Saturday, November 14, 2009

Architecture in Spain





More Churros, Please

Alex learned all about churros and chocolate on this trip and quickly became addicted. In this picture, he had finished off the last churro and was quite distressed.

The Roman Ruins of Baelo Claudia, Bolonia, Spain

On our last full day in Spain, we traveled to Bolonia (about an hour and a half from Alan's parents' home) to visit the Roman Ruins of Baelo Claudia. The ruins, which are amidst an active archaeological dig, are of a fish salting community situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the mountains. The ruins are wonderfully preserved from the basilica to the theater. Perfectly arched walkways, artistically carved steps, and beautifully constructed pillars make you realize just how advanced the Romans were. The town was developed about 2000 BC as a maritime link to Tangier. The museum at the site houses much of the sculptures that have been uncovered, but the grounds allow visitors to get a glimpse of ancient life. Alex loved exploring, as did the rest of us.








Building Sand Castles with Nina--Video

Jerez de la Frontera Zoo




Medina Sidonia, Cadiz, Espana






Saturday, November 7, 2009

Arcos de la Frontera, Espana




I believe that my favorite place to visit on this trip has been Arcos.

Castellar, Medieval Village, Spain



These photos were taken in Castellar de la Frontera in Cadiz, Spain. The Moorish castle dates from the 13th Century and many of the outlying buildings and casa rurals are occupied by squatting hippies selling their wares. The hippies began squatting in the castle in the 1970s and currently, the government is trying to reclaim the village. The castle has been somewhat reclaimed and is now a parador for visitors. The day we were here was clear and we could see Gibralter and Africa from the castle. We also ate at an amazing little bar. The road to get to the castle is long and winding, essentially big enough for a small car to maneuver the curves. However, we met three full-size tour buses on the road and were certain that we or the buses would be hurled over the edge of road at any moment. Lots of fun!!

Friday, November 6, 2009

Handsome young man

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Ice Cream


Monday, November 2, 2009

New Friends--Barbecue in Puerto





Alex met several new friends at the barbecue we had on Sunday--Leire, Bruno, and Helio. Leire kept kissing the boys but all Alex was interested in was a hug.

Sunday, November 1, 2009

Rockstar Album Cover--Or make that, rockabilly

Sanlucar Market, Espana

Alex was mesmerized by all of the sights, smells and sounds of the Sanlucar market. The market is very traditional with all kinds of meat, fish and produce available. Eggs, meat and fish in the open air--very unusual for Americans but very normal here.









Thursday, October 29, 2009

Osborne Bodega, Puerto de Santa Maria, Espana



Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Chasing Pigeons and Hanging with Street Musicians, Cadiz, Espana