Due to the wacky train schedule, we drove to Granada from Valencia, . It was a four hour drive in a standard transmission car, uneventful except for the torrential rainstorm. I drove the last leg into the city. Paul, however, quickly kicked me out of the driver's seat after a pretty bad experience in a traffic circle. Lots of honking occurred. It had been a long time since I had driven a car with standard transmission.
Read MoreCordoba is a town rich in Roman, Muslim and Spanish history. On our first day, we got up early to see the Mezquita (Mosque) from 8:30—9:30. At this time of day, it is free and practically deserted. This beautiful mosque, originally a Roman temple, converted into a cathedral by the conquering Spaniards, takes my breath away.
Read MoreWe traveled to Valencia from Toledo on a train that reached a top speed of 290 KPH, that's 180 MPH. The Spanish really have train travel down, great trains, on time and clean. Although the stay at the Parador of Toledo was my birthday present, I spent my birthday in Valencia, enjoying a delicious paella with an ocean view. Paul made it a special day for me.
Read MoreToledo, once the capital of Spain, became my favorite city in this country the first time I visited it in 1995. The quirky, winding, up and down streets drew me in. The beautiful, ancient buildings cemented the narrative. The art and romance completed the picture. Paul found it to be just as wonderful.
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