SELIN BALKANLI

Where are you from?

I’m from Türkiye.

How long have you lived in Granada, and what brought you here?

I have been here for 3 years. I moved here with my fiancé, who is from Granada. We were living in Budapest, Hungary, but after the pandemic, we decided to settle in his hometown. It was a great decision – we’ve never regretted it, not even for a second.

What do you do here?

I am an industrial engineer and I work as an SAP Consultant at Strada, formerly known as Alight Solutions. It’s an international company with a strong presence here in Granada.

What part of the city do you live in?

I have always lived near the center, but very soon I will be moving to Armilla, a municipality that abuts the city and is home to the Nevada Shopping mall.

What do you like most about Granada?

Without a doubt, it’s the perfect blend of natural beauty and rich culture. We have the beautiful mountains and beaches nearby, offering amazing outdoor opportunities. The city’s deep historical roots and cultural heritage make it a fascinating place to explore. And let’s be honest – who doesn’t love the tapas culture that is so unique to Granada? Also, Granada remains a budget-friendly city compared to other major cities in Spain, making it a great place to live.

What would you say you like the least?

Like many people here, I find the intense heat waves in the summer challenging. It can be quite overwhelming and sometimes makes it hard to enjoy outdoor activities during the peak months, like August. However, we’re lucky to have both the Sierra Nevada and nearby beaches. Whether you want to cool off in the mountains or relax by the sea, there are great ways to beat the heat.

What is your favorite local activity?

I never get bored of the stunning views of the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada from Mirador de San Nicolás – it’s the perfect spot to relax and appreciate the beauty of the city. Whenever I go, I also make sure to wander through the Albaicín and enjoy a coffee at El Huerto de Juan Ranas.

What is your favorite restaurant?

My favorite restaurant is Atelier Casa de Comidas. I love it for its minimalist decor and the way they adapt their menus to seasonal ingredients. They offer both a regular menu and a tasting menu, focusing on local and unique dishes.

And what would be your favorite tapas bar?

It’s so difficult to choose just one! But my go-to place is Bar Provincias. Their ensaladilla rusa is a ten out of ten for me.

What is one tip you would give someone visiting Granada?

One tip I’d give to anyone is not to underestimate the city by thinking a one-day trip is enough. Granada has so much to offer and truly deserves more time for exploration. Also, when planning to visit the Alhambra, remember to buy your tickets in advance to avoid missing out on this must-see attraction.