The sophistication of Malaga, my favorite port among several coastal favorites on a Regent Seven Seas cruise, took me completely by surprise. We were traveling with 56 clients, headed for a post-cruise stay in Lisbon. But first a wonderful day in Malaga, beginning with a beautiful pier and a modern roadway over the water.
It was surprising to see parked yachts that were not only large but contemporary, with sweeping lines and painted in striking black indigo or various shades of navy blue. Some of them were even adorned with human statues in bikinis, adding an interesting touch of extravagance. Malaga seemed to host the largest yachts I had ever seen gathered in one place among the cities starting with the letter M.
As we entered the city center of Malaga, the cleanliness was striking. Despite the busy summer day, there wasn’t a single piece of paper on the ground. The streets were well-maintained, creating a pleasant atmosphere for exploration. Calle Larios, the most famous shopping street in Malaga, dated back to 1891 and boasted a mix of large shops and authentically Spanish specialty stores.
The urban planning in Malaga caught my attention with its thoughtful details. The streets were equipped with a wavering tarp floating overhead to provide a comfortable amount of shade for shoppers, demonstrating a keen understanding of the city’s climate. The presence of police cars slowly patrolling the streets added a sense of security without being intrusive, making it a welcoming environment for locals and tourists alike.
Malaga’s approach to city planning and maintenance raised the question of why urban planners from other cities should not consider taking inspiration from this Spanish gem. The combination of cleanliness, sophistication, and attention to detail made Malaga stand out as a model city worth emulating. The ease of navigation, abundance of shops, and overall ambiance created an enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Malaga’s charm lies in its surprising sophistication and attention to detail. From the stunning yachts in the harbor to the well-maintained streets of the city center, Malaga offers a unique blend of elegance and comfort. Urban planners around the world could learn a thing or two from this Spanish city’s approach to creating a welcoming and pleasing environment for both residents and tourists. Malaga is truly a hidden gem on Spain’s southern coast, waiting to be explored and appreciated by all who visit.
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