Citizens Bank is sponsoring another great trip through Collette Vacations and we've signed up for 10 days in Spain in February, 2010. We fly into Madrid, go to Toledo (famous for steel), Cordoba, Seville, Granada, Valencia, and Barcelona. They might as well call this "The Church tour". Within the first 2 days we visit a Gothic cathedral, a church containing an El Greco masterpiece, a 13th century synagogue, and an 8th century mosque and that is just the first two days. I think I have counted at least 5 other major and minor churches to be toured during the trip. It will be a challenge to keep all the "architectural marvels" separated in our minds. After awhile, things like this all mush together for me. I'll have to take really specific pictures and note (and remember) individual differences between and among the places we see.
Other than churches we are scheduled to chat w/ flamenco dancers and attend a performance, visit C. Columbus' tomb, tour the world famous Alhambra (a hilltop palace) and have a cooking lesson--learning how to prepare paella. We will visit one of the largest open air markets in Europe, stop at the Silk Exchange, and enjoy the specifically hispanic drink-- Orxata (orchata) and I'm also expecting to enjoy Valencia oranges, since we're going to Valencia.--Hope it is the right season. We have been assured that Feb in Spain is not like Feb other places, and are expecting temperatures in the high 50's and 60's---REALLY hope so.
There will be buildings, and towers, and churches and central markets, and tiny narrow streets. If you'd like to join us, let me know before Sept 21. (Wonder what internet use is like in Spain?- I should have my iphone by then.)
