I think the title of this post just about sums up my last few weeks..."Goodbyes and the return to the US." Now, I've actually been back in the US for one full week now, and I'm just getting around to writing this final blog entry. I think I have been putting it off for several reasons- one, because I've been exhausted, both physically and emotionally, from the adjustment-and two, because it meant admitting that my wonderful year in Madrid really was over. It really was an amazing year- I learned so much and met so many incredible people, who I already deeply miss (and you know who you are). I know that I chose an apt name for this blog, because this year truly has been unforgettable. Spainm and the people I have met this year, will always have a special place in my heart.
While my last few weeks in Spain were wonderful, they were also quite difficult, which is to be expected. I returned to a lot of my favorite places in Madrid with my friends and went on a great trip to Northern Spain (Santander, Comillas, Bilbao, San Sebastian, Oviedo, and Gijon!) The trip was really great; definitely a nice note to end on. Then, I was back in Madrid for three days, with just enough time to pack and say my final goodbyes. And those goodbyes were indeed difficult- which I know means that I have met some amazing people this year, people who will always be important to me. Nonetheless, that also makes the return to the US more difficult.
My sistuation this year was quite unique, in that I knew all along that I would be returning to the US, since I have a job here for next year. And of course, I'm extremely excited about that job and about my move to Boston, but at the same time, a big change like this is always tough and even confusing. Right now, I don't know exactly what my relationship will be with Spain in the future, whether it will just be a common vacation destination (and the home of many great friends) or a future home (short or long term).
I also understand that I can't expect to know that after just a week at home. At least, I have been lucky, in that I have some time to relax and re-connect with my family and friends before I have to move and start work. It has been nice to be in the same time zone (and even in the same town!) as some of my friends, to be able to talk to them more regularly, and even see some of them. I can appreciate the little things that I missed too, like certain foods that were hard to find in Spain, having a dryer for my clothes!, certain television shows I was missing...silly things like that. At the same time, I miss being in a big city, being able to take the metro or walk anywhere, going out until all hours of the night, long walks with friends in Madrid etc etc..
Anyway, I could keep analyzing the situation for hours, but basically, my conclusion will be the same--this past year has been incredible and this coming year is sure to be full of new experiences and surprises as well. So, while goodbyes are always tough, I'm trying my best to think of this time not just as the end of something great, but as the beginning of something else (great, we hope) as well. So...vamos a ver, as I would say in Spanish (We'll see...)
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Saturday, June 25, 2011
End of school, graduation, and vacation
This week, my last week with my students at San Juan Bautista, was bittersweet, full of mixed emotions. It was definitely tough to say goodbye to all the kids, particulary since some of them only just realized that they will not be seeing me again next year. It really dawned on me, when it came time to say our goodbyes, how much I care for some of these students, and how affectionate they are towards me. A lot of them were very sad to see me go and kept asking me why I couldn't just come back (one twelve year-old boy, partially in an attempt to get me to stay and also in an attempt to impress the girls in his class, said the following to me: "Elana, are you going to marry me? I love you ...you are very beautiful!". It was cute but also a little uncomfortable at the same time, but at the very least, I was happy that he asked me in English, as this is one of the kids I have trouble getting to speak to me in English!
Althought that was maybe the funniest reaction I got during my last two days, I had time to talk to several students about my time here, their future plans, etc, which was nice, since I havent gotten a lot of time to just talk to them during the year. Since the teachers didn't have all that much planned on Monday and Tuesday, I was able to talk to the kids about something other than school, which I really enjoyed. Also, on Wednesday, we had a graduation ceremony for the 4th year students, which was very nice. Afterwards, there was a reception and I got to meet some of the parents. It was nice to see the kids in a different setting, outisde of school, with their families and friends, relaxing and celebrating their accomplishments. It was also funny because I talked to a few of the parents for quite awhile (in Spanish of course) and all of the kids and parents were amazed at how well I spoke. The kids all know I speak and understand Spanish, but I dont think they had actually ever heard me speak an entire conversation in a language other than English, so it was pretty funny.
Since Wendesday was my last day at school, I've had a nice long weekend to enjoy time with my friends and go out in Madrid a few last times before I have to say my final goodbyes. Several of my closest friends are leaving in the beginning of July, so I want to spent a lot of time with them this week, before they leave. So basically, the last few days have been full of long talks, dinners, and drinks outside with my closest friends here..a very nice and relaxing way to spend the weekend. Now- really all that is left are the final goodbyes, planning for my trip in July, a few loose ends to tie up at school...etc etc. So, while I'm sad to leave, I'm still trying to focus on the time I have left and enjoy it the best I can! I know I still have lots of fun times to look forward to!
Althought that was maybe the funniest reaction I got during my last two days, I had time to talk to several students about my time here, their future plans, etc, which was nice, since I havent gotten a lot of time to just talk to them during the year. Since the teachers didn't have all that much planned on Monday and Tuesday, I was able to talk to the kids about something other than school, which I really enjoyed. Also, on Wednesday, we had a graduation ceremony for the 4th year students, which was very nice. Afterwards, there was a reception and I got to meet some of the parents. It was nice to see the kids in a different setting, outisde of school, with their families and friends, relaxing and celebrating their accomplishments. It was also funny because I talked to a few of the parents for quite awhile (in Spanish of course) and all of the kids and parents were amazed at how well I spoke. The kids all know I speak and understand Spanish, but I dont think they had actually ever heard me speak an entire conversation in a language other than English, so it was pretty funny.
Since Wendesday was my last day at school, I've had a nice long weekend to enjoy time with my friends and go out in Madrid a few last times before I have to say my final goodbyes. Several of my closest friends are leaving in the beginning of July, so I want to spent a lot of time with them this week, before they leave. So basically, the last few days have been full of long talks, dinners, and drinks outside with my closest friends here..a very nice and relaxing way to spend the weekend. Now- really all that is left are the final goodbyes, planning for my trip in July, a few loose ends to tie up at school...etc etc. So, while I'm sad to leave, I'm still trying to focus on the time I have left and enjoy it the best I can! I know I still have lots of fun times to look forward to!
Friday, June 17, 2011
Avila, Visitors, and the end of the school year.
This past week has been full of activity, as I have been trying to take advantage of every opportunity to enjoy the city and my last few weeks here with my friends. Last Friday, Noel, Cassandra, and I went to Ávila for the day. Ávila is a city in Castilla y Leon, located about an hour and a half from Madrid, by train. Ávila is particularly famous for its Medieval wall, which surrounds the city. Apparently it is also one of the cities with the highest Gothic and Romanic churches- to- people ratios! (this doesn't suprise me...as it is not THAT big of a city, and it seemed that everywhere we turned there was a church, monastery, or convent!). Since we were only there for the afternoon, we spent most of the day just walking around, getting different views of the wall and of the city, having a relaxing lunch etc. We also went to a museum about Santa Teresa de Ávila, who was a controversial figure in the 16th century, involved in the Catholic counter-reformation.
That same night, I met up with some visitors back in Madrid. My sister's friend Jessica was here with her friend Jamie, travelling around Spain for two weeks. We had been in contact several weeks before their trip, as Jessica had asked me for suggestions and advice. We ended up meeting and going for dinner/drinks that night. We had a great time and it was fun to meet new people (I really didn't know either of them beforehand). I hope to see her again back in NY! I ended up spending Saturday with them too, doing some touristy stuff around Madrid. Then on Sunday, we had a suprise birthday party/picnic for my friend George, which was a really fun and relaxing way to spend a Sunday. We ended up spending all afternoon and evening in the park, just talking, eating, and enjoying the nice weather.
Then, this week, we had more visitors! Our friend Garazi, from Bilbao, was staying at our apartment for a few days. Also, my friend Christina had a friend visiting from the US. So, we had all sorts of group dinners and events. On Wednesday night, we went to a really great comedy show. It was hilarious and a nice change of pace...not our average form of entertainment. Plus, I feel I have truly reached Spanish fluency when I can understand everything in a fast-paced stand-up comedy show, full of jargon, colloquial language, cultural references etc (ok ok so ALMOST everything...Garazi helped me out once when the guy mentioned the name of the group of Spanish copyrighter/editor people...something i definitely didnt know!)
Also, on Tuesday night, I went to the US embassy for a reception celebrating the success of our students in the Global Classrooms conference. My student who went to the NY conference ended up winning the best position paper award in her committee in NY (which means she was the ONE winner out of about 200 kids..including lots of Americans, and people from all over the world). So, she gave a really great speech...I was really glad to be there to hear that. We also joked about how there was Diet Coke and Dr. Pepper at the US embassy...we found it funny that they must be importing their soda back from the states (you dont find those sodas here!!)
And..yet another thing I did this week (somehow had the time) was quite unique. Awhile back, an American man, who is a film producer/professor and former Fulbright scholar contacted Fulbrights all over Europe about a project he was putting together about Americans living abroad. Long story short, I got his email, and learned that he would be spending several days in Madrid and was interested in talking with/interviewing Americans living here. So, I volunteered, figuring that it sounded like an interesting project and that I would be happy to help and learn more about it. So, on Monday, two other American girls (one, another Fulbright, and the other, a private English teacher), and I, had a discussion with the producer/filmmaker about our experiences living here in Madrid. It really was quite interesting...I'm not exactly sure what's going to come of the project, but I think the idea of recording the experiences of Americans living in foreign countries is quite interesting. I think his goal is to show people that we are "normal" Americans (whatever that means) and that it really isn't that hard to live abroad and have a fulfilling, interesting expeirence, if that's what you want. So anyway, it was definitely interesting to be a part of the discussion, and we'll see what comes of it.
Well, just three days left of school...pretty hard to believe! Really getting down to the end now...at least i'm ending on a high note :) And..next week- on the LAST day of class, i'm giving an entire class in Spanish for one of the non-bilingual groups!! Soo, thats exciting!
That same night, I met up with some visitors back in Madrid. My sister's friend Jessica was here with her friend Jamie, travelling around Spain for two weeks. We had been in contact several weeks before their trip, as Jessica had asked me for suggestions and advice. We ended up meeting and going for dinner/drinks that night. We had a great time and it was fun to meet new people (I really didn't know either of them beforehand). I hope to see her again back in NY! I ended up spending Saturday with them too, doing some touristy stuff around Madrid. Then on Sunday, we had a suprise birthday party/picnic for my friend George, which was a really fun and relaxing way to spend a Sunday. We ended up spending all afternoon and evening in the park, just talking, eating, and enjoying the nice weather.
Then, this week, we had more visitors! Our friend Garazi, from Bilbao, was staying at our apartment for a few days. Also, my friend Christina had a friend visiting from the US. So, we had all sorts of group dinners and events. On Wednesday night, we went to a really great comedy show. It was hilarious and a nice change of pace...not our average form of entertainment. Plus, I feel I have truly reached Spanish fluency when I can understand everything in a fast-paced stand-up comedy show, full of jargon, colloquial language, cultural references etc (ok ok so ALMOST everything...Garazi helped me out once when the guy mentioned the name of the group of Spanish copyrighter/editor people...something i definitely didnt know!)
Also, on Tuesday night, I went to the US embassy for a reception celebrating the success of our students in the Global Classrooms conference. My student who went to the NY conference ended up winning the best position paper award in her committee in NY (which means she was the ONE winner out of about 200 kids..including lots of Americans, and people from all over the world). So, she gave a really great speech...I was really glad to be there to hear that. We also joked about how there was Diet Coke and Dr. Pepper at the US embassy...we found it funny that they must be importing their soda back from the states (you dont find those sodas here!!)
And..yet another thing I did this week (somehow had the time) was quite unique. Awhile back, an American man, who is a film producer/professor and former Fulbright scholar contacted Fulbrights all over Europe about a project he was putting together about Americans living abroad. Long story short, I got his email, and learned that he would be spending several days in Madrid and was interested in talking with/interviewing Americans living here. So, I volunteered, figuring that it sounded like an interesting project and that I would be happy to help and learn more about it. So, on Monday, two other American girls (one, another Fulbright, and the other, a private English teacher), and I, had a discussion with the producer/filmmaker about our experiences living here in Madrid. It really was quite interesting...I'm not exactly sure what's going to come of the project, but I think the idea of recording the experiences of Americans living in foreign countries is quite interesting. I think his goal is to show people that we are "normal" Americans (whatever that means) and that it really isn't that hard to live abroad and have a fulfilling, interesting expeirence, if that's what you want. So anyway, it was definitely interesting to be a part of the discussion, and we'll see what comes of it.
Well, just three days left of school...pretty hard to believe! Really getting down to the end now...at least i'm ending on a high note :) And..next week- on the LAST day of class, i'm giving an entire class in Spanish for one of the non-bilingual groups!! Soo, thats exciting!
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Aprovechando el tiempo que me queda...
The name of this blog entry more or less sums up how I have been feeling over the past few weeks, since I got back from Dublin. The translation in English would be, taking advantage of the time I have left. Since I returned from my last trip, I have been thinking a lot about my experiences here this past year and how quickly time has flown by. I've had trouble convincing myself to write in my blog lately, mainly because I've been having mixed, bitersweet feelings about my ever-approaching departure from Spain. On the one hand, I still have a little over a month left and I know that I should take advantage of every minute of it and enjoy my last few weeks here. At the same time, it's difficult not to think about how my experience here is coming to an end and about all of the things (mainly people) that I will miss after I leave.
This year has been an incredible journey and I have made incredible connections with many people here in Spain. I have learned so much and have had so much time to explore and enjoy life, something that I will certainly miss (not that the ability to explore and enjoy life will suddenly disappear altogether, but realistically speaking, things will not be the same). Yet at the same time, I miss my family and friends back in the US and I'm excited to begin a new phase of my life. I know that my year here as a teaching assistant is just meant to be a phase, and not something permanent. And i know that I want to have new professional experiences and begin my professional career for real. So...to answer that question that I seem to be asked more and more as the days go by, "¿Te da pena irte? (are you sad to leave?), the answer is, "of course!" But at the same time, the answer isn't quite that simple...like in most times of change and uncertainty, my feelings are mixed and bittersweet. So, even though I know I still have some time left, and even though I'm just trying to enjoy that time with all my friends here, all of this has been on my mind.
That being said- I am most certianly enjoying springtime in Madrid. Since it has gotten warmer, m friends and I have spent many afternoons and evenings going on long walks and chatting over a meal or a drink while sitting on one of Madrid's many outdoor terrazas or roof decks. We are still trying and discovering new restaurants and bars, as we want to be sure to have tried a large variety before we leave.
I have also had some very positive experiences in school lately, mainly with the older students. The year is winding down and the kids are getting restless, but nonetheless, I have had some very successful classes. With my oldest students, who are currently learning about WWII in history class, I did a lesson on the Holocaust and included stories of my own grandparents' experiences. This kind of personal lesson was very different for my students and I really think they got a lot out of it. Most of them had never heard first-hand accounts from actual Holocaust survivors, so I was happy to give them a perspective on history with which they were unfamiliar.
Also, for those of you who don't know, there were local/regional elections just a few weeks ago in Spain and due to the economic crisis, there has been a lot of protest and discontent surrounding the elections and corruption in politics. I had a very interesting and provacative debate with some of my students about the elections and the widespread protests, and I was happy to see that the students were at least somewhat informed about the political situation in their country and were interested in having a say in how their country is run.
Finally, yesterday, I did a lesson on cultural differences between different regions of the US. I talked about the usual topics: demographics, politics, religion etc, but also focused on food and accents. I showed the kids pictures of all different regional foods (think clam chowder, Reuben sandwich, jambalaya, southern fried chicken, Tex-mex from the Southwest etc etc). They finally realized that we don't just eat hamburgers! They were aware of some differences between people in different regions of the country (ie people tend to be more religious in the South), but I think they really have a much more nuanced view of the US after this presentation. We also talked about how vocabulary and accents differ between regions, which they seemd to really enjoy. I emphasized the words that make my Jersey accent particularly identifiable (water, coffee, mountain, button) and shared some examples of other accents as well. I really enjoyed preparing all of these lessons. Classes like these really make me feel fulfilled in my position and remind me that I am making a real difference (something I often need to remind myself!) So, because this entry started off a little sad, I think I'll end here...on a good note :) Hasta pronto!
This year has been an incredible journey and I have made incredible connections with many people here in Spain. I have learned so much and have had so much time to explore and enjoy life, something that I will certainly miss (not that the ability to explore and enjoy life will suddenly disappear altogether, but realistically speaking, things will not be the same). Yet at the same time, I miss my family and friends back in the US and I'm excited to begin a new phase of my life. I know that my year here as a teaching assistant is just meant to be a phase, and not something permanent. And i know that I want to have new professional experiences and begin my professional career for real. So...to answer that question that I seem to be asked more and more as the days go by, "¿Te da pena irte? (are you sad to leave?), the answer is, "of course!" But at the same time, the answer isn't quite that simple...like in most times of change and uncertainty, my feelings are mixed and bittersweet. So, even though I know I still have some time left, and even though I'm just trying to enjoy that time with all my friends here, all of this has been on my mind.
That being said- I am most certianly enjoying springtime in Madrid. Since it has gotten warmer, m friends and I have spent many afternoons and evenings going on long walks and chatting over a meal or a drink while sitting on one of Madrid's many outdoor terrazas or roof decks. We are still trying and discovering new restaurants and bars, as we want to be sure to have tried a large variety before we leave.
I have also had some very positive experiences in school lately, mainly with the older students. The year is winding down and the kids are getting restless, but nonetheless, I have had some very successful classes. With my oldest students, who are currently learning about WWII in history class, I did a lesson on the Holocaust and included stories of my own grandparents' experiences. This kind of personal lesson was very different for my students and I really think they got a lot out of it. Most of them had never heard first-hand accounts from actual Holocaust survivors, so I was happy to give them a perspective on history with which they were unfamiliar.
Also, for those of you who don't know, there were local/regional elections just a few weeks ago in Spain and due to the economic crisis, there has been a lot of protest and discontent surrounding the elections and corruption in politics. I had a very interesting and provacative debate with some of my students about the elections and the widespread protests, and I was happy to see that the students were at least somewhat informed about the political situation in their country and were interested in having a say in how their country is run.
Finally, yesterday, I did a lesson on cultural differences between different regions of the US. I talked about the usual topics: demographics, politics, religion etc, but also focused on food and accents. I showed the kids pictures of all different regional foods (think clam chowder, Reuben sandwich, jambalaya, southern fried chicken, Tex-mex from the Southwest etc etc). They finally realized that we don't just eat hamburgers! They were aware of some differences between people in different regions of the country (ie people tend to be more religious in the South), but I think they really have a much more nuanced view of the US after this presentation. We also talked about how vocabulary and accents differ between regions, which they seemd to really enjoy. I emphasized the words that make my Jersey accent particularly identifiable (water, coffee, mountain, button) and shared some examples of other accents as well. I really enjoyed preparing all of these lessons. Classes like these really make me feel fulfilled in my position and remind me that I am making a real difference (something I often need to remind myself!) So, because this entry started off a little sad, I think I'll end here...on a good note :) Hasta pronto!
Sunday, May 8, 2011
The Land of Guinness and Jameson...OK and Wilde, Joyce, Yeats and LOTS more!
So, you may be surprised that I am ALREADY writing about yet another trip, since it seems like I just got back from Mallorca and since Alaina was just visiting last weekend. Well, I do indeed have another trip to write about- Christina, Cassandra, and I had found a good deal on flights to Dublin a few months ago for this past weekend, so we decided to go! I think we would all agree that this was a great decision! None of us had ever been to Ireland before, so this was a a new and unique trip for all of us.
Some general observations about Dublin: there was an enormous concentration of both churches and pubs...take from that information what you may, not sure if that is ironic or if it makes perfect sense ;) Either way, we enjoyed both types of sites!! Also, we found many Irish people to be extremely friendly (with the exception of a few rude bartenders or people working in bus/train stations); people were quite interesting and welcoming. Also- one must carry an umbrella at all times when walking around Dublin. Although it doesn't always rain, you never know when it may start drizzling. We actually were relatively lucky with the weather- it was a bit chilly and drizzled at times, but most of the time it was relatively clear and we were able to spend lots of time outside, exploring the city.
We arrived on Thursday night, checked into our hostel (located across from the Custom House and just a few minutes walk from the hopping Temple Bar district), and found a pub where we had some dinner and beer (to celebrate our arrival in Dublin!) Even though I'm not a big beer fan, I ordered one anyway, just because i figured...when in Dublin, right? Cassandra ordered a Guinness, so I tried that (I must say, I didn't like it at all), but I at least I completed by duty of having Guinness in Ireland! We were a little nervous when we first arrived, because several people told as that where we were staying wasn't a very safe area (there were apparently drug problems), but it turned out to be just fine. We saw a little bit of sketchy activity that first night, but after that..no problems at all!
Friday we had a VERY full day....started out with breakfast at the hostel, and then began to explore the city. We walked around and saw some of the MANY beautiful and famous churches (including Christ Church and St. Patricks Cathedral). We also wandered around a pretty park and took some pictures. We then ended up at a restaurant called The Queen of Tarts, which was highly recommended by friends, as well as every tour book imaginable. It was sooo good that we even went back on Saturday. They had amazing, creative desserts, but also some great lunch dishes as well. (for example- a crab, goat cheese, and spinach quiche; a sweet potato soup; Bailey's chocolate chip cheescake...etc etc). We also went to the National Museum, where we learned about Ireland's archeological history (from as far back as 2000 BC), and some of the history of the Vikings in Ireland. We also walked around the campus of Trinity College, which reminded me a bit of Duke, and made me a little nostalgic for college (a coincidence that Duke's original name was Trinity?) Then, we went back to the hostel and met some other travellers, from Canada, Australia, and the Netherlands. Next, we went out for some traditional fish and chips, and went to an Irish pub where we heard live Irish music ;)
On Saturday, we went to one of the oldest churches in Ireland (St Michan's), where they have a crypt with mummies dating back to the 11th century. We had a tour of the crypt with a very eccentric tour guide, which made the experience very memorable. Then, we went to the Dublin Writers Museum, which displayed the history of all of the famous Irish authors (Joyce, Yeats, Beckett, Wilde etc etc). It was really interesting and made us all really want to read some of these books! Then, we wandered a bit more and went back to Queen of Tarts for some more delicious food. That afternoon, we took a short train to Howth, a town right along the water, outside the city. We wandered along the boardwalk, past lots of boats and seafood restaurants. We saw some seals in the water, as well as beautiful views of the mountains and the water. We really enjoyed seeing some countryside, without having to travel too far. We even went to a bar and enjoyed some Irish coffee/ Coffee with Baileys (another drink we felt we needed to try during our short stay), and chatted with an older Irish couple, who were extremely friendly. We headed back to Dublin in time for dinner (we wanted to eat in a traditional, well-known pub and most of those places stop serving food at nine or ten...very different from the Spanish schedule we are used to!) We then went to another fun pub with live music...ended the night on a high note! At the pub, we tried some Jameson whiskey, which for me seemed particulalry appropriate, since my mom's maiden name is Jameson, and since the Jameson whiskey brand is so famous and present in Dublin. This was actually kind of funny because a few people in Dublin toldl me that I kind of looked Irish...which is ironic since I don't actually have any Irish blood, but my mom's side of the family does have an Irish-sounding name!
On Sunday, we had breakfast at the hotel and walked around for about an hour, seeing a few other sites that we still wanted to visit. Then, we headed back to the airport and said bye to Dublin....we arrived back in Madrid, ready to have some warm, sunny weather again!!
Some general observations about Dublin: there was an enormous concentration of both churches and pubs...take from that information what you may, not sure if that is ironic or if it makes perfect sense ;) Either way, we enjoyed both types of sites!! Also, we found many Irish people to be extremely friendly (with the exception of a few rude bartenders or people working in bus/train stations); people were quite interesting and welcoming. Also- one must carry an umbrella at all times when walking around Dublin. Although it doesn't always rain, you never know when it may start drizzling. We actually were relatively lucky with the weather- it was a bit chilly and drizzled at times, but most of the time it was relatively clear and we were able to spend lots of time outside, exploring the city.
We arrived on Thursday night, checked into our hostel (located across from the Custom House and just a few minutes walk from the hopping Temple Bar district), and found a pub where we had some dinner and beer (to celebrate our arrival in Dublin!) Even though I'm not a big beer fan, I ordered one anyway, just because i figured...when in Dublin, right? Cassandra ordered a Guinness, so I tried that (I must say, I didn't like it at all), but I at least I completed by duty of having Guinness in Ireland! We were a little nervous when we first arrived, because several people told as that where we were staying wasn't a very safe area (there were apparently drug problems), but it turned out to be just fine. We saw a little bit of sketchy activity that first night, but after that..no problems at all!
Friday we had a VERY full day....started out with breakfast at the hostel, and then began to explore the city. We walked around and saw some of the MANY beautiful and famous churches (including Christ Church and St. Patricks Cathedral). We also wandered around a pretty park and took some pictures. We then ended up at a restaurant called The Queen of Tarts, which was highly recommended by friends, as well as every tour book imaginable. It was sooo good that we even went back on Saturday. They had amazing, creative desserts, but also some great lunch dishes as well. (for example- a crab, goat cheese, and spinach quiche; a sweet potato soup; Bailey's chocolate chip cheescake...etc etc). We also went to the National Museum, where we learned about Ireland's archeological history (from as far back as 2000 BC), and some of the history of the Vikings in Ireland. We also walked around the campus of Trinity College, which reminded me a bit of Duke, and made me a little nostalgic for college (a coincidence that Duke's original name was Trinity?) Then, we went back to the hostel and met some other travellers, from Canada, Australia, and the Netherlands. Next, we went out for some traditional fish and chips, and went to an Irish pub where we heard live Irish music ;)
On Saturday, we went to one of the oldest churches in Ireland (St Michan's), where they have a crypt with mummies dating back to the 11th century. We had a tour of the crypt with a very eccentric tour guide, which made the experience very memorable. Then, we went to the Dublin Writers Museum, which displayed the history of all of the famous Irish authors (Joyce, Yeats, Beckett, Wilde etc etc). It was really interesting and made us all really want to read some of these books! Then, we wandered a bit more and went back to Queen of Tarts for some more delicious food. That afternoon, we took a short train to Howth, a town right along the water, outside the city. We wandered along the boardwalk, past lots of boats and seafood restaurants. We saw some seals in the water, as well as beautiful views of the mountains and the water. We really enjoyed seeing some countryside, without having to travel too far. We even went to a bar and enjoyed some Irish coffee/ Coffee with Baileys (another drink we felt we needed to try during our short stay), and chatted with an older Irish couple, who were extremely friendly. We headed back to Dublin in time for dinner (we wanted to eat in a traditional, well-known pub and most of those places stop serving food at nine or ten...very different from the Spanish schedule we are used to!) We then went to another fun pub with live music...ended the night on a high note! At the pub, we tried some Jameson whiskey, which for me seemed particulalry appropriate, since my mom's maiden name is Jameson, and since the Jameson whiskey brand is so famous and present in Dublin. This was actually kind of funny because a few people in Dublin toldl me that I kind of looked Irish...which is ironic since I don't actually have any Irish blood, but my mom's side of the family does have an Irish-sounding name!
On Sunday, we had breakfast at the hotel and walked around for about an hour, seeing a few other sites that we still wanted to visit. Then, we headed back to the airport and said bye to Dublin....we arrived back in Madrid, ready to have some warm, sunny weather again!!
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Semana Santa, la visita de Alaina, y mi cumple!
After a very busy two weeks, I am finally getting around to updating my blog. First of all, over Semana Santa (Holy Week..when i had over a week of vacation from school), Kelly, Noel, and I had a lovely, relaxing vacation in Mallorca. We had a great time- exactly what we needed! We left early Saturday morning, all of us with our sun hats in hand (because of course, we didn't want to smush them into our suitcases!) We got to the airport in Palma, where we rented our car, and began our adventure. We were staying in a small, isolated, but beautiful area in the southwestern part of the island, called Cala Pi. This was about a 25-30 min drive from Palma, the capital and biggest city in the island. We arrived to our hotel Saturday afternoon and got lunch at a nearby pizzeria. Then, we spent the rest of the afternoon settiling in, picking up groceries, exploring a bit, and sitting and relaxing by the pool. That evening, we cooked some fajitas and drank some wine, and had a tranquil evening in Cala Pi :)
The next day, we drove to a beach about 20 minutes away and spent the day there. It was a very beuatiful and peaceful location..not too commercial or developed and not too crowded either. Although, we were some of the only visitors with bathing suits on (apparently this was a nude beach)...but we were all at least prepared for that. That night, we ate paella at the restaurant by our hotel and relaxed. The next day, we took a long drive to the northeast part of the island to visit the Cuevas del Drach, some famous caves that we were all told we should go visit. The caves were really cool; we all enjoyed the tour. Then, we went to a nearby beach, Cala Millor, which was much more touristy and bigger than the other beach, but equally beautiful. After a long day, we headed back to Cala Pi, ate dinner at the apartment, and relaxed there. On Tuesday, we visited yet another beach, and then spent the evening in Palma. We walked around the city, which we really enjoyed, and went to a great, highly-recommended tapas restaurant called Tast. We then ended up, by chance, seeing a huge Semana Santa procession, which seemed like a requirement for a Semana Santa spent in Spain...so we were glad about that. We liked Palma so much that we went back the next day for lunch and to walk around. For dinner, we cooked pasta at our apartment and watched the Real Madrid-Barcelona game (which RM won, woo!).
My last day in Mallorca, we stayed around Cala Pi and actually took a little hike around the cove and got some great views (and great pictures) of the surrounding area. Then, I headed to the airport Thursday night (because my friend Alaina was coming to Madrid Fri am to visit), and Kelly and Noel stayed in Mallorca for another day and a half.
The next morning, Alaina arrived bright and early, and we began our whirlwind weekend in Madrid. When she first arrived, she was tired and needed a nap, as is to be expected. But then, we walked around the Bilbao-Quevedo area, got some lunch, and caught up a bit. Afterwards, we came back to my apartment for a coffee-second nap break, and then went out again during the evening. We took the walk from my apartment towards Gran Via and Sol, and I showed her all the sites on the way. We ended up at a restaurant called Lateral in Plaza Santa Ana, which is one of my favorites. We hung out for a bit in the area and then headed back to my apartment.
Saturday, Alaina got a very complete tour of Central Madrid. We went to the Thyssen museum and walked along the Paseo de Prado. We went to Huertas, a really cool neighborhood, and walked around a bit. We ate in Huertas at another one of my favorite restaurants, Maceiras, which has amazing Galician food! Then, we walked to Banco de Espana/Cibeles and then continued to Retiro, where we walked around and rented a row boat for 45 mins, rowing around the lake. We came back home afterwards and cooked a pasta dinner for the two of us and Ruth, and then the three of us, along with another friend, went out and showed Alaina what Spanish nightlife is like. She had fun, but certainly wasn't used to the late-night schedule! Sunday, after sleeping in and recovering from our late night, we walked around Serrano and the Castellana for awhile. Then we went back to Plaza de Espana, and I showed Alaina the Templo de Debod and the Parque del Oeste. Later, we went with Ruth and Aitor to La Latina for tapas, which we decided we had to do with Alaina, as it is the typical Sunday night activity here in Madrid. Monday, Ruth, Alaina, and I spent the day touring Toledo, and then came back home and cooked tortirlla de patatas!! So, needless to say, Alaina had quite the complete visit!!
The next morning, Alaina was off to Sevilla and Granada and I was back to work for a short week. Thursday night, we had a get-together at Christina's house, and as I was there at midnight, my friends all sang to me and wished me happy birthday, which was sweet :) Friday, my bday, Alaina returned happily from her trip, and we had a nice lunch together. I was really excited because even the ATM wished me a happy birthday, which for whatever reason, made me happy :) That night, I had a bunch of friends over for dinner, to celebrate my bday. Alaina and I cooked some yummy pintxos and everyone else also brought food/dessert. We had a lot of fun and I got some really cute gifts! Then we all went out together and had a great time.
Saturday, Alaina's last day in Madrid, we slept in, ate leftovers from our party, and then went to the Palacio Real. We took the tour, which Alaina really enjoyed, and then did some souveneir shopping. Finally, we ended the night at Casa Mingo, a very authentic, yummy sidreria that Alaina had gone to her last trip in Madrid, which we enjoyed a lot. This morning, she left for the airport, as we are both preparing to return to our normal lives! We had a great time-it was so great to catch up and spend all that time together!! Of course, though, we really missed Rebecca, who was supposed to visit at the same time, but who had to cancel her trip last minute due to a torn ACL/meniscus. At least, we were able to skype with her on Friday. Anywayy, I think I have finally finished my update!! It was a great two weeks!! I cant believe its already May...time really does fly!
The next day, we drove to a beach about 20 minutes away and spent the day there. It was a very beuatiful and peaceful location..not too commercial or developed and not too crowded either. Although, we were some of the only visitors with bathing suits on (apparently this was a nude beach)...but we were all at least prepared for that. That night, we ate paella at the restaurant by our hotel and relaxed. The next day, we took a long drive to the northeast part of the island to visit the Cuevas del Drach, some famous caves that we were all told we should go visit. The caves were really cool; we all enjoyed the tour. Then, we went to a nearby beach, Cala Millor, which was much more touristy and bigger than the other beach, but equally beautiful. After a long day, we headed back to Cala Pi, ate dinner at the apartment, and relaxed there. On Tuesday, we visited yet another beach, and then spent the evening in Palma. We walked around the city, which we really enjoyed, and went to a great, highly-recommended tapas restaurant called Tast. We then ended up, by chance, seeing a huge Semana Santa procession, which seemed like a requirement for a Semana Santa spent in Spain...so we were glad about that. We liked Palma so much that we went back the next day for lunch and to walk around. For dinner, we cooked pasta at our apartment and watched the Real Madrid-Barcelona game (which RM won, woo!).
My last day in Mallorca, we stayed around Cala Pi and actually took a little hike around the cove and got some great views (and great pictures) of the surrounding area. Then, I headed to the airport Thursday night (because my friend Alaina was coming to Madrid Fri am to visit), and Kelly and Noel stayed in Mallorca for another day and a half.
The next morning, Alaina arrived bright and early, and we began our whirlwind weekend in Madrid. When she first arrived, she was tired and needed a nap, as is to be expected. But then, we walked around the Bilbao-Quevedo area, got some lunch, and caught up a bit. Afterwards, we came back to my apartment for a coffee-second nap break, and then went out again during the evening. We took the walk from my apartment towards Gran Via and Sol, and I showed her all the sites on the way. We ended up at a restaurant called Lateral in Plaza Santa Ana, which is one of my favorites. We hung out for a bit in the area and then headed back to my apartment.
Saturday, Alaina got a very complete tour of Central Madrid. We went to the Thyssen museum and walked along the Paseo de Prado. We went to Huertas, a really cool neighborhood, and walked around a bit. We ate in Huertas at another one of my favorite restaurants, Maceiras, which has amazing Galician food! Then, we walked to Banco de Espana/Cibeles and then continued to Retiro, where we walked around and rented a row boat for 45 mins, rowing around the lake. We came back home afterwards and cooked a pasta dinner for the two of us and Ruth, and then the three of us, along with another friend, went out and showed Alaina what Spanish nightlife is like. She had fun, but certainly wasn't used to the late-night schedule! Sunday, after sleeping in and recovering from our late night, we walked around Serrano and the Castellana for awhile. Then we went back to Plaza de Espana, and I showed Alaina the Templo de Debod and the Parque del Oeste. Later, we went with Ruth and Aitor to La Latina for tapas, which we decided we had to do with Alaina, as it is the typical Sunday night activity here in Madrid. Monday, Ruth, Alaina, and I spent the day touring Toledo, and then came back home and cooked tortirlla de patatas!! So, needless to say, Alaina had quite the complete visit!!
The next morning, Alaina was off to Sevilla and Granada and I was back to work for a short week. Thursday night, we had a get-together at Christina's house, and as I was there at midnight, my friends all sang to me and wished me happy birthday, which was sweet :) Friday, my bday, Alaina returned happily from her trip, and we had a nice lunch together. I was really excited because even the ATM wished me a happy birthday, which for whatever reason, made me happy :) That night, I had a bunch of friends over for dinner, to celebrate my bday. Alaina and I cooked some yummy pintxos and everyone else also brought food/dessert. We had a lot of fun and I got some really cute gifts! Then we all went out together and had a great time.
Saturday, Alaina's last day in Madrid, we slept in, ate leftovers from our party, and then went to the Palacio Real. We took the tour, which Alaina really enjoyed, and then did some souveneir shopping. Finally, we ended the night at Casa Mingo, a very authentic, yummy sidreria that Alaina had gone to her last trip in Madrid, which we enjoyed a lot. This morning, she left for the airport, as we are both preparing to return to our normal lives! We had a great time-it was so great to catch up and spend all that time together!! Of course, though, we really missed Rebecca, who was supposed to visit at the same time, but who had to cancel her trip last minute due to a torn ACL/meniscus. At least, we were able to skype with her on Friday. Anywayy, I think I have finally finished my update!! It was a great two weeks!! I cant believe its already May...time really does fly!
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Springtime in Madrid :)
Well its official..spring has arrived! This past week we have had marvelous weather in Madrid, and I've been trying my best to take advantage of it. After two weekends of travelling, I have spent a lot of this week catching up with friends, which has been great. Noel had a friend visiting from the US, so we all hung out together several times, which was a lot of fun!! We have all been enjoying the terrazas (terraces..or basically just eating/drinking outside). On Friday, I went with Kelly on a day-trip to Aranjuez, which is just a 45 min train ride outside of Madrid. The main attraction there is the "Spring Palace," or the dwelling of the royal family during the spring. We took the tour..and it reminded me very much of the Palacio Real in Madrid, but more "springy." We had gorgeous weather, so we spent a lot of time wandering around the town and the beautiful gardens outside the palace. We had a nice relaxing lunch as well. Then, I got back to Madrid in time to meet up with Cassandra, another friend which whom I needed to catch up!!! We had a great night!! And today..I have spent lots of time updating my blog, but also went to the park with Ruth, Fonsi, Carlos, and Aitor for a few hours. It was nice and relaxing, and was so warm, it felt like summer! I learned a new card game, which was fun, and of course, got some sun :) Tonight I'm heading out with Ruth and some other friends...another late Madrid night for sure. Anyway, I think i have finally finished my updates...for now!
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