WOW - I'm getting more info that I ever dreamed of getting here! Thanks. But both cities sound so great. The problem is that I don't really know what I want to do. I have been all over Europe and have realized I am not a huge fan of museums - except the Rodin in Paris of course. I'm not really into the club scene anymore but am into the bar scene - like a quaint tapas bar where i would have fun struggling with the Spanish. Thankfully, I speak French and my buddy speaks Spanish (parents are from Argentina). I also want to be as least tourity as possible. What I really want to do is soak in the Spanish culture as best as possible given my short time frame. I want to eat, drink, eat, drink, drink, drink and eat. I am all about gastronomy (on a tight budget) and trying new things. I want to basically explore a new culture.

Will the beaches be worth it in October? Won't it be a bit cold?

Thanks again for all the suggestions... but honestly, I'm not sold on either city! They're running neck and neck as for which one to see. I thought for sure there would be a hands down winner - but I guess both cities are amazing.

Instead of nonrevving I think we're going to buy tickets as they're all about $500 from the east coast - and can't beat that! Though $250 standby in business class would be nicer.

AZJ