Page 43 - Cork & Tee Sample Program Flipbook, 2018

In the evening, we have arranged a gourmet tapas walk with Shawn, our favorite “food gal” in
Seville, which is an exceptional introduction to the city. This experience will serve as dinner and
an insightful window into this most unique Spanish
tradition. Simply put, this is a ton of fun! Going out for
tapas — a practice known as El Tapeo — is a must,
particularly given that tapas originated in Andalusia and
that Seville is the best place for tapas in all of Spain in
our opinion. It is possible this tour will be led by one of
Shawn’s expert colleagues.

According to legend, the tapas tradition began in the
13th century, when Castile’s king Alfonso X, also
known as Alfonso the Wise, recovered from an illness
by drinking wine mixed with small dishes between
meals. After regaining his health, the king supposedly dictated that taverns in the kingdom were
not allowed to serve wine to customers unless the beverage was accompanied by a small snack or
tapa.

The private gourmet tapas walk of 3- to 4-hrs will include some of the very best tapas
establishments in the city. Generally, we recommend a first stop at one of the best spots for
jamón ibérico de bellota, which is considered one of the finest styles of ham in the world and
originates not far from Seville in the Sierra de Aracena. Additional visits are suggested to a
traditional tapas bar and a higher-end “designer tapas” eatery to expose you to the range of tapas
bars in the city. (Note that this evening is based on consumption and thus food and drinks are
not included.)

Proposed Accommodations for 4 nights: Hotel Alfonso XIII, one of Spain’s most prestigious
hotels, featuring a traditional design accented by Arabic-style arches and ceramic tiles. The
centrally-located property is bursting with old-world charm and befits its locale.

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