Maybe you can transfer offices:
I have a tough sell for you.
Are you up to the challenge?
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
For our wonderful realtor
Hi Jen,
Maybe you can transfer offices:
I have a tough sell for you.
Are you up to the challenge?
Maybe you can transfer offices:
I have a tough sell for you.
Are you up to the challenge?
The Rummel's do Eastern Ireland
A Rummel and the Liffy
The Rummels having a Pint
Dont look now, a Rummel is getting behind the wheel. God help us now.
Yes, we drank all that:
You cant end this post without a good ol castle. How is this?
The Rummels having a Pint
Dont look now, a Rummel is getting behind the wheel. God help us now.
Yes, we drank all that:
You cant end this post without a good ol castle. How is this?
Joe
You just cant have a blog with out a picture of Joe doing something silly at the Pittsburgh airport.
To my subscribers
For those of you who subscribe, you most likely get an email for every post. When i have a good strong connection, I like to post quick thoughts and pictures in single posts.
The mailing list will send you a copy of the text only post by email. If I make 5 posts, you will get 5 emails. If you would like to set up google groups to send you only 1 email a day of all posts, you can adjust your settings by visiting:
http://groups.google.com/group/hopelessplanner
Log in using your email address and password you setup and select "Edit my Membership".
I hope this helps.
The mailing list will send you a copy of the text only post by email. If I make 5 posts, you will get 5 emails. If you would like to set up google groups to send you only 1 email a day of all posts, you can adjust your settings by visiting:
http://groups.google.com/group/hopelessplanner
Log in using your email address and password you setup and select "Edit my Membership".
I hope this helps.
Monday, May 12, 2008
Thoughts on Ireland
Well, everyone's probably tired of hearing from Mauri, so I thought I would leave a post. The first stop on our trip has been the Emerald Isle, Ireland. Ireland is a very beautiful country, very green, and quite expensive. If you are a novice to traveling, Ireland is a good place to start because it is very similar to the United States in a lot of ways, such as language (they speak English), food (you can find Italian, Chinese, and hamburger joints everywhere), and media (I watched "Friends" and "Everybody Loves Raymond" on TV and listen to the Rolling Stones, John Mayer, and Red Chili Peppers on the radio). Here are some of my thoughts:
Driving: They drive on the left! That sounds like it would be hard to get used to, but it really isn't. You just have to remind yourself to stay left. My biggest problem is getting used to the controls being on opposite sides. For example, when I want to make a turn, I turn on the windshield wipers, when it rains, I turn on the turn signal. But, I am getting used to it. Another thing is that the roads are very narrow and they have ALOT of trucks and buses on them (kind of like Western Pennsylvania)! That can be a little hairy at times. Also, you have to remember on the superhighways in Dublin, traffic is supposed to stay to the left and pass on the right, which is the opposite of the U.S., however, this was not hard to get used because this is the way they drive on the Central Coast in California!
Pubs: The pubs are the center of all social activity. You want Irish food, you go to the pub. (There are not many restaurants that server Irish food). You want to hear traditional Irish music, you go to the pub. You want good beer, you go to the pub. In Ireland, Guiness is a very good beer. I don't like it much in the States, but is very good here. This is because "Guiness does not travel well" as the Irish say. It takes 3 minutes for them to pour it because they pour let it settle, and then finish pouring. The traditional Irish music is very good. It is kind of a mix of folk and country. It definitely will get your feet tapping to the beat. The Irish are proud of their music and are not shy to remind you that U2, Van Morrison, Sinead O'Connor, and Enya are all from Ireland.
History: Mauri and I did a Historical walking tour of Dublin and that was really need. We saw Trinity College, which was set up by the English to educate Protestants in Ireland; the old Irish Parliament building, which is where the Legislature of Ireland would meet in the old days, no Catholics allowed and no law could be passed without permission from London; Dublin Castle, Temple Bar, and plenty of info on Micheal Collins, Daniel O'Connell, the IRA and "The Troubles". "The Troubles" were really ignited by an event called Bloody Sunday, back in the 1970s when British troops gunned down about 30 unarmed Irish Catholics in Northern Ireland. "Sunday Bloody Sunday" by U2 is about that event. Last, they absolutely LOVE John F. Kennedy out here. He visited Ireland as President and the whole country shut down because everyone wanted to see him. He was supposed to stay for 3 days and he ended up staying five.
Well, that's all for now. I will leave another post later, maybe talk about France and D-Day. We'll be there in a few days. Thank God for the internet. It still get to see the Penguin scores. LETS GO PENS! BEAT THOSE FLYER JAGOFFS!
Driving: They drive on the left! That sounds like it would be hard to get used to, but it really isn't. You just have to remind yourself to stay left. My biggest problem is getting used to the controls being on opposite sides. For example, when I want to make a turn, I turn on the windshield wipers, when it rains, I turn on the turn signal. But, I am getting used to it. Another thing is that the roads are very narrow and they have ALOT of trucks and buses on them (kind of like Western Pennsylvania)! That can be a little hairy at times. Also, you have to remember on the superhighways in Dublin, traffic is supposed to stay to the left and pass on the right, which is the opposite of the U.S., however, this was not hard to get used because this is the way they drive on the Central Coast in California!
Pubs: The pubs are the center of all social activity. You want Irish food, you go to the pub. (There are not many restaurants that server Irish food). You want to hear traditional Irish music, you go to the pub. You want good beer, you go to the pub. In Ireland, Guiness is a very good beer. I don't like it much in the States, but is very good here. This is because "Guiness does not travel well" as the Irish say. It takes 3 minutes for them to pour it because they pour let it settle, and then finish pouring. The traditional Irish music is very good. It is kind of a mix of folk and country. It definitely will get your feet tapping to the beat. The Irish are proud of their music and are not shy to remind you that U2, Van Morrison, Sinead O'Connor, and Enya are all from Ireland.
History: Mauri and I did a Historical walking tour of Dublin and that was really need. We saw Trinity College, which was set up by the English to educate Protestants in Ireland; the old Irish Parliament building, which is where the Legislature of Ireland would meet in the old days, no Catholics allowed and no law could be passed without permission from London; Dublin Castle, Temple Bar, and plenty of info on Micheal Collins, Daniel O'Connell, the IRA and "The Troubles". "The Troubles" were really ignited by an event called Bloody Sunday, back in the 1970s when British troops gunned down about 30 unarmed Irish Catholics in Northern Ireland. "Sunday Bloody Sunday" by U2 is about that event. Last, they absolutely LOVE John F. Kennedy out here. He visited Ireland as President and the whole country shut down because everyone wanted to see him. He was supposed to stay for 3 days and he ended up staying five.
Well, that's all for now. I will leave another post later, maybe talk about France and D-Day. We'll be there in a few days. Thank God for the internet. It still get to see the Penguin scores. LETS GO PENS! BEAT THOSE FLYER JAGOFFS!
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Cashel, Dingle
We stayed in a lovely hostel in Cashel that was right across from a ruined Abbey. Of course, Joe and I had to go check it out since it was free. We then saw the famous Rock of Cashel before we drove to Dingle.
Dingle is a fantastic town and we are staying at a very nice B&B with a little scotty dog and a black cat.
Unfortunately, internet access is very far and few between, so there is no internet access yet and therefore no pictures. :(
Dingle is a fantastic town and we are staying at a very nice B&B with a little scotty dog and a black cat.
Unfortunately, internet access is very far and few between, so there is no internet access yet and therefore no pictures. :(
Stay Left
After saying goodbye to Dublin, we rented a car to explore western Ireland. When we found our car, I left Joe sitting in the drivers seat to contemplate the new driver's side while I walked backed into the airport to find a decent road map.
Once we got moving, staying left wasnt that hard. However, every turn we made, the window wipers turned on and Joe cursed about it.
Once we got moving, staying left wasnt that hard. However, every turn we made, the window wipers turned on and Joe cursed about it.
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Into dublin
I always forget how nervous buses make me. I have this undying fear of missing my stop. Once I found an old man who knew about my stop, Joe and I harassed the poor guy until we got there.
Are we there yet? no. Are we there yet? no. Are there yet? no. Here we are. Stop the bus!!!! During my fit of panic, I slammed a poor french lady. I guess I am not representing the US to the best of my abilities.
After a Guiness and a bowl of soup, Joe and I were in bed and sound asleep by 9pm. We sure are party animals. Traveling from 5:30AM on Monday to 7:00 PM on Tuesday will do that to you.
Tonight we are playing tourist and going on a celtic music experience tour. Hopefully, I will have time this evening to post a few pictures.
Are we there yet? no. Are we there yet? no. Are there yet? no. Here we are. Stop the bus!!!! During my fit of panic, I slammed a poor french lady. I guess I am not representing the US to the best of my abilities.
After a Guiness and a bowl of soup, Joe and I were in bed and sound asleep by 9pm. We sure are party animals. Traveling from 5:30AM on Monday to 7:00 PM on Tuesday will do that to you.
Tonight we are playing tourist and going on a celtic music experience tour. Hopefully, I will have time this evening to post a few pictures.
Finally... arrived
London Heathrow is the most amazing airport. I dont say this in a sense of pure beauty or sheer technological power. I say this because of how mind boggling the airport was from the moment I stepped off the plane.
I think they thwart off terrorism by just confusing the hell out of every traveler (good or bad) that enters the airport.
As soon as i walked off the plane, I felt like a rat in the maze looking for the end. They sent us down this hall way, up the stairs, down the escalator, around the rotunda. Without letting any of us escape the walk, they crammed us into a bus to repeat the ups, downs, lefts and rights. I couldn't even tell you where the hell I was. If you told me I was 50 ft underground, I would sure as hell believe it. I finally entered customs where they took my picture, gave me a paper and sent me through security. The underwire of my bra set the security detector ringing and I had a heck of an interesting pat down.
Finally, after getting our tickets for the next flight, they dropped us in the middle of a mall complete with a store called FCUK. We sat there for four hours in a daze due to jet lag. Finally it was time to board. Once again: up, down, left, right. They literally sent us walking through a giant pipe. (not kidding). They took my peice of paper away and I was dropped off in an area with about 10 gates. Once again, if you told me I was now in Guam, I would believe it.
Time to board, but no plane??? They sent us down a narrow spiral stairway that was connected to the skyway and placed us into a bus. The bus went left, right, left, left, under the terminals. Once again, if you told me I was on the moon, I would believe it. Magically, we got let off at a big plane and set off for dublin.
To say the least. It was an interesting adventure.
I think they thwart off terrorism by just confusing the hell out of every traveler (good or bad) that enters the airport.
As soon as i walked off the plane, I felt like a rat in the maze looking for the end. They sent us down this hall way, up the stairs, down the escalator, around the rotunda. Without letting any of us escape the walk, they crammed us into a bus to repeat the ups, downs, lefts and rights. I couldn't even tell you where the hell I was. If you told me I was 50 ft underground, I would sure as hell believe it. I finally entered customs where they took my picture, gave me a paper and sent me through security. The underwire of my bra set the security detector ringing and I had a heck of an interesting pat down.
Finally, after getting our tickets for the next flight, they dropped us in the middle of a mall complete with a store called FCUK. We sat there for four hours in a daze due to jet lag. Finally it was time to board. Once again: up, down, left, right. They literally sent us walking through a giant pipe. (not kidding). They took my peice of paper away and I was dropped off in an area with about 10 gates. Once again, if you told me I was now in Guam, I would believe it.
Time to board, but no plane??? They sent us down a narrow spiral stairway that was connected to the skyway and placed us into a bus. The bus went left, right, left, left, under the terminals. Once again, if you told me I was on the moon, I would believe it. Magically, we got let off at a big plane and set off for dublin.
To say the least. It was an interesting adventure.
Monday, May 5, 2008
Pittsburgh = good times
I thought it was only right to update my blog on the day that I head overseas. Unfortunately, there is not a whole lot to report unless the Pittsburgh International airport gives you goose bumps just thinking about it.
We have been testing our sanity by visiting a variety airports: LAX, PIT, PHL, RDU, PHL and back to Pit. We spent a wonderful weekend in Myrtle Beach (Eat, Sleep, Beach, Pool, Wedding activities, repeat). We should be arriving in Chicago in about an hour or two before we board our trans atlantic flight to London and then on to Dublin.
Once again, not that exciting.
On the plus side, they have a brookstone in the airport. Rock on.. massage chair.
We have been testing our sanity by visiting a variety airports: LAX, PIT, PHL, RDU, PHL and back to Pit. We spent a wonderful weekend in Myrtle Beach (Eat, Sleep, Beach, Pool, Wedding activities, repeat). We should be arriving in Chicago in about an hour or two before we board our trans atlantic flight to London and then on to Dublin.
Once again, not that exciting.
On the plus side, they have a brookstone in the airport. Rock on.. massage chair.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Welcome Back Family and Friends
Our trip begins on the 5th of May. Please stay tuned for future postings of our grand adventure.
For now, please review my random ramblings and my postings from my previous trip to Spain. :) :) :)
For now, please review my random ramblings and my postings from my previous trip to Spain. :) :) :)
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Budgeting for the trip
Keeping a European adventure low is a very difficult task. I have read so many articles concerning long term travel and budgeting and they all have one common piece of advice: stay out of Europe.
I do have to side with with Rick Steves's approach to traveling on a budget: if you want to go to Ireland, then dont try to save a few dollars and go to Thailand. No matter what, make it work.
I have challenged myself to maintain living expenses and then have a side account for fun items such as bike rental, tours and museum entry fees. If I get cheap lodging, I reward myself with a nice dinner and if we are overall under budget, the money gets put aside to offset splurges and more expensive countries.
My goal was 75 dollars a person a day. I thought this was a good bet since Rick Steves prices 100 to include double accommodation split between two, breakfast out, a fancy picnic lunch and a dinner with drink. I figured we could stay in hostels now and then to save some money and cook in sometimes to avoid the restaurant bills. So 75 dollars it is and this was easily attainable in Spain.
I have been watching www.xe.com which shows me the price of the dollar. I regularly punch in the one five "O" to find out what my budget will be in euros. Just to get a feel for how much the dollar has fallen, one hundred fifty dollars on our december spain trip was 106 euros. Now its hovering around 94 euros.
I consider readjusting my budget to 90 dollars a person, but I hold out hope that the dollar will swing up eventually.
I do have to side with with Rick Steves's approach to traveling on a budget: if you want to go to Ireland, then dont try to save a few dollars and go to Thailand. No matter what, make it work.
I have challenged myself to maintain living expenses and then have a side account for fun items such as bike rental, tours and museum entry fees. If I get cheap lodging, I reward myself with a nice dinner and if we are overall under budget, the money gets put aside to offset splurges and more expensive countries.
My goal was 75 dollars a person a day. I thought this was a good bet since Rick Steves prices 100 to include double accommodation split between two, breakfast out, a fancy picnic lunch and a dinner with drink. I figured we could stay in hostels now and then to save some money and cook in sometimes to avoid the restaurant bills. So 75 dollars it is and this was easily attainable in Spain.
I have been watching www.xe.com which shows me the price of the dollar. I regularly punch in the one five "O" to find out what my budget will be in euros. Just to get a feel for how much the dollar has fallen, one hundred fifty dollars on our december spain trip was 106 euros. Now its hovering around 94 euros.
I consider readjusting my budget to 90 dollars a person, but I hold out hope that the dollar will swing up eventually.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Credit Cards and Banks for Travel
I found an excellent list of available credit cards and bank account offers that list foreign transaction fees and atm charges.
An excellent resource for the folks that want to start traveling and want to save a buck or two on ridiculous fees.
flyerguide. wiki
An excellent resource for the folks that want to start traveling and want to save a buck or two on ridiculous fees.
flyerguide. wiki
Last Day of Work : April 25th
The countdown has begun for my mega 3 month trip abroad. My last day of work is April 25th.
Tickets (check)
Rail Pass (check)
Luggage Check (check)
So Mauri, where are you going?
Somewhere in Europe. I wont tell you the countries. My blog is not that interesting. I need something to keep people coming back.
Tickets (check)
Rail Pass (check)
Luggage Check (check)
So Mauri, where are you going?
Somewhere in Europe. I wont tell you the countries. My blog is not that interesting. I need something to keep people coming back.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
A new addition to the family: eee
I just received my new Laptop computer. My other computer immediately decided to work tonight after it saw a decent threat. I purchased the computer for the sole purpose of a simple machine to travel with.
As you can see, the other Rummel was not thrilled with the new addition in my family
I get many comments on how small my current PC is. Well it was not small enough. Ahhhh.... its a family picture
Check out the pen in the pic to see how small it is.
Lastily, my PC had to get the true test for all travelling PC's.
Just over 2 lbs and we have a winner!
As you can see, the other Rummel was not thrilled with the new addition in my family
I get many comments on how small my current PC is. Well it was not small enough. Ahhhh.... its a family picture
Check out the pen in the pic to see how small it is.
Lastily, my PC had to get the true test for all travelling PC's.
Just over 2 lbs and we have a winner!
Monday, February 11, 2008
Introducing my new Email List
Please enter your email address in the mailing list on the right panel to receive a copy of my blog directly to your inbox.
Keep in mind that html posts do not play nice with certain email applications. You may still want to visit the site every once in a while to see pictures and other graphics I may add to my postings.
Keep in mind that html posts do not play nice with certain email applications. You may still want to visit the site every once in a while to see pictures and other graphics I may add to my postings.
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Lessons Learned - Spain
1. Its cold in the winter. I think I will save my winter excursion in the future to the Southern Hemisphere or Hawaii.
2. Hostels are not as bad as everyone thinks they are. They have cheap laundry service, english speaking people who want to meet like minded travelers and free internet (kiosks and wifi). On top of that, it made budgeting so much easier.
Goals for the future:
1. Take more pictures. I wish I would have gotten more pictures of Joe and I together.
2. Add more walking/hiking.
3. Plan more excursions (football game, etc)
As we plan for our big trip, please stay tuned for an occassional blog on the turmoil involved in preparing my life for such a large journey. Other than that, this will be my last blog for a bit that contains trip information from Spain unless I get questions from friends and family that I feel like I should answer.
I will leave you with one final view of Granada.
2. Hostels are not as bad as everyone thinks they are. They have cheap laundry service, english speaking people who want to meet like minded travelers and free internet (kiosks and wifi). On top of that, it made budgeting so much easier.
Goals for the future:
1. Take more pictures. I wish I would have gotten more pictures of Joe and I together.
2. Add more walking/hiking.
3. Plan more excursions (football game, etc)
As we plan for our big trip, please stay tuned for an occassional blog on the turmoil involved in preparing my life for such a large journey. Other than that, this will be my last blog for a bit that contains trip information from Spain unless I get questions from friends and family that I feel like I should answer.
I will leave you with one final view of Granada.
The Alhambra - The Disneyland of Spain
The major attraction in Spain is the Alhambra. The site is so popular and so famous that you need to prebook in advance over the internet and arrange a timed entrance.
The day we went was cold and wet which obviously did not add to the trip.
Even the wild cats in the area were desperate for warmth:
There were three main areas: the actual Alhambra or Palacio which was a moorish Palace; the Albayzin which was a fortress for the Moors and then the Christians; and finally Generalife which are the gardens.
The Alhambra was the bread and butter for the whole day followed by Generalife.
The highlight was the architecture which was of Moorish influence. Every detail was a masterpiece.
By the time we got to Generalife, the rain was really starting to become a nusance. However, the gardens did not seem to mind.
While exploring Spain, I have seen many gardens with each one beautiful in their own way.
I always imagine the rulers and the famous who enjoy them. I would have taken my breakfast and lunch in the gardens every day that I lived in one of thesse beautful palaces.
The day we went was cold and wet which obviously did not add to the trip.
Even the wild cats in the area were desperate for warmth:
There were three main areas: the actual Alhambra or Palacio which was a moorish Palace; the Albayzin which was a fortress for the Moors and then the Christians; and finally Generalife which are the gardens.
The Alhambra was the bread and butter for the whole day followed by Generalife.
The highlight was the architecture which was of Moorish influence. Every detail was a masterpiece.
By the time we got to Generalife, the rain was really starting to become a nusance. However, the gardens did not seem to mind.
While exploring Spain, I have seen many gardens with each one beautiful in their own way.
I always imagine the rulers and the famous who enjoy them. I would have taken my breakfast and lunch in the gardens every day that I lived in one of thesse beautful palaces.
Granada - A spanish town with a different flavor
We were suprised when we arrived at our final destination in Andalucia, Granada.
Granada was the last stronghold of the Moors before the Christian Reconquest. Therefore, it has the rich flavors of the Arabic/Moors culture, like a tea bag left in hot water for longer than most.
Our hostel sat next to the Arabic quarter filled with shops full of spices, textiles, hookahs and ceramic arts. Also in the quarter were a large magnitude of tea shops.
Tea shops serve sweet tea and desserts (usually sweet and sticky). We also recieved complimentry Figs. (interesting)
In all, we spent two days in this place and we could have been happy staying here a week.
Granada was the last stronghold of the Moors before the Christian Reconquest. Therefore, it has the rich flavors of the Arabic/Moors culture, like a tea bag left in hot water for longer than most.
Our hostel sat next to the Arabic quarter filled with shops full of spices, textiles, hookahs and ceramic arts. Also in the quarter were a large magnitude of tea shops.
Tea shops serve sweet tea and desserts (usually sweet and sticky). We also recieved complimentry Figs. (interesting)
In all, we spent two days in this place and we could have been happy staying here a week.
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Back Home safe and sound
We arrived last night by subway, plane, train, bus and car. The trip was magnificant and we are looking forward to our future adventures.
I still have some back logged posts that I will slowly post over the couse of this week. Stay tuned.
Mauri
I still have some back logged posts that I will slowly post over the couse of this week. Stay tuned.
Mauri
Sunday, December 23, 2007
Madrid - This time it's sunny
It was pretty soggy when we were in Granada for two days. This morning under dreary skies, we hopped on a bus for the long ride back to Madrid. Six hours to be exact.
Madrid seems to be in the hustle and bustle of christmas shopping and students entering and leaving the city to return to Mom and Dad for the big christmas feast. If you recall all roads come and go from Madrid.
Today is our last day in Spain. We will be returning home to Philadelphia tomorrow afternoon. The feeling is bittersweet since we are excited to see family and for christmas, but sad to complete our vacation.
Madrid seems to be in the hustle and bustle of christmas shopping and students entering and leaving the city to return to Mom and Dad for the big christmas feast. If you recall all roads come and go from Madrid.
Today is our last day in Spain. We will be returning home to Philadelphia tomorrow afternoon. The feeling is bittersweet since we are excited to see family and for christmas, but sad to complete our vacation.
Friday, December 21, 2007
For Lexi: I found the Perfect Hot Chocolate
The hot chocolate is practically as thick as pudding and pure goodness.
You buy them here with Churros for dipping.
Lexi, our search is over. This is the perfect hot chocolate. All that remains on our to do list is the perfect gravy.
I did not find that in spain.
Our day in Ronda
Ronda was a really neat stop over.
We took a nice hike down the gorge (around back) to see some various angles of the city.
Heading down the trail.
The new bridge! The bridge was completed in the later 1700's. The myth is that the designer of the bridge fell off the top when he leaned over to carve the date on his masterpiece.
After the hike, we walked back up and admired the view from the top.
(That scared the wits from us)
Dont look down.
We took a nice hike down the gorge (around back) to see some various angles of the city.
Heading down the trail.
The new bridge! The bridge was completed in the later 1700's. The myth is that the designer of the bridge fell off the top when he leaned over to carve the date on his masterpiece.
After the hike, we walked back up and admired the view from the top.
(That scared the wits from us)
Dont look down.
Ronda - Spitting off the Top.
Joe is reading a book by Ernest Hemmingway about the Spanish Civil War. In the small town of Ronda, the town people locked the fascist people in the city hall. They then all got drunk in the local tabernero. All the townspeople lined up to beat the crap out of the fascist to their death and then throwing them off the cliff. The last one was a coward and they threw him over kicking and screaming.
..Even the priest took the dive.
Lay over @ Cadiz
A 4 hour lay over in Cadiz really made me wish that we stayed a day or so there instead of moving on to Tarifa so quickly.
Then again, I am not sure that we had time.
Cadiz had beautiful parks.
Here are dorky Joe and Mauri in Cadiz.
Mauri eating a bocadillo.
Joe! Notice the ocean in the background.
Then again, I am not sure that we had time.
Cadiz had beautiful parks.
Here are dorky Joe and Mauri in Cadiz.
Mauri eating a bocadillo.
Joe! Notice the ocean in the background.
ARCOS - Feliz Navidad
I was just kidding about not having internet access. After some tinkering, I finally connected.
While in Arcos we stumbled upon a major christmas festival. It was a nativity scene with live people at various stations.
Nativity scenes are huge in spain and every city (large and small) has at least one. People get so excited about the display that they will stand in line just to see it.
Here is one that we snapped in Jerez.
Arcos was different. The statues were real people and real animals.
Roman Soldiers: Watch out baby jesus
Its not Christmas without a Christmas Donkey
As far as animals go, they had live goats, sheep, donkeys and horses. This really added to the festival.
Mary, Joseph and Baby Jesus: Yes, they used a real baby who was not thrilled about the whole situation.
The last stop was a trip to see the three kings. The three kings day is the major holiday the children look forward. If you recall from your religion classes, the three kings brought gifts to the new Lord Jesus.
If you read a little bit more, the three kings bring game boys, wii's and futbols to little ninos and ninas across spain.
While in Arcos we stumbled upon a major christmas festival. It was a nativity scene with live people at various stations.
Nativity scenes are huge in spain and every city (large and small) has at least one. People get so excited about the display that they will stand in line just to see it.
Here is one that we snapped in Jerez.
Arcos was different. The statues were real people and real animals.
Roman Soldiers: Watch out baby jesus
Its not Christmas without a Christmas Donkey
As far as animals go, they had live goats, sheep, donkeys and horses. This really added to the festival.
Mary, Joseph and Baby Jesus: Yes, they used a real baby who was not thrilled about the whole situation.
The last stop was a trip to see the three kings. The three kings day is the major holiday the children look forward. If you recall from your religion classes, the three kings brought gifts to the new Lord Jesus.
If you read a little bit more, the three kings bring game boys, wii's and futbols to little ninos and ninas across spain.
Granada - Running away from the rain
So far it has not rained on us. We seem to be running ahead of the rain schedule with damaging wind and rain trailing us closely. We saw some news on our last place we stayed: Tarifa. The people there did not look very happy.
We grabbed the 9am train this morning from Ronda. After an uneventful 2 hours, we hopped off the train at our final stop in Andalucia: Granada.
Granada is a world of difference from the other places in Spain. For one, it has a large Moorish (Muslim) influence filled with tea houses, and shops where you can buy scarves, hookah´s, etc. Joe is also in heaven since he covered Kebab in Sevilla. Kebab is like a Gyro. The cuisine is from the turkey region. Its filling a mucho cheapo. There are Kebab´s on every corner.
We are at a backpacker´s hostel for Granada and we have already toured the city to find some nice lookouts of the city below, the Alhambra on the hill and the Sierra Nevada in the horizon. We got some nice photos, but had to move onwards as the pick pocketers started to swirl like vulchers over a dead carcus.
Tomorrow is our last touring day. We have a noon reservation for the Alhambra which will take up our whole day for tomorrow.
Unfortanatly, my laptop has failed to cooroporate and I am once again stuck with a public kiosk. Therefore, no pictures until I return.
With the help of a thumb drive and at the mercy of Joanne and Eric, I should be able to add the pictures to my blog after Christmas.
Until then, I guess you will have to use your imagination.
We grabbed the 9am train this morning from Ronda. After an uneventful 2 hours, we hopped off the train at our final stop in Andalucia: Granada.
Granada is a world of difference from the other places in Spain. For one, it has a large Moorish (Muslim) influence filled with tea houses, and shops where you can buy scarves, hookah´s, etc. Joe is also in heaven since he covered Kebab in Sevilla. Kebab is like a Gyro. The cuisine is from the turkey region. Its filling a mucho cheapo. There are Kebab´s on every corner.
We are at a backpacker´s hostel for Granada and we have already toured the city to find some nice lookouts of the city below, the Alhambra on the hill and the Sierra Nevada in the horizon. We got some nice photos, but had to move onwards as the pick pocketers started to swirl like vulchers over a dead carcus.
Tomorrow is our last touring day. We have a noon reservation for the Alhambra which will take up our whole day for tomorrow.
Unfortanatly, my laptop has failed to cooroporate and I am once again stuck with a public kiosk. Therefore, no pictures until I return.
With the help of a thumb drive and at the mercy of Joanne and Eric, I should be able to add the pictures to my blog after Christmas.
Until then, I guess you will have to use your imagination.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Ronda - BRRRRRRR
We arrived in ronda after a bus ride to Algeciras and a train from there. The wind in Tarifa last night was blowing so hard that is was maddening. The wind is a bit calmer in ronda, but we are freezing.
Unfortanatly, Spain has hit some nasty weather. the forcast: rain, rain, rain and rain. It is also unseasonably cold with snow only 30 km from Madrid. We do not have internet access in Ronda. I am actually at a bar writing this quick blog entry. We expect to arrive in Granada on Friday to visit the Alhambra. Granada is expected to be the coldest place in spain that we will visit. Just in time for a cold spell.
As far as Ronda goes, we walked around town despite the murky weather and we got some very nice pictures of the famous sites in the town. I will leave the description to the pictures when I get a chance to post them in Granada.
Unfortanatly, Spain has hit some nasty weather. the forcast: rain, rain, rain and rain. It is also unseasonably cold with snow only 30 km from Madrid. We do not have internet access in Ronda. I am actually at a bar writing this quick blog entry. We expect to arrive in Granada on Friday to visit the Alhambra. Granada is expected to be the coldest place in spain that we will visit. Just in time for a cold spell.
As far as Ronda goes, we walked around town despite the murky weather and we got some very nice pictures of the famous sites in the town. I will leave the description to the pictures when I get a chance to post them in Granada.
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Next stop - Ronda
After a couple of days in Tarifa which is a little beach town on the southern most tip of Spain, we are heading inland to Ronda.
Unfortunately, posting pictures on the internet is timely and I still am not caught up. I still have Arcos, Cadiz and Tarifa pictures in my camera.
Please stay tuned and let me know if you are enjoying the blog through comments and emails.
Mauri
Unfortunately, posting pictures on the internet is timely and I still am not caught up. I still have Arcos, Cadiz and Tarifa pictures in my camera.
Please stay tuned and let me know if you are enjoying the blog through comments and emails.
Mauri
Patio's: whoever invented them is a genius
Many of our places we have stayed at have either a patio or a terrace. These hang out spots are the best place to unwind after a long day of touring.
The terrace was located on the roof in Arcos.
Joe and his books.
Mauri sleeping.
Who would have thought.
The terrace was located on the roof in Arcos.
Joe and his books.
Mauri sleeping.
Who would have thought.
ARCOS: A room with a view
Arcos is one of Spain's many hill villages. This tiny town is perched on top of a cliff and the houses practically hang over the side.
Because of low season, we got the opportunity to stay in a beautiful pension.
We just couldnt look down.
These pictures were taken from our room.
Because of low season, we got the opportunity to stay in a beautiful pension.
We just couldnt look down.
These pictures were taken from our room.
Monday, December 17, 2007
Porsches on Parade
Thirty Porsches traveling through the little hill town of Arcos with a police escort. I believe the town people were just as amused.
TAPAS
The Spanish people rarely go to one bar to eat and drink the night away. They take their drinks standing up at the many taberneras and accompany their vino, fino or cervesa with a bite or two of food: TAPAS: mini dishes to share around the table.
Tapas is a taste. If you want a larger portion its a racion. They usually run between a euro to three euros depending on the kind of food being served.
Iberian Ham. Very awesome.
Stewed Stuffed Pepper. I forgot to tell Joe about the pepper details. He liked it anyways.
Anchovies w/ Olive Oil and a dab of Gauzpacho (cold tomato soup)
Chorizo - Andalusian style (soaked in Wine). For this dish, it was one step further - Jerez style: soaked in Fino (Sherry). Awesome.
Tapas is a taste. If you want a larger portion its a racion. They usually run between a euro to three euros depending on the kind of food being served.
Iberian Ham. Very awesome.
Stewed Stuffed Pepper. I forgot to tell Joe about the pepper details. He liked it anyways.
Anchovies w/ Olive Oil and a dab of Gauzpacho (cold tomato soup)
Chorizo - Andalusian style (soaked in Wine). For this dish, it was one step further - Jerez style: soaked in Fino (Sherry). Awesome.
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Wonderful Wonderful Arcos
Last night we were surprised with a wonderful Christmas festival. It was a parade, but the people moved instead of the paraders. We were shuffled through the various narrow alleyways of Arcos to several nativity displays. Instead of the normal statues, we were greeted with live people demonstrating the various bible stories that build to Christmas.
The parade was complete with live animals (goats, sheep and donkeys), lots of adults and children dressed up as townspeople of Bethlehem, Roman solders and even a baby played little Jesus. They sang and danced, clapped their hands and shook tamborines. It was fantastic. We then bought freshly roasted chestnuts which i have never had before.
The festivities concluded with all the ninos paying a visit to the three kings to tell them what they wanted for three kings day (around Jan 5th). This is the Spanish version of Santa Clause. I have some nice pictures of that.
This morning we took a walk to the nearby lake and took a small hike below the gorge. I snapped some nice pics of the town while I was at it.
Tomorrow we are making our way to Tarifa which is the most southern tip of Spain. We were going to make a trip to Vejer, but we nixed it from our schedule since we are desperate for some budget living, wiFI and laundry machines.
Talk to you soon!
The parade was complete with live animals (goats, sheep and donkeys), lots of adults and children dressed up as townspeople of Bethlehem, Roman solders and even a baby played little Jesus. They sang and danced, clapped their hands and shook tamborines. It was fantastic. We then bought freshly roasted chestnuts which i have never had before.
The festivities concluded with all the ninos paying a visit to the three kings to tell them what they wanted for three kings day (around Jan 5th). This is the Spanish version of Santa Clause. I have some nice pictures of that.
This morning we took a walk to the nearby lake and took a small hike below the gorge. I snapped some nice pics of the town while I was at it.
Tomorrow we are making our way to Tarifa which is the most southern tip of Spain. We were going to make a trip to Vejer, but we nixed it from our schedule since we are desperate for some budget living, wiFI and laundry machines.
Talk to you soon!
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Arcos for two days of rest
We arrived in Arcos de la Frontera after a ho hum stay in Jerez. We stayed at a simple hostal in Jerez and nearly froze our asses off. We were eager to move on to a smaller city and we also made the decision to spend a bit more here. You will not be disappointed with the pictures from our hotel room. Arcos is a hill town and its city sits on a cliff. Lets just say: if something blows out of our windows, its gone!!!
I will post the pics as soon as I am able to get wifi on my laptop.
In the mean time Joe and I have discovered some cheap eats. We now pack our breakfast in the morning with food from the mercado. We also have discovered bocadillos. The spanish people love Pan (bread) and Jamon (ham). The pan may not be as tasty as France´s baguette, but they make it fresh every day. A bocadillo is a sandwich but they put the Ham on a nice peice of bread or roll. Its cheap, only 1-2 euros.
Another nice food is tortilla. Tortilla is not what we are used for. Its american equivalent is an omelet.
We are off for some tasty menu del dia. We will keep you posted. Expect more pictures in the tuesday time frame. (I hope)
Mauri
I will post the pics as soon as I am able to get wifi on my laptop.
In the mean time Joe and I have discovered some cheap eats. We now pack our breakfast in the morning with food from the mercado. We also have discovered bocadillos. The spanish people love Pan (bread) and Jamon (ham). The pan may not be as tasty as France´s baguette, but they make it fresh every day. A bocadillo is a sandwich but they put the Ham on a nice peice of bread or roll. Its cheap, only 1-2 euros.
Another nice food is tortilla. Tortilla is not what we are used for. Its american equivalent is an omelet.
We are off for some tasty menu del dia. We will keep you posted. Expect more pictures in the tuesday time frame. (I hope)
Mauri
Friday, December 14, 2007
Jerez de la Frontera
Hello. We arrived in Jerez de la Frontera this morning and took a tour of the Andalusian Equestian Arts Center. We got to pet the horses and watch the horses pratice in the ring. We will be tasting some sherry tonight which is Jerez´s claim to fame. We have limited access on the internet. We expect a solid day of internet access in Tarifa. We should be there in a few days.
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Food!
Joe and I have fallen in love with the menu del Dia. The meal is three courses: 1st plate, 2nd plate and desert. The meal also includes bread and a drink (cola, wine or beer). This is a good way to eat alot of food for cheap. We usually are given 2 or 3 choices for each course. During lunch (lunch is between 2 - 5 pm during Siesta) we walk around reading the menus and prices at each eatery which are posted on the window. The best Menu's are written by hand and just tossed on paper then taped to the door.
A menu that is in English (very rare) and/or a menu that is neatly typed is not my type of restaurant.
Here is an example of a menu:
Primero Plato
Calamares con Salsa: This is not the exact name, but basically this was a stew with squid. The word Salsa is equivalent to the word "Stew" in spain. It is not a chip dipper.
Segundo Plato
Albondigas con Tomate y Potatas: Albondigas is meetball and this dish is soaked in a tomato sauce with French fries on the side. No fingers in the potatoes. You eat everything with a knife and fork.
Postre (Desert)
Flan: Pretty damn good.
This meal was only 8.50 Euros which is pretty dang good for a tourist area.
Here is my Primero Plato: It was a tomato based vegetable stew with Egg on top. Awesome!
A menu that is in English (very rare) and/or a menu that is neatly typed is not my type of restaurant.
Here is an example of a menu:
Primero Plato
Calamares con Salsa: This is not the exact name, but basically this was a stew with squid. The word Salsa is equivalent to the word "Stew" in spain. It is not a chip dipper.
Segundo Plato
Albondigas con Tomate y Potatas: Albondigas is meetball and this dish is soaked in a tomato sauce with French fries on the side. No fingers in the potatoes. You eat everything with a knife and fork.
Postre (Desert)
Flan: Pretty damn good.
This meal was only 8.50 Euros which is pretty dang good for a tourist area.
Here is my Primero Plato: It was a tomato based vegetable stew with Egg on top. Awesome!
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