Gorgeous and majestic Madrid in Spain is a city of palatial splendor, ornate monuments, historical landmarks, art, and elegance. It is the capital and cultural hub of the country and a doorway into its illustrious past. Find a local guide in Madrid, here. While we were there, we took side trips to the old city of Toledo, the Valley of the Fallen, and El Escorial. … [Read more...]
Experience the Romance of Seville, Spain
You can't go to Spain without visiting the seductive city of Seville, known as the "Pearl of Andulusia." The opera Carmen, by George Bizet, takes place there and tours are available to visit some of the opera locations such as the old cigarette factory. Find a local guide in Seville, here. For other photo galleries from our trip to Spain, click on the links … [Read more...]
Visit Granada, Spain, and the Magnificent Alhambra
One of our stops on a 3-week vacation in Spain was to the mystical city of Granada. It's the home of The Alhambra palace and fortress which Moorish poets have described as "a pearl set in Emeralds." It began as a small fortress in 889 AD and was converted into a palace for the Moorish emir Mohammed ben Al-Ahmar of the Emirate of Granada in the mid-13th century. Its … [Read more...]
Enjoy Winter in Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast
After spending a couple of weeks in Rome and Tuscany, during the months of November and December, we drove down south where we spent 4 nights in the serene seaside enclave of Sorrento. Naturally, we took a tour of the stunning Amalfi Coast and went on a wet and wild stroll through the mysterious city of Pompeii. Find a local guide in Sorrento, here. Sorrento was dressed … [Read more...]
Don’t Miss the Old Hill Towns of Tuscany
Tuscany is a magnificent region of Northern Italy where you can visit mysterious medieval cities and tiny Etruscan hill towns. The food, wine, and magnificent views make it hard to ever leave. We visited in the winter during the holiday months which is a great time to avoid crowds and take in the festive atmosphere. Find a local guide in Tuscany, here. After spending 4 … [Read more...]
