EAT, DRINK, EXPLORE: ALICANTE

BEST FOOD TO EAT IN ALICANTE

Any city that sits as close to the Mediterranean as Alicante does is bound to have a culinary traditional built upon gifts from the sea. Enter Arròs a banda. The dish is said to come from local fishermen who would cook a variety of fish with potatoes and onions in a fish broth seasoned with saffron, paprika, bay leaves, and garlic. The fish and potatoes are removed from the broth to make way for bomba rice. (Bomba rice comes from the Valencia region of Spain and absorbs more liquid than normal long grain rice.) The plump and juicy rice is served alongside the fish.

Top Cultural Foods To Try in Alicante

Here are some of the top traditional foods to try while you're studying in Alicante:

• Arroz a Banda: Alicante is famous for its incredible rice dishes! Arroz a Banda is a perfect example, with rice that is cooked separately from the seafood it is served with. The rice is cooked in a rich and flavorful seafood broth, making the perfect dish to share with friends while socializing.
• Arroz con Costra: Arroz con Costra means "rice with a crust," and it is a rice dish that is topped with an egg mixture that then gets baked in the oven. It’s a traditional and amazingly delicious meal that you won’t find anywhere else.
• Olleta Alicantina: Olleta Alicantina is a hearty winter stew that is made with beans, chickpeas, and various meats and vegetables. It’s a wonderful example of home cooking in the region, and makes for the perfect meal on a cool day! 

BEST DRINK IN ALICANTE

Horchata de chufas was introduced to Alicante by the Moors centuries ago, and it remains a popular drink in Alicante today. This sweet, aromatic, and refreshing drink is made from mashed chufas or tiger nuts, similar to almond milk in the U.S. But chufas have a flavor all their own. The drink is generally served ice cold in the summer to combat the heat and like other nut-based milks, is renowned for its high nutritional content.

Top Cultural Drinks To Try in Alicante

Here are some of the top traditional drinks to try while you're studying in Alicante:

• Herbero: Herbero is an aromatic herbal liqueur that is made with various herbs from the local mountains. It has a unique and earthy flavor that you just simply must try for yourself.  
• Café Licor: This is a very common and popular drink to have in Alicante. Café Licor is a coffee-based liqueur that is often served cold, most commonly as an after-dinner drink.
• Horchata de Chufas: On a hot day in Alicante, there is nothing more refreshing than a glass of Horchata de Chufas. This is a non-alcoholic, milky-white drink made from tiger nuts. It gets served ice cold and can be found in most local cafes, making it the perfect drink to cool down with. 

BEST PLACE TO EXPLORE IN ALICANTE

Alicante is a beautiful seaside city, proudly perched on the Costa Blanca. Just a quick boat ride away is the islet of Tabarca – a small fishing village seemingly lost-in-time. The islet is home to less than 60 permanent residents, but a big draw for summer tourists who like to stroll its quaint streets and tour the gates of San Rafael and historic churches. The water surrounding the islet is part of a protected marine reserve, and through the crystal-clear waters you can see plenty – from lobsters and sea stars to loggerheads and groupers. The islet has also been declared a Special Protection Zone for Birds by the European Union.

Top Cultural Attractions to Visit in Alicante

Here are some of the top cultural attractions to visit while you're studying in Alicante:

• Castillo de Santa Bárbara: You'll find this incredible castle sitting on top of a nearby mountain. Exploring the castle is a great way to learn more about the city’s history, and it is a perfect place for some amazing photos. After all, it offers perfect panoramic views of the city!
• Passeig Explanada de España: Explore this beautiful promenade right next to the sea that features a unique mosaic tile floor that looks like a wave. You will find people here all day and all night since it is a great location to stroll the city and meet with friends.
• Playa del Postiguet and Playa de San Juan: The local beaches are a huge part of the local culture here. Playa del Postiguet is the city beach, while Playa de San Juan is further out from the liveliness of the city. You’ll definitely want to spend time soaking up the sun at these gorgeous beaches! 

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