Getting Around Almeria: Walkability, Public Transit & Biking
Walkability
Almeria is notably walkable due to its compact city center, which hosts a mix of attractions, eateries, and shops all within a comfortable walking distance. The blend of historic areas and the lively Puerta de Purchena ensures that key spots are easily reachable by foot, reinforcing a pedestrian-friendly environment. Daily necessities and leisure activities can be enjoyed without the need for a car, though it's useful for excursions into the surrounding natural landscapes. Walking tours enhance the foot travel experience by offering insights into local culture and history.
Public Transit
Almeria's public transportation, dominated by the Surbus system, offers a reasonable, cost-effective way to navigate the city, though it is not extensive enough to cover every traveler's need seamlessly. The intermodal station provides essential rail links to major cities, enhancing connectivity beyond the local area despite being somewhat distant from the historic center. Bus schedules adapt seasonally, ensuring a modicum of reliability for daily commuters, though the city falls short of being a transit haven. Still, transit options present a solid alternative for locations slightly harder to reach by foot, supported by robust connections to various Spanish cities from the bus terminal.
Bikeability
With a strategic commitment to cycling infrastructure, Almeria boasts over 80 kilometers of well-maintained bike paths threading through key areas such as the Rambla de Almería and the Paseo Marítimo. The city's flat streets invite cycling as a feasible and enjoyable mode of transport, particularly given the favorable climate outside peak summer months. Additional bike-friendly roads extend throughout the Almeria region, promoting cycling as a viable transport option both within and beyond the city. However, the intense summer heat can be a deterrent for cyclists, necessitating early mornings or cooler months for riding.
Reviews
I just wrapped up a two-month stay in Aguadulce, near Roquetas de Mar, Spain, and let me tell you, if you’re looking for somewhere to truly slow down, this is the spot. Life here is relaxed, the weather is beautifully consistent, and every meal feels like a mini celebration. 😋
First off, we stayed in a 3-bed villa which was spacious and comfortable. The cost of living was reasonable by my standards. You could enjoy a meal at an inexpensive restaurant for about $13.68, which is pretty decent. I did face some challenges though, particularly with the internet. The speeds were moderate at best, and the connection was spotty at times. But working from beach bars with the sun on my face made up for it.
Although most people spoke Spanish, and only a few understood English, regularly relying on Google Translate became my routine. 😅 The constant sun, along with temperatures hanging around 22°C (70°F) during September and October, was nothing short of perfect. That said, the 15-20 km/h sea breeze could be a bit much occasionally.
Public transport was a bit inconvenient unless you were moving between town centers, so having a personal car was a lifesaver. The best thing about Almeria? The pace! It’s so slow and easy, which was tough to adjust to initially, but eventually felt like a much-needed breather from my usual fast-paced lifestyle. However, be prepared for things moving at a snail’s pace. Impromptu holidays with shuttered shops and a limited number of airport connections can be a real hindrance if you’re in a hurry.
If you’re the sort who loves beaches, you’ll have plenty to choose from. I mean, there’s literally a beach around every corner. 😄 However, be warned, if you're hoping to meet a big nomad community or attend business events, this might not be your place. I hit up a couple of networking events, and they were more about having a good time rather than business.
In a nutshell, come to Almeria if you want to relax, slow down, and disconnect. Avoid it if you’re seeking a bustling community, business connections, or need to get things done quickly. Overall, the blissful slowness and scenic beaches made it a very different, yet memorable part of my nomadic journey.