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...]
Soak in 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...]
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...]
Pass-a-Grille, Florida: Laid Back Fun and Kitsch
Pass-a-Grille, Florida is on the southernmost tip of St. Pete’s Beach, outside of Tampa. A visit there is a venture back in time to the era of Pez containers, pink flamingos, and kitschy surfboards. It’s almost like being in a time capsule of old Florida nostalgia. This tiny piece of Paradise makes a charming get-a-way for those wishing to disappear, a romantic nook for … [Read more...]
Stay at Casa Marina: Jacksonville, Florida’s Grand Lady
From the beach, she appeared ethereal, a vision from the past, perhaps some would say otherworldly. I approached slowly, taking in the sight. The Casa Marina, on Jacksonville Beach, had weathered many storms, the most visible, a scar at the top, on the outdoor patio, where she'd been struck by lightning. I walked into the foyer, opening heavy wood doors to … [Read more...]
