18 May 2008

We came back to Toledo today and it had rained briefly. I found some water puddles that I took pictures of. We didn't do much else; I did buy some marzipan. My favorite kind of shopping is window shopping. I have found a new way of window shopping, take a picture and move on.

17 May 2008

The Alhambra is the biggest attraction in Granada. The Moorish Monarchs lived here in the 14 century. It was amazing, but once again we were hurried through. It was offered that we could stay but we had to walk back to the hotel if we did and I was already chaffed so I took the bus. 

16 May 2008

Today we set out for Granada and on the way we stopped at Cordova to see La Mezquita (an old mosque subjected to the catholic inquisition and turned into a cathedral). At La Mezquita we were again allowed to take photos inside and fortunately my digital camera can be set to ISO 3200 + 1 (6400). It was dark inside but I got some great shots. I wish that it wasn't full of tourists, they kept getting in the way. After Cordova we got back on the bus to go to Granada. 

15 May 2008

We went to Segovia and visited El Escorial, the Roman Aqueduct and the Alcazar. Segovia is northwest of Madrid and is home to El Escorial, Alcazar and a Roman Aqueduct. We first visited El Escorial, a Spanish Royal Palace and Montessori. 

Next we went to the Alcazar of Segovia (Segovia Castle), a very long uphill hike. It was worth it in the end. I took some great pictures. This was the first place to allow us to take photographs inside and I used it to my advantage; I took a ton of pictures here. 

Finally, we went to the Roman Aqueduct in the town of Segovia. It was awsome, I felt a sense of greatness when standing next to the huge structure. Our time here was limited as in all things and I felt rushed most of the time, limiting my photography to a touristic perspective. 

14 May 2008

We started the day off early. We were going to go to the Cathedral in Toledo, were we are staying, but it cost 7 euro now so we didn't go. While we were waiting for the Cathedral to open some guy came up and talked our teacher into going to a monastery where they make Damasquinados (jewelry). We were then supposed to go to see "The burial of Count Orgas" by El GRECO, but we didn't. The morning was a total wash. But the afternoon did provide some exercise and a lot of photos of the town. I walked with Daniel, Josh, Jessica and Mandy to Toledo Neuve (New Toledo). I took several pictures film and digital. I love to people watch and one thing I notice more then anything is the number of people who smoke. No, I'm not smoking. But it sure is tempting. The way back was all up hill so I told everyone that the only way I was going back was by taxi. The food is wonderful and I eat lots of Tapas (small portions of really good food). 

Granada

Hola! We are in Granada for the weekend then we go back to Toledo.

Bronwynn, You can write me as much as you like. How are things at home? Things in Spain are fine and I am exhausted from all the walking. I love and miss you!

I should be able to update every thing this weekend.

El Escorial

Well, I went all over the place and I took over 300 digital pictures. I also took a couple rolls of film.

I'll update later.