The Plaza Almijara

in Competa. A wonderful place to sit and watch the world go by.

Pericos Bar / Restaurant serves the best tapas in southern Spain (and I've tried many). MOH and I often go for morning coffee, end up stretching it to a tapas lunch (usually 8 plates between us) and finish up with a couple of San Miguels and before we know it it's the afternoon and we have done nothing but enjoy the atmosphere - total cost 15 euros - cannot be beaten.

Part of the enjoyment is watching the older generation of villagers meeting and greeting each other or going to and from the church which sits in the opposite corner of the square. At least one of the tables in Pericos is always occupied by the older men of the village, playing cards or dominoes or just whiling away the day with a chat and a beer.

The church bells ring every quarter of the hour and chime on the hour - the life of the village revolves around the church and it is nice to see that traditional Sundays still prevail in Spain. After church the families in their finery make their way to Pericos where long tables have been laid in preparation for lunch. These family lunches can be very noisy ocassions and can last long into the afternoon. There is much laughter and chatter amoung the parents, grandparents and great grandparents while the children play together in the square. We understand little but MOH and I enjoy feeling part of it all be it all on the periphery.

Traditionally on our last night we visit for a meal of 'Competa Chicken' (chicken fillets cooked in a cream sauce with raisins and made with the village's own wine), a Pericos speciality - delicious. Washed down with a couple of glasses of Competa Wine and San Miguels - what more could you ask for!?

Hasta la vista.......until next year......

Backblipped 29.8.12 & 30.8.12