On the fondamenta, Giudecca.
Naviagting the streets during Acqua Alta.
Acqua Alta!
If you are thinking of visiting Venice in Winter you need to remember to pack your wellies. Acqua Alta!
On the fondamenta, Giudecca.
Naviagting the streets during Acqua Alta.
On the fondamenta, Giudecca.
Naviagting the streets during Acqua Alta.
The Guggenheim Collection
A special offer was on for all the Venetians. Free entry into the Palazzo Venier dei Leoni, the former home of Peggy Guggenheim and now a museum that shows her personal collection. A chance for me to explore modern art and see if I can fathom it!
The Peggy Guggenheim Museum.
Amongst the collection are a few paintings from Picasso. Having visited the Picasso museum in Malaga I must confess to not understanding what all the fuss is about. But then I’m ignorant in all things arty but I’m willing to learn! “On the Beach” is a strange work! One painting that really stood out for me was “Materia” by Umberto Boccioni.
Materia (1912) Oil on canvas.
Sculpture at the Grand Canal side.
Scary sculpture in the gardens.
Outside in the Garden.
The Peggy Guggenheim Museum.
Amongst the collection are a few paintings from Picasso. Having visited the Picasso museum in Malaga I must confess to not understanding what all the fuss is about. But then I’m ignorant in all things arty but I’m willing to learn! “On the Beach” is a strange work! One painting that really stood out for me was “Materia” by Umberto Boccioni.
Materia (1912) Oil on canvas.
Sculpture at the Grand Canal side.
Scary sculpture in the gardens.
Outside in the Garden.
Venice
St Marks is always a special place, regardless of the season, or the time of day. In winter it is less crowded. Bloody freezing but worth it to see scenes such as this.
St Marks Square at night.
Spritz. 
St Marks Square at night.
Ponte dei Pugni
One of my favourite bridges in Venice. It doesn't look much but it is steeped in history. This is the scene of many a punch up between rival gangs of the city. Four footprints on the bridge indicate the corners used by the boxers. The idea was that each side were represented by their two champions. Each taking a corner and then it was a free for all punch up. The watching crowd normally getting sucked into the action.
Spritz.
The famous apertif of Veneto taken in a cracking little bar somewhere near Rialto. Have a wander down one of the side streets and you might find it!
The View from Academia bridge.
Monza
An overnight stop in Monza was planned to visit Monica’s Aunt Giusi, and family. They live in the beautiful district of Vedano al Lambro. A stone’s throw away from the famous race track.
After lunch it was time to open up the old photo albums. Aunt Giusi is a great story teller. Even with my limited Italian it is hard not to laugh along when she recalls incidents from the past. One such story was how she managed to get to the VIP seats at the Duomo in Milan for the Christmas Mass service.
Aunt Giusi the story teller.
All the big civic leaders were there. Security was tight. There wasn’t any space available. People were being turned away. Aunt Giusi walked boldly up to the security guards and said
“This is my husband, the great Engineer Bavestrello, and our seats are over there”, pointing to four empty seats at the front of the church.
The security guards let them through without protest but stopped the two friends that were with them. As quick as a flash Giusi said
“And these are my bodyguards!”.
They were then swiftly escorted to the front row, and ended up being seated next to the Mayor of Milan!
The great engineer Federico Bavestrello could also tell a story. They were visiting a friend at the Monza race track. He was offering them a spin around the track in his Ferrari. So after Federico, it was Aunt Giusi’s turn.
“No Way!”, she had a fear of fast cars, especially after seeing Federico being whizzed around the track.
“Just sit inside so I can take a picture”. Who wouldn’t want their picture taken in a Ferrari? She eased herself into the passenger seat.
“The picture will look better if you put the seat belt on”. No sooner had she clipped in the safety harness the Ferrari sped off down the pit lane. The shrieks from Aunt Giusi drowning out the roar of the engine!
After lunch it was time to open up the old photo albums. Aunt Giusi is a great story teller. Even with my limited Italian it is hard not to laugh along when she recalls incidents from the past. One such story was how she managed to get to the VIP seats at the Duomo in Milan for the Christmas Mass service.
Aunt Giusi the story teller.
All the big civic leaders were there. Security was tight. There wasn’t any space available. People were being turned away. Aunt Giusi walked boldly up to the security guards and said
“This is my husband, the great Engineer Bavestrello, and our seats are over there”, pointing to four empty seats at the front of the church.
The security guards let them through without protest but stopped the two friends that were with them. As quick as a flash Giusi said
“And these are my bodyguards!”.
They were then swiftly escorted to the front row, and ended up being seated next to the Mayor of Milan!
The great engineer Federico Bavestrello could also tell a story. They were visiting a friend at the Monza race track. He was offering them a spin around the track in his Ferrari. So after Federico, it was Aunt Giusi’s turn.
“No Way!”, she had a fear of fast cars, especially after seeing Federico being whizzed around the track.
“Just sit inside so I can take a picture”. Who wouldn’t want their picture taken in a Ferrari? She eased herself into the passenger seat.
“The picture will look better if you put the seat belt on”. No sooner had she clipped in the safety harness the Ferrari sped off down the pit lane. The shrieks from Aunt Giusi drowning out the roar of the engine!
Driving Tour of Italy
Alas, no touring around South East Asia this year. Instead the annual pilgrimage to Venice with a difference. We did it by car! It would probably cost more than the flights but what the hell!
Monica got behind the wheel for the first time in two years to share the load. 30 minutes out from Nerja and she informs me that she has forgotten to take her driving licence. Hopefully, there will be no police checks at the borders!
Monica behind the wheel.
The first leg of the journey was a nine hour drive to Tarragona. You soon realise what a vast country Spain is on this trip. We hadn't made it across the Spanish border and we are almost half way to Venice.
The next day we set off for Monza. Tom Tom said it was a nine and a half hour drive. I did the first shift to the border and then attempted to sleep all the way through France.
The best way to see France.
The only problem Monica had on the roads were the toll booths in France. As we approached panic would descend.
"Which Lane!"
"Any with the green light" I would reply.
Monica would continue to head for a booth with a big red cross hanging over it.
"No! Left, Left Left!!!".
Still, Monica refused to turn the wheel until the last possible moment.
"Which Lane!!!!"
The toll charges are a disgrace. From start to finish it cost close to 120 Euros. And there is no way to avoid these unless you want to add an extra 24 hours to your road trip. The French make things worse. Instead of collecting a ticket and paying when you leave the motorway, the French like to stop you every two minutes. 1.50 Euros here, 2.50 Euros there and so on and so on.
Not content with the tolls, the French also charge extortionate prices for petrol. I thought 1.15 Euros per litre was bad enough in Spain. I couldn't believe the price across the border. 1.50! Make sure you fill up before leaving Spain. The closer you are to the French border you are in Italy, the more expensive the petrol is. The average price in Italy is around 1.34. Expect to pay 1.40 close to the border though.
Monica got behind the wheel for the first time in two years to share the load. 30 minutes out from Nerja and she informs me that she has forgotten to take her driving licence. Hopefully, there will be no police checks at the borders!
Monica behind the wheel.
The first leg of the journey was a nine hour drive to Tarragona. You soon realise what a vast country Spain is on this trip. We hadn't made it across the Spanish border and we are almost half way to Venice.
The next day we set off for Monza. Tom Tom said it was a nine and a half hour drive. I did the first shift to the border and then attempted to sleep all the way through France.
The best way to see France.
The only problem Monica had on the roads were the toll booths in France. As we approached panic would descend.
"Which Lane!"
"Any with the green light" I would reply.
Monica would continue to head for a booth with a big red cross hanging over it.
"No! Left, Left Left!!!".
Still, Monica refused to turn the wheel until the last possible moment.
"Which Lane!!!!"
The toll charges are a disgrace. From start to finish it cost close to 120 Euros. And there is no way to avoid these unless you want to add an extra 24 hours to your road trip. The French make things worse. Instead of collecting a ticket and paying when you leave the motorway, the French like to stop you every two minutes. 1.50 Euros here, 2.50 Euros there and so on and so on.
Not content with the tolls, the French also charge extortionate prices for petrol. I thought 1.15 Euros per litre was bad enough in Spain. I couldn't believe the price across the border. 1.50! Make sure you fill up before leaving Spain. The closer you are to the French border you are in Italy, the more expensive the petrol is. The average price in Italy is around 1.34. Expect to pay 1.40 close to the border though.
Bar Lease for Sale - Nerja, Málaga
Lease for Cafe Bar in Nerja, Málaga for Sale. The bar is situated on Burriana Beach, one of the busiest beaches in the area throughout the year. It is a popular location for tourists, the ex-pat community and Spanish residents.
The Cafe bar has a private terrace with space for eight tables. The entire interior has been recently refurbished, including the bar area, kitchen and all appliances.
The Bar lease is for sale at €70,000. The monthly rental of the premises is €1,350 per month (IVA included). For more information please contact me via the “comments” section. All comments will be private and will not be published.
The Cafe bar has a private terrace with space for eight tables. The entire interior has been recently refurbished, including the bar area, kitchen and all appliances.
The Bar lease is for sale at €70,000. The monthly rental of the premises is €1,350 per month (IVA included). For more information please contact me via the “comments” section. All comments will be private and will not be published.
The Mezquita of Cordoba
If any one place in Cordoba reflects the different religions and groups that have inhabited the city through time then this is it. It has been a sacred place for the Romans, Visigoths, Moors and Christians.
The major influence on the building came from the Islamic occupation of Al-Andalus. Abd ah-Raman started construction of the Mosque in 784, when he made Cordoba the capital of Al-Andalus. It would take over two centuries to complete, with many other leaders adding to the original structure.
The West Wall.
We had spent two days marvelling at the structure from the outside. The outer walls feature beautiful Islamic architecture that looks simply magical in the late evening sun. The minaret bell tower can be seen from various points in the city. A great navigational aid when you get lost in the Juderia.
Torre del Alminar.
A visit to the inside of the Mezquita starts from the northern gate. You enter the Patio de los naranjos, the orange courtyard with the typical Islamic water features criss-crossing the yard bringing live to the trees.
In El Patio de los Naranjos.
One of the gates to the Mezquita.
Inside the Mezquita is a labyrinth of marble columns and arches, nearly 900 in total. Each column is unique and was taken from the Roman buildings around Cordoba. In the North-East section you can see the remains of the Visigoth church of St Vincent.
The Columns and Arches inside the Mezquita.
Christianity meets Islam.
The Mezquita was renowned in the Islamic world as being one of the greatest ever built. It was a hugely important pilgrimage site and at one stage was home to the original Koran. When the Spanish Christian kings defeated the Moors to capture Cordoba in 1236, they left the building as it was. It was in later years that they began to make their own modifications. The most notable being the construction of the Villaviciosa chapel in the centre of the building.
Ever seen a Christian Altar in a Mosque?
Stained Glass windows high in the Mezquita.
Today the inside of the Mezquita is an odd mix of Islamic and Christian architecture. The intricate carvings on the arches in the Mihrab. The stained-glass windows high in the ceiling in the centre of the church. There is still an argument raging that the Christian additions to the building have ruined the Mezquita. Still, it is definitely worth a visit.
The major influence on the building came from the Islamic occupation of Al-Andalus. Abd ah-Raman started construction of the Mosque in 784, when he made Cordoba the capital of Al-Andalus. It would take over two centuries to complete, with many other leaders adding to the original structure.
The West Wall.
We had spent two days marvelling at the structure from the outside. The outer walls feature beautiful Islamic architecture that looks simply magical in the late evening sun. The minaret bell tower can be seen from various points in the city. A great navigational aid when you get lost in the Juderia.
Torre del Alminar.
A visit to the inside of the Mezquita starts from the northern gate. You enter the Patio de los naranjos, the orange courtyard with the typical Islamic water features criss-crossing the yard bringing live to the trees.
In El Patio de los Naranjos.
One of the gates to the Mezquita.
Inside the Mezquita is a labyrinth of marble columns and arches, nearly 900 in total. Each column is unique and was taken from the Roman buildings around Cordoba. In the North-East section you can see the remains of the Visigoth church of St Vincent.
The Columns and Arches inside the Mezquita.
Christianity meets Islam.
The Mezquita was renowned in the Islamic world as being one of the greatest ever built. It was a hugely important pilgrimage site and at one stage was home to the original Koran. When the Spanish Christian kings defeated the Moors to capture Cordoba in 1236, they left the building as it was. It was in later years that they began to make their own modifications. The most notable being the construction of the Villaviciosa chapel in the centre of the building.
Ever seen a Christian Altar in a Mosque?
Stained Glass windows high in the Mezquita.
Today the inside of the Mezquita is an odd mix of Islamic and Christian architecture. The intricate carvings on the arches in the Mihrab. The stained-glass windows high in the ceiling in the centre of the church. There is still an argument raging that the Christian additions to the building have ruined the Mezquita. Still, it is definitely worth a visit.
Monica’s walking tour of Cordoba
Our travels would not be complete without a carefully crafted walking tour created by Monica. Even with so little time to plan she did not disappoint. Our walking tour through the streets of Cordoba would include fiestas, colourful patios, the narrow maze like streets of the Jewish quarter and of course the odd church thrown in as well.
Our trip started as soon as we left the Alcazar. We headed west and soon found our first patio display. The annual patio competition starts in the middle of May so we were a couple of weeks early. Most of the patios were closed. However, one was open near to a local “Cruces de Mayo” celebration. Eager to make a few euro in donations. At least we could sample a little of what visitors later in the month would be able to enjoy throughout the city.
Monica in one of the Patios of Cordoba.
Further up the street was a small courtyard that had been converted into a party zone. A row of market stalls were open and doing a brisk trade. The bar was opening up and the DJ was preparing to start the party again. We soon realised that the locals enjoyed walking from party to party. A pub crawl of “Cruces de Mayo” party areas.
Well earned rest.
After a little refreshment we explored the Juderia area. A fascinating maze of narrow streets, enchanting squares and magnificent buildings, combined with the ever present colour of cordoba in the flower pots that seem to hang from every balcony. The main concentration of tourists was in the “Calle de los Judios”. At the beginning of the street is a statue of Maimonides, the famous Jewish philosopher who was born in Cordoba in the 12th Century.
Statue of Maimonides.
Calle de los Judios is home to the Synagogue. This is a popular tourist destination but was closed to visitors when we arrived. This street is also famous for its jewellery and Silversmiths. A popular one seemed to be across the road from the Synagogue. Although it appeared to me that the tourists were more interested in the magnificent quadrangle courtyard than the shops that surrounded it.
Nice shopping area.
Further along the street and there is a chilling reminder of the dark past of Cordoba. A project called “Con Nombre Proprio” displays a list of names and dates. Most have the word “Quemado” next to the date. It is a list of people who were burned as a sentence for god knows what crimes they were supposed to have committed. The inquisition in Cordoba between 1483 and 1731 carried out burnings either “quemado en persona o estatua”.
Wandering the streets of Cordoba and you can’t help but notice amongst the balconies of flowers, the various signs in tribute to the poet Miguel Hernandez. The signs celebrate what would have been his 100th year. My favourite verse being “te besaré con seda me mirarás con rosas”. “I will kiss you with silk. You will look at me with roses”.
Another Church, Another fiesta.
Our trip started as soon as we left the Alcazar. We headed west and soon found our first patio display. The annual patio competition starts in the middle of May so we were a couple of weeks early. Most of the patios were closed. However, one was open near to a local “Cruces de Mayo” celebration. Eager to make a few euro in donations. At least we could sample a little of what visitors later in the month would be able to enjoy throughout the city.
Monica in one of the Patios of Cordoba.
Further up the street was a small courtyard that had been converted into a party zone. A row of market stalls were open and doing a brisk trade. The bar was opening up and the DJ was preparing to start the party again. We soon realised that the locals enjoyed walking from party to party. A pub crawl of “Cruces de Mayo” party areas.
Well earned rest.
After a little refreshment we explored the Juderia area. A fascinating maze of narrow streets, enchanting squares and magnificent buildings, combined with the ever present colour of cordoba in the flower pots that seem to hang from every balcony. The main concentration of tourists was in the “Calle de los Judios”. At the beginning of the street is a statue of Maimonides, the famous Jewish philosopher who was born in Cordoba in the 12th Century.
Statue of Maimonides.
Calle de los Judios is home to the Synagogue. This is a popular tourist destination but was closed to visitors when we arrived. This street is also famous for its jewellery and Silversmiths. A popular one seemed to be across the road from the Synagogue. Although it appeared to me that the tourists were more interested in the magnificent quadrangle courtyard than the shops that surrounded it.
Nice shopping area.
Further along the street and there is a chilling reminder of the dark past of Cordoba. A project called “Con Nombre Proprio” displays a list of names and dates. Most have the word “Quemado” next to the date. It is a list of people who were burned as a sentence for god knows what crimes they were supposed to have committed. The inquisition in Cordoba between 1483 and 1731 carried out burnings either “quemado en persona o estatua”.
Wandering the streets of Cordoba and you can’t help but notice amongst the balconies of flowers, the various signs in tribute to the poet Miguel Hernandez. The signs celebrate what would have been his 100th year. My favourite verse being “te besaré con seda me mirarás con rosas”. “I will kiss you with silk. You will look at me with roses”.
Another Church, Another fiesta.
Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos
This 8th century fortress is one of the major tourist attractions of Cordoba. Our tour started by having a nosey at the roman mosaics that have been attached to the walls. These impressive works of art were recovered from various locations throughout the city.
Poseidon Mosiac.
Later we climbed the Torre de los Leones for the magnificent views over the city. The narrow staircase can be a bit tricky to navigate, especially going down when you are forced on the inside with practically no step to place your feet on. Patience is a virtue and the scenery is well worth it.
View from the tower.
The best thing about the Alcazar without doubt are the glorious gardens. The Moors certainly knew how to make the most of any water lying about. The reflections from the ponds, the different scents in the air and the vivid colours make exploring the gardens a treat.
In the Gardens.
Monica inspects the rose.
Beautiful ponds in the Gardens.
The Alcazar is famous for the reign of Ferdinand and Isabella. It was here that they learned of Christopher Columbus plans to find a short cut to India. Many people claim that it was here in Cordoba where Columbus received his royal commission for his voyage. However, just like his birth place, this is disputed.
Columbus asks the Spanish Monarchs for some cash.
Looking back to the Alcazar.
Poseidon Mosiac.
Later we climbed the Torre de los Leones for the magnificent views over the city. The narrow staircase can be a bit tricky to navigate, especially going down when you are forced on the inside with practically no step to place your feet on. Patience is a virtue and the scenery is well worth it.
View from the tower.
The best thing about the Alcazar without doubt are the glorious gardens. The Moors certainly knew how to make the most of any water lying about. The reflections from the ponds, the different scents in the air and the vivid colours make exploring the gardens a treat.
In the Gardens.
Monica inspects the rose.
Beautiful ponds in the Gardens.
The Alcazar is famous for the reign of Ferdinand and Isabella. It was here that they learned of Christopher Columbus plans to find a short cut to India. Many people claim that it was here in Cordoba where Columbus received his royal commission for his voyage. However, just like his birth place, this is disputed.
Columbus asks the Spanish Monarchs for some cash.
Looking back to the Alcazar.
San Isidro 2010
Viva San Isidro! This years pilgrimage to the caves took place on a Saturday. No need to book a holiday. No work the following morning. Perfect timing! Except Nerja is a tourist resort and most people depend on those pesky tourists. Being pesky tourists, they insist on arriving on a Saturday. San Isidro or not. Maybe that was why it seemed a little quieter this year.
San Isidro departs for the caves.
The italian Job. Fabi, Monica, Deny,Ettore and Marcello.
Francesco says Ciao!
San Isidro is a great occassion for seeing people that you haven't seen for ages. A similar day to what Whit Friday used to be until the drunks ruined it.
Sandra in disfrace! Whoops I mean wearing a traditional Flamenco Dress.
As well as the spectacular sevillano style dresses that are worn by the women, San Isidro is renowned for the hospitality of the people. We met up with Sandra who was walking behind the caroza belonging to the Sound Club. Jose quickly offered us a chilled beer. Just the tonic for another hot sunny San Isidro day.
Party at the caves.
We arrived at the caves and found a spot for lunch. Then it was party time. There are numerous bars, live music and of course the famous disco zone to enjoy at the caves. San Isidro typically marks the start of the summer season in Nerja. With temperatures soaring we headed to the disco zone to enjoy the party.
Lazing about in the sun.
Bailar!
San Isidro departs for the caves.
The italian Job. Fabi, Monica, Deny,Ettore and Marcello.
Francesco says Ciao!
San Isidro is a great occassion for seeing people that you haven't seen for ages. A similar day to what Whit Friday used to be until the drunks ruined it.
Sandra in disfrace! Whoops I mean wearing a traditional Flamenco Dress.
As well as the spectacular sevillano style dresses that are worn by the women, San Isidro is renowned for the hospitality of the people. We met up with Sandra who was walking behind the caroza belonging to the Sound Club. Jose quickly offered us a chilled beer. Just the tonic for another hot sunny San Isidro day.
Party at the caves.
We arrived at the caves and found a spot for lunch. Then it was party time. There are numerous bars, live music and of course the famous disco zone to enjoy at the caves. San Isidro typically marks the start of the summer season in Nerja. With temperatures soaring we headed to the disco zone to enjoy the party.
Lazing about in the sun.
Bailar!