Portugal: More Lisbon

SQUARES, SHOPS, & TREATS In our two days plus in Lisbon, we explored four major neighborhoods with Tiago, a guide who is also a former architect. He was brimming with facts and enthusiasm for his city. We learned about the history of Lisbon after the 1755 earthquake, visited several traditional shops (sardines, anyone?), walked some …

Spain: Granada & Alhambra

ARAB DISTRICT We had a fascinating day in Granada experiencing the narrow streets of the oldest neighborhood in Granada, the Albaicin. It existed and was inhabited before the construction of the Alhambra. After we went on to the Alhambra, both the lovely outer gardens and then into several of the palaces. With our experienced guide …

Spain: Sculpture in Bilbao

One of the fun things about walking around Bilbao, particularly along the river promenade, is seeing the sculpture works and the different styles of bridge that link the two parts of the city. Here are a few we enjoyed as we strolled along the Nervion River. Sirgueras are women who pulled boats along the estuary …

Spain: Guggenheim Bilbao

GUGGENHEIM MUSEUM Designed by Frank Gehry, opened in 1997, Guggenheim Bilbao is now known the world over.  It was an instant hit in a city that before then was much more industrial and not a must-see tourist destination.  The Guggenheim Foundation was looking for a site in Europe for a second museum and had been …