Somewhere between the sweet hookah smell drifting through the market and the quaint streets, I fell in love with the magical Andalusian town of Granada.

In the rain, my friend and I hike up the hill to explore the historic remains of the Alhambra. Originally constructed as a fortress in 889 and rebuilt in the 11th century, today it is easy to get lost in the touches that make it feel like time has been left to a standstill here.

Courtyards overflowing with flowers, tiny pathways leading visitors to spectacular views and buildings that have withstood the spinning of the world. It’s breathtaking and overwhelming at the same time. And, most definitely, absolutely gorgeous.