
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Suite view by day
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Suite view by night
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Ronda - Bridge
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Plaza del Arenal - Jerez
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En-suite bathroom on board the train
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Standard Double Suite
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Superior Double Suite
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Departures | May 2013 | 19,26 | June 2013 | 2,9,16,23 | September 2013 | 1,8,15,22,29 | | October 2013 | 6,13,20,27 | November 2013 | 3,10,17,24 | December 2013 | 1 |
All Rates in US$ per person including ALL taxes and surcharges
| Class | Dates | Single Rate | Double Rate |
| Deluxe |
| For departures May 19,2013 through September 15,2013 |
US$ 4,464
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US$ 3,170
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| For departures September 22,2013 through November 17,2013 |
US$ 4,367
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US$ 3,073
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| For departures November 24,2013 through December 1,2013 |
US$ 4,237
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US$ 2,944
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| Suite Privilege |
| For departures May 19,2013 through September 15,2013 |
US$ 5,356
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US$ 3,914
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| For departures September 22,2013 through November 17,2013 |
US$ 5,117
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US$ 3,791
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| For departures November 24,2013 through December 1,2013 |
US$ 4,878
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US$ 3,674
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There are Early Bird Rates if you book 4 months and 6 months prior to your travel. These rates are already factored in our pricing as you can notice in the price chart.
Triple occupancy fare is only available on the Suite Superior Category.
Tour tour price includes:
- Five nights on board the luxurious Al Andalus
- Lunch and dinner for five nights
- Beverages, including wine, coffee and liqueurs at meal times
- Five on-board buffet breakfasts
- Guided excursions in a luxury coach as per the itinerary
- Entrance fees for museums, cathedrals, etc., as per the itinerary
- On-board entertainment, including music and parties each night in the Pub Car
Your tour price excludes:
- Domestic or international airfare
- Travel insurance or visa fees
- Items of a personal nature, such as laundry and souvenirs
- Any additional hotel accommodations pre- or post-tour
- Any items not specifically mentioned as "included"
Terms and Conditions
PAYMENT TERMS:
20% of total tour cost due at the time of booking
80% or balance no later than 68 days prior to tour departure date
CANCELLATION FEES: (i) 20% of the total tour value if cancelled more than 45 days prior to date of first service sold by TRAVBUZZ / PALACE TOURS
(ii) 40% of the total tour value if cancelled 30-44 days prior to date of first service sold by TRAVBUZZ / PALACE TOURS (iii) 60% of the total tour value if cancelled 20-29 days prior to date of first service sold by TRAVBUZZ / PALACE TOURS (iv) 100% of the total tour value if cancelled 0-19 days prior to date of first service sold by TRAVBUZZ / PALACE TOURS We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover the losses incurred in case of cancellation. For information on available plans or to purchase travel insurance, please visit www.palacetours.com/insurance.
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Al - Andalus Luxury Train
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The carriages of the “Al Andalus” were used by the British Royal family in the earlier days as they journeyed from Calais to the Cote d’Azur. The train has also recently remodeled seven suite sleepers, five of which were built in France in 1929. The “Al Andalus” has a total of 32 suites consisting of 12 Standard and 20 Superior Suites, all of which have separate air conditioners.
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Facilities
Daily laundry service • Medical service • safe • 2 television units • VCR • games console • HiFi system • double air-conditioning unit • PC with free internet connection • wireless telephone • mini-bar • large bathroom • hydro massage • steam sauna • hair-dryers
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Travel Tips
Pre-Tour:
What are the passport/visa requirements for travel to Spain?
Please ensure that your passport has at least three blank pages and that it is valid for at least six months beyond your departure date from Spain. Please check with your local embassy regarding visa requirements.
When should I plan to arrive in Sevilla?
The meeting time for the tour is 12:00 noon on Sunday. Full instructions will be printed on your travel voucher. We recommend arriving in Seville at least 1 day prior to your tour so that you may acclimate and relax prior to embarking on your exciting rail journey.
The Train:
What is the capacity of the train?
There are 32 Suites on the train consisting of 12 Standard and 20 Superior Suites.The number of passengers really depends on the occupancies sold in that departure. The maximum capacity of the train is 64 guests.
Is there a dress code on board?
There is no official dress code on board, but we recommend comfortable shoes and clothes due to the nature of the visits and excursions.
What kind of food is served on the train?
The train offers guests a chance to taste local gastronomy. Lunch is usually served at the Paradores at Cordoba, Granada, Baeza (Jaen), Ronda and Cadiz and offer an unmatched experience.
The restaurants on our route not only select the highest quality raw materials and have them prepared by the greatest professionals; they are also the ideal setting for tasting the local cuisine. All of our menus include a careful selection of wines that blend harmoniously with the ingredients of each lunch and dinner. Coffee and liqueurs are also included.
How are the meals served?
Breakfasts are buffet-style and are served on board the train in the four lounge carriages. Lunches and dinners are taken at restaurants in the cities as mentioned in each day’s itinerary.
Is there a laundry/dry cleaning service on the train?
Yes, laundry service is available at an additional charge. Please see the crew for details.
Is there internet or telephone accessibility on the train?
There is internet access on board the train but also in cybercenters in several cities along the route. Phones will generally get reception, however sometimes this is a bit difficult due to the mountains and tunnels along the way.
Is the train accessible to wheelchairs / physical challenges?
Wheelchairs for sightseeing excursions are available upon request; kindly advise our office as soon as possible and at least 30 days prior to your departure of the necessity for a wheelchair. Please know there are no ramps for entering/exiting the train, and the train’s corridors are too narrow to accommodate wheelchairs. For those with other physical challenges, please contact our office.
Is smoking allowed on board?
No. Since January 2006, it is forbidden by Law to smoke on board the train and in the train stations.
What facilities are available on the train?
The “Al Andalus” train is the largest tourist train in the world and boasts of its four railway gems – the spacious four lounge cars. Enjoy a scrumptious buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner at the restaurant car, engage in a lively conversation with cocktails as you mingle with your fellow travelers at the bar car and delight in nightly musical performances at the piano car. The tearoom offers large windows and comfortable chairs where you may simply relax, while enjoying the view of beautiful scenery that passes by your window.
All carriages are air-conditioned and open 24 hours a day for all guests to enjoy with the friendly waiting staff ready to serve you at all times.
The Rooms:
Are there different types or sizes of rooms on board the train?
The carriages of the “Al Andalus” were used by the British Royal family in the earlier days as they journeyed from Calais to the Cote d’Azur. The train has also recently remodeled seven suite sleepers, five of which were built in France in 1929. The Belle Epoque inspired suites have been enhanced with advanced technological features, but at the same time preserving the historical value and charm for the comfort and enjoyment of the guests.
The “Al Andalus” has a total of 32 suites consisting of 12 Standard and 20 Superior Suites, all of which have separate air conditioners. The Superior Suites have 2 low beds, a safe, closet and a private bathroom, while the Superior Suites are equipped with a double bed (150 x 200 cm), a mini-bar, safe, closet and large full bathroom.
During the day, the beds fold into comfortable couches converting the suites into private lounges. Additionally, the highly trained train crew is available at your service 24 hours a day to assist you with all your needs.
Are rooms pre-assigned or can you choose your own room?
The rooms are assigned on site. If you have any specific room requirements, please contact us at least one month prior to departure so that we can send your request to our Operations Team.
Is there a hairdryer in each bathroom? Are toiletries provided?
Yes, there is a hairdryer provided in every bathroom, along with a dental set, comb, eau de toilette, shaving set, shower cup, shoe polish and more.
Is there bottled water available?
Yes, bottled spring water is provided during meals. You can also choose to purchase water throughout your journey.
The Tour:
Do I have to stay aboard all five nights?
You are not required to stay aboard the train for five nights. However, as the train follows a fixed itinerary, you will be responsible for your own transportation to/from your points of embarkation/disembarkation, for any hotels you use during the journey, for meals taken while separated from the group, etc. There are no refunds for unused portions of the tour. Therefore, should you choose to shorten the journey in any way, you are still required to pay for the full seven-night tour.
Are doctors available at all times?
The train carries a first aid kit, and Al Andalus has contacts with various health centers along the train route.
Expenses:
What expenses will I have during the trip?
Al Andalus is a very inclusive experience, so you will not need to pay for any meals, beverages during lunch/dinner, sightseeing, monument entrances or accommodations. You will incur additional cost if you choose to purchase any additional beverages on board; laundry services; camera fees at monuments; transfers, additional sightseeing, or other services in Seville, gratuities; and/or souvenirs.
How can I settle my expenses on the train?
You may settle your onboard expenses by paying in Euros or by major credit card.
How much should I expect to tip? Tipping is not mandatory, and is left to the sole discretion of the traveler. This is a decision that should be made based on your enjoyment of the journey and the service.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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1
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How big are the suites?
A standard suite in 6.72m2. A superior suite is 8.4m2.
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2
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What size are the beds in the suites?
The size of the bed is dependent on the type of suite you reserve.- Standard Suite with 2 beds will contain (1) bed that is 0.80 x 1.9 m and (1) bed that is 0.70 x 1.8 m
- The superior suite has one double/matrimonial bed that is 1.5 x 1.9 m
- If your suite has one extra bed, it is 0.70 x 1.8 m
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3
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What kind of meals are provided on this tour?
Here is a sample menu:
Appetizer: "Remojon Granadino" Salad served with cinnamon vinaigrette Main Course: Pork sirloin grilled in mozarabic sauce with crispy aubergine fingers Dessert: Sacromonte cake
This is a plated dinner menu provided by the San Nicolas restaurant, which overlooks the Alhambra.
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I am a US Citizen. Do I need a visa to go to Spain?
No. Citizens of the United States do not need a visa for Spain.
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5
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How many travelers can fit in each rooms?
In a deluxe room, two people can sleep comfortably. If you need more room, upgrade to a suite, which will comfortably service three people. This is especially attractive to parents travelling with a child.
If you are travelling with more than one child, or more than three people, you will need to reserve two rooms.
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Immediate Confirmation Available. You will receive confirmation once the payment
is processed. |
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Available On Request - Your reservation will be put on high priority
waiting list for this tour. |
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Date
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Rooms
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Room 1 Room 2 Room 3
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Departures | May 2013 | 19,26 | | June 2013 | 2,9,16,23 | | September 2013 | 1,8,15,22,29 | | October 2013 | 6,13,20,27 | | November 2013 | 3,10,17,24 | | December 2013 | 1 |
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Save Tour
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Print to pdf
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