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Planning a trip to Egypt? Here’s my 17-point guide to Cairo, Aswan, Luxor and more

When you hear the word Egypt, the pyramids of Giza are the first thing that come to mind. But there is so much more to the country than those triangular-shaped landmarks. If you’re planning a trip to that corner of the world, use one or more of these 17 activity suggestions to help build your vacation itinerary.

1. Stroll the busy streets of Cairo. There are always tons of things going on. Absorb the sights and sounds and take it all in. 

2. Go shopping at Khan al Kalilli, Egypt’s colorful and most talked about souk (market). There are no price tags anywhere. The key to a great purchase is to pretend you really don’t like what you’re hoping to buy. Waste at least 20 minutes asking about something else, check for different colors and sizes where applicable then nonchalantly zero in on your true subject. The scarves and the papyrus paintings are great finds. Market stall at the Khan al Kalilli, Egypt

3. Watch a dizzying performance of the Sufi Dancers, a traditional folk dance involving multiple spins. The term Sufi is derived from the Arabic word that means ‘to dress in wool’. Sufi Dancers, Egypt

4. Visit the famous pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, the guardian on the tomb. For a little extra you can go inside the Little Pyramid to see the burial chamber of a pharaoh. Warning: The passage is narrow and slopes down for quite a bit so expect it to be hot and a tad claustrophobic. At night, you can watch their Light and Sound Show. The pyramids of Giza, Ehypt

5. Gorge yourself at a roadside eatery. The food is good! I recommend a chicken or beef shawarma, a typical Middle Eastern fast-food snack.

Image source: Travel Channel.com
Image source: Travel Channel.com

6. Devote a couple hours to the Egyptian Antiquities Museum, a place that houses many artifacts and national treasures. The exhibits were numerous, with the ostentatious possessions from Tutankhamen tomb’s taking center stage. the Egyptian Antiquities Museum

7. Get outside of Cairo and visit other regions like the charming seaside town of Aswan. A winter favorite for many tourists, Aswan boasts snore-conducive sailboats and lively floating restaurants that dot the watery channel. The Nubians are darker in hue than their Cairo counterparts so I felt quite at home. I got called “cousin” wherever I went. Aswan, Egypt

8. Sail in a felucca down the River Nile and somewhere along the way, stop at the Nubian Village and take a swim. Sailing on the River Nile, Egypt

8. Hike up a sand dune. Sand dune in Egypt

10. Ride a camel through the desert at sunset. Camel ride in the Egyptian dessert

11. Plan a day trip to see Abu Simbel, the great temples of Ramesses II. There are two sites, one for Ramesses II and a smaller temple built in honor of Nefertari, his wife. What makes this symbol of ancient Egyptian history even more fascinating is the fact that the site had to be dismantled and relocated in the 1960s to protect the temples from rising waters during the construction of the High Aswan Dam. You just gotta see it to believe it! Abu Simbel, the great temples of Ramesses II, Egypt

12. Walk through the Philae Temple, a gift to the Egyptians from the Greek built for the goddess Isis. Philae Temple, Egypt

13. Learn the art of making cane juice in a local market. Making sugar cane juice in Egypt

14. Head to Luxor to see the Karnak Temple, the largest known temple complex ever built by man. It’s made up of three main sections: Mott, Montu and Amun and it is believed to have been built and enlarged over a 1,300 year period.Karnak Temple, Egypt

15. Stop for photo ops at the Colossi of Memnon, two 75 feet/23 meters high statues of Amenhotep III that guarded a mortuary temple in Thebes. The temple is no longer there, but the giant statues give a glimpse into its majestic past. Colossi of Memnon statues in Egypt

16. Purchase tickets to tour the Valley of the Kings. The rulers from the 18th -20th Dynasty built their tombs in Thebes and instead of using the pyramid shape, they cut directly into limestone rock. There are 64 discovered tombs in the valley, but only some stay open for rotational viewing. Tutankhamen’s is perhaps the most famous as it was the only one found with everything intact. I didn’t go in as that was an extra cost and I had seen all the treasures at the Museum of Antiquities anyway. Valley of the Kings in Egypt

17. Try some Turkish coffee and smoke a shisha pipe with flavored tobacco if that’s your sort of thing.

Image Source: theguardian.com
Image Source: theguardian.com

And that’s a wrap!

Climbing the Great Wall of China: 6 things to know before you go

Prepared to be awed at the sight of China’s Great Wall. It’s not one of those much talked about attractions that actually underwhelms you when you see it. Quite the opposite, this expansive piece of construction – presumably the result of mostly manual labor –   lives up to its impressive reputation and surprises you with even more. More grandeur. More wonder. More jaw-dropping views.

Section of Great Wall of China

If it’s on your bucket list, there are some key things to know before you go. See my list below.

Its history

The Great Wall was built across the northern border of China to protect its people against raids and invasion. At various times, it also was used for border control where duties were imposed on goods being transported by Silk Road merchants. Although it never truly prevented invaders, the wall acted more as a psychological divider between Chinese civilization and the world, creating a mystique around Asian culture, and an albeit grudging respect for their strength and autonomy. Much of that still exists today.

The Asian Culture, history and heritage remains symbolic and powerful yet serene
The Asian Culture, history and heritage remains symbolic and powerful yet serene

Best section to visit

With more than 13,000 miles of historical monument to choose from, there are several sections that can be visited. Where you go depends on how much time you have, the vistas you prefer and your tolerance for crowds. Badaling, the section closest to Beijing, is the most popular. It is the most renovated area and it has facilities like guardrails and cable cars that make it easier to climb. The downside is the hordes of tourists thrown together with the occasional pickpocket and the ever-present souvenir hawkers.

Another section where you see the wall stretching for miles
Another section where you see the wall stretching for miles

Mutianyu is the second most preserved section. It has less foot traffic and it is steeper. Simatai, the most perilous and dense area, appeals to the adventurers and Jinshanling gets a lot of avid hikers as it is completely un-restored. Other options include Jiankou and Gubeikou.

Caution: Wherever you go, please watch your footing! Undeveloped sections are insecure and in some cases damaged, so you could easily hurt yourself if you are not careful.

Best time to go

If you choose to visit Badaling, try to get there early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the bus loads of people. An added bonus to going at those two times is that you also get better light for your photos.

Hello, Hello!
Hello, Hello!

The scenery and temperatures change with the seasons so in terms of weather, the best times of year to visit are spring and autumn. Then, it is sunny but there is no blistering summer heat. Think May, September or early October. During June to August, tourist season is in full swing. I went in March and it was COLD. I only learned later that ‘November to April is always bitterly cold with biting winds’.

The sparse winter scenery at the Great Wall (March)
The sparse winter scenery at the Great Wall (March)

What to wear

To get the true experience of the wonder that is the Great Wall, you should spend between two to three hours exploring this great engineering feat. It will be a strenuous walk as you traverse main staircases and passageways or observe watch towers and garrison stations, so you’ll need comfortable shoes.

That's the stance of someone happily thinking, "I came, I saw and I conquered THE Great Wall".
That’s the stance of someone happily thinking, “I came, I saw and I conquered THE Great Wall”.

Ladies, no open-toed sandals, wedges or heels will do. Guys, I recommend loose trousers rather than denim because denim will cling to you after perspiration sets in. Let’s not dress this up too much, you WILL be sweaty and out of breath after a few steep climbs. And I say sneakers for everybody!

Some months it can get quite windy due to the high altitudes so a scarf or light sweater may prove useful. At other times, an umbrella would be nice too. In the summer, have moisturizer handy to help protect your skin.

What to bring

If you can deal with the weight of a backpack, take your own snacks and water. However, if you’d rather stay light on your feet, food and drink will be available for sale in Badaling. Just know it will be pricey. Plus, western-styled food is hard to come by. As far as I know, there is nothing for sale in any other section.

Member of my tour group. We represented Australia, Canada, USA, UK and Jamaica!
Members of my tour group. We represented Australia, Canada, USA, UK and Jamaica!

Important note: While it’s important to stay hydrated, please temper your water intake if you have to go for regular bathroom breaks when you drink a lot. There are no pit stops along the way. The bathrooms are near to the ticket office and entrance.

Best way down

You can walk down, take a cable car or get into a toboggan. I chose the latter and the meandering downhill slide was a whole lotta fun!

Cable cars that help you to go up or down
Cable cars that help you to go up or down

VIDEO POST: Grace Bay Beach, Turks and Caicos

Consistently ranked high by TripAdvisor users worldwide, Grace Bay Beach in Turks and Caicos is 12 miles of powder-soft sand and calming surf. It’s never crowded and the beach chairs are ample and comfy, plus the clarity of the water and cool Caribbean breezes are sure to take your breath away!

A section of Grace Bay Beach in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos
A section of Grace Bay Beach in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos

The fact that you can walk along the shoreline and stop to dine at many great beachfront restaurants is an added bonus.

This is what it looks like, even after a rainy night.

VIDEO POST: The origins of calypso music in Trinidad & Tobago

Today, high atop a fortified hill steeped in history and bordered by panoramic views, I had the pleasure of learning a little bit more about the origins of Calypso music in Trinidad and Tobago. Those of us who love to travel understand how customs, music and food can help define a culture.  But no one appreciates how much those distinctions shape a country’s identity more so than a local.

One of the many colorful costumes available in Trinidad during Carnival - the time of the year calypso is played the most. (Image source: looptt.com)
One of the many colorful costumes available in Trinidad during Carnival – the time of the year calypso is played the most. (Image source: looptt.com)

Here is the abridged story of how calypso music – the energetic and signature beats of this dual island nation – originated.  It is told by Andrew Welch, the managing director at Banwari Experience Limited, a destination management company that provides customized tours and other tourism services in Trinidad and Tobago.

Take a listen, nah.

and he sang a bit for me too….

Anybody else needs deep cleansing shampoo? Send me your order because I am heading to the pharmacy now. (smile)

Home sweet home…Jamaica!

I’m thankful I’ve been lucky enough to have ridden a camel in the Egyptian desert; toured castles and palaces in Europe and China; gone on safari in South Africa, had drinks in the 7-star Burj Al Arab in Dubai; watched a football (soccer) match in Brazil and more. BUT none of those experiences trump the feeling I get when I go home. Every single time I go back, I find something new to appreciate about my little land of wood and water.

That’s because, to me, there’s no other place on earth where…

The food, like home-cooked salt fish fritters and a cup of bush tea or hot milo is as delicious and as filling.

Saltfish fritters masterfully prepared by one of the greatest home cooks in my family, my aunt.
Saltfish fritters masterfully prepared by one of the greatest home cooks in my family, my aunt.

The road side stops with random vendor interactions are as entertaining. Or where the fruit stall purchases are as fresh and as satisfying.

Sell me a coconut water and a whole pineapple, please
Sell me a coconut water and a whole pineapple, please

The natural landscapes are so lush and breathtaking.

One of the many waterfalls at Shaw Park Gardens in Ocho Rios
One of the many waterfalls at Shaw Park Gardens in Ocho Rios. St. Ann

The wildlife is as colorful. 

Friendly birds in the aviary at Turtle River Falls and Gardens in Ocho Rios, St. Ann
Friendly birds in the aviary at Turtle River Falls and Gardens in Ocho Rios, St. Ann

The history of the country is as relatable and as poignant

The view from Seville Great House in St. Anns Bay
The view from Seville Great House in St. Anns Bay

The early morning ocean sprays and the warm water are as refreshing and enticing.

Early Morning beach stroll at Jewels Dunn's River Resort and Spa
Early Morning beach stroll at Jewels Dunn’s River Resort and Spa

And for all those reasons and more, I am proud to call that place HOME.

The colors of the Jamaican flag symbolize the story of my people. Burdens and hardships there may be, but we have hope and the sun still shines
The colors of the Jamaican flag symbolize the story of my people. Burdens and hardships there may be, but we have hope and the sun still shines.

Yes parri, JAMAICA nice yuh know!

________

Editor’s Notes:

In case you’ve wondered about it, the  yellow in the Jamaican flag represents our sunshine and natural resources; the black, the burdens borne by the people;  and the green stands for agriculture and hope for the future.

My mad dash through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Until last week, I wouldn’t believe it if you told me one day I’d find myself running through an airport like a crazy woman with just 40 minutes left before my flight was scheduled to depart. Okay, let me be honest. Sometimes I run a little late but oh my goodness, I’d never ever been THAT late.

A snapshot of the Atlanta skyline
A snapshot of the dramatic Atlanta skyline

Please note, I didn’t say 40 minutes before the flight closed or 40 minutes before boarding. I said – and meant – 40 minutes before take-off! While you’re working out the logistics in your head, do me a favor, will you? Please try to figure out how you’d manage to accomplish that feat in Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International – the world’s busiest airport.

Stumped? I’d be too, if it didn’t miraculously work out for me. I was in Atlanta for business and my luncheon and final meeting ran longer than anticipated. So, by the time my colleague and I got off the highway and onto the airport exit, our watches said “oh, no” while our frantic minds were saying, “you better press the gas and go”.

Standing outside one of the major nerve centers of World News, the CNN Center
Standing outside the venue of my last meeting and one of the major nerve centers of world news – the CNN Center

Sounds incredible, right? Let me reenact it for you..

3:20 p.m.             Pull up to the car rental return area, hand over the keys and as there’s simply no time to wait, you ask for the receipt to be sent via email.  Grab your luggage from the trunk and simultaneously ask the attendant to point you in the direction of the terminal building.

3:25 p.m.             Climb, not stand patiently, on the escalators to the SkyTrain that will take you to the main processing area. Respectfully ask the persons ahead of you to move to the right in order to give you space to ascend –  quickly!

3:27 p.m.             Ladies, forget about business attire and its accompanying proprieties because subconsciously you know this dash is not going to happen with heels on. So while the train is still moving, open your carry-on and switch the fancy shoes for flip-fops. Make sure you do it with some ‘I know what I am doing’ aplomb and don’t miss a beat when the well-dressed guy standing next to you jovially asks if he can change his shoes too. Just incline your head and smile sweetly while you point to his two-toned wingtips and remind him he’s not the one wearing heels.  You, on the other hand, need to go low as you’re getting ready for a race against the clock that would make Jamaican Olympian sprint queen Shelly-Ann Fraser proud.

Work shoes were not made for running through busy airports
Note to self: work shoes were not made for running through busy airports

3:33 p.m.             Haul your bag and lost pride down the next set of escalators in close pursuit of your colleague who you told to go ahead because he was familiar with the layout.  In an airport that serves 225 domestic and international destinations combined, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to realize it will be easier to follow his profile than try to read a gazillion signs. But just before you round the bend, pause to lock eyes with the guy who is still checking you out and tell him to wish you luck. He does so with a nod and a smile and PRONTO – that adds a little more pep in your, let’s be quite frank about this, less than graceful step!

3: 35 p.m.            Thank your lucky stars for the wisdom of online check-in as it gets you to where you need to be in about two minutes flat. But then you see the queue ahead of you and stop abruptly. You look down at your watch and look back at the line quizzically. In between wondering how to get into a fast track lane you’re mentally calculating exactly how many of the average 250,000 passengers a day that pass through this airport are standing between you and your gate right now. 

Lengthy queues at Hartsfield-Jackson International (Image source: Atlanta Journal Constitution)
Lengthy queues at Hartsfield-Jackson International (Image source: Atlanta Journal Constitution)

3: 37 p.m.            A glance at your watch underscores that the time for shyness and political correctness is long gone, so you rely on your Caribbean go-getter instincts and ask the attendant in the Delta Priority line to let you through.  She explains she is not supposed to do that and she also feels the need to let you know your chances of making your flight are slim to none because even after this checkpoint, you have another train to catch. You politely tell her you are aware of that but you’d appreciate it if she could still try.

3:41 p.m.             The attendant moves off to speak with some other colleagues while the clock keeps ticking. She eventually saunters back and motions for you join her line which is significantly shorter but still has quite a few people in it. Then, the other agent who greets you at the top tells you he can’t put you ahead of the persons at the front of the line. There’s no room for shame in your game at that point so without skipping a beat, you make eye contact with middle-aged gentleman and explain your dilemma to him and anyone within ear shot who will listen. He acquiesces and thankfully, the people ahead of him allow you to move ahead of them too.

Atlanta SkyTrain Image source: Wikipedia)
Atlanta SkyTrain Image source: Wikipedia)

3:45 p.m.             Go into full throttle sprint mode to catch the other train that will get you to the departure gate. Try not to erupt in nervous giggles when you glance behind you and see your colleague “bussing it” in full jacket and tie, with his shoe laces still undone because he didn’t have time to red-do them after the security check.

3: 51 p.m.            Approach the gate, greet the agent and swipe your mobile bar code as directed. With very little breath left, you simply nod in agreement when she says you’ll have to check your bag at the gateway.

3:52 p.m.             Leave your bag, as directed.

3:54 p.m.             Enter the plane and go directly to the restroom to assess the full level of your dishevelment.

3:55 p.m.             Find your seat and sit down right as they announce the door is closing. Expect your chest to be heaving, your heart to be racing and your body to be lightly covered in sweat. Finally, let out that breath you’ve been holding, then lean back in your chair, secure your seatbelt and close your eyes.

You did it!

Thanking the Lord for my trusted flip-flops while the two guys next two must have been wondering, what's up with this woman?
Thanking the Lord for my trusted flip-flops while the two guys next to me must have been rolling their eyes and wondering, what’s her story?”

_____

 

Sailing the River Nile on a felucca

One of my most treasured memories of Egypt was the time I spent leisurely sailing the River Nile on a simple wooden boat that the locals call a felucca. My tour group and I boarded the fuss-free vessel in Aswan, an unimposing market town that doubles as Egypt’s southern gateway to Africa.

feluccas on the River NIle
Feluccas on the River NIle

Buoyed by gentle winds and a natural motion that was blissfully free of disruptive motor-fuelled noises, the trip was cathartic because we took our time to enjoy the journey, not just the destination.

Beautiful sails of the felucca
Beautiful sails of the felucca

We got to stretch out on deck and listen to, not just reflexively hear, the gentle lapping of the water as it rocked against the side of the traditional vessel. Without any pretense, I can honestly say the one-of-kind experience was a soothing balm for my body and soul.

We played cards.

A relaxing game of cards in play along the River Nile
A relaxing game of cards in play along the River Nile

Some people absorbed the changing scenery around us..

Interesting building on the bank of the NIle
Interesting building on the bank of the Nile

Others napped.

Sleep time; one of my favorite activities. LOL.
Sleep time; one of my favorite activities. LOL.

Our napping tour guide, Clearly, he had seen it all before.
Our napping tour guide, Clearly, he had seen it all before!

 

Wise man from the Nubian village
Wise man from the Nubian village

 

 

A few listened keenly to the wise old man from the Nubian village named Hamdi, who shared his knowledge of the area’s unique history and culture in hushed and measured tones. .

And collectively, in awed unison, we watched a magnificent sunset just before we closed our eyes and spent a peaceful night under the stars.

Yes, it got chilly. And no, there was no plumbing, Wi-Fi or convenient power outlets. But the surge of feel-good juice that shot through my system while I rested under the white-sailed canopy that was designed to provide shade and protection from the elements was even more electrifying. Because it felt just right.

Unequivocally, less can be more.

Sunset forming an impressive silhoutte with majestic sails
Sunset forming an impressive silhoutte with majestic sails

 

Shopping for hand-made products in the Turks and Caicos

I already shared the story of finding the cutest Coconut Body Shop I’ve ever seen but today I’ll let you in on another secret. Remember this name, Orion Creations. If you like creative products, it is another locally-based shop that you absolutely must visit when you are in the Turks and Caicos.

Entrance to the new retail location
Curbside view of the new Orion Creations retail location, Providenciales

A young lady who doesn’t look a day over 18 is the heart and soul of the operation. Her retail outlet launched in June 2015 and it sells hand-made greetings cards, paintings and jewelry that you won’t find anywhere else. The cards, her first business venture, paved the way for this gem of a shop that also sells clothing and work of other local designers, including dolls. But think outside the box here. Don’t expect to find any Barbies or Kens there.

I put on a necklace and posed with the owner
I put on a necklace and posed with the owner

The owner, Melissa Willcocks, is a multi-talented Canadian who moved to Providenciales in 2006. When she first arrived, she rented a room with her friend and began job hunting. Somewhere along the way, the roomies started planning for a grand tour of Europe but their landlord died and the house they were living in went on the market  – at a great price. Instead of following their powerful wanderlust urges, they decided to use their vacation savings to buy the.

A part of the shop display in Orion Creations
A part of the shop display in Orion Creations

Melissa didn’t know it at the time but that was her first major business decision. After that, destiny called, and she answered. That very house became the base of her growing cottage industry. An avid scrap booker, she used the same concept to make her first greeting cards. Her friends and family liked them so much they encouraged her to try to sell them commercially.

The hand-made greeting cards that are the backbone of the business
The hand-made greeting cards that are the backbone of the business

She made contact with the purchasing team at Beaches, a large all-inclusive hotel on the island and was elated when they took 100 on commission. Soon, she expanded into painting and designing unique artwork that highlight the beautiful aspects of the islands. Sand is a signature element in many of her designs.

Some of the paintings, earrings and other trinkets available at Orion Creations
Some of the paintings, earrings and other trinkets available at Orion Creations

The rest, as they say, is history. Go visit her shop! It is near the Jamaican Patty Place in Le Petit Place; walking distance from Ocean Club West, which is where I stayed.

____

You can visit her website or reach her at [email protected]

Must-try Spanish foods

Local cuisine is such an important component of the overall travel experience! I don’t know what grabs your attention when you visit a new destination but in my case, I remember places, interactions, activities… and the food.

Having a late supper wiith friends in Madrid
Having a late supper wiith friends in Madrid

I’ll be the first to confess that I’m particular about flavor, presentation and freshness, so I don’t always have the rub-my-tummy-in-foodie-ecstasy experiences I’d like to. But sometimes, to my complete surprise and utter delight, I do. In a previous post, I already declared how much I enjoyed the food in Italy. Now I’ll let you in on another big secret: I was a goner for the food in Madrid too!

Of course, everyone has heard about the Spanish dish paella. Well, the full plate of this epicurean delicacy that I devoured while in Europe met and exceeded my gastric expectations. But you cannot leave Spain and not try one or more of these other dishes as well.

Tortilla de patatas (or tortilla española)

The Spanish Tortilla (Image source: www.finecooking.com)
Image source: www.finecooking.com

Forget what you know about the Mexican Tortilla because this is nothing like it. More potatoes than egg, the Spanish Tortilla is a version of an omelet that is several times more filling than its American counterpart. It is served warm, cool or at room temperature and is popular at all times of the day. You can order it for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Croquetas  

Image Source: www.cocina.ahorro.net
Image Source: www.cocina.ahorro.net

Served in most bars and restaurants, croquetas are small, lightly breaded fried rolls that are popular appetizers or tapas. (Tapas is the all-encompassing Spanish term for snacks, canapés or finger foods). There are many different varieties but the ones with cod (fish), spinach, ham or chicken fillings are most common.

Huevos estrillados

Image source: sheerluxe.com
Image source: www.sheerluxe.com

This is a combination of sunny-side up eggs spread over french fries or regular fried potatoes and ham. (Yes, the Spanish LOVE their eggs and potatoes). The secret to the recipe lies in getting the run of the yolk just right.   I heard that THE place to try them is at a traditional restaurant frequented by the in-crowd (i.e. actors, bankers and bullfighters ) called Casa Lucio where it is the signature dish.

Jamón

Cured ham (Image source: papaserra.files.wordpress)
Image source: www.papaserra.files.wordpress

Believe me, there is ham… and then there is Spanish ham. There are several types served in various parts of the country but here is a little tip: ask for jamón ibérico, the five-star crème de la crème of hams. The equivalent of the Peking Duck to the Chinese, this specially cured variety has been a part of Spanish culture for centuries. What makes this ham so prized and tasty is the origin of the meat – the pigs that are raised solely on sweet acorns in Jabugo, a town in southwestern Spain.

Berenjenas con Miel

Image Source: 12tomatoes.com
Image Source: www.12tomatoes.com

I am not a lover of eggplant but I included this option so that strict vegans would have something to look forward to as well. Non-diary and non-meat eaters can try fried eggplant drizzled with honey. It is a dish that originated in Málaga, the southeastern region of Spain

Manchego cheese

Image source: themachegocheese.com
Image source: www.themachegocheese.com

In case you haven’t realized this yet, I am a HUGE sucker for cheese. I went wild trying tons of Dutch cheese while in Holland and this sheep milk blend that I was introduced to in Madrid was mouthwateringly delicious with crackers. Hailing from the region of the famous Don Quixote, Manchego is to Spain what cheddar is to England – a popular staple in many households and dining establishments. Its taste is rooted in the unpasteurized process and in its aging that can last any time between 60 days and two years.

So there you have it. You’re now sufficiently prepared to order like a local when going out to eat in one of the many bustling terrazos (open air cafés) around town. You can accompany your meal with a Clara, a drink that tastes a bit like Shandy. If you are not familiar with than brand, it’s like a combination of a light beer and lemon. Or, if that kind of beverage does not appeal to you, there is always the refreshing and satisfying options of red or white sangria.

Buen apetito!

___

Editor’s Notes:

You may not believe this but I was able to try all of the above-mentioned dishes in one night. The secret to achieving that kind of feat is to order sampler plates that allow you to share the contents with your dining buddies and taste to your heart’s content.

Please note I used internet images to illustrate what the dishes looked like because this trip was some years ago – long before I started this travel blog – so back then I was more concerned with hanging out than snapping pictures. Nowadays, I know I must master the art of doing both.

A day trip to the Royal Palace of La Granja, Spain

If you ever go to Madrid, I recommend a day trip to La Granja. It was the favorite summer palace of Spanish Royals from 1766 to 1966 and according to the history buffs, Henry IV initially purchased the site in the fifteenth century to use it as a hunting lodge. After that, it was a farm and hostel run by monks. The land continued to change hands throughout the years but it eventually went back to the Crown via Charles III in the mid to late 1700’s.

In its hey day, many royal weddings and burials, state treaties and political events took place at La Granja.  As you walk around the grounds, it is easy to see why.

A Beautiful tree on the grounds
A stately tree that I fell in love with

The palace is gorgeous. Its imposing architecture and furnishings were clearly designed with prestige and decadence in mind. Everything about it, including the frescoes started by Giambattidta Tieplo and completed by Francesco Bayeu, is  A – M – A – Z- I – N – G. 

La Granja Summer Palace
La Granja Summer Palace

I also was blown away at the private art collection and statue gallery. Unfortunately, I can’t show you what they looked like because we were not allowed to take pictures inside.

Exploring the gardens
Exploring the gardens with my BFF from high school.

But when you think the sensory experience can’t get any better, it does. The most striking takeaway from your visit will be your memory of the immaculately landscaped gardens that stretch across 1,500 acres and the compound’s 25 sculpted fountains. la granja and its beautiful fountainsDesigned to represent themes from classical mythology, they are stunning.  The water features were built from lead to minimize corrosion and either painted over to give the appearance of a bronze finish or coated to imitate marble.

One of the many fountains at the palace

Gardens at the palaceanother fountain perspective

Today, the foutains are not active on a daily basis. I heard that twice a year, on the feast days of San Fernando and San Luis, all of them kick into full operation to provide a grand show.  Surely, that will be the best time of year  to visit.

maze at royal palace2

Take a good camera!

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Editor’s Notes:

If you don’t have a car, don’t worry. For a little over 20 euros, you can take the train to get to Segovia (the nearest town) from Chamartin Station, which is north of Madrid. The ride lasts about 30 minutes.

When you get there, you can opt for audio guides or a guided tour.

Opening times:  

October to March: weekdays, weekends and holidays –  10:00am to 6:00pm.

April to September: weekdays, weekends and holidays  – 10:00 to 8:00pm.

Closed on Mondays

Tickets

Royal Palace (€9.00), Tapestry Museum (€5.00). Free entry for children under five.

When you plan to travel, please check for the most recent costs.