Spain After Franco and the New Monarchy

            The period of 1936 to 1975 saw the years under the dictatorship of Francisco Franco. During the beginning of his reign, Hitler and Mussolini backed him; however, during the Cold War, Franco’s Spain was seen as an ally by the United States because of its strong anti-communist ideologies. Under Franco’s republic, it is estimated that around 35,000 people were killed while more extreme estimates put the death toll at 500,000. Many of his executions were of “reds” all the while with the Catholic Church at his side.

            A few years before Franco’s death, he appointed Prince Juan Carlos I as his successor to the throne. Even though Juan Carlos supported Franco during his reign, his ideas were much different behind closed doors. When Prince Carlos I took reign on November 22, 1975, he began trying to turn around Franco’s dictatorship and convert it to a democracy. In 1977, the country held its first democratic elections (after Franco), where Juan Carlos was named the “Heir to the Historic Dynasty” as opposed to just a successor of Franco. Even though many other leaders thought that Juan Carlos’ rule would be very temporary, even calling him “Juan Carlos the Brief”, the king has been in power even to this day.

            Under King Juan Carlos I, he managed to change the country’s government from a fearful dictatorship to a parliamentary democracy. The king has made himself very likable throughout the nation of Spain and even throughout much of the world (even though much of the country is in mass disappointment with the way the former prime minister, a socialist, has transformed the country). He has instituted prime ministers, policies to allow exchange between students in Spain and Latin America and has even legalized gay marriage.

            These days, the king doesn’t hold a large part in the government but more of a figurehead position. He stands as the moral blueprint and symbol for the country. Again, while many people admire and like King Juan Carlos, there are a great number who are extremely dissatisfied with the government of Spain, as it has essentially turned into a socialist one. There have been many protests in recent months protesting the abolishment of the current system of government and trying to get reform for the people.

            Even though King Juan Carlos may not play a huge role in the government anymore, he is still the only one who can nominate the president and his role in the monarchy will always be to help keep the people of free in a democratic sense.

http://www.moreorless.au.com/killers/franco.html

http://books.google.com/books?id=YiA9rvx9pBYC&printsec=frontcover&dq=spain+after+franco&hl=en&ei=xUssToD2Kci4tgeor6zXAg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=1&ved=0CCkQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q&f=false

Visit to the Prado

Visiting the Prado Museum was something remnant of visiting the national art gallery in Washington D.C. (which in fact I was surprised to find that some of the featured artists’ works are located in Washington). Except in Spain. I feel it would be a great dishonor to my reader to not admit that I am far from an art connoisseur.  Wine and food? Sure. But art, not so much. However, I did not want my ineptitude in the art department take away from my general experience at the Prado. Therefore, I did find pieces that I did admire quite a bit, even for someone who knows almost nothing about art.

To begin…

Diego Velazquez:

This artist was born in 1599 in Seville, Spain and is considered one of the “most supreme” artists of all time. Velazquez lived in Madrid for most of the time except when he was traveling to work on paintings in Venice and Rome. Some of his most famous works include The Surrender of Breda, Phillip IV, The Spinners, and, The Maids of Honor.

After visiting the museum, I have to say that the painting of Velázquez’s that I like the most was “Las Meninas”. I find it interesting that this painting was of the King and Queen of Spain’s daughter, infanta Margarita, but more so that it was done in the Alcázar Palace in Madrid. Another odd note is that after looking closely enough, you can tell that the main male figure in the painting is actually Velazquez himself. It is said that this is the only self-portrait the artist ever did.

 I like this piece the most because of the regal feel to it. I love how everyone in the picture is doting on young Margarita and her in the middle of it all, looking like the princess she actually is. So many girls grow up with the fantasy of being a princess but this young girl actually was one. The picture is just so majestic, with the young girls and her parents reflected in the mirror in the background, just discernable to the eye. This was by far my favorite of the three paintings discussed here and my favorite to see in person. 

Francisco Zurbarán

            Francisco de Zurbarán was born in 1598 in Western Spain. He is most noted for his religious paintings. He was later sent by his parents to serve as an apprentice to a painter in Seville where he eventually mastered different types of ways to create his works such as charcoal. He is said to have learned similar styles to that of Velázquez.

            I wasn’t crazy most of Zurbarán’s works but having to choose I have to say that the “Immaculate Conception” was my favorite. The theme of the picture was beautiful and gracious. The Virgin Mary stands, surrounded by objects that represent her pureness. In the Catholic religion, it is practice to worship the Virgin Mary so I felt that this painting was very representative of that.

Alonso Cano

            Alonso Cano was born March 19, 1601 in Granada. He is famous for his paintings, architecture, and sculptures. One of his most famous works is of Madonna and Child in Lebrija. He was the first royal architect to King Phillip IV and designed the façade of the cathedral in Granada.

            Ironically, the piece I like most from Cano was Virgin and Child, closely related in theme to Zurbarán’s “Immaculate Conception”. I really like the way Cano depicts the Virgin and Jesus in the painting by their facial expressions. They both look peaceful and happy and each is adorned with a light halo above their head. The overall picture is somewhat dark in color but Mary and Jesus stand out quite bright, giving light to their expressions. He does a great job at depicting a scene that has been done time and time again. 

After my visit to the Prado, I think that I will definitely be more inclined to visit more art museums in future. It becomes very overwhelming after a certain point but finding a piece as beautiful as "Las Meninas" and seeing it in person is an experience worthwhile. 

Some sights in Sevilla...

This post is of some of my favorite things from when we were in Sevilla...Enjoy!

The MetroPol Parasol is a brand new addition to Sevilla, inaugurated only a few weeks before we arrived. This beautiful piece of modern architecture is something that will become a landmark for Seville in its own time. Also, when we visited, it was being used for protests against the government!

This picture was taken from the top of the Giralda. The view from the top is amazing and from the side that I took this, you can see the Plaza de Toros. I never actually got to visit the plaza myself, but it looks impressive even from this distance. Hopefully when I return to Seville I will be able to visit. 

This is the day we went wine tasting at the culinary school in Sevilla. We tasted three different types of "vinos tintos" and ate lunch there as well. The wines were spectacular, some of the best I have ever tasted...and I have tasted a lot of wine!

On this day, we went to the Italica which is an ancient Roman Ruin. It is so mystifying here and quiet (besides the screaming FIU students, of course!). I was missing my roommates this day though...

This was by far one of my favorite places in Sevilla! The Plaza de España was such a great last minute thing to see. Not only was it beautiful and rich with history, part of Star Wars was filmed here!

This is from Bar Zafiro on the corner where the hotel is located. In the picture is my meal of "Rabo de Toro" and a glass of "vino tinto". I frequented this cafe quite often seeing as it was only a minute's walk away. This dish ended up being spectacular; between the potatoes and the meat, it was heaven on my taste buds. And of course, the wine was good as always!

These are pretty much my most memorable days in Sevilla. There were so many other pictures but these were the ones that made me feel like I was really living the dream I had sought for so long.

Last Day in Sevilla

As I sit at a table at Bar Zafiro, a little café on the corner where we have stayed for the past three weeks, I am somewhat saddened by the thought that today is my last day in Sevilla.

            Since we arrived here almost three weeks ago, I feel like time has just flied by. Before I left, my mom told me to enjoy every moment because before I knew it I would be back home in Miami. In reference to this, I have to say that I definitely made the most out of this trip. From the museums and cathedrals to the tapas and wine, I have embraced so much of the Spanish culture while here, even the siestas!

            As far as the food and wine goes, let’s just say that there were very few things I didn’t try. In fact, as I write this, I am sipping on a glass of vino tinto and trying the rabo de torro (bull tail). It is spectacular; thanks for suggesting this Dad! For those who are wondering, it tastes very similar to like a beef stew. Other delectable items of food that I have tasted in Sevilla include but are not limited to: pincho de bacalao con pralinas y cebollas caremelizado (cod fish on toast with pralines and caramelized onions), all types of croquettas (bacalao, jamon, manchego, and even mushroom), cheese stuffed pimiento peppers on top of toast with caramelized onions, salmon ravioli, montaditos with jamon, chorizo and cheese, tortilla and of course lots of jamon and queso.

            In regards to what my favorite restaurant would be, I would have to say that I have literally enjoyed almost every single meal I have eaten here in Sevilla so it is difficult to name just one. However, the places that stood out to me the most were Azafrán, Bodega de la Pitarra, and La Alacena de San Eloy. All of these places offered different things from the codfish with onions to spectacular jamon croquettas.

            If there is one thing that I will admit to not being a huge fan of it was the gazpacho. Don’t get me wrong, the flavor is spectacular; however, there is something about cold soup that just does not do it for me. In the long run though, at least I can say that I tried it.

            When I tried to pack all of my things this afternoon after my siesta, I was definitely having some trouble. I guess you don’t realize how much you accumulate in three weeks until you have to pack it into one bag. Between souvenirs and new clothes (yes, I may have gone slightly overboard with that one), I just can’t seem to make it fit very well. On the plus side, I have an extra duffle bag that I plan on using to put all the stuff for the plane ride back.

            I just finished my rabo de torro and I am adding this to my list of favorite eats on this trip. It was absolutely incredible. I am finishing up my glass of wine now and getting ready to pay my “cuenta”.

            One thing I began to be very comfortable with was the language. Don’t get me wrong, I am still no expert in Spanish. But if there was one thing that was terrifying me before this trip was the language barrier. After a couple days though, I learned how to communicate the necessities and just go with the flow. If they didn’t understand my Spanish, I would just try again.

            The waiter just took a swig of beer before taking my money for the bill. What a different world here. So relaxed. No stress. I’m going to miss this. I leave for Madrid in less than 12 hours where my day will be packed to the brim once again for the next two days before I leave.

I have enjoyed this trip so much and I am beyond grateful that I was given this opportunity that I have always longed for. I hope to be able to visit Sevilla again some day because this city is just wonderful. 

Weekend in Portugal...

Let me start by saying that I am so incredibly grateful to be here. I don't think I could have ever imagined being in places as beautiful as Spain and Portugal. If someone would have told me I would be on a beach in Portugal a year ago, I would not have believed them. 

Lagos is a beautiful city. The white buildings and houses piled on hills, the enormous cliffs that overlook the ocean,  and the spectacular beaches are perfect descriptions of this small beach town. 

The picture above was taken on my first day in Portugal when the tour guides took us to a cliff to watch the sunset. I was in awe. The beauty of the ocean, the breathtaking height of the cliffs (which scared me quite a bit if I am being honest), all of it came together to create a beautiful moment for me. 

Later that night, we went to a Portuguese restaurant where I had swordfish with french fries and salad. Let me say this about the restaurants in Portugal: while a meal may cost a little more than in Spain, the amount is just ridiculous. Every place I ate at was accompanied by salad and the portion was huge. The swordfish was pretty good, but it could have been a little more moist. The highlight of the evening though was me spilling wine on my purse, again, within 10 minutes of sitting down at the table. My clumsiness on this trip has gotten to the point where I don't even care anymore! As soon as the wine spilled at the restaurant, of course I was embarrassed but I started laughing so hard that I was actually crying. It was probably one of the funniest moments on this trip; I have learned to let things go more quickly and just move on from stupid things that I can't do anything about. 

The most amazing moment for me on this trip to Portugal was at the beach on Saturday. After arriving at the beach, I was in awe. However, when I really took it all in was about half an hour later when Caressa and I walked up to the little beach restaurant. I ordered a six euro pitcher of sangria, expensive in my book and fish sticks off the kids menu. When my sangria arrived, I no longer cared about the price, I was in paradise. This sangria was possibly the best sangria I have ever tasted but it was just part of what made my moment. As I sat there, drinking my sangria, I took in what I was looking at. From my chair on the patio outside the restaurant just above the sand, I could see the ocean's tides coming in, the cliffs in the distance and the houses stacked up on hills. It was the most serene moment I have had in a very long time. At that moment, I just felt overwhelmed with gratefulness for life and this experience. 

On Sunday, I did something that I have always wanted to do: surf! Since I was young (and after I saw Blue Crush), I have wanted to try surfing. Something about it just always seemed so cool and different and appealed to me from the beginning. Definitely not as easy as it looks though! We started by having to put our wetsuits on which if you have ever had to put a full body one on, you know how much of a pain this is. After this, we carried our boards down a small hill and over to where we would be receiving our lessons. We began by running a little bit to warm up and afterwards doing some stretching. Then the fun began. First, the instructor told us to get in the water and body surf, without the board. So much fun! The waves would take us all the way up to the sand. After we were done with this, we took our boards out into the crystal blue water (sans sharks) and tried to just ride the wave on our stomachs. This part was probably the funnest. Being able to finally be on a board and just enjoy the water and the crashing of the waves was amazing. After this exercise, he taught us how to get up on the board while on the sand and then told to go try it out in the water. Every time I would try to get up on that board, I would fall off. I tried and tried, unsuccessfully except for one precious moment when I was able to get on the board with my feet for about a nanosecond. Regardless of the fact that I didn't do well, it was such a blast! I thoroughly enjoyed just being in the water and sitting on the board with the waves crashing against me. 

I am now back in Sevilla preparing for our project that is due on Wednesday. We are working hard because we are presenting to the Seville Board of Tourism. On Thursday morning we leave for Madrid and then Saturday I will be back in Miami. As much fun as I am having here, I definitely miss you all back home and can't wait to see everyone of you. But in the meantime, I definitely plan on making the most of my last days in Spain! I see many more tapas, montaditos, and vino tinto are in my future for the next four days and I can't wait...

xoxo

Advocacy Journalism and Western Europe

            Advocacy journalism has made a splash in recent years as the type of reporting that has an opinion. This is not to say that only some journalism has an opinion because they all do. However, the difference here is that those who are considered advocacy journalists are very open about their opinion when reporting their stories. These journalists go about their job in a facts-based way but with the edge of supporting a specific view or agenda. Some of these agendas deal with politics, climate, social issues, corporate business, and so on. These journalists take a stand in what they are writing and refuse to be objective. Whether this refusal is for an actual passion of the topic at hand or just for ratings, that is another story; but many of the reporters do really seem to be whole-heartedly convicted to their stories.

            There are different reasons for these journalists wanting to disregard objectivity in their jobs. One of the main reasons is that journalists want the edge up today’s competitive job market. It is difficult to find a job in the climate of economy we are dealing with these days so having an opinion that will get a lot of attention is a plus. If they can say something that will get viewers to turn up their televisions, they are doing their job right.

            Another reason many journalists are leaning toward this form is because a great number believe that there is no such thing as being completely objective to begin with. They believe that when it comes to most issues, it is impossible to report in a “matter-of-fact” type of way with no bias or underlined opinion in the matter that comes out. It is also said that many news outlets while trying to be “unbiased” are really promoting their own cause anyways, leaving no room for actual objectivity. A great example of this would be many of the 24-hour news outlets such as CNN and FOX News. They claim that they are objective but it is obvious which political parties they lean toward and which issues that agree and disagree with.

            With all this though, it is claimed that regardless of how they actually report the information, the audience who wants to watch will continue to watch and the one who doesn’t will turn off the channel. Viewers who agree with the message will probably continue to agree with most everything else on the channel that is already non-objective. Obviously, this is not 100 percent of the time, but in regards to national issues such as politics and economics, this theory could stand true for many.

            Another important part of advocacy journalism is that it is not all “muckraking”. For the most part, this form of journalism tries to be as factually correct as possible while still promoting a specific agenda. These journalists believe that this is more than possible.

            In Western Europe, this idea is no different. The only difference between the United States media and in Europe is that we try to look objective while they are more straightforward about the fact that they are reporting based on a biased opinion.  Spain’s media is extremely biased in the sense that while yes, they are allowed to report and have free press these days, the government’s opinion is still plastered all over the newsstands. However, in recent days with the protests and whatnot, the role of advocacy journalism is even more important for this country. At this point, they are going through mass protests regarding the government and its role in the citizen’s lives. It is a huge debate between which type of political system is better for Spain and the journalists are definitely taking advantage of such a mass outcry from the people of Spain.

            While many consider this type of journalism great, especially those who regard a certain political party highly or on a certain issue, others think that the lack of objectivity will cloud the mind of those who are either uneducated enough to discern what is “good” from what is “bad” and what is true and factual as opposed to just, well, “muck”.

Reales Alcazares and More...

Recently we visited the Reales Alcazares as a group. I was quite impressed with the idea that this is were the king and queen stay when they are in Seville. The gardens inside were amazing as were the fountains and just the buildings in general. Unfortunately, my camera died about 10 minutes into the tour. I managed to snap a few pictures before the battery died and I took a few with my phone but I was slightly disappointed about this.

Later today, we will be leaving on a bus to Portugal! I am beyond excited for this side trip! It took me a while to figure out what I was going to do on this weekend because it was originally scheduled at Morocco but with the international climate the way it has been lately, it wasn't a safe option. Because of this, I had looked into Barcelona, Valencia, and even Paris. When everything just fell through or wasn't a good idea, Portugal was offered to us instead of Morocco. As soon as I heard this, I decided that this was where I wanted to go.

So right now I am finishing packing my things for our beach weekend that I am thrilled about. I am sure it is going to be beautiful. Supposedly there is a boat that we can go out on called a "sangria cruise". I plan on signing up for this but I am not sure about the surfing that they are offering. I guess time will tell what I end up doing....

Until next time, hasta luego!

Italica and Weekend in Cordoba and Granada

This past weekend was incredible. Unforgettable.

After I posted on Friday, we got left behind at the hotel and missed the bus. Yes, we missed our bus to the Gypsy town. Needless to say we were not happy. The four of us (Caressa, Silvy, Isa and I) had to pay our way to the Albaicin (the Gypsy town where the Flamenco show was) by means of a taxi who could not even drop us off the whole way to the actual place. After he dropped us off, we had to walk uphill to the Gypsy/Flamenco place, me practically in tears because I had been in so much pain from the blisters that seemed to be attacking my feet.

Once we reached the place where the Flamenco show was, we plopped down in our seats only to get reprimanded by the rest of the class who was already seated and waiting. As upset as I was that we had missed the bus, all I could think about the entire taxi ride over and even once the show started was how we kept being told that if we were late they would leave without us. So, in reality, I knew I couldn't really be upset at anyone beside myself.

The Flamenco show ended up being pretty interesting. The show was compromised of a lot more performers than the first show we saw in Seville. It was a really laid back form of Flamenco compared to the first but still beautiful in its own way (except for the Gypsy who got sweat everywhere when he shook his head while dancing. That definitely wasn't beauty.).

On our second day in Granada, we visited the Alhambra. Since finding out the itinerary of the trip, I had been dying to go here. There was just something so regal, so beautiful about the Alhambra, it was almost mesmerizing. Sure enough, when I saw it with my own eyes, it was took my breathe away. It was easily one of the most spectacular places I have ever seen. Between the gardens and the buildings and the forts, it was even too much to take in at times. Just gorgeous.

The day after visiting the Alhambra, we visited Cordoba. At first, I really didn't like Cordoba much. Not only was it  way too hot, I just wasn't crazy about the city. Although, when we visited the Mezquita, I have to admit that I did change my tune.

At first I was a bit hesitant about the fact that I was in a Catholic church that used to be a mosque. I know it sounds stupid, but in the past nine and a half years, I have grown to dislike mosques quite a bit. This isn't to say that I don't have friends who are Muslim because one of my closest and oldest friends is Muslim. But my unfortunate bias got in the way initially of this beautiful work of architecture and history. Once we got inside, I was amazed at how incredibly pretty the design was and its history was definitely quite interesting. However, my moment came when Caressa and I spotted a small chapel that was for praying only. We decided to go in and say a few prayers. When I moved the thick curtain aside to enter the chapel, it was like a whole other type of energy was in there. It was no longer the place filled with tourists taking pictures; it was a place to actually go and worship and pray. Just walking in there I felt instantly less pessimistic and lighter in a way that I can't even describe. The experience is something that I will never forget.

After we arrived back in Seville, Caressa ended up getting pretty sick and today we went to the Italica without her, Silvy or Isa. I must say that it was quite sad to not have them there. I enjoyed the experience of the Italica because it felt like I was touching history. I mean, we have been "touching" history for the past week now but this was different. I went around the coliseum and just ran my fingers across the crumbling structure. I felt weird to be touching were gladiators and others from Roman history had touched. Like I said, it sounds super odd, but it was just a feeling I got while there.

Throughout the next couple days we have a lot more stuff to do before we leave for Portugal on Friday! At this point though I really hope everyone is feeling better so we can thoroughly enjoy it. Adios for now!

Wine Tasting and Granada Soon

We have been extremely busy lately! It is incredible though how much we end up doing in one day because of the time difference. However, we do feel it the next day until we have our shots of expresso from the machine in the breakfast room at the B&B Naranjo. What wonders caffeine can do...

Yesterday we went wine tasting at the hotel and hospitality school in Seville. Let me just say this: I have done wine tasting and it has been exceptional. However, when you throw a three-course lunch in there along with more wine, that adds a lot. As far as the wine goes, I have already gotten used to the difference in taste between the wine here and the wine back home in the states. Here, the wine is deeper, with a bolder flavor on almost all the wines.

We tasted three wines during the formal tasting. I have to admit, I actually have no clue what it was that I tasted but I can say this: I loved the first one the most but I liked all of them a lot.

This is probably one of my favorite things we have done yet. Then again, I do love wine a lot!

After the wine tasting, we were moved in the large room to a set of tables almost directly across from where we were initially. When we sat down, we were given menus with quite a few options for an appetizer, main course and dessert for each of us. After they took our drink orders (wine for me!), I ordered my appetizer of cuttlefish, a beef wrapped in pastry for my main course and an cake with English creme (it may have been English cake with creme. Can't remember. Too much wine...). Either way, the entire meal (minus the cuttlefish which I took one bite of and handed it to someone else at the table) was to die for. The main course was spectacular and so was the dessert. Because I didn't eat my original appetizer, I had a few bites of someone's ginger salad that was also scrumptious.

This is a picture of the dessert (English cake or English creme?)

Today, we have arrived in Granada where we checked into our hotel which is on the opposite side of everyone else. I have to admit, it is a bit creepy. But I am sure we will survive. We have a Flamenco show later in a Gypsy neighborhood and then tomorrow we will be visiting the Alhambra. I am extremely excited to see the Alhambra because from pictures it looks amazing and I have driven down Alhambra circle in Coral Gables more times than I can remember (had to throw that it there!). 

Will be writing soon again! Hope everyone who is reading this back home have great weekends and I miss you all!

The Ethnic History of Andalucía and Flamenco

            Andalucía’s history is complex but also rich with culture and beauty. The region’s time line is filled with impacts from religion and cultural inhabitants that have shaped its landscape. Andalucía started its great history in 900 B.C. when Phoenicians were interested with the region’s mining and agricultural wealth. The Phoenicians were lured to the Andalucían coast by these promises but in the 3 century BC, they were ousted when the Roman Empire took power. While the Romans were in power, they converted the region into one of the wealthiest areas controlled by the empire.

            At some point, the power shifted to the Muslims who inhabited the Iberian Peninsula from Africa. The Islamic powerhouse took turns between cities in being the leading powers in Cordoba, Seville, and Granada. The 10^th century saw Cordoba as the largest and most successful city in Western Europe in part because of its three dimensional religious culture: Muslims, Christians, and Jews.

            After Columbus discovered America and King Ferdinand and Queen Isabel took power with the Catholic Church in 1492, the region of Andalucía saw more prosperity. However, it soon went back into decline only a couple hundred years later during what is known as “the hungry years” during the civil war in Andalucía. While this was going on, many people who lived in the region moved to other parts of Spain that were more industrialized so as to find better jobs.

            This period of instability would eventually end and after the mid 1900’s, Andalucía saw prosperity once more in the form of mass tourism. Many tourists visit the region today to see the history that was left behind from the time of its Muslim and Roman rulers. The region still boasts its cultural history in the form of Muslim, Christian, and Jewish architecture.

             Because of the mass amount of diversity within the region of Andalucía, the native dance of Flamenco has flourished. Flamenco plays a big role in Spanish culture but even more so in Andalucía. The dance was created through a mixture of the Muslim, Jewish, Catholic, and Gypsy culture. When the Muslims invaded Andalucía in 711, they brought over the musical influence that would later become one of the main aspects for Flamenco. When this music was mixed with the Spanish style of music, coupled along with the influence of Latin American dance, Flamenco was born. The actual dance became popular when the Gypsies began to learn the dance that Europeans found distasteful and helped make it as popular as it is today. During a brief period of time, Gypsies were not allowed to practice Flamenco out in public so they would only perform in their own homes. However, eventually they were allowed back into the streets to perform where they can still be found today in plazas throughout Andalucía. 

The Move

I have to admit, this post is mostly about our move to another room in the Naranjo. Way to promote Sevilla, right?

I will begin by saying that we definitely had a bug problem.

When we arrived at the Naranjo, everything seemed OK. I mean, the room was small for four people, but it was right where the WiFi was so we didn't really want to leave. However, after only about a day, we began to notice many odd bugs. These bugs weren't Miami bugs, no no. These bugs were Spaniard bugs; they were like two species in one, looking like something I have never seen. This was fine though. Until the cucaracha.

On the third morning, I woke up to my alarm to get ready for class. After snoozing my alarm for 15 minutes, I finally got out of bed and walked over to the bathroom. Just walking there felt like I was about to pass out; the six hour time difference was killing me. However, when I walked into the bathroom and lifted the toilet the cover, I found something that woke me up.

As soon as I lifted the toilet cover, I saw it. A gigantic cockroach. Disgusting. I honestly cannot think of anything more disgusting to find in a bathroom toilet (other than a snake). At this point, I ran out of the bathroom, screamed, and told everyone in the room.

I honestly did not know what to do. After screaming about the cucaracha, Silvy went into the bathroom and flushed the cockroach "adios".

We had many jokes about this incident for the next two days. About the cockroaches being family, etc, etc. It was really gross, but I was getting over it.

Today, after class and a long walk up the Giralda, we went back to our room for a little siesta. After staining my brand new purse, I was upset, so taking a nap was easy. I dozed on and off for about 20 minutes until  I heard Isa say, "There is another cockroach in the bathroom."

I woke up as soon as I heard this, considering the fact that I am terrified of them. I ran outside into the lobby and got the maid to kill it for us. As soon as she killed the pest, I called Clarissa, the woman who is dealing with a lot of this trip for us, and she told us to just ask for a new room. We weren't really inclined to this though because of the free WiFi inside of the room. But because we were desperate, we went and looked at another room.

When they receptionist gave us the key to room 202, we didn't really know what to expect. Although, as soon as we opened the door, we were sold. The room was not only bigger than ours, it was cleaner, more spacious in the layout, and just nicer in general. We ran down the stairs and told the receptionist that we would take the new room.

We packed our room as fast, we had all of our things in our new room in less than twenty minutes. I threw all my things into my two bags and hauled it up the two flights of stairs. Totally worth it.

As of now, I am sitting on the floor of my room (with WiFi, ironically), typing away and getting ready for bed. Can't wait to see what else Sevilla throws at me (but hopefully not bugs)!

xoxo

Hola!

Just a little snippet of our tour around Sevilla today (or yesterday, considering the time)! And yes, in true Christie fashion, I ended up getting something spilled on the pretty white dress. If anyone has advice on how to get it out, let me know! Haha!

Buenas Noches!

First Days in Sevilla

Greetings from Sevilla!!! We arrived yesterday in Sevilla at around 1:30 pm to our beautiful little bed and breakfast, the B&B Naranjo. On our way to the hotel, I was a bit surprised because initially it looked nothing like I had seen in pictures; however, when we got closer to the Naranjo, I finally saw what I had been dreaming about for so long. It is such a beautiful little city, filled with culture and wonderful architecture.

Yesterday, Caressa and I went out to a little tapas bar and had some bacalao croquettas with a glass of red wine on a little street close to the hotel. The food was amazing as well as the wine. Afterwards, we went to Zara and did a little bit of shopping (okay, maybe a lot!). Afterwards, we went back to the hotel and took a nap for a while before going out to dinner.

Dinner was amazing. We all walked to a tapas restaurant (if you haven't noticed, there are tapas places everywhere!) and had lots of rioja and delicious food such as more bacalao, Iberian ham on toast and a blue cheese and walnut croquetta. After dinner, we walked around for a bit and found a little ice cream shop where I had the most amazing chocolate ice cream.

Today, we woke up really late and went to a little bar for some tapas (our breakfast). The seating here was really interesting. When you walked into the place, you order at the bar and then carry your food and drinks to this arena looking arrangement. Basically, it is just a bunch of steps piled to the ceiling almost and everyone sits on them to eat. Well, apparently this was an issue for me. When I went to find my place on the steps with everyone else, my knee gave out on one of the steps and I ended up spilling someone's water all over their food and almost stepped on their food. Lovely. I felt like the biggest idiot in the world. Thank goodness the family (whose child did not stop staring at me for the rest of my meal) was extremely kind and didn't mind too much. Needless to say, I ate my meal quickly and left as soon as possible. The rest of the day was incredibly relaxing though while we walked around the city a bit more.

So far, our first couple days in Sevilla have been amazing. I can't wait for our tour tonight and our welcome drinks at the Doña Maria. Till then, adios!!!

The Day Before...

Since I was a little kid, I have always wanted to go to Europe. I remember watching the show "Madeline" on the Disney channel and thinking, "Wow, I want to go somewhere like that." There was something about traveling to a completely different continent, a place where the language is different, it all just seemed like another world. 


I don't want to seem like a brat though. I have been fortunate enough to travel pretty much all around the United States and to different parts of Canada. So it isn't like I haven't done my fair share of traveling. My parents always made sure that we got to see our country. And we did. We were taken on road trips up the East Coast from our home in Miami to Washington D.C., New York City, Niagara Falls, and all the states in between. Only last year, my mom and I took a trip to California, visiting Napa Valley and San Francisco. When in high school, I was able to train in Edmonton, Alberta for figure skating, an experience that I will never forget. My parents have even taken my brother and I skiing out in the Rocky Mountains when we were in elementary school. 


So it isn't like I haven't traveled. My parents definitely made sure that we got to experience the history and beauty of the United States. And I am forever grateful. Now, they have blessed me again with the opportunity to explore the other part of the world I have so long dreamt about. I know that this experience will stay with me forever as will the memories. 


As it is the day before I leave on my plane to Madrid, I filled with excitement about what lies ahead of me for the next three weeks. I am so consumed with what I will see, eat and drink, I can barely think about anything else. Of course, there is school to think about. And while I promise to work my bum off with our main project, I also promise to enjoy every minute of culture, language, food and fun. 


So as I finish packing and tying up loose ends, I envision what my experience will be like and I know deep down that it will be so much better than even I can imagine (and I have a great imagination!). 

Three of Seville's Most Important Sites

The Alcazar

            This site is highly recommended as a must see in Seville. After the reconquest, Pedro I rebuilt this Moorish style palace.  It is considered Moorish style as opposed to an actual Moorish palace because unlike the Alhambra, it was paid for and commissioned by a Christian king.

            The Alcazar serves as the official residence when the king and queen are in town. This is no surprise considering the exquisite architecture, the historic paintings, antique furniture, breathtaking views and beautiful gardens that the palace boasts.

The Seville Cathedral

            Seville’s cathedral is the largest and highest in Spain, is the largest gothic building in the world and the world’s third largest church (after St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome and St. Paul’s Cathedral in London). This cathedral was originally intended to be a mosque until Ferdinand III took power and reconsecrated it to the Virgin Mary, making it a Christian church.

            However, years later, the people of Seville wanted something that reflected their beautiful city. Because of this, they tore down what was originally the mosque and built what is now the Seville Cathedral. However, the people of Seville did keep some things intact when they built over the mosque such as the minaret, outer courtyard and the beautiful Giralda.

Plaza de España

             The plaza de España is a half-moon shaped pavilion that sits on the edge of the parque de Maria Luisa. It was actually used as the centerpiece during the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929. The pavilion is lined with benches, ponds, bridges and orange trees while showing off its beautiful renaissance style.

Sources:

1. Fodor's Spain 2011 

History of Seville

Seville is known for being one of the most culturally distinct cities in modern Spain. From the typical flamenco dancing to the rich culture in everyday life, Seville represents what Spain is imagined as. Seville has had its glory days but has also suffered quite badly at the hands of horrid emperors and even the plague. This beautiful city is rich with culture and history in every corner.

            Seville is said to have been discovered during the Tharsis reign. It was during the eighth century BC that the Tharsis’ descendents named the city Ispal, which would later become the origin of Seville.

            After the eighth century BC, Seville was taken over by the Carthaginians and eventually by the Roman Empire. After this, Seville really began to thrive and in 45 BC, this became even truer when Julius Caesar made Seville an official colony. Soon after being made a colony by Rome, it was once again taken over by other groups such as the Vandals and Visigoths. The Visigoths ended up taking over during the sixth and seventh centuries, leaving an impact on the way Seville would be seen in the future. At this time, Seville was seen as a very important cultural area and was the host to the great San Isidoro who wrote Etymologies (encyclopedias) at the time.

            The Arabs took over Seville in 725 and renamed the city, calling it "Isbiliah". During this period, Seville saw another time of cultural change and great flourish through the Arabs. From this period of Arab dominance remain the Giralda, the Torre del Orro, the Alcazar and the Macarena wall.

            In 1248, Muslims were forced to leave Seville when Ferdinand III conquered and made Christianity the religion. During this time, many Castilians moved to Seville and lived in neighborhoods where they repopulated and grouped according to their jobs. Ferdinand wanted much of what the Muslims had put in place to be replaced by cathedrals, leaving not a great deal of Arab remnants behind in Seville. The king eventually transferred his kingdom to Alcazar and remained there until he passed away in 1252.

            After Ferdinand died, his son took over and tried to build a peaceful empire of tolerance between Jews, Arabs and Christians. When Peter of Castile took over in 1350, the city saw another transformation. The Alcazar was rebuilt and made into a mudejar palace but still kept the Giralda and the patio de los naranjos in place.

            In 1492, Seville became headquarters to the Inquisition. Also at this time, Christopher Columbus discovered America and Seville experienced it largest and most important peak yet. Seville became a hub for trading and brought in great fortune making Seville the wealthiest and most cosmopolitan city in Spain.

            However, every peak has its downfall. While Carlos I was emperor of Spain, Seville saw a decline in its economy because of the numerous wars in which it happened to be in the middle of. During this time, three great artists were born: Velazquez, Murillo and Valdes Leal.

            Another pit in Seville’s history was its problem with not one but two plague epidemics. After the first plague in 1649, it left the population divided almost in half. The Chamber of Commerce, which was originally put in Seville because of its influx of people and business, was soon moved to Cadix. One thing that kept Seville on its feet was its tobacco industry. A huge plant was built in the city to assist with the massive industry and was eventually turned into the University of Seville.

            After yet another plague and the Independence War, Queen Elisabeth took reign and Seville once again saw prosperity and growth. This city is one of the busiest and most congested in Spain, leading to the belief that the plague couldn't have done too much permanent damage.  Since this time, Seville has become a modern city but still with its ancient historic roots. Seville has even had the World Exhibition Expo come to the city in 1992 along with other major fairs and events. Seville is no longer a city forgotten, but a city that time forgot.


Sources:
1. http://www.tourspain.org/sevilla/history.asp
2. Fodor's Spain 2011