Tchau Portugal, Hola Spain! I was extra excited to see signs welcoming us back to Espana as we made our way to the next stop, Madrid! Along the way, we stopped in the charming city of Salamanca for lunch and to let the boys run out some of their energy. We quickly hopped back in the car eager to arrive at our next destination.
We only had three nights and two full days to take in the capital city, so the next morning we set out for an ambitious all day adventure. Before heading out, we had to set the ground rules for the boys. Most importantly, for no reason whatsoever could Gabriel wear his favorite Barcelona soccer jersey! After all, we were now on Real Madrid's turf. We began our day with Spanish tortilla of course! After breakfast, we headed to the most family friendly and absolutely stunning park located right in the middle of the bustling city, Parque del Retiro. There was a free symphony under a large gazebo, fountains and sculptures galore, a small lake with fish and paddle boats, and amazing playgrounds for the kids. This was just what the boys needed!
Walking down the famous Grand Via we saw a beautiful display of 20th century architecture in Canalejas Square, Paseo Del Prado, Plaza de Cibeles, and the City Hall (pictured below). We made our way to the eastern side of the city past lush gardens and beautiful plazas to see the Almudena Cathedral and the Royal Palace.
The Plaza Mayor was my favorite area. This large square has hosted markets, bullfights, and soccer games. Just outside of the square lies an absolutely amazing market, Mercado San Miguel! We loved it so much that we returned for dinner. You have to stalk tables and grab chairs if you want to actually sit down. Otherwise, you can join the crowds by walking from vendor to vendor sampling several gourmet tapas. Jamil was sent to hunt and gather while the boys and I closely guarded our stools. It was heavenly, and we even walked away with a bag of blueberries (nearly impossible to find in Morocco)!
Before leaving, Jamil snuck into an antique shop and purchased some turquoise earrings I was eyeing from the window. It was a nice birthday present the following month and will always remind me of our time in Madrid. Madrid is an amazing city! We'll have to return one day with either older children or sans enfants to take in all of the magnificent museums and theaters. Inshallah.
On the road again... and this time to stay with our friends, the Adams, who were vacationing in Valencia! Valencia was rated one of the top international cities to visit by GQ this year, and it did not let us down! We enjoyed strolling through the city full of pastel buildings with detailed wrought iron and beautiful carvings. We also visited the historical Mercado Central Market to prepare our own food, ate outdoors with amazing views, visited a fair and an aquarium, saw the Holy Grail, and even got a little adult time. FYI, the traditional spanish dish, paella, originated in Valencia! Who knew?
With kids, our first tourist attraction is often a playground. The boys were so excited to have a friend, Claire, to play with for a few days. You can see the three of them on the seesaw above. Not too bad of a view from the park, huh? During naps, Alex and Jamil snuck away to tour more of the city, so Randa and I got out that evening and enjoyed some time together at the cafe above.
There was a fair in town where the kids and even the big boys got to have a little fun. Apparently, disturbing fair graphite is an international requirement.
Take note of the pony's name tags...Spanish soccer players, of course!
The modern architecture was stunning in contrast with the charming old city. However, we missed the train to the largest aquarium in Europe, L'Oceanografic, and mistakenly thought it would be a good idea to walk. Although the scenery was beautiful, there was no sign of shade, and the late July heat was not kidding around. The boys obviously haven't quite learned how to master the fake smile above... Jamil and I seem to have that covered. :)
There are many legends concerning the Holy Grail, but it is best known as the cup associated with the last supper and the crucification of Jesus. The Valencia Cathedral, located on the right in the picture above, is where the Holy Grail is located today. The cathedral was stunning, and it was awesome to think about where the Holy Grail had been and the story behind the vessel.
Thanks to Randa and Alex, Jamil and I were able to tour the cathedral on our own and enjoy some gelato on our walk back. We are so thankful to have seen our dear friends and greatly enjoyed their hospitality in their "summer home". Let's not wait another 6 years before we do this again!
Heading down the Iberian Peninsula along the far east coast of Spain, we hit up a few more cities as we made our way down to the Mediterranean Sea. Next stop, Almeria!
Our hotel was in a small square across from the Cathedral Almeria (pictured above). It was originally designated as a mosque and later converted into a church. It was beautifully lit at night while we ate dinner on the patio and the boys chased each other through the square. The next day we put on our backpacks and set foot for the Moorish castle, Alcazba Almeria. Many renovations have and are still taking place to rebuild this castle, and it was definitely worth the quick stop.
Notice the small changes to the fortress that show the Christian influence.
After a sweaty hike through Almeria, we hopped back in the car. Thankfully not for too long. Next Stop, Malaga!
Malaga is a city full of history with ruins from the Phoenician, Roman, Arabic, and Christian Eras. We walked through lush gardens and climbed up hills to arrive at the Alcazaba. This Moorish castle is well preserved and offers amazing views of the city.
Downtown Malaga is full of color and character. I absolutely loved strolling through the pedestrian streets. Traditionally, during the summer, the streets are full of vendors who sell flowers called Biznagas. Biznaga means 'Give from God' in Arabic, and they are actually handcrafted flowers of jasmine. The Moors brought jasmine to Malaga, started this tradition, and it has grown in abundance ever since.
Final Stop, Gibraltar! Gibraltar is a British overseas territory. The Rock of Gibraltar takes up most of the land, but a densely populated city lays at the base. The Rock of Gibraltar is said to be one of the Pillars of Hercules. The other pillar is located in Africa, most likely Monte Hacho in Ceuta or Jebel Musa in Morocco. I'm going to take bids on the second. These pillars mark the westward most travels of Hercules. Legend has it that Hercules crashed through a mountain connecting the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea creating the Straight of Gibraltar.
We parked in Spain and walked across the bridge to Great Britain. Wild! Literary walking from Spain to Great Britain was like stepping into another world. We could even see Morocco from the top of the rock. At this location, three completely different cultures and languages are connected with such rich history!
First thing we saw after crossing the bridge was a motorcycle rally! It wasn't long before they caught up with us down the narrow streets full of pubs and shopping. It was a sight to see, but we had to escape into one of the shops to save our poor ears!
British influences mixed with touches of Spain and Morocco filled the streets!
After arriving at the top of the rock, we saw some breathtaking views of Spain and Morocco, climbed through the beautiful caves, and hung out with the semi-wild Barbary Macaques. These monkeys live on top of the rock and love to socialize with tourists! Abraham's not buying it.
After nearly three weeks of unforgettable travels, we were ready to hit the road for Rabat. We drove the car onto the fast boat from the Tarifa port and found it to be less crowded and super easy. Overall, we continue to be thankful to have seen such amazing places. It's now time to head back to Morocco for a couple of weeks before our next adventure... Tunisia! A bientôt!
