Oh well. They will have to put up with a drunk American!! Just kidding, Mom!! ;)
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Friday, April 29, 2011
Ah, Portuguese
My mistake for the day. "Meia" in Portuguese means half. And apparently I didn't say the half bottle of wine for my dinner.
Oh well. They will have to put up with a drunk American!! Just kidding, Mom!! ;)
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Oh well. They will have to put up with a drunk American!! Just kidding, Mom!! ;)
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
On to Porto
Well it has been five fun days in Lisbon.
I don't think I would have come here had it not been for Greg Wilson, another Kansas Citian, who suggested that I make my way to the western most point in (continental) Europe. By the way, does anyone know the western most country in Europe?? I might bring you back something from that country if answered correctly!! (get excited people!!)
So I arrived in Lisbon last Friday and met up with Greg, who is also doing a bit of traveling around Europe. As I mentioned in the previous post, Lisbon is a beautiful city. Quite walkable in that the old city is small,
but hilly as well. The city is known for its trams and trolleys that alleviate some of the trekking up the hills.
There are several plazas and squares where people congregate to talk, eat, drink or all of the above. And they are all beautiful, especially at night. I don't think I have ever been to a city as pretty as Lisbon at night.
One of the plazas
Every night was filled with good and drink, including a great meal at John Malkovich's restaurant in Lisbon.
Fried hake fish with verde (green) wine. Some of the best wine I've ever had! I think I'm going to start importing it back to the States - I had never heard of it before this trip - and I'm sure it would be consumed in mass quantities - maybe only by myself but I'd be happy about that!
Took a city tour, went to Cascais, a great little beach town and met some locals and frenchies for quite an incredible night as well!
The 25 de Abril bridge in Lisbon
One of the beaches in Cascais
The harbor in Cascais
Well that's about all for now. Lisbon was full of great people, drink, food and hospitality.
Had my first caipirinha!
Would love to come back at some point, but am looking forward to Porto and drinking some of that stuff they call port. Not sure where it comes from though...;)
Ciao a tutti!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
I don't think I would have come here had it not been for Greg Wilson, another Kansas Citian, who suggested that I make my way to the western most point in (continental) Europe. By the way, does anyone know the western most country in Europe?? I might bring you back something from that country if answered correctly!! (get excited people!!)
So I arrived in Lisbon last Friday and met up with Greg, who is also doing a bit of traveling around Europe. As I mentioned in the previous post, Lisbon is a beautiful city. Quite walkable in that the old city is small,
but hilly as well. The city is known for its trams and trolleys that alleviate some of the trekking up the hills.
There are several plazas and squares where people congregate to talk, eat, drink or all of the above. And they are all beautiful, especially at night. I don't think I have ever been to a city as pretty as Lisbon at night.
One of the plazas
Every night was filled with good and drink, including a great meal at John Malkovich's restaurant in Lisbon.
Fried hake fish with verde (green) wine. Some of the best wine I've ever had! I think I'm going to start importing it back to the States - I had never heard of it before this trip - and I'm sure it would be consumed in mass quantities - maybe only by myself but I'd be happy about that!
Took a city tour, went to Cascais, a great little beach town and met some locals and frenchies for quite an incredible night as well!
The 25 de Abril bridge in Lisbon
One of the beaches in Cascais
The harbor in Cascais
Well that's about all for now. Lisbon was full of great people, drink, food and hospitality.
Had my first caipirinha!
Would love to come back at some point, but am looking forward to Porto and drinking some of that stuff they call port. Not sure where it comes from though...;)
Ciao a tutti!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Saturday, April 23, 2011
First impressions of Lisbon
You can tell from walking around Lisbon for just 10 minutes that this place is steeped in history. Tons of old buildings, cobblestone streets and sidewalks with intricate designs and an ever present feeling of it's imperialistic past.
It is hillier than s$&@ here! Those tram rides are going to be fun!
I will certainly have more to come on Portugal and it's largest city in the near future but here are just a few more pics from my first day!
Sao Jorge Castle on top of the hill
Sunset
Central Station
As I was huffing and puffing to the top of one of the numerous hills in the city, I wanted to try to get a pic that would provide some sense of the severity of the incline...not sure if I did or not, but I think I stumbled upon my favorite picture of my trip thus far!
And the reason why this was such a short post today ;)
Adeus (ah-dey-uush) de Lisboa!
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It is hillier than s$&@ here! Those tram rides are going to be fun!
I will certainly have more to come on Portugal and it's largest city in the near future but here are just a few more pics from my first day!
Sao Jorge Castle on top of the hill
Sunset
Central Station
As I was huffing and puffing to the top of one of the numerous hills in the city, I wanted to try to get a pic that would provide some sense of the severity of the incline...not sure if I did or not, but I think I stumbled upon my favorite picture of my trip thus far!
And the reason why this was such a short post today ;)
Adeus (ah-dey-uush) de Lisboa!
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Sunday, April 17, 2011
From the Mountains to the Sea
This city really is amazing. I realize that it is the first place that I have been to on this trip so, yes, I'm sure that I'm still quite infatuated. But it is unlike any place I have ever been to. The terrain - the hills and mountains - are spectacular and I wish that my pictures would do a better job depicting their brilliance over the interwebs...everything is so close - you have so many options to choose from!
So it has been atleast a few days since I have posted anything but it's time to play catch up.
I went to Montjuic, home of the 92 Olympics, amongst a bunch of other things. Getting off at the Espanya stop and beginning the trek up the hill is quite a sight to see. Sitting at the top of Montjuic is a museum dedicated to Catalan artwork - let's just say it makes you feel overwhelmed (but in a very good way).
After huffing and puffing my way to the top (ok, it wasn't too bad - although they did have escalators!) I meandered around for a while, relishing in the views of Barcelona below.
Sagrada Familia in the distance
On Friday, I went to La Boqueria, the massive outdoor (albeit covered) food market. If you are a foodie of any type, it needs to be on your list if you ever come here. Seafood out the wazoo, jamon left and right, fresh fruit and vegetables, chocolates and candies. I really could go on and on but I'm typing with my thumbs. So I'm going to spare you and myself. Ended up have lunch with Francesca and enjoyed some tapas, along with my first "little" bit of sangria. Damn, I missed that stuff.
Both weekend nights were quite enjoyable. Went to a BBQ on Friday and out to a club on Saturday. Yes, it is true. The Spanish know how to party.
After getting to sleep somewhere around 5:30 this morning, it was sure to be a laid back, relaxing day. And what better place to have one of those days! The weather was perfect again so I went back to the Barri Gotic to walk around and people watch - always entertaining.
Met up with Francesca later to go to Tibidabo, a mountain overlooking Barcelona. After a winding, steep ascent by car to the top, I was afforded one of the best views of my life.
From Tibidabo
And another
After Tibidabo, we deicided to go to Sitges, an awesome little beach town about 20 miles outside of Barcelona. Let me just say to any of you reading this, make the drive from Barcelona to Sitges. It needs to be on your bucket list. Think of one of the most winding and curvy roads you have ever been on. Then insert the road into the sides of mountains overlooking the Mediterranean. One of the greatest things I have ever done in the my life. And not only that, I was driving. Added bonus :)
After picking up my jaw off the dashboard when we arrived in Sitges, this was the first thing I saw.
Sorry Missourians. Apparently Kansans travel a bit better
So, of course being a Jayhawk, I had to go in and have a drink ( I'm sure I just lost half of my readership right now) but unfortunately wasn't able to figure out the tie to Kansas...
Here are some pics from Sitges
Sitges
Ended up having dinner at a Basque restaurant, after the recommendation from a local police officer. He has good taste. Great tapas and more fantastic sangria. And perhaps the best part:
The honor code for paying for your meal. I love it.
Well that's about it for now. Going to enjoy this week and then off to Portugal on Friday! Looking forward to it!
Adios amigos!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
So it has been atleast a few days since I have posted anything but it's time to play catch up.
I went to Montjuic, home of the 92 Olympics, amongst a bunch of other things. Getting off at the Espanya stop and beginning the trek up the hill is quite a sight to see. Sitting at the top of Montjuic is a museum dedicated to Catalan artwork - let's just say it makes you feel overwhelmed (but in a very good way).
After huffing and puffing my way to the top (ok, it wasn't too bad - although they did have escalators!) I meandered around for a while, relishing in the views of Barcelona below.
Sagrada Familia in the distance
On Friday, I went to La Boqueria, the massive outdoor (albeit covered) food market. If you are a foodie of any type, it needs to be on your list if you ever come here. Seafood out the wazoo, jamon left and right, fresh fruit and vegetables, chocolates and candies. I really could go on and on but I'm typing with my thumbs. So I'm going to spare you and myself. Ended up have lunch with Francesca and enjoyed some tapas, along with my first "little" bit of sangria. Damn, I missed that stuff.
Both weekend nights were quite enjoyable. Went to a BBQ on Friday and out to a club on Saturday. Yes, it is true. The Spanish know how to party.
After getting to sleep somewhere around 5:30 this morning, it was sure to be a laid back, relaxing day. And what better place to have one of those days! The weather was perfect again so I went back to the Barri Gotic to walk around and people watch - always entertaining.
Met up with Francesca later to go to Tibidabo, a mountain overlooking Barcelona. After a winding, steep ascent by car to the top, I was afforded one of the best views of my life.
From Tibidabo
And another
After Tibidabo, we deicided to go to Sitges, an awesome little beach town about 20 miles outside of Barcelona. Let me just say to any of you reading this, make the drive from Barcelona to Sitges. It needs to be on your bucket list. Think of one of the most winding and curvy roads you have ever been on. Then insert the road into the sides of mountains overlooking the Mediterranean. One of the greatest things I have ever done in the my life. And not only that, I was driving. Added bonus :)
After picking up my jaw off the dashboard when we arrived in Sitges, this was the first thing I saw.
Sorry Missourians. Apparently Kansans travel a bit better
So, of course being a Jayhawk, I had to go in and have a drink ( I'm sure I just lost half of my readership right now) but unfortunately wasn't able to figure out the tie to Kansas...
Here are some pics from Sitges
Sitges
Ended up having dinner at a Basque restaurant, after the recommendation from a local police officer. He has good taste. Great tapas and more fantastic sangria. And perhaps the best part:
The honor code for paying for your meal. I love it.
Well that's about it for now. Going to enjoy this week and then off to Portugal on Friday! Looking forward to it!
Adios amigos!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Location:Barcelona, Spain
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
The Mullet
Yesterday was relaxing. Slept past 10am, had some breakfast/lunch, read for a while and then decided to do something with my day.
I went to the Sagrada Familia, which is now open on the inside but are still working on the outer...Decided not to go in because the place was a zoo! Might go back later this week, although I doubt the crowds will have settled...
Then went and got lost in the neighborhood and ended up grabbing a cold, tasty adult beverage, a Grimbergen in fact, at the Frankfurter, a German restaurant (shocker!).... Also had to participate in the eating side of things. The bratwurst sufficed.
Made my way back to the Placa de Catalunya and headed north to the Arc de Triomf (Catalan is mind-bloggling, btw).
From there, I meandered back to the south through the Barri Gotic and El Born, my favorite area of Barcelona. Tons of great little stores and shops, restaurants and cafes, with cobblestoned streets that separate the buildings, by only a few feet in a lot of cases... Really amazing. Highly recommend this area if you make your way to Barca.
I'm saving the best for last. I decided to make my way home so I hopped on the subway and stumbled upon this.
That is not a woman, folks. The mullet is alive and well in Europe!! and this guy clearly has an affinity for his... I'm kind of jealous actually ;)
On that note, adeu from Barcelona!!
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I went to the Sagrada Familia, which is now open on the inside but are still working on the outer...Decided not to go in because the place was a zoo! Might go back later this week, although I doubt the crowds will have settled...
Then went and got lost in the neighborhood and ended up grabbing a cold, tasty adult beverage, a Grimbergen in fact, at the Frankfurter, a German restaurant (shocker!).... Also had to participate in the eating side of things. The bratwurst sufficed.
Made my way back to the Placa de Catalunya and headed north to the Arc de Triomf (Catalan is mind-bloggling, btw).
From there, I meandered back to the south through the Barri Gotic and El Born, my favorite area of Barcelona. Tons of great little stores and shops, restaurants and cafes, with cobblestoned streets that separate the buildings, by only a few feet in a lot of cases... Really amazing. Highly recommend this area if you make your way to Barca.
I'm saving the best for last. I decided to make my way home so I hopped on the subway and stumbled upon this.
That is not a woman, folks. The mullet is alive and well in Europe!! and this guy clearly has an affinity for his... I'm kind of jealous actually ;)
On that note, adeu from Barcelona!!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Monday, April 11, 2011
Speechless
It's certainly hard to come up with a better descriptor for my past few days in Spain other than saying it has been simply amazing.
Was picked up at the Barcelona airport by my friend Francesca on Friday afternoon and came back to her apartment where I met her other roommate, Eduardo.
After relaxing for a little while, we went to the Placa de Catalunya to meet up with some of Francesca's friends who also work for Ryan Air.
After a few drinks in the courtyard, we went to grab some tapas around 9pm, which is about standard time for dinner. After stuffing my face full of several different tapas and having a few more drinks, was time to call it a night after being up for almost.. Crap I dunno. A lot of hours
Saturday was relaxing during the day... Just had lunch and enjoyed the weather - which is too perfect btw... Went out Saturday night and met a lot more of Francesca's coworkers and had a fun time.
Was up early on Sunday to take a train to Tarragona, about 45 mins south of Barcelona to meet an incredible Spanish couple who live in Kansas City much of the year.
Ana and Marino immediately took me on a tour of the city, founded by the Romans just a few years ago. Saw where Pontius Pilot lived, as he was from Tarragona and the rest of the Roman ruins... They make you realize just how small you are in the grand scheme of things...
Ending up staying the night at Ana and Marino's incredibly beautiful house in the hills of Coma Ruga, overlooking the Mediterranean. Simply one of the most amazing views I have ever seen. I'll post some pics below of both Tarragona and Coma Ruga below so take a gander..
The hospitality shown to me by Ana and Marino is something that I will never forget. Great meal after great meal, as well as drink, and the incredible view outside my bedroom for a night. Spectacular. The whole experience was, well, that's what makes me speechless. (I've been trying to write this next sentence for the past ten minutes - and am failing miserably at trying to describe my gratitude!!). I'll sum it up with this. Ana and Marino, you two are the best!!
Here are some pics. Let me know what you think :)
Tarragona
In Tarragona after a great seafood lunch
Looking down from ramble nova in Tarragona to the mediterranean
Roman amphitheater in the middle
Coma Ruga
Beach of Coma Ruga
I bet you can't guess what that is...
View from Ana and Marino's house. This photo doesn't do the view justice
And a quick video from the train ride home (hope it works!)
Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Was picked up at the Barcelona airport by my friend Francesca on Friday afternoon and came back to her apartment where I met her other roommate, Eduardo.
After relaxing for a little while, we went to the Placa de Catalunya to meet up with some of Francesca's friends who also work for Ryan Air.
After a few drinks in the courtyard, we went to grab some tapas around 9pm, which is about standard time for dinner. After stuffing my face full of several different tapas and having a few more drinks, was time to call it a night after being up for almost.. Crap I dunno. A lot of hours
Saturday was relaxing during the day... Just had lunch and enjoyed the weather - which is too perfect btw... Went out Saturday night and met a lot more of Francesca's coworkers and had a fun time.
Was up early on Sunday to take a train to Tarragona, about 45 mins south of Barcelona to meet an incredible Spanish couple who live in Kansas City much of the year.
Ana and Marino immediately took me on a tour of the city, founded by the Romans just a few years ago. Saw where Pontius Pilot lived, as he was from Tarragona and the rest of the Roman ruins... They make you realize just how small you are in the grand scheme of things...
Ending up staying the night at Ana and Marino's incredibly beautiful house in the hills of Coma Ruga, overlooking the Mediterranean. Simply one of the most amazing views I have ever seen. I'll post some pics below of both Tarragona and Coma Ruga below so take a gander..
The hospitality shown to me by Ana and Marino is something that I will never forget. Great meal after great meal, as well as drink, and the incredible view outside my bedroom for a night. Spectacular. The whole experience was, well, that's what makes me speechless. (I've been trying to write this next sentence for the past ten minutes - and am failing miserably at trying to describe my gratitude!!). I'll sum it up with this. Ana and Marino, you two are the best!!
Here are some pics. Let me know what you think :)
Tarragona
In Tarragona after a great seafood lunch
Looking down from ramble nova in Tarragona to the mediterranean
Roman amphitheater in the middle
Coma Ruga
Beach of Coma Ruga
I bet you can't guess what that is...
View from Ana and Marino's house. This photo doesn't do the view justice
And a quick video from the train ride home (hope it works!)
Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Location:Barcelona and Tarragona, Spain
Friday, April 8, 2011
Arrival
It was a fun 48 hours in NYC! Weather wasn't great but it didnt stop me from walking around the city and getting all of the great smells of Chinatown! Some of you who know might be grimacing right now :)
I just landed in Madrid and am waiting for my connecting flight to Barcelona. Have about another hour to kill so I figured that I would start cranking out some reading material for some folks back home (and maybe more importantly for me to look back on several times in my life)...
I'm a little tired for it being 6:30 am NYC time, but was able to stretch out on the flight over -- the four seater in the middle was all mine!!! Have to love third full flights :)
So far, so good.
Adios from Madrid!
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I just landed in Madrid and am waiting for my connecting flight to Barcelona. Have about another hour to kill so I figured that I would start cranking out some reading material for some folks back home (and maybe more importantly for me to look back on several times in my life)...
I'm a little tired for it being 6:30 am NYC time, but was able to stretch out on the flight over -- the four seater in the middle was all mine!!! Have to love third full flights :)
So far, so good.
Adios from Madrid!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Monday, April 4, 2011
Getting ready to go!
Well, it's been a while since I have done any blogging, but since I'm starting out on my trip to Europe, I figured that this would be a good medium for those who care/want to stay in touch/live vicariously/or any combination of the above...
I will do my best to post on a regular basis, but can't make any guarantees. So I'll post when I feel like it or when I have some good story to tell :) Hopefully, there will be more than a few!
Off to finish laundry and figure out what clothes are coming with and which ones are getting left behind...
Until next time
I will do my best to post on a regular basis, but can't make any guarantees. So I'll post when I feel like it or when I have some good story to tell :) Hopefully, there will be more than a few!
Off to finish laundry and figure out what clothes are coming with and which ones are getting left behind...
Until next time
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