An earlier start this morning as we had an 8am bus to catch so needed to leave the Pension around 7.20am to get a taxi. Another comfortable bus journey, this time with a pre packed slice for brekky. Only 3hr trip today and luckily, was able to watch the end of the movie. Taxi to our hotel and he dropped us off on a corner and then told us up the street on the left. For a moment, we thought he had dropped us off on the wrong corner, just turned out we had to walk a little bit further then he indicated but we found it and it is beautiful. Our room wasn't quite ready so we sat in the courtyard and it was so cool compared to when out in the sun. Can understand why they build like they do here. Mum asked if the cat was friendly...she was told it was a 'decoration'. She had to go and look at it for herself because it looked so real.

Finally able to dump our bags and get changed to head out. One of the nice things with this hotel is they have little fridges near the elevator with complimentary cold bottles of water for your use. Also have bikes to use (I don't think so) and a free walking tour each morning but way too hot to wander around for 3hrs.

We decided to visit the Alcazar because knowing what the Alhambra was like, we thought it would be cool inside. Joined the queue to buy tickets once we figured out where it was. Due to the heat, people were seeking shade so instead of lining across the very hot plaza, a few people lined up near the doors and then the line continued after a big break in the shade. If people tried to join the queue (not realising what was happening) they were soon told where the end of the line was, sneaking around the corner in the shade. Quite smart really.

We were correct in that it was much cooler in the rooms, just made you walk quickly across the courtyards to get back into shade. Hit about 39 today. The Alcazar had very similar pattens to the Alhambra. Upstairs, the royal rooms are still in use by the Spanish Royal family at times. Very good visit, unfortunately as I am not feeling 100%, and due to the heat, did not enjoy it as much as I should have. It was nice to stick our heads under where the water was pouring into the pool for any cool drips to cool us down though.

We then made our way to a local restaurant which is connected to our hotel and were we were entitled to a free drink. Sangria please, plus we had a few tapas. Got mum to try the Russian Potato Salad which she was not sure about because it said vegetables but it was only small pieces of carrots and peas and was very yummy. Also had some croquettes and a Pork and Mushroom dish. Perfect size and very delicious.

Made our way back to the hotel for some down time. Love the small streets and alleyways but they make it difficult to find your way. Handwashing and a cold shower was the order of the late afternoon while mum was in seventh heaven when she found some Olympics on the TV. We just popped next door to a bar for dinner. Didn't want anything heavy. Got mum to try a couple of new things once again. This time a salad with chicken, tomato, avocado, mango and lettuce (and those who know mum, knows she only eats iceburg lettuce) and so she was beside herself with joy when it was served with iceburg lettuce and like a cocktail sauce. We also had Melon with Ham. Perfect light meal, especially since it is still so warm out. For dessert we tried the Almond Pudding which was also very good. So a successful day with food.

Early night tonight (compared to other nights anyway) and hopefully get some more exploring in tomorrow without the heat affecting us too much. We have booked in to use the jacuzzi on the roof at 10pm tomorrow night (another offer with the booking). Life is tough!!