Granada

I made it to el tren station and got a ticket for Grenada. Not sure why I was told getting a train ticket was a half-day experience because I landed in Madrid at 7am and was on the 9:05am train to Granada. I decided to go with the local Spanish train company, Renfe, rather than Eurail. After I figured out where the platforms were, I was on my way. There wasn't much luggage space and since I was boarding just before departure, I got stuck with a very high shelf to put my bag on...completely broke a nail getting it up on the shelf...there was blood! And my bandaids were in my suitcase, yeah, not getting that down again.
Now we are off to the Andalucia region of Spain. So you thought Italy was the largest producer of olive oil...turns out it is really Spain. Apparently some Italians ship the olives to Italy and bottle everything there, but own the land in Spain. And let me tell you, I saw the evidence. The entire route consisted of olive trees in all states of maturity. Although I didn't see any nets on the trees like I did in Italy. Maybe it isn't harvesting season. I don't think I will ever need to see another olive tree. I also managed to get a little shut-eye on the train. Thankfully no teenagers in my car!
The 3 1/2 hour train ride ended in Granada...really the only place with much happening on the line. It was warming up when we pulled in, but I decided to walk the 1km to the center of town. I started to question that decision, but still made it. Luckily I pulled my sunglasses out as it is bright out!
In the tour book I got from the library, I identified a hostel that didn't look too scary...private bath and free wifi! I even managed to fine the square without asking for directions. But there was no Hostel Lisboa anywhere to be found. So I had a seat in Plaza del Carmen and thought about my next move...while getting the nail clippers out to cut off my bleeding nail (and put a bandaid on it), and having a few handfuls of cereal that I had packed. I decided to ask a guy with a uniform on that was standing outside this large, beautiful building with Spanish flags flying on it. Turns out it was a visitor information center! Perfecto! So I talked to William inside and he found me a cute hotel in the next plaza for only 45E per night. I am staying at Hotel Los Tilos in Plaza Bibrambla. Pretty big room (it is a double) with an adequate bathroom. And free wifi!
Now es tiempo por la siesta. Then I will head out to explore the city a little. So far the restaurants look nice, and they all have open air seating. I can see one in the plaza from my balcony...maybe I will go there, or maybe I will venture farther into Granada...