Day started awesome. We got up early had breakfast and then headed to the Picasso Museum. It was so great to see Picasso and his progression from realistic artist to the pieces before his death. Particularly interesting was his work "stealing" Las Meninas. It was very interesting. I've also enjoyed learning that Picasso did several studies before he painted. For some reason I thought painters sat down in front of a canvas and painted masterpieces... Not Picasso. He did 47 studies of the piece before he created his copy.
After the Picasso museum we headed to the beach (we planned ahead and wore our bathing suits to the museum.) It was a bit chilly but we toughed it out... the water was nice (but after Anna went in she discovered jelly fishes everywhere.) I then quizzed Anna about all the stuff I found on the beach. She identified a cuttlefish shell, and shells with holes possibly caused by limpets, and she also correctly identified styrofoam that washed up on the beach. Great day at the beach.
We then headed back to the hotel to shower and the plan was to take the train to the Freixenet winery. But before we left Anna tried to check into her flight and she discovered it was canceled!!! While she tried to reschedule the flight, I went to check my flight in the lobby (so far so good.) Anna rebooked two flights, one tomorrow night and one on Friday. Fingers-crossed she gets the first one. However it took a bit of time so we didn't make it to the Freixenet winery. Instead we headed out and did a cava crawl enjoying the awesome tapas at our favourite place from two nights before.
I hope the night goes well... tomorrow I leave on a flight still scheduled to take off... fingers crossed!
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Monday, September 27, 2010
Waterfront, Paella, Shopping and Opera
After the crazy day yesterday, we decided to head down to the waterfront (we wanted to check out the Picasso museum but it was closed today.) We walked down La Rambla checking out the crazy characters.
When we got to the waterfront we walked along the boardwalk enjoying the water and sea breeze. Then hunger struck by the ocean we though it's about time we check out some Paella. We ordered the "Lazy Man's" fish-only Paella. Lazy Man because all the shellfish were un-shelled. The Paella was AMAZING but rich and filling!!! Very tasty.
We thought we would head to the ocean for some swimming but there was an extra long line to pick up our opera tickets and I thought we would not have enough time.
So we went SHOPPIN'! And I finally got a pair of shoes from Spain! They are grey suede shoes. Awesome! We also picked up some more chocolate!
After shopping we headed back to the hotel to change and get ready for the opera. Carmen was awesome... the lead was not powerful enough in my opinion bit Don José and Micela were breathtakingly amazing! And the sets and costumes were SICK! there was a giant bull and cars that drove, and torches on fire... all I kept thinking was WOW! The set designers actually came out at the curtain call!
Can't believe tomorrow is our last day in Barcelona... what I can't believe more is that the day Anna and I are leaving, Spain's unions are striking for the first time in eight years! The news is reporting that up to 60% of the flights could be canceled! So far both of our flights are okay. Keep you fingers crossed!
When we got to the waterfront we walked along the boardwalk enjoying the water and sea breeze. Then hunger struck by the ocean we though it's about time we check out some Paella. We ordered the "Lazy Man's" fish-only Paella. Lazy Man because all the shellfish were un-shelled. The Paella was AMAZING but rich and filling!!! Very tasty.
We thought we would head to the ocean for some swimming but there was an extra long line to pick up our opera tickets and I thought we would not have enough time.
So we went SHOPPIN'! And I finally got a pair of shoes from Spain! They are grey suede shoes. Awesome! We also picked up some more chocolate!
After shopping we headed back to the hotel to change and get ready for the opera. Carmen was awesome... the lead was not powerful enough in my opinion bit Don José and Micela were breathtakingly amazing! And the sets and costumes were SICK! there was a giant bull and cars that drove, and torches on fire... all I kept thinking was WOW! The set designers actually came out at the curtain call!
Can't believe tomorrow is our last day in Barcelona... what I can't believe more is that the day Anna and I are leaving, Spain's unions are striking for the first time in eight years! The news is reporting that up to 60% of the flights could be canceled! So far both of our flights are okay. Keep you fingers crossed!
Whirlwind Day ending with Fireworks, Part II
After the art museum we headed out on a Gaudí tour. We went straight to La Sagrada Família which is Gaudí's most famous building and he dedicated more than 4 decades of his life to building this beautifully huge church... and it is still not finished. They are expecting to complete it by 2026!
Both sides are so very different... one side is more modern and angular and the other side shows the birth of Christ and is has way more going on... almost drippy candle like.
We then headed to La Pedrera which is an apartment building! It was super pricey to get in so we just took some photos from the outside. It was very interesting and they say there is not one straight line in the whole building (so much for pushing the couch against the wall!)
We then headed down the road to check Casa Batlló. They say Gaudí modeled it out of the patron saint of Catalonia and the roof of the house looks like a dragon and the balconies look like skulls. Very cool! We also checked out a few of the other Modernista buildings down the road.
We met this nice tourist at La Sagrada Família who asked us if we were planning on going to the fireworks. As I mentioned in the previous post, this past weekend was the celebration of the Patron Saint of Barcelona and they have had fireworks Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. We headed down to Plaça Espanya and we were surprised to see the number of people, like thousands packed into the square. Up on the monuments, wall to wall people. The fireworks were amazing! We realized we needed to leave before the fireworks were over (in order to grab the subway back without having to fight with the thousands) but we easily watched 30 minutes of fireworks set to music. By the time we got to the subway entrance the fireworks were over... like 40 minutes of fireworks. It was crazy! Hearts, smiles, stars, it was very impressive!
Both sides are so very different... one side is more modern and angular and the other side shows the birth of Christ and is has way more going on... almost drippy candle like.
We then headed to La Pedrera which is an apartment building! It was super pricey to get in so we just took some photos from the outside. It was very interesting and they say there is not one straight line in the whole building (so much for pushing the couch against the wall!)
We then headed down the road to check Casa Batlló. They say Gaudí modeled it out of the patron saint of Catalonia and the roof of the house looks like a dragon and the balconies look like skulls. Very cool! We also checked out a few of the other Modernista buildings down the road.
We met this nice tourist at La Sagrada Família who asked us if we were planning on going to the fireworks. As I mentioned in the previous post, this past weekend was the celebration of the Patron Saint of Barcelona and they have had fireworks Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. We headed down to Plaça Espanya and we were surprised to see the number of people, like thousands packed into the square. Up on the monuments, wall to wall people. The fireworks were amazing! We realized we needed to leave before the fireworks were over (in order to grab the subway back without having to fight with the thousands) but we easily watched 30 minutes of fireworks set to music. By the time we got to the subway entrance the fireworks were over... like 40 minutes of fireworks. It was crazy! Hearts, smiles, stars, it was very impressive!
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Whirlwind day, ending with Fireworks!
Oh my, we tried to do everything today!!!
We were out the door by 10 am after a not so great breakfast at our hotel (going to be a long one with a breakfast of bread and butter every morning.) Not making it far without a good coffee we stopped at the Starbucks on the corner. Did I mention their "talls" are gigantic here? Serious, I'm calling bigger than a Canadian grande!
Anyways, first thing we were off to the Museo de Xocolate. That's right... the museum of CHOCOLATE! I figured why fight the theme of this vaca! It was an interesting and small museum which explained how chocolate was made and displayed some intricate sculptures made of chocolate. I think the most interesting thing was learning that Barcelona was the entry place for chocolate into Europe. Also the museum ticket was wrapped around a really good chocolate bar!
From the chocolate museum we headed to the cathedral where every Sunday they have
traditional Sardana dances. Usually people can participate but there was a competition going on (probably to coincide with the festival, which we discovered was the festival that celebrates the Patron Saint of Barcelona.) I hate to talk badly about other traditional dancing but after two songs we realized that it is really just people lightly and slowly bobbing up and down while holding hands in a circle. It was like watching those Survivor competitions where people stand on a pole... only they edit that for TV. So we self-edited and headed out.
We made our way to the Museu d'Art Contemporari de Barcelona (MACBA) which in the books claim to house art by a few artists we like i.e. Basquait , Calder, etc. Yeah, no such luck on that one... either they didn't have it or we couldn't find it (not sure... there were no maps provided.) The installations they had were interesting but nothing show stopping... I particularly liked this inset table with attached inset chairs.
This day continues and yes, there are fireworks at the end but a whole day of walking has left me ridiculously exhausted... As Anna says I'm not being graded on or paid for this so it can wait until tomorrow...
We were out the door by 10 am after a not so great breakfast at our hotel (going to be a long one with a breakfast of bread and butter every morning.) Not making it far without a good coffee we stopped at the Starbucks on the corner. Did I mention their "talls" are gigantic here? Serious, I'm calling bigger than a Canadian grande!
Anyways, first thing we were off to the Museo de Xocolate. That's right... the museum of CHOCOLATE! I figured why fight the theme of this vaca! It was an interesting and small museum which explained how chocolate was made and displayed some intricate sculptures made of chocolate. I think the most interesting thing was learning that Barcelona was the entry place for chocolate into Europe. Also the museum ticket was wrapped around a really good chocolate bar!
From the chocolate museum we headed to the cathedral where every Sunday they have
traditional Sardana dances. Usually people can participate but there was a competition going on (probably to coincide with the festival, which we discovered was the festival that celebrates the Patron Saint of Barcelona.) I hate to talk badly about other traditional dancing but after two songs we realized that it is really just people lightly and slowly bobbing up and down while holding hands in a circle. It was like watching those Survivor competitions where people stand on a pole... only they edit that for TV. So we self-edited and headed out.
We made our way to the Museu d'Art Contemporari de Barcelona (MACBA) which in the books claim to house art by a few artists we like i.e. Basquait , Calder, etc. Yeah, no such luck on that one... either they didn't have it or we couldn't find it (not sure... there were no maps provided.) The installations they had were interesting but nothing show stopping... I particularly liked this inset table with attached inset chairs.
This day continues and yes, there are fireworks at the end but a whole day of walking has left me ridiculously exhausted... As Anna says I'm not being graded on or paid for this so it can wait until tomorrow...
Barcelona Arrival
Barcelona is PACKED! We ran into someone in the pub (we went to watch FC Barcelona on the TV) who said that there was a festival here in Barcelona that's why there were so many people. I guess that also explains the bands of drummers dressed as fire and as Anna said "I've never seen so many people, I thought New York was crowded but it has nothing on this."
We got to Barcelona around 6pm and checked into our hotel and set out on a self-guided gourmet and chocolate tour. We starting with the main Market which was very neat. We say butchers, fishmongers, fruit vendors, and LOTS of people! We bought some fruit smoothies, Anna had strawberry banana and I had coconut and wild berries (I think... you point at a picture and go with it!)
We then stopped at a few chocolate places... I'm not sure who designed the tour because so of the shops were not so great :( but we did partake in some very yummy chocolate!
When the shopped closed, we headed for some tapas and found this awesome place where we had bread with tomatoes and olive oil, chorizo stuffed squid, green peppers, grilled eggplant and red pepper, mixed olives, fried eggplant with romesco sauce, salt cod fritters, and lots of cava! Next we walked to the Plaça de Catalunya to check out some live jazz part of a festival. We heard Barcelona was playing so found a local pub that was full of FCB fans and watched them win 3 to 1.
A fabulous end to our first day in Barcelona. We are now heading out for Day 2!
Sorry for the lack of photos... I promise a montage tonight with photos from Alhambra and Barcelona!
We got to Barcelona around 6pm and checked into our hotel and set out on a self-guided gourmet and chocolate tour. We starting with the main Market which was very neat. We say butchers, fishmongers, fruit vendors, and LOTS of people! We bought some fruit smoothies, Anna had strawberry banana and I had coconut and wild berries (I think... you point at a picture and go with it!)
We then stopped at a few chocolate places... I'm not sure who designed the tour because so of the shops were not so great :( but we did partake in some very yummy chocolate!
When the shopped closed, we headed for some tapas and found this awesome place where we had bread with tomatoes and olive oil, chorizo stuffed squid, green peppers, grilled eggplant and red pepper, mixed olives, fried eggplant with romesco sauce, salt cod fritters, and lots of cava! Next we walked to the Plaça de Catalunya to check out some live jazz part of a festival. We heard Barcelona was playing so found a local pub that was full of FCB fans and watched them win 3 to 1.
A fabulous end to our first day in Barcelona. We are now heading out for Day 2!
Sorry for the lack of photos... I promise a montage tonight with photos from Alhambra and Barcelona!
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Adventures in Alhambra
We booked our Alhambra tickets in advance and even then there was limited choices. When we booked we wanted the morning slot of 8:30 am to 2 pm. Within that time slot we had a choice of 8:30, 9:00 and 1:30 for a palace visit. Way back then before the pain of the early morning rise, we went with 9:00.
Considering how hot it was yesterday and the loads of people in line at Alhambra we made an excellent decision!
We decided to walk to Alhambra (where most people seemed to take the Alhambra bus) which was a glorious walk where we got some great pictures of the outside of Alhambra (without a ton of tourists in the background.)
Alhambra was a Moorish fortress until the Catholics triumphed against the Muslims and drove them out of Spain.
The Palacios Nazaries is quite beautiful with beautiful enclosed gardens. Every wall is covered with decorative patterns. They had this beautiful stalactite architecture coming from some of the ceilings. In the Grand Hall of the Ambassadors the Moorish King, Boabdil signed the terms of surrender and left for Africa. In that same year, 1492, Christopher Columbus asked King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella (in this same room) for the money to discover America.
The Alcazaba (old fort) within Alhambra afforded us some amazing views of Alhambra.
Better late than never... here are a few pics!
One thing that never ceases to amaze me when I travel is how I come to appreciate some of the traditions that other countries have. For example, siesta time: from 2pm to 5pm the majority of the shops (except those targeting tourists) close. At first this is frustrating but I have grown to enjoy this forced rest time. I mean sure we could have continued to tour around but a rest period is awesome! Next we grabbed some eats: we ate at this awesome smoothie and sandwich place (Greens and Berries) where the waiter asked me what Pavo was in English (I had a turkey sandwich) and he looked at me odd laughed a little and pointed to the table behind us and said "but those people are from Turkey" and walked away. Anyways, Anna and I stopped and hung out in the hotel enjoying our siesta.
We then set out on a self-guided walking tour from the guide book, seeing where there was once a silk market (now a cheap tourist crap market), the smaller chapel, and the large cathedral. The cathedral was built on top of a mosque that was torn down after the Reconquista and is devoted to Mary. We skipped the cathedral and visited just the chapel which was beautiful and the final resting place for King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella. The chapel had a chest rumored to be the one Queen Isabella filled with jewels to fund Columbus' travels.
In the evening we went out in search of a grocery store which we found in the basement of a department store (a total throw back to Japan for us.) We filled up on cheese, meats (for me), bread, gaspacho and many other things that do not need to be heated up.
On the way back we passed through a market selling candy (like as far as the eye could see), nuts, fruit, and a sugary bread purchased in a pizza box. It was really great to see all the families out buying food and candy for their kids. It was like visiting a real community. And yes, I stopped for candy! It was good candy too!
We are now off for our last leg, to Barcelona! Looks like rain :( but I hold out hope for sunny days!
Considering how hot it was yesterday and the loads of people in line at Alhambra we made an excellent decision!
We decided to walk to Alhambra (where most people seemed to take the Alhambra bus) which was a glorious walk where we got some great pictures of the outside of Alhambra (without a ton of tourists in the background.)
Alhambra was a Moorish fortress until the Catholics triumphed against the Muslims and drove them out of Spain.
The Palacios Nazaries is quite beautiful with beautiful enclosed gardens. Every wall is covered with decorative patterns. They had this beautiful stalactite architecture coming from some of the ceilings. In the Grand Hall of the Ambassadors the Moorish King, Boabdil signed the terms of surrender and left for Africa. In that same year, 1492, Christopher Columbus asked King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella (in this same room) for the money to discover America.
The Alcazaba (old fort) within Alhambra afforded us some amazing views of Alhambra.
Better late than never... here are a few pics!
One thing that never ceases to amaze me when I travel is how I come to appreciate some of the traditions that other countries have. For example, siesta time: from 2pm to 5pm the majority of the shops (except those targeting tourists) close. At first this is frustrating but I have grown to enjoy this forced rest time. I mean sure we could have continued to tour around but a rest period is awesome! Next we grabbed some eats: we ate at this awesome smoothie and sandwich place (Greens and Berries) where the waiter asked me what Pavo was in English (I had a turkey sandwich) and he looked at me odd laughed a little and pointed to the table behind us and said "but those people are from Turkey" and walked away. Anyways, Anna and I stopped and hung out in the hotel enjoying our siesta.
We then set out on a self-guided walking tour from the guide book, seeing where there was once a silk market (now a cheap tourist crap market), the smaller chapel, and the large cathedral. The cathedral was built on top of a mosque that was torn down after the Reconquista and is devoted to Mary. We skipped the cathedral and visited just the chapel which was beautiful and the final resting place for King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella. The chapel had a chest rumored to be the one Queen Isabella filled with jewels to fund Columbus' travels.
In the evening we went out in search of a grocery store which we found in the basement of a department store (a total throw back to Japan for us.) We filled up on cheese, meats (for me), bread, gaspacho and many other things that do not need to be heated up.
On the way back we passed through a market selling candy (like as far as the eye could see), nuts, fruit, and a sugary bread purchased in a pizza box. It was really great to see all the families out buying food and candy for their kids. It was like visiting a real community. And yes, I stopped for candy! It was good candy too!
We are now off for our last leg, to Barcelona! Looks like rain :( but I hold out hope for sunny days!
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Granada - Give him a coin, woman, for there is nothing worse in this life than to be blind in Granada
We've arrived in Granada at what felt like the crack of dawn... better known as 9am. We dumped our luggage at the hotel (no check-in until 2pm) and headed out for shopping.
As luck would have it, there was a chocolate festival in one of the squares. The whole place smelled like fresh chocolate. We tried these tube like chocolate things which tasted like a deconstructed chocolate bar (40% cocoa, raw cane sugar, rice flour and vanilla). The ingredients were together but not totally blended... you could taste the crunch of the raw sugar in the chocolate.
We wandered, going down all the little alleys with shops. There were a few very beautiful cathedrals (from the outside) and squares. All very Moorish. Of course, while shopping I couldn't resist the cutest baby outfit for my soon to be nephew. He will be totally stylin' for sure!
We also found a Thai restaurant! It was so amazing not to have Spanish omelette or crust bread sandwich. Both of which are tasty but an opportunity to have something different could not go by. I had Panang Beef and Anna had Pad Thai (although it had no noodles and was served with rice...) It still was super tasty.
We then headed back to the hotel to check in and relax. Tomorrow we take on on Alhambra fortress, which was the last strong-hold of the Moorish kingdom.
Another early morning... seriously what on earth were we thinking!
As luck would have it, there was a chocolate festival in one of the squares. The whole place smelled like fresh chocolate. We tried these tube like chocolate things which tasted like a deconstructed chocolate bar (40% cocoa, raw cane sugar, rice flour and vanilla). The ingredients were together but not totally blended... you could taste the crunch of the raw sugar in the chocolate.
We wandered, going down all the little alleys with shops. There were a few very beautiful cathedrals (from the outside) and squares. All very Moorish. Of course, while shopping I couldn't resist the cutest baby outfit for my soon to be nephew. He will be totally stylin' for sure!
We also found a Thai restaurant! It was so amazing not to have Spanish omelette or crust bread sandwich. Both of which are tasty but an opportunity to have something different could not go by. I had Panang Beef and Anna had Pad Thai (although it had no noodles and was served with rice...) It still was super tasty.
We then headed back to the hotel to check in and relax. Tomorrow we take on on Alhambra fortress, which was the last strong-hold of the Moorish kingdom.
Another early morning... seriously what on earth were we thinking!
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Tapas Hopping and Off to Granada
Birthday dinner was crazy awesome. We just decided to have a bit at each place (sometimes a drink, sometimes a tapas and sometimes both!) and basically go place to place!
We had sangria, cervaza, and house wine... all very tasty except this very sweet wine which was a bit too sweet. We enjoyed mixed nuts, shrimp on a stick, garlic shrimp (yup, we smell great this morning), potatoes brava (potatoes with spicy sauce) and believe it or not cheesse sticks (and yes, they had two s's) which were pretty good.
It's sadly time to say goodbye to Madrid. A very beautiful town... that will be missed.
A special shout out to our amazing hotel staff. Very friendly... if you stay in Madrid, stay at the Hotel Europa!
Granada here we come!
We had sangria, cervaza, and house wine... all very tasty except this very sweet wine which was a bit too sweet. We enjoyed mixed nuts, shrimp on a stick, garlic shrimp (yup, we smell great this morning), potatoes brava (potatoes with spicy sauce) and believe it or not cheesse sticks (and yes, they had two s's) which were pretty good.
It's sadly time to say goodbye to Madrid. A very beautiful town... that will be missed.
A special shout out to our amazing hotel staff. Very friendly... if you stay in Madrid, stay at the Hotel Europa!
Granada here we come!
Es mi cumpleaños
It's been a bit since my last post... it has been birthday fun all around!
The 21st (the day before my birthday) was a Royal (or Real) Day! We started out by visiting (and actually getting into) the Palacio Real. We sprung the extra 2 euros for the guided tour which was great... you should have seen the coffee room... and a different room for each meal of the day. Must have been nice! About 2o rooms are open to the public (out of 2,000+) and each was more impressive then the next. Frescos and silk covered walls to plaster vines and cherubs melded to the walls. All very very impressive! No pictures allowed inside so you will have to take my word for it. We did get a ton outside of the grounds.
We then popped next door to the Catedral de la Almundena (the Royals didn't have to walk very far!) Which was very pretty. We then headed to check out Plaza de Cibeles which was suppose to have a beautiful fountain... however when we got there it was under construction :(
We then headed back to eat, change, and get ready for the Real Madrid fútbol game. WHOOOOOOOO-HOOOOOOOOOO! Then we realized the game started (that's right STARTED) at 10PM! Can you imagine a SENS game starting at 10pm! Crazy! Well, considering the earliest you can go for dinner is 8:30... 10pm is not insane!
Making our way to the stadium we were pumped and a bit worried... but they know how to put on a game... I can't believe they got 80,000 people in and out in no time! I think it helped that they don't serve beer... not drunkin' fools... well maybe a few pre-drinkers but we didn't see any.
The game rocked seeing 3 goals! Real Madrid won 3 to 0 against Espanyol.
Due to the lateness of the game I was able to celebrate my birthday in the stadium! Super awesome! Catchin' the subway back we were home by 1am!
We got up early this morning to head to Toledo... the 10:20 train was sold out so we took the 12:20 one arriving just before 1pm. We did some shopping. I bought some very very yummy caramels (no worries Mom, I picked up some chocolates and caramels for you!) and a knife (Toledo is know for their knifes and swords.)
They are also know for having over 80 churches for the city. We visited Toledo's Catedral which was very beautiful. I would say probably one of the most beautiful Cathedrals I've been to. The most interesting part is the hole they put in the ceiling (to allow more light for mass) and the added beautiful angels and sculptures leading to the light. It was very impressive. So was the art gallery in the cathedral, including an interesting piece by El Greco who lived in Toledo.
We're back safe and sound from Toledo and I suspect the rest of our day will be relaxing... getting ready for the very early morning flight to Granada (okay the flight is at 8am but when you have breakfast at 9am, lunch at 3pm, and dinner at 9pm... 8am flight is crazy early!)
I can't believe I'm leaving Madrid... I'm going to miss it for sure!
The 21st (the day before my birthday) was a Royal (or Real) Day! We started out by visiting (and actually getting into) the Palacio Real. We sprung the extra 2 euros for the guided tour which was great... you should have seen the coffee room... and a different room for each meal of the day. Must have been nice! About 2o rooms are open to the public (out of 2,000+) and each was more impressive then the next. Frescos and silk covered walls to plaster vines and cherubs melded to the walls. All very very impressive! No pictures allowed inside so you will have to take my word for it. We did get a ton outside of the grounds.
We then popped next door to the Catedral de la Almundena (the Royals didn't have to walk very far!) Which was very pretty. We then headed to check out Plaza de Cibeles which was suppose to have a beautiful fountain... however when we got there it was under construction :(
We then headed back to eat, change, and get ready for the Real Madrid fútbol game. WHOOOOOOOO-HOOOOOOOOOO! Then we realized the game started (that's right STARTED) at 10PM! Can you imagine a SENS game starting at 10pm! Crazy! Well, considering the earliest you can go for dinner is 8:30... 10pm is not insane!
Making our way to the stadium we were pumped and a bit worried... but they know how to put on a game... I can't believe they got 80,000 people in and out in no time! I think it helped that they don't serve beer... not drunkin' fools... well maybe a few pre-drinkers but we didn't see any.
The game rocked seeing 3 goals! Real Madrid won 3 to 0 against Espanyol.
Due to the lateness of the game I was able to celebrate my birthday in the stadium! Super awesome! Catchin' the subway back we were home by 1am!
We got up early this morning to head to Toledo... the 10:20 train was sold out so we took the 12:20 one arriving just before 1pm. We did some shopping. I bought some very very yummy caramels (no worries Mom, I picked up some chocolates and caramels for you!) and a knife (Toledo is know for their knifes and swords.)
They are also know for having over 80 churches for the city. We visited Toledo's Catedral which was very beautiful. I would say probably one of the most beautiful Cathedrals I've been to. The most interesting part is the hole they put in the ceiling (to allow more light for mass) and the added beautiful angels and sculptures leading to the light. It was very impressive. So was the art gallery in the cathedral, including an interesting piece by El Greco who lived in Toledo.
We're back safe and sound from Toledo and I suspect the rest of our day will be relaxing... getting ready for the very early morning flight to Granada (okay the flight is at 8am but when you have breakfast at 9am, lunch at 3pm, and dinner at 9pm... 8am flight is crazy early!)
I can't believe I'm leaving Madrid... I'm going to miss it for sure!
Monday, September 20, 2010
The Epicentre of Goodness
Today was a bit stormy to start so we headed right to the Museo Nacional Centro de Art Reina Sophia, which is a modern art museum but it was retro modern art, most of it coming from early to mid 20th century which was not quite what we were used to but was still very interesting. The room that created the most discussion was the room described as "The lowest common multiple of experience". We never ended up finding it but then wondered if we in fact did find it and it was really "the lowest common multiple of experience."
At dinner we had some in-depth conversation on what really would be the lowest common multiple of experience... (yes, the wine was great with dinner) we decided it would be one of two things: a physical white room with just you in it, or existing as your true self. Word is still out on what would be the "The lowest common multiple of experience"... suggestions?
One of the very cool things about this "older" modern art is that I got to see a lot of Picasso's work and a progression of Salvador Dalí's work. Man, can Dalí do detail... it was scary impressive!
Some of my favs pieces included:
After the museum we did a little shoe shopping, but have been unsuccessful so far... I hold out hope. We have seen some good shoes but nothing awesome enough to buy yet.
We then hopped on the subway to pick up tickets at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. We are going to be joining 80,000 fans cheering for Real Madrid... I have no idea how we are going to find out seats! talk about needle in a haystack! I figure there has to be some learned efficiencies! I can't wait to cheer and really embrace the Spanish Fútbol.
After picking up the tickets we dropped them off in the Hotel safe and headed out to this renowned chocolate shop called - Cacao Sampaka. We went a bit crazy... really it's research for our Christmas chocolates right?! We started with some unusual flavours:
Last full day in Madrid tomorrow... Sad :(
At dinner we had some in-depth conversation on what really would be the lowest common multiple of experience... (yes, the wine was great with dinner) we decided it would be one of two things: a physical white room with just you in it, or existing as your true self. Word is still out on what would be the "The lowest common multiple of experience"... suggestions?
One of the very cool things about this "older" modern art is that I got to see a lot of Picasso's work and a progression of Salvador Dalí's work. Man, can Dalí do detail... it was scary impressive!
Some of my favs pieces included:
After the museum we did a little shoe shopping, but have been unsuccessful so far... I hold out hope. We have seen some good shoes but nothing awesome enough to buy yet.
We then hopped on the subway to pick up tickets at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. We are going to be joining 80,000 fans cheering for Real Madrid... I have no idea how we are going to find out seats! talk about needle in a haystack! I figure there has to be some learned efficiencies! I can't wait to cheer and really embrace the Spanish Fútbol.
After picking up the tickets we dropped them off in the Hotel safe and headed out to this renowned chocolate shop called - Cacao Sampaka. We went a bit crazy... really it's research for our Christmas chocolates right?! We started with some unusual flavours:
- Curry: Very good but really don't see it having wide appeal
- Parmesan Cheese: Good but tastes odd... the salt of the cheese and chocolate was a nice match
- Sesame seed: Very good, the crunch of the sesame seeds were very nice but not much of a sesame taste
- Peppermint: Very good, very standard through, we wanted to make sure we had one chocolate that would not be totally ick!
- Hot and Spicy: Very good but watch out for the kick-back finish. Very curious!
- Peanut: Good, more creamy than peanut... sad because we were expecting P/B cups level
- Coconut: Good, more pina colada... but decent
- Cafe: Very good, but classic
- Caramel: Good, but not super-caramel-ly
- Stolen: OMG! AMAZING! SO AMAZING it was scary! Like apple strudel in a tiny chocolate. We need to figure out how to recreate! More research required!
Last full day in Madrid tomorrow... Sad :(
Sunday, September 19, 2010
I'm in love with the Flamenco
Another FAB day in Madrid!
We started the day by heading to Palacio Real but the line was unreal and with the thought of a long wait in line we decided to save it for another day.
We then headed to the Museo Sorella who was one of our favourite painters from the Prado. This beautiful collection of stunning paintings are housed in the original house where he and his family lived.
This was my fav piece:
What else to do with a Sunday afternoon... we decided to head to the Parque del Retiro. We were not the only ones; families made it very lively and it really is a beautiful park with a lake in the middle. We got some snacks and headed to a comfy grassy spot to enjoy the warm sunny weather (in the shade!)
After catching a quick siesta we headed back to hotel and I had a long nap! We hit the awesome veggie buffet for dinner which was very tasty.
While I was sleeping, Anna discovered a awesome bar (Sala Juglar) that for 10 euros we could get a drink and see a Flamenco Show. I was not prepared for its awesomeness! The dancers were so powerful and inspirational. These are the dancers:
The video is awesome but sadly, I tried to upload a couple of the videos but either the hotel or blogger would have none of it :(
Today we are off to the Centre de Arte Reina Sofia and a second attempt at Palacio Real.
We started the day by heading to Palacio Real but the line was unreal and with the thought of a long wait in line we decided to save it for another day.
We then headed to the Museo Sorella who was one of our favourite painters from the Prado. This beautiful collection of stunning paintings are housed in the original house where he and his family lived.
This was my fav piece:
What else to do with a Sunday afternoon... we decided to head to the Parque del Retiro. We were not the only ones; families made it very lively and it really is a beautiful park with a lake in the middle. We got some snacks and headed to a comfy grassy spot to enjoy the warm sunny weather (in the shade!)
After catching a quick siesta we headed back to hotel and I had a long nap! We hit the awesome veggie buffet for dinner which was very tasty.
While I was sleeping, Anna discovered a awesome bar (Sala Juglar) that for 10 euros we could get a drink and see a Flamenco Show. I was not prepared for its awesomeness! The dancers were so powerful and inspirational. These are the dancers:
The video is awesome but sadly, I tried to upload a couple of the videos but either the hotel or blogger would have none of it :(
Today we are off to the Centre de Arte Reina Sofia and a second attempt at Palacio Real.
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Day Three - Prado
Another fabulous day! Madrid is fantastic... a comfortable city.
We slept in again :) leaving the hotel at 11am walking through the town to the Prado. We stopped for some Spanish Omelettes and coffee. The Spanish Omelette is an omelette with potato! Very tasty!
The Prado was amazing!
So many beautiful paintings, sadly they are strict about no photos even without a flash. Hoping the gift shop would have some awesome photos / postcards we were sadly disappointed that none of our favourite paintings were available. I guess you will just need to be go!
One of my absolute favs was:
We then shopped our way back to the hotel. I stopped to get outfitted in some Real Madrid gear... I'm completely set! I also got some fab leather accessories (better than it sounds!) but still no new shoes yet :( I still have hope!
We stopped for a late lunch which were slices of bread, we got one with calamari, another with leeks and brie and the last with roasted veggies and mozzarella. We washed it all down with glasses of cava (Spanish sparking wine) It was heavenly.
We are now off to get some curros with hot chocolate. Can't wait!
P.s. I hope to include a few more photos next time :)
We slept in again :) leaving the hotel at 11am walking through the town to the Prado. We stopped for some Spanish Omelettes and coffee. The Spanish Omelette is an omelette with potato! Very tasty!
The Prado was amazing!
So many beautiful paintings, sadly they are strict about no photos even without a flash. Hoping the gift shop would have some awesome photos / postcards we were sadly disappointed that none of our favourite paintings were available. I guess you will just need to be go!
One of my absolute favs was:
We then shopped our way back to the hotel. I stopped to get outfitted in some Real Madrid gear... I'm completely set! I also got some fab leather accessories (better than it sounds!) but still no new shoes yet :( I still have hope!
We stopped for a late lunch which were slices of bread, we got one with calamari, another with leeks and brie and the last with roasted veggies and mozzarella. We washed it all down with glasses of cava (Spanish sparking wine) It was heavenly.
We are now off to get some curros with hot chocolate. Can't wait!
P.s. I hope to include a few more photos next time :)
Friday, September 17, 2010
Yes, Oui, Sì
I arrived in Barcelona exhausted! But thought going into town was too good to resist. I checked out the harbour and the market, having a yummy shake made with fresh fruit. The only downer was that I was literally falling asleep standing up... Not wanting to fall asleep on a bench in Barcelona (hello danger!) I hopped on the bus to bring me back to the airport. I was able to catch an hour sleep in the airport but I was hurtin´ not having slept in nearly 30 hours!
But the night got AWESOME! I jumped on the plane to Madrid and arrived in what so far seems to be paradise! I arrived, headed to Terminal 4 to meet Anna coming in from Copenhagen and then we caught the Metro into downtown Madrid. It was so great to be with my BFF again!!!
We found our hotel 2 steps (literally) from the metro stop next to a giant open air market. We settled into our awesome hotel (with a bathtub!!!) and headed out to explore stopping first at the ice cream place right across from the hotel (seriously best hotel EVER!) Picking up a yummy thin crust pizza to eat in our room on the way back.
I promptly passed out from exhaustion. And slept in to 11am! YES!
We headed on a self-guided city tour (yeah Anna!) and ate breakfast / lunch at a yummy pastry place! Coffee is FAB!!! We then toured around seeing some government offices (yeah... I could work there... our diggs are so disappointing in comparison!) and the cathedral and palace (we will visit the insides later on...) We then visited a converted market for some tapas and some Cava (Spanish sparkling wine... so yummy!)
Then it was off to see if we could get Real Madrid tickets! Fingers crossed we talked with this awesomely helpful ticket guy who suggested we try buying online... but ONLY from RealMadrid.com. Heading right back to the hotel (they have free internet in the lobby) we consulted the hotel front desk and the told us to stay away from a few sections (we did not want to be mixin´ with the drunk hooligans!) and then we narrowed it down and bought the only two tickets we could find together! HOLY CRAP we are seeing REAL MADRID LIVE!!! And the seats are decent... third level center!
I SO LOOOOVVVEEE MADRID!
But the night got AWESOME! I jumped on the plane to Madrid and arrived in what so far seems to be paradise! I arrived, headed to Terminal 4 to meet Anna coming in from Copenhagen and then we caught the Metro into downtown Madrid. It was so great to be with my BFF again!!!
We found our hotel 2 steps (literally) from the metro stop next to a giant open air market. We settled into our awesome hotel (with a bathtub!!!) and headed out to explore stopping first at the ice cream place right across from the hotel (seriously best hotel EVER!) Picking up a yummy thin crust pizza to eat in our room on the way back.
I promptly passed out from exhaustion. And slept in to 11am! YES!
We headed on a self-guided city tour (yeah Anna!) and ate breakfast / lunch at a yummy pastry place! Coffee is FAB!!! We then toured around seeing some government offices (yeah... I could work there... our diggs are so disappointing in comparison!) and the cathedral and palace (we will visit the insides later on...) We then visited a converted market for some tapas and some Cava (Spanish sparkling wine... so yummy!)
Then it was off to see if we could get Real Madrid tickets! Fingers crossed we talked with this awesomely helpful ticket guy who suggested we try buying online... but ONLY from RealMadrid.com. Heading right back to the hotel (they have free internet in the lobby) we consulted the hotel front desk and the told us to stay away from a few sections (we did not want to be mixin´ with the drunk hooligans!) and then we narrowed it down and bought the only two tickets we could find together! HOLY CRAP we are seeing REAL MADRID LIVE!!! And the seats are decent... third level center!
I SO LOOOOVVVEEE MADRID!
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Hangin' at the Airport!
Spain is so close I can taste it! Although right now it tastes mostly like the yummy beer and burger served at the airport D'arcy McGees. It has become at bit of a tradition before I leave for my trip... Only this time I'm going to MTL first instead of straight to Europe! Just a little anticlimactic...
Although firmly set on leaving my iPhone at home... When it came time to leave it behind I just couldn't do it! Not that I will be reachable by phone or would even consider using the crazy pricy euro data plans... Just being without music, my apps, and the possibility of wifi... Not even sure why I would consider going without it!!!
Adventure start T minus 1 hour 30 min!
Although firmly set on leaving my iPhone at home... When it came time to leave it behind I just couldn't do it! Not that I will be reachable by phone or would even consider using the crazy pricy euro data plans... Just being without music, my apps, and the possibility of wifi... Not even sure why I would consider going without it!!!
Adventure start T minus 1 hour 30 min!
Friday, August 6, 2010
Set for Spain!
Euro Trip 2010 is set! Spain here I come!
40 days and counting, check out the itinerary:
Cool things we are planning include:
Real Madrid Football Game (fingers crossed we can get tickets!)
Alhambra
Carmen at Gran Teatre de Liceu (Barcelona Opera House)
Can't wait!!!
40 days and counting, check out the itinerary:
Cool things we are planning include:
Can't wait!!!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
