Pasión Vega, Singer

author

Edgar Loper

Updated: 26 May 2026 ·

Interview

Pasión Vega
photo by viajar.elperiodico.com

Charming and outgoing, she starts the interview laughing because she doesn't trust her memory and recalls the adventure her family went through during Christmas every time they traveled by car from Málaga to Madrid crossing Despeñaperros to spend a few days in Madrid with her maternal relatives. "Something always happened to us... We would wake up at six, with our little blankets because the car heater didn't work, and the vehicle would almost always break down on the curves of that cursed mountain pass," she comments. For Pasión Vega - real name: Ana María Alías Vega - one of the most interesting aspects of her profession is being able to visit places she wouldn't otherwise see, such as Israel, Ghana, or Buenos Aires, as well as incredible spots across Spain.

Is there any place that surprised you during last summer's tour?

Ceuta struck me as a beautiful city, with an explosive mix. It has a very nice and different historic center, and its beaches are magnificent. I think it is greatly unknown to many people, even though it's just thirty to forty minutes by boat from Algeciras. It seems to me a city worth knowing because you find people from various cultures. And that is beautiful.

And outside of Spain, what place has left a bigger impression on you?

Pasión Vega in Ghana
Pasión Vega in Ghana / Pasión Vega photo by viajar.elperiodico.com

The most beautiful trip I took this year was to Ghana, to see the projects that have been carried out there thanks to the revenues from the album "The Drums Speak," in which I participated along with Tontxu, Rosa Belén, and Julián Maeso, among others. This trip had a profound impact on me. I returned full of happiness. We visited several orphanages, spent time in Kumasi and Accra, and went to many places... Moreover, it's a land of drums, music, and singing, filled with wonderful people. You realize there are good people in the world who do impressive work and help others.

Another important trip would be the one you made at the end of 2016 to Israel with your friend and colleague Noa.

It was different because I had an exceptional host, which allowed me to experience Israel from another perspective, dining with families there, with her friends who cooked for us. In Jerusalem and at the border with Palestine, there is some tension and people who are struggling, but trying to move forward, keep living. Tel Aviv is a different city, more dedicated to leisure, with its beaches and places open until dawn. It's very striking, but human nature is like that: you try to survive problems, sadness, and wars. Noa advocates for peace and brotherhood. She is a very strong and fascinating woman.

What mindset do you approach your destinations with?

With the idea of soaking it all in, allowing the trip to transform me. It's not the same going as a tourist as it is as a traveler. When I've had little time and wanted to learn interesting things about a city, I've acted as a tourist, but I much prefer to dive into the adventure, visit a market, talk to people, sit on a terrace, and observe. I prefer that over visiting monuments, though I also try to do that. If you're in Jerusalem, you have to see the temple, while in Ghana I could see the largest market in Africa, with those colors and those fabrics. The only African country I knew was Morocco, but Ghana impacted me a lot.

Which European capital wouldn't you mind living in for a while?

I am a romantic and I love Paris: the style of the people, the bohemian vibe that still lingers in the city, the artistic atmosphere... No, I wouldn't mind living for a while in a small attic in Paris. It's something I have in mind and don't rule out doing someday.

How do you remember your childhood in Málaga?

It's a city that has marked my personality and way of life. It was a very happy childhood, surrounded by music. Málaga is full of joy and diversity. In the last ten to fifteen years, it has undergone a significant change that is worth experiencing. It is the current Barcelona.

The costume changes during performances must make packing difficult.

Pasión Vega and tourism
Pasión Vega and tourism / Pasión Vega photo by viajar.elperiodico.com

I haven't learned to pack small suitcases. I pack huge ones. I put in what I like and then God will say how I transport it. You have to bring your outfits, your hair dryer, your iron, your heels... And you hope a suitcase doesn't get lost because you could end up singing in jeans or a casual dress.

What countries and cities in Latin America do you know?

I was in Buenos Aires (Argentina) a while ago filming a music video, and I also know Mexico City. Both countries have a deep musical knowledge, and the people, in general, are very warm. My father was a great fan of tango and rancheras, which are two important references for me.

I believe you went on vacation to Bali. What memories do you have of that island?

It was a different trip, with my partner, planned for relaxation. The hotel was very beautiful, right by the beach, we visited temples and rice paddies, but I wouldn't want to stay longer than the week we were there. I get tired of lying in the sun. But, well, it's a place for taking photographs, a beautiful island where Hindu, Buddhist, and Muslim cultures blend. An interesting mix.

Do you like to acquire souvenirs from the places you visit?

I try to bring back some decorative item that I can use: a nice vase, a beautiful fabric, or some characteristic prints from the place. I also bring something back for my family, but nothing too typical of the location.

Given that you often stay in hotels, what do you value most about them?

The bed. It's very important that it has a comfortable, soft bed, with white sheets that smell good. I don't want great luxuries, but for me, the mattress is fundamental. And maybe also brightness, some window that opens to the street.

What is your dream trip that is still pending?

There are many places I would like to know, but especially Vienna. I want to walk its streets, go to the theater, to a concert... Vienna intrigues me greatly and seems like a quiet place. I also do not know Prague. As soon as I can, I will sneak away for a few days to Central Europe. These are places that I think: how could I have not known this?

To what extent does contact with other cultures influence your music?

A lot. If you are a true traveler, the journey transforms you, changes you, and improves you. Every place brings you something and enriches you. It helps you grow as a person.

Madrid, Málaga, and Cádiz. What would you recommend from these cities?

From Madrid, although I will be very typical, I love Retiro. It's worth taking a stroll around the area near the Paseo del Prado. From Málaga, besides the city center, I recommend Ronda. I think it's the most beautiful town in Spain; a romantic place, anchored in time. I have visited Ronda many times, but I never tire of it. And from Cádiz, I would recommend Vejer de la Frontera, an outstanding town with narrow little streets, beautiful walls, and a very fun jazz festival in the summer. Although I am from the city, I really like towns, and this one also has the beach very close.