King of La Mancha

Malagon is in Castile La Mancha, the region between Madrid in the north and Andalucia in the south. It is this region that the famous Spanish novel "Don Quixote" by Miguel de Cervantes is based upon, and also, the producer of Manchego cheese and home to the world's biggest vineyard.

I was unsure of my next destination after Cordoba and was looking for a route off the beaten path away from popular tourism. So, when couchsurfing member Carlos wrote to me suggesting that I visit his hometown of Malagon, I went. Ciudad Real would be my next stop.

In the two days we spent together, Carelos not only expertly guided me through this region and it sites, he also shared with me in many interesting conversations, the intricacies about Spanish culture, language, life, politics and history.

Carlos, you are the King of La Mancha. Thank you to you and your family!