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Escaping the Pandemic: A Family Journey to Altea

During these challenging times, many people are feeling what can only be described as "pandemic fatigue." Amidst this backdrop, a couple from Madrid, Yoli and her partner, decided to break away from the routine and embrace winter in a different way. They traded the hustle and bustle of city life for the tranquility of the Mediterranean coast, specifically the picturesque town of Altea in Alicante.

The couple’s motivations were straightforward: to discover whether wintering in a seaside town could reignite their zest for life, explore how family travel changes with a child, and determine if it was possible to return to a semblance of normality amid ongoing pandemic concerns.

First Impressions of Altea

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Upon arrival in Altea, the couple was immediately taken by the beauty of the white-washed buildings hugging the coast. Yoli remarked on the distinct atmosphere the Mediterranean offered in winter, describing it as mysterious and cozy. Altea, known for its summer tourism and expat communities, appeared to be an idyllic escape from the pandemic-infused urban life of Madrid.

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The journey to Altea, however, wasn't all smooth sailing. Leaving Madrid around noon, they faced the typical challenges of family travel with a child, which included an eventful car ride, a delightful meal in a rural tavern, and a few tearful moments from their daughter, Luthier. Yet, despite the stress involved in settling in – such as dealing with a broken apartment door – they were greeted with a hospitable gesture from their hosts who had left refreshments for them.

Exploring the Enchantment of Altea

After unpacking, the family set out to explore Altea. Their first stop was the Paseo Maritimo, where they enjoyed beautiful views and began to ascend to the old town, characterized by its charming winding streets adorned with vibrant flowers.

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As they hiked, Yoli reminisced about past trips with ease before parenthood, but also acknowledged the joy and challenges that come with traveling as a family. The hike culminated at a church flaunting unique blue dome tiles, a perfect spot to appreciate the view of the island and beyond. Here, they reflected on Altea's rich history as a settlement that has seen various civilizations, including Iberians, Phoenicians, and Moors, each leaving their mark on the region.

Culinary Delights and Cultural Richness

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After soaking in the sights, food became the focus of the day. The couple decided to indulge in a local culinary tradition by trying some of Alicante’s famed rice dishes, emphasizing the area's cultural heritage. They sought recommendations from locals, ultimately enjoying a paella that showcased the flavors of the region.

This adventure wasn’t solely about relaxation; it was also about rediscovery – rekindling a love for experiences that spoke to their spirits.

Venturing Beyond Altea: A Trip to Benidorm

Their journey led them to Benidorm, which surprised them with its vibrant atmosphere and stunning coastal scenery. Initially viewed as a mere tourist trap known for its high-rise buildings, Benidorm revealed both its allure and a unique charm as they savored sangrias by the beach.

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The couple expressed fascination at the juxtaposition of Benidorm's modernity against the backdrop of its natural beauty. Despite its kitschy reputation, they found pleasure in the unexpected, pondering whether they might become regulars at the tourist hotspot.

Discovering Nature: A National Park Adventure

To balance their time spent in bustling tourist locations, they headed for the Sierra Gelada National Park. The dramatic views from a look-out point, merged with the exploration of the historical aspects of the landscape, provided a refreshing contrast to their prior activities. Although Yoli and Luthier opted to rest, he ventured to soak in the unbeatable vistas, reflecting on the unique blend of nature and history that defined Alicante.

Embracing Change in Family Travel

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As they continued through their travels, the couple recognized that family travel could indeed hold a richer meaning than just a vacation experience. Embracing each moment, they demonstrated adaptability despite the various challenges of traveling with a young child. Rather than merely attempting to recreate their past adventures, a new philosophy emerged: creating new traditions as a family, grounded in their shared aspirations and unique experiences.

Conclusion: Redefining Normalcy

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Ultimately, this journey to Altea – and their exploration of Benidorm and the national parks – became not just an escape from pandemic life, but a means to cultivate new familial connections and cherished memories. As they navigated the complexities of traveling with a child, they found enjoyment in weathering those storms together, leaning into moments of joy and spontaneity.

As they look ahead, Yoli and her partner reflect on how their adventures might influence their future, blending travel aspirations while fostering a deeper bond with Luthier, ultimately discovering new joys along the way. By recognizing the lessons learned through the grip of the pandemic, they embrace the notion of reimagining what life could be, the hopes held for adventures to come.